If you occasionally see a small blinking dot near the top of the screen on your Samsung phone, there is usually nothing to worry about. It’s a proximity sensor, a component that checks whether the phone is close to your face during a conversation. When the device is brought close to the ear, the screen automatically turns off to prevent accidental touches, ending calls or launching options on the screen.
This phenomenon is more visible on newer Galaxy phones because the screens take up almost the entire front of the device. In older models, the sensors were placed under the wider upper edge, so users hardly noticed them. In models with Infinity screens, the sensor is placed under the screen, which is why a short flicker can be seen when it is activated.
Proximity sensor activation is not a sign of screen failure
Samsung explains that the proximity sensor uses a component that emits and receives light. Infrared rays are reflected from the object in front of the phone, and the device measures the distance based on this. This is why the flashing dot may appear during a call or in situations where the phone is checking to see if something is blocking the screen.
It is important that the user cannot manually turn off the proximity sensor. Samsung states that all phones after the Galaxy S5 series have a sensor that cannot be deactivated, as it is necessary for normal operation during calls. Without it, the screen would stay on while the phone is held to the ear, which would easily trigger unwanted commands.
However, if the screen behaves strangely during a conversation, the sensor may have a problem. For example, the screen may not turn on after a call ends, or may not respond as expected when the phone is moved away from your face. In that case, Samsung recommends turning on the option Double tap to turn on screen in the menu Settings > Advanced features > Motions and gestures.
The problem can also be caused by dirt, hair, static electricity, protective glass or film covering the upper part of the screen. That’s why you should first clean that part with a soft cloth and check if the accessories cover the sensor.
For an additional check, the Samsung Members application can be used, which has a diagnostic test for proximity detection. After cleaning and checking, it is recommended to restart the phone and make a test call. If the problem persists, the device should be taken to a Samsung service center.
The small blinking dot is therefore not a hidden error, but the normal operation of the sensor that prevents accidental touches during a call, writes BGR.