If you use Snapchat, you might have seen a little green dot. It shows up next to some friends’ names or Bitmoji. You may wonder what it means.
Here’s a clear answer: The green dot means that person is online now. They’re using Snapchat or have it open on their phone.
Where You’ll See the Green Dot
Snapchat shows the green dot in a few places:
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In your chat list
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When you search for a friend
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In your list of friends
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On the “Add Friends” screen
If someone is online and has the green dot setting turned on, you will see the dot next to their name or Bitmoji.
Can Everyone See the Green Dot?
No, not everyone.
Only people who are mutual friends can see your green dot. That means:
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You added them
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They added you back
Also, both of you need to have the setting turned on. If one of you turns it off, the green dot won’t show.
How to Turn Off the Green Dot on Snapchat
Don’t want others to see when you’re online? You can turn it off.
Here’s how to do it:
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Open Snapchat.
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Tap on your Bitmoji in the top-left.
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Tap the Settings gear in the top-right.
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Scroll to Privacy Controls.
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Tap Activity Indicator.
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Switch it off.
Once you do that, people won’t see your green dot. But you won’t see theirs either.
Why Does Snapchat Use the Green Dot?
Snapchat added this feature to help friends know who’s online. It’s like the “active now” dot on Facebook or Instagram.
It helps you see who might reply fast. This can make chatting feel quicker and more fun.
But don’t worry—just seeing a green dot doesn’t mean someone is looking at your chats or snaps. It only shows that the app is open.
Does the Green Dot Mean They’re Looking at Me?
No, not at all.
The green dot only means they are online. It does not mean they are watching your story, looking at your messages, or snapping you.
It’s just a small way to tell who is active on Snapchat right now.
FAQs
Q: What if I turn off my green dot?
If you turn it off, no one will see when you’re online. You also won’t see who else is online.
Q: Can strangers see the green dot?
No. Only people you are friends with on Snapchat can see it. Both of you must have added each other.
Q: Does the green dot mean they’re using Snapchat right now?
Yes, or that they were very recently. The dot may stay on for a short time after they stop using the app.
Q: Is it the same as being “online”?
Yes. The green dot means the person is active or recently active on Snapchat.
Final Thoughts
So, what does the green dot mean on Snapchat? It’s a way to show who is online right now. It helps you know who might answer quickly if you want to chat.
You can turn the green dot off anytime if you want more privacy. Just go into your settings and switch it off under “Activity Indicator.”
Whether you keep it on or off, now you know what it means—and how it works.
