Appear on Top Permission
The SOS App requires Appear on Top permission (also called Draw Over Other Apps permission) to show emergency countdowns, alert screens, fall detection popups, and instant action overlays even when you are using other apps or your device screen is locked.
Overview
Granting Appear on Top permission allows the SOS App to:
- Show emergency alert screens instantly, even over locked screens.
- Display countdown timers for SOS actions after fall detection.
- Prompt for immediate action without needing to reopen the app manually.
- Enhance visibility and speed during real-time emergencies.
Without this permission, critical pop-up alerts may fail to appear at the right time, delaying your response.
Why Appear on Top Permission is Required
| Purpose | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Emergency Countdown Popups | Displays fall detection timers or emergency cancel/confirm options immediately. |
| Quick SOS Activation | Allows instant SOS overlay even during app minimization or screen lock. |
| Fall Detection Alerts | Shows silent/siren countdown screens discreetly without unlocking the device. |
| Secret Recording Activation | Trigger hidden recording overlays when an emergency alert is triggered. |
Features That Use Appear on Top Permission
- Fall Detection Emergency Countdown Screen
- SOS Alert Activation Screen
- Secret Audio/Video Recording Activation
- Live Alert Overlays
Appear on Top ensures the SOS App can grab your attention instantly when needed most.
How to Enable Appear on Top Permission
Follow these simple steps:
- Open your device’s Settings.
- Navigate to Apps → Special Access → Appear on Top (or Draw Over Other Apps).
- Find and select the SOS App.
- Toggle Allow Appear on Top or Permit Drawing Over Other Apps to ON.
This permission must be kept active continuously for maximum emergency reliability.
Best Practices for Appear on Top Settings
| Recommendation | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Grant permission immediately after installing the app | Ensures emergency popups are functional from day one. |
| Recheck after major OS updates | Some system updates reset or revoke overlay permissions. |
| Monitor other apps | Avoid apps that block or interfere with overlay popups from safety apps. |
| Test SOS Alert once permission granted | Validate that alert screens pop up successfully. |
Common Questions
Does granting Appear on Top allow the SOS App to control my phone?
No.
It only allows the SOS App to display emergency alert screens or countdowns on top of other running apps for faster response.
Will overlays drain my phone battery?
No.
Popups appear only briefly during emergencies or countdown periods and have almost no battery impact.
Can I revoke Appear on Top later?
Yes, but revoking may prevent emergency countdowns or alert popups from showing properly during real emergencies.
Is this permission safe?
Yes.
The SOS App uses this permission strictly for emergency alerts and safety features — no intrusive behavior or misuse.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Emergency countdown not appearing | Verify that Appear on Top permission is granted and active. |
| SOS alert screen missing after fall detection | Re-enable Draw Over Other Apps permission for the SOS App. |
| Popup alert delayed | Ensure Battery Optimization exclusion and Appear on Top permissions are both active. |
| Fall Detection siren countdown not displaying | Check overlay permissions and restart the app if necessary. |
The Appear on Top permission is essential for displaying fast, life-saving emergency overlays during critical moments.
By enabling this permission, you ensure you never miss an urgent alert — whether you're actively using your device or it's locked or asleep.
Act faster. Stay protected. Allow Appear on Top.
What's Next
Learn about how Phone Call Permission enables direct emergency calling with a single tap during urgent situations.