Author: Abhinav Mishra

Using a Samsung device for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. Samsung’s Galaxy series—ranging from smartphones and tablets to wearables—offers a wealth of features designed to enhance your daily life. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to set up and use your Samsung device effectively.

1. Powering On and Initial Setup

Step 1: Turn On the Device

• Press and hold the Power button until the Samsung logo appears.

Step 2: Select Language and Region

• Choose your preferred language and region to proceed.

Step 3: Connect to Wi-Fi

• Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password to connect.

Step 4: Sign in to Google Account

• Enter your Google credentials to access Google services and the Play Store.

Step 5: Sign in to Samsung Account

• Create or log in to your Samsung account to access exclusive features like Samsung Cloud and Galaxy Store.

Step 6: Restore Data

• If you’re switching from another device, use Samsung Smart Switch to transfer data seamlessly.

2. Navigating the Interface

Home Screen and App Drawer

• Swipe up from the bottom to access the App Drawer.
• Swipe down from the top to view Notifications and Quick Settings.

Navigation Options

• Choose between Gesture Navigation and Button Navigation:
  • Go to Settings > Display > Navigation bar to select your preference.

3. Customizing Your Device

Themes and Wallpapers

• Personalize your device by navigating to Settings > Wallpaper and style.
• Download themes and wallpapers from the Galaxy Themes store.

Widgets and Home Screen Layout

• Long-press on the home screen to add widgets or change the layout.

Edge Panels

• Enable Edge Panels for quick access to apps and tools:
  • Go to Settings > Display > Edge panels.

4. Essential Features and Settings

Battery Optimization

• Extend battery life by enabling Power Saving Mode:
  • Navigate to Settings > Battery and device care > Battery > Power saving.

Security Settings

• Set up Biometric Authentication for added security:
  • Go to Settings > Biometrics and security to configure fingerprint or facial recognition.

Digital Wellbeing

• Monitor your device usage and set app timers:
  • Access Settings > Digital Wellbeing and parental controls.

5. Utilizing Samsung Apps and Services

Samsung Notes

• Create and manage notes with text, images, and voice recordings.

Samsung Health

• Track your fitness activities, monitor health metrics, and set wellness goals.

Samsung Pay

• Add your credit or debit cards to make secure payments using your device.

6. Advanced Tips and Tricks

Bixby Routines

• Automate tasks based on your usage patterns:
  • Go to Settings > Advanced features > Bixby Routines.

Secure Folder

• Protect sensitive data by storing it in a secure, encrypted space:
  • Access Settings > Biometrics and security > Secure Folder.

Screen Recording

• Record your screen activity for tutorials or demonstrations:
  • Swipe down to access Quick Settings and tap Screen Recorder.

7. Keeping Your Device Updated

Software Updates

• Ensure your device runs smoothly by installing the latest updates:
  • Navigate to Settings > Software update > Download and install.

Galaxy Store Updates

• Update Samsung apps by opening the Galaxy Store, tapping the Menu, and selecting Updates.

8. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Running Slow

• Clear cache and unnecessary files:
  • Go to Settings > Battery and device care > Optimize now.

App Crashes

• Update the app via the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store.
• If issues persist, clear the app’s cache:
  • Navigate to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Clear cache.

Connectivity Problems

• Reset network settings:
  • Go to Settings > General management > Reset > Reset network settings.

9. Accessing Help and Support

Samsung Members App

• Get personalized support, diagnostic tools, and community forums.

User Manual

• Access the digital user manual directly from your device:
  • Navigate to Settings > Tips and user manual > User manual.

Customer Support

• Contact Samsung support via chat, phone, or visit a Samsung Experience Store for in-person assistance.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your Samsung device’s features and capabilities. Regularly exploring settings and updates will ensure your device remains optimized and secure.

Forgetting the unlock pattern on your Samsung phone can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are several methods to regain access without losing your data. This detailed how-to guide covers all possible solutions to unlock your Samsung device safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Try Samsung’s “Find My Mobile” Service

If you have a Samsung account linked to your phone and Find My Mobile enabled, this is the easiest way to unlock your device remotely.

How to Use Find My Mobile:

1. Visit Samsung Find My Mobile on any browser.
2. Log in with your Samsung account credentials.
3. Select your locked device from the list.
4. Click on Unlock.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to unlock your phone remotely.

Note: This method requires your phone to be powered on and connected to the internet.

Step 2: Use Google’s “Find My Device” to Reset Lock

If your Samsung phone is linked to your Google account, you can reset the lock remotely through Google’s Find My Device service. However, this method erases all data on your device.

How to Use Find My Device:

1. Visit Google Find My Device.
2. Sign in with your Google account linked to the phone.
3. Select your locked Samsung device.
4. Choose Erase Device to factory reset your phone.

