Why do I still see dots instead of letters after enabling Show passwords?

Some apps override the system setting with their own password field behavior. Check that app's own privacy or security settings if this happens.

Is the Show passwords toggle in the same place on every Android phone?

On stock Android it sits under Tap on Settings ➔ Tap on Security & privacy ➔ Tap on Privacy. Manufacturer skins may place it under a slightly different settings label.

Should I turn off Show passwords for better security?

Turning it off reduces the risk of someone reading your password over your shoulder, but you lose the typo confirmation while typing. Using a password manager reduces how often you type passwords manually anyway.

Android

Android: Show or Hide Password Characters While Typing

When you type a password, each character flashes briefly on screen before turning into a dot. That short preview helps you catch typos, but it also means anyone glancing at your screen can read your password. The Show passwords option in your privacy settings controls this behavior.

Updated: 08.08.20263 min4 steps

Version

Step by step

1 / 4

Tap on Settings

1 / 4

Scroll or use the buttons for the next step

Live simulator

Android 14 · Android 14

Tap on Settings

1 / 4

Scroll or use the buttons for the next step

Feedback

Was the guide correct?

Help others: confirm the path or report a problem.

Confirmations

Forum verified this path

Android

Show or Hide Password Characters While Typing auf Android

Android briefly displays each password character before masking it with a dot. This visual confirmation helps you catch typos while typing, but it also lets anyone nearby read your password over your shoulder.

The Show passwords setting controls this behavior system-wide. Disabling it masks every character immediately, without the short flash, which is useful in public spaces or on a shared screen.

To change it, go to Tap on Settings ➔ Tap on Security & privacy ➔ Tap on Privacy ➔ Enable or disable Show passwords.

Turning the option off does not affect autofill or password manager suggestions. It only changes the brief on-screen preview while you type manually. If you frequently mistype passwords, keep the option enabled and rely on a password manager for privacy in public instead.

Frequently asked questions

No. The setting only controls the brief on-screen preview while you type. Saved and autofilled passwords stay untouched.

Security & Privacy

Android: Show or Hide Password Characters While Typing

Step by step

Was the guide correct?

Show or Hide Password Characters While Typing auf Android

Frequently asked questions

More guides for Android

Allow or Block the Modify System Settings Permission

Turn On/Off Device Administrators

Reset Advertising ID

Turn Wireless Emergency Alerts On or Off