Apple's distinctive orange and green spots on iPhone screens generate TikTok-induced worry - yet, what do these ambiguous symbols truly signify?
In a recent viral TikTok video, users have been discussing a small, previously overlooked feature on iPhones running iOS 14 or later[2]. The video, posted by TikTok user @luise_leffler, showcases a green or orange dot that appears at the top-right corner of the iPhone screen when the microphone or camera is being accessed by an app[7].
These dots are part of Apple's effort to highlight when sensitive features are running in the background[10]. A green dot indicates that the camera (or both the camera and microphone) is in use[1][3][5]. An orange dot (or square, if the Differentiate Without Colour setting is turned on) means the microphone is being used by an app on the iPhone[6].
This privacy feature is designed to alert users whenever their camera or microphone is actively being accessed by an app[1]. If you see these dots and are unaware of any app that should be using the camera or mic, it could indicate unauthorized access[1].
To check the app using the camera or mic, unlock the iPhone and swipe down from the top-right to open Control Centre[8]. The app using these sensors will be listed at the top[5]. This helps users monitor and control app permissions for privacy and security reasons.
The video has caused a wave of panic online, with many users questioning the apps that might be accessing their camera or microphone without their knowledge[9]. However, it's important to remember that these dots only appear when an app is actively using the camera or microphone, and not just when the app is open in the background.
Despite the flurry of comments from other TikTok users who have also noticed the mysterious dots but never questioned them until now[4], no further comment was received from Apple regarding the viral TikTok video.
In conclusion, the green and orange dots on your iPhone screen are a useful privacy feature, designed to keep you informed about when your camera or microphone is in use. By understanding this feature, you can better monitor and control your privacy settings on your iPhone.
1.Users should pay attention to the green and orange dots that appear on their iPhone screen when running iOS 14 or later, as these dots indicate when the camera or microphone is being used by an app, adding to the overall technology of keeping sensitive features transparent.
- It's crucial to check the apps listed in the Control Centre on your iPhone when you see the green or orange dots, as they indicate unauthorized access may be occurring if you're unaware of any app utilizing the camera or microphone, highlighting the significance of gadgets like smartphones in our digital lives and the importance of privacy protection.