Warning: This will delete all personal data on the device. Use this only if data loss is acceptable.

Step 3: Use Samsung’s Smart Lock (If Enabled)

If you have previously enabled Smart Lock, your device may unlock automatically in trusted situations, such as being connected to a trusted Wi-Fi network or device.

How to Use Smart Lock:

• Try to connect your phone to a trusted Bluetooth device.
• Bring your phone to a trusted location like your home.
• If Smart Lock is active, the phone may unlock without entering the pattern.

Step 4: Use Recovery Mode to Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If the above options don’t work and you cannot unlock your phone, a factory reset via Recovery Mode is the final option. This will erase all data on your device.

How to Perform a Factory Reset:

1. Power off your Samsung phone completely.
2. Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power (Side) button simultaneously.
3. Release the buttons when the Samsung logo or recovery menu appears.
4. Use volume buttons to navigate to Wipe data/factory reset.
5. Press the Power button to select.
6. Confirm the reset by selecting Yes.
7. After the reset completes, select Reboot system now.

Note: After factory reset, you will need to log in with the Google or Samsung account previously linked to the device due to Factory Reset Protection (FRP).

Step 5: Contact Samsung Support or Visit a Service Center

If none of the above methods work or you want professional help, contact Samsung customer support or visit an authorized service center.

What to Expect:

• They may help unlock the device using official tools.
• Proof of purchase or ownership might be required.
• Data recovery is usually not guaranteed.

Additional Tips to Avoid Future Lockouts

• Always keep your Samsung and Google account credentials handy.
• Enable Samsung Find My Mobile and Google Find My Device services.
• Consider using biometric unlocking methods like fingerprint or face recognition.
• Regularly back up your phone data.

Conclusion

Forgetting your Samsung phone’s pattern lock is inconvenient, but various options exist to regain access. Using Samsung’s Find My Mobile is the safest method without data loss. If necessary, factory reset through Recovery Mode remains a reliable last resort. Always safeguard your accounts and data to avoid such issues.

Calibrating your Samsung curved monitor can significantly enhance your gaming experience by delivering accurate colors, optimal brightness, and sharp visuals. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to calibrate your monitor effectively.

Step 1: Reset to Factory Settings

Before making any adjustments, it’s advisable to reset your monitor to its default settings to ensure a clean starting point.

• Access the OSD Menu: Press the joystick button located typically at the back or bottom of your monitor.
• Navigate to ‘Menu’ > ‘System’ > ‘Reset All’: Confirm the reset to restore factory settings.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Picture Mode

Samsung monitors offer various picture modes tailored for different scenarios. For gaming, selecting the right mode is crucial.

• Game Mode: Enhances response time and reduces input lag.
• FPS Mode: Brightens dark scenes, ideal for first-person shooters.
• RTS Mode: Optimizes color and contrast for real-time strategy games.

To select a mode:

• Access the OSD Menu: Press the joystick button.
• Navigate to ‘Picture’ > ‘Picture Mode’: Choose the desired mode.

Step 3: Adjust Brightness and Contrast

Proper brightness and contrast settings ensure that game visuals are neither too dark nor washed out.

• Brightness: Adjust to a comfortable level based on your ambient lighting. A starting point is around 70%.
• Contrast: Set to around 75% to maintain detail in both bright and dark area.

Adjust these settings via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Brightness’ or ‘Contrast’.

Step 4: Fine-Tune Color Settings

Accurate color reproduction enhances the gaming experience.

• Color Temperature: Set to ‘Custom’ to manually adjust RGB values.
• RGB Settings: Start with Red: 50, Green: 50, Blue: 50. Adjust as needed based on your preference.

Access these settings via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Color’ > ‘Color Tone’ > ‘Custom’.

Step 5: Set Gamma Levels

Gamma settings affect the mid-tones of your display.

• Gamma Mode 1: Offers a balanced display suitable for most games.
• Gamma Mode 2 or 3: Use if you prefer brighter or darker mid-tones, respectively.

Adjust via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Gamma’.

Step 6: Configure Black Equalizer

The Black Equalizer enhances visibility in dark scenes, crucial for spotting enemies in shadowy areas.

• Set to 13-20: This range improves dark scene visibility without overexposing.

Adjust via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Game’ > ‘Black Equalizer’.

Step 7: Adjust Sharpness

Sharpness settings affect the clarity of images.

• Set to 60-70: This range provides clear visuals without introducing artifacts.

Adjust via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Sharpness’.

Step 8: Enable or Disable Dynamic Contrast

Dynamic Contrast automatically adjusts contrast levels based on screen content.

• Enable: If you prefer automatic adjustments for varying scenes.
• Disable: For consistent contrast levels.

