One of the most frustrating issues Android users face is the “Screen Overlay Detected” error.
This message usually appears when you try to change an app’s permissions, and it blocks your progress by saying, “To change this permission setting, you first have to turn off the screen overlay from Settings > Apps.”
For many, this error is confusing and disruptive, especially when trying to use important apps.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what causes the “Screen Overlay Detected” error, common solutions to fix it, and tips to prevent it from happening in the future.
What is Screen Overlay in Android?
Screen overlay is a feature that allows apps to display content over other apps.
For instance, Facebook Messenger uses this feature to display its Chat Heads, and apps like Twilight or Lux use it to apply screen filters.
While useful, this functionality can interfere with permissions, leading to the “Screen Overlay Detected” error.
Why Does This Happen?
When an app requests permission (e.g., access to your camera or storage), Android blocks changes if there’s an active screen overlay.
This is a security measure to prevent malicious apps from tricking you into granting unwanted permissions.
Common Causes of the Screen Overlay Error
Several factors can trigger this error:
- Screen overlay-enabled apps: Apps like Facebook Messenger, CleanMaster, or Twilight are often culprits.
- Conflicting permissions: Apps with overlapping permissions may interfere with each other.
- Untrusted apps: Certain apps with excessive permissions, such as DU Battery Saver or Speed Booster apps, often cause conflicts.
- System settings: Misconfigured system settings, like developer options or advanced permissions, may contribute.
How to Fix “Screen Overlay Detected” Error
Let’s dive into actionable solutions to resolve this issue on your Android device.
Turn Off Screen Overlay for All Apps
The most straightforward fix is to disable the screen overlay for apps causing the issue.
Steps to Disable Screen Overlay:
- Go to Settings > Apps or Apps & Notifications.
- Tap the gear icon or menu button (three dots) and select Special Access or Draw Over Other Apps.
- Toggle off screen overlay permissions for all apps.
Example:
Turn off permissions for apps like Facebook Messenger, Twilight, and CleanMaster, then retry granting permissions to the affected app.
Uninstall Problematic Apps
Some apps are known to cause this error. Uninstalling them can resolve the problem.
Apps Commonly Associated with the Issue:
How to Uninstall:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Select the problematic app and tap Uninstall.
- Restart your phone and check if the issue is resolved.
Pro Tip: After fixing the error, you can reinstall these apps, but ensure their permissions are properly configured.
Temporarily Disable the Problematic App
If you don’t want to uninstall apps like Facebook Messenger or Twilight, you can temporarily disable them:
- Open the app causing the overlay.
- Go to App Settings and disable the overlay feature temporarily (e.g., disable Chat Heads in Messenger).
- Grant the necessary permissions for your app and re-enable the overlay feature later.
Check Developer Options
Sometimes, developer settings can contribute to the problem.
How to Disable Screen Overlay in Developer Options:
- Go to Settings > About Phone.
- Tap Build Number 7 times to enable Developer Options.
- Go to Settings > Developer Options.
- Find Simulate Secondary Displays and set it to None.
Manage System Apps
- System apps can also contribute to the error. Ensuring their permissions are managed can help.
- Steps to Fix System App Conflicts:
- Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps.
- Tap the menu button and select Show System.
- Look for apps like Face Unlock or Android System and disable their overlay permissions if available.
Clear Cache and Data
Clearing the cache and data of system apps like Settings can refresh permissions and resolve the issue.
Steps to Clear Cache and Data:
- Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps.
- Select Settings, Google Play Services, and System UI.
- Tap Clear Cache and Clear Data for each app.
Reset App Preferences
Resetting app preferences can restore default settings, which may resolve overlay issues.
How to Reset App Preferences:
- Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps.
- Tap the menu button (three dots) and select Reset App Preferences.
- Confirm the reset and restart your phone.
Factory Reset as a Last Resort
If none of the above methods work, a factory reset may be necessary. This erases all data on your device, so ensure you back up your important files beforehand.
How to Factory Reset:
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options.
- Select Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your device.
- Preventing the Screen Overlay Detected Error
After resolving the issue, take the following steps to prevent it from recurring:
- Avoid installing unnecessary apps that request screen overlay permissions.
- Regularly review app permissions and disable overlays for apps that don’t need it.
- Keep your device and apps updated to the latest versions.
- Use trusted apps and avoid apps with excessive or unnecessary permissions.
FAQs
What causes the “Screen Overlay Detected” error?
This error occurs when an app requesting permissions is blocked by another app with active screen overlay, such as Messenger’s Chat Heads or Twilight’s screen filter.
How do I identify the app causing the error?
Go to Settings > Apps > Special Access > Draw Over Other Apps to see a list of apps with overlay permissions. Disable permissions for suspect apps and try again.
Can I resolve this without uninstalling apps?
Yes, you can temporarily disable the overlay feature in problematic apps, such as turning off Chat Heads in Messenger or disabling screen filters in Twilight.
Will a factory reset permanently fix the issue?
A factory reset will fix the error if it’s caused by software conflicts or settings misconfigurations. However, reinstalling problematic apps may reintroduce the issue.
Are antivirus or booster apps safe to use?
Many booster apps and untrusted antivirus apps are known to cause screen overlay issues. Stick to reputable apps from trusted developers.
Is disabling developer options necessary?
Not always. However, certain settings in developer options, like simulated displays, can cause conflicts. Disabling these may help.
What’s the difference between screen overlay and system overlay?
Screen overlay refers to apps drawing over other apps. System overlay involves system-level permissions like notifications or widgets.
Can I permanently disable screen overlay for all apps?
Yes, you can disable screen overlay permissions for all apps in Settings > Apps > Special Access > Draw Over Other Apps. However, this may limit functionality for apps like Messenger or Twilight.
Why does the issue persist after disabling overlays?
If the issue persists, check for background apps or system apps with overlay permissions. Clearing cache and resetting app preferences may also help.
Is this issue specific to certain Android versions?
The “Screen Overlay Detected” error is most common in Android 6.0 Marshmallow but can occur on newer versions due to app conflicts.
Conclusion
The “Screen Overlay Detected” error can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s easy to fix.
By following the solutions outlined in this guide, you can quickly resolve the issue and regain control over your app permissions.
Always manage your app permissions carefully and avoid installing untrusted apps to prevent similar problems in the future.
