Understanding Screen Overlay on Android Devices: A Guide for Users

Screen overlay is a feature available on Android smartphones and tablets that allows certain applications to 'overlay' or appear on top of other applications. This feature is quite useful for various third-party applications, but it can also cause conflicts with other apps if not handled properly. In this guide, we will explain the concept of screen overlay, how it works, and how you can manage it effectively.

What is a Screen Overlay?

A screen overlay is a type of permission that allows an application to draw over other apps, essentially appearing on top of them. This feature is particularly useful for apps like notifications, chat heads, and other utility apps that need to catch your attention quickly and stay visible. For example, the Facebook Messenger Chat Heads always float on top of other apps, allowing you to respond to messages without closing the app you’re currently using.

The Importance of Managing Screen Overlay Permissions

Although screen overlay can be a boon, it's crucial to manage these permissions carefully. Some apps might be less intrusive, but others can be quite annoying, especially when they block your key functions or pop up randomly. Here’s how you can control this feature:

Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Screen Overlay Permissions

Open your phone's Settings app.

Navigate to the Apps section. This can sometimes be found under Applications or a similar name depending on your device. If you don't see it, you may need to go to the Applications or Settings menu via the main apps list.

In the Apps menu, you need to find the Notifications option. Some devices might have a separate section for advanced settings.

Scroll down to and tap on Advanced options or anything similar like Special app access.

Select the category called Draw over other apps (or something similar).

From this list, you can enable or disable screen overlay for individual apps. For example, if you want to turn off screen overlays for the Facebook app, simply uncheck the box next to it.

The Impact of Android Marshmallow on Screen Overlay

Android Marshmallow (Android 6.0) introduced some changes that can affect how screen overlay permissions work. Some users have reported issues with screen overlays or instances where they don't work as expected. If you're having problems with screen overlays, it might be worth checking the following:

Ensure that your device is up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Check if any recent app updates might have affected the permissions for screen overlay.

Understand that some apps might require these permissions for their functionality, but others might be abused. Always review what apps have these permissions and remove them if they seem unnecessary.

In Android 5 (Lollipop), this process was slightly different, and the feature worked more seamlessly for many users. However, with Marshmallow and later versions, users have encountered more issues, leading to the frustration you might be experiencing. If you have specific problems with a version of Android, it might be worth reaching out to the manufacturer or the app developer for assistance.

Conclusion

Screen overlay is a powerful feature that can be very useful for managing multiple apps and receiving instant notifications. However, it's essential to manage these permissions carefully to ensure you have a smooth and uninterrupted user experience. By understanding how screen overlay works and following the above steps, you can control which apps can appear on top of your screen, leading to a more efficient and enjoyable user experience with your Android device.