Galaxy S6 guides

Why you need  app folders on Galaxy S6 home screen?

With more and more features in Android phones, and many apps with various functions available in Google Play store and Galaxy Apps, you may install a lot of apps in your Galaxy S6.

To access these apps quickly without going through Galaxy S6 Apps screen, you need put these apps on the home screen.

You may also put a lot of widgets on the home screen as well to access some info quickly without opening the app.

So, the home screen is really cluttered.  It becomes a pain to find an app on the home screen.

How to solve this problem?  You can use app folders to keep your Galaxy S6 home screen well organized.

Using app folders in Galaxy S6 home screen can help you:

1. reduce the number of home screen panels. This will make it fast to scroll through the home screen panels and therefore to access the apps faster.
2. organize apps in app folders per your preference. This means you can quickly find the apps which you do not use daily. For example, you may not use Google Drive app daily, but if you put the app in the Google folder or cloud folder, you can easily locate it and launch it, instead of fiddling around the home screen panels.
3. put more widgets and apps in the home screen. There is a hard limit (7) of number of home screen panels in Galaxy S6. If you use a lot of widgets, especially full page or half-page widgets, you will find the 7-panel limit in TouchWiz is not generous. Using app folders in Galaxy S6 home screen can save space on the home screen for other app folders or widgets.

Step by step guide on how to create app folders in Galaxy S6 home screen

Please note, creating app folders in Galaxy S6 home screen is not an option in home screen editing mode. You can only create app folders:

• when both apps that are to be included in the app folder are already on the home screen,
• or put the app folders in App screen to home screen directly.

To create app folders in Galaxy S6 home screen, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Tap and hold one app  and drag it to the target app.

For example, you want to create a folder for the Email app and Play Store app.… Read the rest

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What is Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen?

Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen is the starting point for accessing all features in Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge). Once Galaxy S6 is rebooted (and unlocked), the first page you encounter is the home panel of home screen (as shown below).

You can always reach Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen (and the home panel) by pressing the Home button.

Please note Samsung Galaxy S6 and Samsung Galaxy S6 edge share the identical home screen. This guide also applies to Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, although in the text, I use Galaxy S6.

Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen displays:

• widgets;
• shortcuts to apps (so that you can access these apps quickly);
• app folders (for your to manage and group apps without using excessive home screen panels);
• screen  indicators (indicating the location of current panel/page among all home screen panels);
• favorite apps (which will show on all panels of Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen. You can put most frequently used apps here to use Galaxy S6 effectively);
• apps screen icon (link to Apps screen)

By default, Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen consists of several pages (called panels). To view other panels of Galaxy S6 home screen, swipe to the left or right, or tap one of the screen indicators at the bottom of the screen as shown below.

Please note, Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen does NOT support cycling through home screen panels. In other words, there is a start and a end of home screen panels when you swipe the home panels in one direction. In old Samsung Galaxy devices, for example in Samsung Galaxy S5, when you reach the  right most panel, next panel will be the leftmost panel.  This feature was removed in Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen.

Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen options

You can customize Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen by adding, deleting, or rearranging home screen panels.

You can also set Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen wallpaper, add widgets to the home screen, change the themes of home screen, and set screen grid.

On Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen, tap and hold an empty area, or pinch your fingers together to access the available options as shown below.   Please refer to the Galaxy S6 touchscreen page on these gestures.

The Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen options include:

• Wallpapers: Change the wallpaper settings for Samsung Galaxy S6 home screen and the locked screen.

… Read the rest

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What is Samsung Galaxy S6 Smart Manager?

The Galaxy S6 Smart Manager provides an overview of the status of your device’s battery, storage, RAM, and system security.

You can also automatically optimize the device with one tap of your finger

Please note, part of the Samsung Galaxy S6 Smart Manager actually is actually from Clean Master, a popular Android app in mass, but infamous in the geek world.

