Screen Overlay Detected Error on Android: Causes and Solutions

Have you ever encountered a Screen Overlay Detected error on your Android device? It’s a frustrating experience that can leave you scratching your head. You try to change the settings on your phone, but the error persists. This error message occurs when an app that has permission to draw over other apps is running in the background, preventing you from accessing other features on your phone. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of this error and provide solutions to help you resolve it once and for all. So, sit tight and let’s dive in!

If you’re an Android user, you may have come across the Screen Overlay Detected error. This error can be frustrating and confusing, but don’t worry – it’s not a major issue, and it’s relatively easy to fix. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes the Screen Overlay Detected error and provide you with step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

## What is the Screen Overlay Detected Error on Android?

The Screen Overlay Detected error is a notification that appears on Android devices running on Marshmallow and higher versions. It occurs when you try to grant permission to an app, and another app is overlaying the screen. This means that a floating app or bubble is blocking the permission request and preventing you from granting the necessary permission.

Android introduced the Draw over other apps permission with the Marshmallow update, which allows apps to display content over other apps. However, this permission can cause conflicts with other apps that require permission to access certain features, such as the camera or microphone.

## Causes of the Screen Overlay Detected Error

There are several reasons why you might encounter the Screen Overlay Detected error on your Android device. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. **Chat Heads or Floating Bubbles**: Facebook Messenger, as well as some other apps, use a feature called Chat Heads or floating bubbles. These bubbles can float above other apps and cause the Screen Overlay Detected error.

2. **Screen Dimming or Blue Light Filter Apps**: These apps use an overlay to adjust the brightness or color of your screen. This overlay can interfere with the permission request and trigger the error.

3. **Screen Recording Apps**: Screen recording apps use an overlay to capture your screen. This overlay can prevent you from granting permission to other apps.

4. **Cleaner or Booster Apps**: These apps use an overlay to display information or notifications. This overlay can cause conflicts with other apps and trigger the error.

## How to Fix the Screen Overlay Detected Error on Android

Now that we’ve identified some of the causes behind the Screen Overlay Detected error, let’s explore some of the solutions to resolve it.

### Solution 1: Disable Screen Overlay for All Apps

The most straightforward solution to the Screen Overlay Detected error is to disable the screen overlay for all apps. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open **Settings** on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on **Apps** or **Application Manager** (depending on your device).
3. Tap on the **More Settings** or **Gear** icon on the top right corner of the screen.
4. Select **Draw over other apps** or **App permissions**.
5. Tap on the three-dot menu icon on the top right corner of the screen.
6. Select **Show System** or **System Apps** from the dropdown menu.
7. Scroll down and find the app that’s causing the Screen Overlay Detected error.
8. Tap on the app and toggle off the switch next to **Permit drawing over other apps**.
9. Repeat the process for all apps that are causing the error.

### Solution 2: Disable Screen Overlay for Individual Apps

If you don’t want to disable the screen overlay for all apps, you can disable it for individual apps that are causing the Screen Overlay Detected error. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open **Settings** on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on **Apps** or **Application Manager** (depending on your device).
3. Tap on the app that’s causing the Screen Overlay Detected error.
4. Tap on **Permissions** or **App Permissions**.
5. Find the permission that’s causing the error (e.g., camera, microphone, etc.).
6. Toggle off the switch next to the permission.
7. Exit the app and try to grant permission again.

### Solution 3: Uninstall Problematic Apps

If you’ve tried disabling the screen overlay for individual apps and the error persists, you may need to uninstall the problematic app. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open **Settings** on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on **Apps** or **Application Manager** (depending on your device).
3. Find the app that’s causing the Screen Overlay Detected error.
4. Tap on the app and select **Uninstall**.
5. Restart your device and try to grant permission again.

### Solution 4: Restart Your Device in Safe Mode

If none of the above solutions work, you can try restarting your device in safe mode. This will disable all third-party apps and allow you to grant permission without interference. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press and hold the **Power** button on your Android device.
2. Tap and hold the **Power Off** option on the screen.
3. Select **Safe Mode** from the popup menu.
4. Once your device starts in safe mode, try to grant permission again.
5. Restart your device to exit safe mode.

## Conclusion

The Screen Overlay Detected error on Android can be frustrating, but it’s not a major issue. By following the solutions outlined in this guide, you can resolve the error and grant permission to apps without any interference. Remember, if one solution doesn’t work, try the next one until you find the one that works for you.

In conclusion, the Screen Overlay Detected error can be frustrating for Android users, but with the right solutions, it can be resolved quickly. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can easily identify the cause of the issue and fix it. Remember to always stay vigilant when granting permissions to apps and ensure that you have the latest software updates installed on your device. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a smooth and error-free Android experience.