Here are some Samsung Galaxy S21 tips and tricks to take your experience to next level

Samsung has done a great job with the Android 11 based One UI 3.1 update for most of the phones in its portfolio and with Android 12, it aims to surpass itself. The Samsung Android 12 update is One UI 4, and it comes with a slate of new features and a UI refresh.

The One UI 4 stable build is now available for the Galaxy S21 lineup, so from the base S21 Galaxy to the powerful S21 Ultra, the company offers a range of devices that are sure to delight many Android fans.

Whether it’s your first time choosing a Galaxy smartphone or you’ve been around the block a few times, there are a few tips and tricks for everyone to learn from.

Here is our collection of great tips and tricks for the Samsung Galaxy S21 to take your experience to the next level.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Tips and Tricks

Switch to Android touch navigation

By default, Samsung smartphones continue to use the three-button navigation system. This means you are given three buttons at the bottom of your screen that allows you to go back to your home screen, switch between open apps, and go back to the app.

However, Android 11 offers a touch-based system, similar to using an iOS device. This method can feel more precise and allows apps more screen space.

Here’s how to enable touch navigation on your Galaxy S21:

• Open the Settings app.
• Select the Display option.
• Choose Navigation Bar.
• Select Swipe Gestures as your option.

Access a personal Google Newsfeed

One of the features introduced in Samsung’s Samsung S21 line with One UI 3.1 is Google Discover. By swiping to the left of your home screen, you can access the automated and customized news feed.

Google supports Discover feeds for your online activity in an effort to display only the information it believes you would like to read. If Google Discover is not approved, you can follow these steps to show it on your device:

• Hold down on the Home Screen.
• Swipe right to access the leftmost screen.
• Choose to enable or disable Google Discover.

Access call and text from other devices

If you have another Samsung device, such as a tablet, you can allow the feature that allows messages and calls to be shared on your Samsung account.

To enable this feature, follow these instructions:

• Open the Settings app.
• Scroll down to Advanced Features.
• Enable the Call and Text on Other Devices feature.

Control your Galaxy side button

There was a time when Galaxy devices came with a dedicated Bixby assistant for Samsung, but that time is no more. Now, the Galaxy S21 series offers one side button (known as the “power button” for most people) that can be customized as you wish.

Do you want to access Bixby or quickly launch your camera? Choose exactly what the sidebar does when you press it, double-click, and more. Here’s what:

• Open the Settings app.
• Scroll down to Advanced Features.
• Choose the Side Key option.
• Select what function you want the key to perform.

Show the fingerprint scanner location

The Samsung Galaxy S21 series under-screen scanner is a great way to keep your smartphone safe while feeling like James Bond every time you turn it on. However, sometimes it can be tricky to find the right place.

Here’s how to display your fingerprint scanner when your device is locked, so you know exactly where to place your finger:

• Open the Settings app.
• Choose the Biometrics and Security option.
• Choose Fingerprints.
• Confirm your PIN.
• Enable the Show Icon When Screen is Off option.