Toggle via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Dynamic Contrast’.

Step 9: Utilize Samsung Magic Upscale

Samsung Magic Upscale enhances image quality, especially for lower-resolution content.

• Mode 1: Provides subtle enhancement.
• Mode 2: Offers stronger enhancement.

Enable via:

• OSD Menu: ‘Picture’ > ‘Samsung Magic Upscale’.

Step 10: Calibrate Using Windows Display Settings

For further refinement, use Windows’ built-in calibration tool.

1. Open Display Calibration:
   • Press Win + R, type dccw, and press Enter.
2. Follow the Calibration Wizard:
   • Adjust gamma, brightness, contrast, and color balance as guided.

Additional Tips

• Ambient Lighting: Ensure your room lighting complements your monitor settings to reduce eye strain.
• Regular Calibration: Periodically recalibrate to maintain optimal display performance.
• Driver Updates: Keep your monitor and graphics card drivers up to date for the best compatibility and performance.

By following these steps, you can calibrate your Samsung curved monitor to deliver an immersive and visually stunning gaming experience.

Samsung’s Bixby assistant is integrated into many Galaxy devices. While it offers voice commands and smart features, not everyone finds it useful. If you’re looking to disable Bixby, this guide provides step-by-step instructions for various methods.

1. Remap the Side Button to Disable Bixby Activation

On newer Samsung phones, the Side button (formerly the Bixby button) can be customized. By default, pressing and holding this button activates Bixby. To change this:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Advanced features.
3. Select Side button.
4. Under Press and hold, choose Power off menu.

Now, holding the Side button will bring up the power menu instead of launching Bixby.

2. Turn Off Bixby Voice Wake-Up

Bixby Voice allows hands-free activation by saying “Hi, Bixby.” To disable this feature:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Advanced features.
3. Select Bixby.
4. Tap Voice wake-up.
5. Toggle off the Voice wake-up switch.

This prevents Bixby from activating through voice commands.

3. Disable Bixby Home (Samsung Free) from the Home Screen

Bixby Home, now known as Samsung Free, appears on the leftmost home screen panel. To remove it:

1. Long-press on an empty area of the home screen.
2. Swipe right to the Samsung Free panel.
3. Toggle off the switch at the top of the screen.

This removes the Bixby Home panel from your home screen.

4. Disable Bixby Voice Completely

To turn off Bixby Voice entirely:

1. Open the Bixby app.
2. Tap the Menu icon (three vertical dots) in the top right corner.
3. Select Settings.
4. Toggle off Bixby Voice.

This prevents Bixby Voice from launching via any method.

5. Leave Bixby (Remove Bixby Data)

If you prefer to remove your Bixby data:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Advanced features.
3. Select Bixby.
4. Tap Leave Bixby.
5. Confirm by tapping Leave Bixby again.
6. Enter your Samsung account credentials if prompted.

This action deletes your Bixby data and settings.

6. Use ADB to Disable Bixby (Advanced Users)

For advanced users comfortable with ADB (Android Debug Bridge), you can disable Bixby packages:

1. Connect your phone to a computer with ADB installed.
2. Open a command prompt or terminal window.
3. Run the following commands:

pgsql

CopyEdit

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.agent

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.wakeup

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.service

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.voiceinput

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.plmsync

adb shell pm disable-user –user 0 com.samsung.android.bixbyvision.framework

This method disables Bixby components without rooting your device.

Conclusion

Disabling Bixby on your Samsung device can enhance your user experience if you prefer not to use the assistant. Whether by remapping buttons, turning off voice activation, or using advanced methods, you have control over Bixby’s presence on your phone.

Multitasking has become an integral part of our daily smartphone usage. Samsung Galaxy devices offer a split screen feature, allowing users to run two apps simultaneously. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial on how to utilize the split screen functionality on Samsung Galaxy phones.

What Is Split Screen Mode?

Split screen mode, also known as Multitasking has become an integral part of our daily smartphone usage. Samsung Galaxy devices offer a split screen feature, allowing users to run two apps simultaneously. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial on how to utilize the split screen functionality on Samsung Galaxy phones.

What Is Split Screen Mode?

Split screen mode, also known as Multi Window, enables you to view and interact with two apps at the same time. For instance, you can browse the web while watching a video or take notes during a video call. This feature enhances productivity by reducing the need to switch between apps.

How to Use Split Screen on Samsung Galaxy

Method 1: Using the Recent Apps Button

1. Open the First App: Launch the first app you want to use.
2. Access Recent Apps: Tap the Recent Apps button (usually the three vertical lines at the bottom of the screen) to view your recently used apps.
3. Select Split Screen Option: Tap the app’s icon at the top of its preview window. A menu will appear; select Open in split screen view.
4. Choose the Second App: Your first app will occupy the top half of the screen. From the list of recent apps or the app drawer, select the second app you wish to open.
5. Adjust the Divider: A divider will appear between the two apps. Drag it up or down to resize the apps as needed.

