In a notable enhancement for user privacy, Google is introducing a new blue dot feature in the upcoming Android 16 QPR3 beta. This addition aims to inform users when applications are accessing their location, further expanding on the privacy measures initiated in Android 12.
Initially, Android 12 introduced a green dot to alert users when their camera or microphone was in use, a feature that has since become a staple for Android devices. This green dot appears next to the battery icon and can be tapped to reveal which applications have accessed these sensitive permissions.
With the latest beta version of Android 16, currently available on Google Pixel devices, users will now see a blue dot indicating when apps are utilizing location services, whether in the foreground or background. Notably, this blue dot will not appear simultaneously with the green dot; instead, it will be integrated into the existing notification system. When multiple permissions are in use, both dots will be displayed together.
The updated notification menu has been rebranded to “Microphone, Camera & Location,” providing a comprehensive overview of which apps have accessed these permissions. Users will retain the ability to close applications directly from this pop-up menu, enhancing control over their device’s privacy settings.
As Android 16 QPR3 continues its beta phase, it is expected to roll out to a broader range of devices early next year. The anticipation is that the blue location dot feature will eventually be adopted across all Android devices running version 12 or newer, following the successful implementation of the green dot feature.
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