Set up PaperScreen on Android

Allow display over other apps

This permission is required for Color E-paper and Soft Light. The layer does not intercept taps or keyboard input.

1. 1

   Choose a display effect or turn PaperScreen on.

2. 2

   Choose Open settings when Android asks for access.

3. 3

   Allow PaperScreen to display over other apps, then return to PaperScreen.

Keep the ongoing notification available

Android requires a foreground-service notification while effects or schedules are active. It also gives you reliable Pause, Resume, and Open controls.

• Allow notifications when first asked.
• If the status says Not allowed, open the notification setting and enable PaperScreen and its display-effects channel.
• You may hide the status icon on supported devices, but do not disable the notification itself.

Schedules and restart behavior

Pro schedules run through PaperScreen’s ongoing service and normally act within a short interval of the selected time. They do not require exact-alarm access.

• Restore after restart controls whether an effect that is already on returns after a reboot.
• Enabled schedules remain ready after a reboot even when the current effect is not restored.
• Some manufacturers restrict background apps aggressively. If schedules stop, allow PaperScreen to run in the background or remove it from battery optimization.

Understand Android limitations

Android intentionally keeps overlays away from some protected and security-sensitive surfaces. A system permission screen, secure payment screen, notification shade, or protected video may temporarily appear without the effect. This is expected and protects your input and content.

• PaperScreen does not need Usage access or Accessibility access.
• A protected system flow may temporarily reject the overlay.
• System screenshots and screen recordings can include the visible effect; pause PaperScreen first when you need original colors.
• Use the ongoing notification to pause PaperScreen whenever you need to see original colors.