Method 2: Using the Edge Panel

If your device supports the Edge Panel feature:

1. Enable Edge Panel: Go to Settings > Display > Edge Screen > Edge Panels and toggle it on.
2. Access Edge Panel: Swipe from the edge of the screen to open the Edge Panel.
3. Select Apps: Tap and hold the app you want to use, then drag it to the top or bottom of the screen.
4. Choose the Second App: Repeat the process for the second app, placing it in the remaining half of the screen.

Method 3: Creating App Pairs

For frequently used app combinations:

1. Open Both Apps in Split Screen: Use either of the methods above to open two apps in split screen.
2. Save as App Pair: Tap the divider between the apps, then tap the App Pair icon (usually a star or plus sign).
3. Access App Pair: The App Pair will be saved in your Edge Panel for quick access in the future.

Additional Tips

• Exiting Split Screen: Drag the divider all the way up or down to close one of the apps and exit split screen mode.
• Not All Apps Support Split Screen: Some apps may not be compatible with split screen mode.
• Using Pop-Up View: For more flexibility, you can use the Pop-Up View to open apps in resizable windows. Access this by tapping the app icon in the Recent Apps view and selecting Open in pop-up view.

Conclusion

The split screen feature on Samsung Galaxy devices is a powerful tool for multitasking. By following the methods outlined above, you can efficiently use two apps simultaneously, enhancing your productivity and user experience.

Keeping your Samsung Galaxy device updated ensures optimal performance, enhanced security, and access to the latest features. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of updating your device’s software, whether automatically, manually, or using Samsung’s Smart Switch.

Why Software Updates Matter

Regular software updates:

• Enhance Security: Protect your device against vulnerabilities.
• Improve Performance: Fix bugs and optimize system operations.
• Introduce New Features: Access the latest functionalities and user interface improvements.

Preparing for the Update

Before initiating an update:

1. Charge Your Device: Ensure your battery is at least 50% charged.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi: Use a stable Wi-Fi connection to avoid data charges and ensure a smooth download.
3. Free Up Storage: Make sure there’s sufficient storage space; updates can be several gigabytes in size.
4. Backup Your Data: Although updates typically don’t affect personal data, it’s prudent to back up important information.

Method 1: Updating via Device Settings

1. Open Settings: Tap the Settings icon on your home screen or app drawer.
2. Navigate to Software Update: Scroll down and select Software update or System updates.
3. Check for Updates: Tap Download and install. Your device will search for available updates.
4. Download the Update: If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download it.
5. Install the Update: Once downloaded, tap Install now. Your device will restart and begin the installation process.

Note: Some updates may offer options to schedule the installation during off-peak hours.

Method 2: Using Samsung Smart Switch

Samsung’s Smart Switch allows you to update your device via a computer.

1. Download Smart Switch: Install Smart Switch on your PC or Mac from
2. Connect Your Device: Use a USB cable to connect your Samsung Galaxy device to your computer.
3. Launch Smart Switch: Open the Smart Switch application on your computer.
4. Check for Updates: If an update is available, Smart Switch will prompt you.
5. Update Your Device: Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the update.

Note: Ensure your device remains connected during the entire process.

Method 3: Manual Update via Firmware

For advanced users, manually updating using official firmware is an option. This method is more complex and carries risks if not done correctly.

1. Download Firmware: Obtain the official firmware for your specific device model from a trusted source.
2. Use Odin Tool: Utilize the Odin software on your PC to flash the firmware onto your device.
3. Follow Instructions Carefully: Adhere strictly to the flashing instructions to avoid potential issues.

Warning: Incorrectly flashing firmware can lead to device malfunctions. Proceed only if you’re confident in the process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Update Not Available: Updates roll out in phases. If not immediately available, check again later.
• Insufficient Storage: Free up space by deleting unnecessary files or apps.
• Battery Too Low: Charge your device to at least 50% before attempting an update.
• Update Fails to Install: Restart your device and try again. If issues persist, consider using Smart Switch or seeking professional assistance.

Post-Update Tips

• Explore New Features: Familiarize yourself with any new functionalities introduced.
• Check App Compatibility: Ensure your apps are updated to work seamlessly with the new software version.
• Monitor Device Performance: Observe your device’s behavior post-update and report any anomalies to Samsung support.

Final Thoughts

Regularly updating your Samsung Galaxy device is crucial for security, performance, and access to the latest features. By following the methods outlined above, you can ensure your device remains up-to-date and functions optimally.