There are 4 components in Galaxy S6 Smart Manager:

1. Battery.  Actually, it is just a link to Settings— Battery.
2. Storage. This part is from Clean Master. This can help you clean some junk files. Actually, this is the only useful part of Clean Master.
3. RAM. This part is from Clean Master. It is supposed to close apps to make Galaxy S6 faster. But it won’t! This is the useless and misleading part. Android does NOT need this. Do NOT  use this feature. It will slow down your Galaxy S6 and may cause battery drain.  If you want to make sure the apps are in the proper state, try to install Greenify.
4. Security. This is McAfee Mobile Security & Antivirus. Again, this probably is a useless feature for Android. But if you have the habit of getting dubious files or apps from the internet or unknown sources, this “may” slightly help you. But do not expect too much.

How to use Galaxy S6 Smart Manager?

You can find Galaxy S6 Smart Manager in Apps screen.

Tap Smart Manager as shown below in apps screen will open the app.

For Galaxy S6 Smart Manager, my recommendation for you is to use only 2 (two features): battery and storage.

You should NEVER use RAM or Clean All as shown below. It unlikely helps your Galaxy S6.

How to use Galaxy S6 Smart Manager to check battery usage?

As mentioned, the battery feature in Galaxy S6 Smart Manager is only a link to Settings— Battery.

It allows you to check the remaining battery power and time to use Galaxy S6.  If needed, you can conserve battery power by activating power saving features and closing apps
consuming an excessive amount of battery power.

The usage time left shows the time remaining before the battery power runs out. Usage time left may vary depending on your Galaxy S6 settings and operating
conditions. It is very inaccurate.

When the phone is being charged, it will show estimated remaining charging time.… Read the rest

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What’s Samsung Smart Switch?

After the excitement of getting your Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge, you may wonder how can you transfer the data from your previous device to Samsung Galaxy S6. For example, you may want to transfer contacts, messages, call logs, photos, media files, documents, and many other staff, from the old phone to the shining Galaxy S6.

Samsung Smart Switch makes it very easy for you to transfer data from previous device to Galaxy S6. It is the replacement/successor for Samsung Kies.

Samsung smart switch has two main functions:

1. Transferring data from your previous device to Samsung Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge, or other Galaxy devices.
2. Backup and restore Samsung Galaxy devices, including Galaxy S6, and Galaxy S6 edge.

Please note, if you are a Kies user for your Samsung devices, you need know that Samsung Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge) doe NOT work with Kies. You need download and install Smart Switch on your PC.

How to transfer data from your previous device to Samsung Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge with Samsung Smart Switch?

You can transfer data from your previous device to Samsung Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge in two ways:

1. from mobile to mobile (WiFi direct will be used automatically). All you need is the Samsung Smart Switch Mobile app, which you can get from Play Store or Galaxy Apps.
2. through a PC. You will need a USB cable and Smart Switch for PC.

Both ways give similar options. So, you need only one of them.  In this guide, we will show you detailed step-by-step procedure for these 2 methods.

What old devices are supported for transferring data to Samsung Galaxy S6 through Smart Switch?

As Samsung Smart Switch is a Samsung product, most Samsung devices are supported.

For transferring data from mobile to Galaxy S6 (or from iCloud to Galaxy S6), here is the list of supported devices:

• Samsung Galaxy devices with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream  Sandwich) or later versions
• any iCloud-enabled iOS devices.
• Selected other Android devices from LG, Sony, and HTC (you can try to install Smart Switch app from Play Store to determine whether it is supported.)

For transferring data through PC, here is the list of supported devices:

• Apple iPhone with iOS version 4.2.1 or later
• Blackberry with OS version 6.0–7.1
• Nokia with Series 40 (S40) OS or later
• Nokia with Symbian OS 6.0 or later, except Symbian OS 10.

… Read the rest

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Do you need a Samsung Galaxy S6 Case?

Using a Samsung Galaxy S6 case or not  can be a tough decision for many Galaxy S6 owners.

You probably bought Galaxy S6 because of its excellent exterior design and build material. Using a Samsung Galaxy S6 case may change the look and feel of your phone.  A case or cover also add some weight to your Galaxy S6.

But you may concern about possible damages when you drop the phone, or bump the phone into some hard objects, although the Gorilla glass 4 in the back panel and the screen actually is quite strong and touch.

If you plan to sell your Galaxy S6 after one or two years, you may concern about resale value due to small scratches on the phone body, especially on the metal frame, which is actually the weakest part.

You may need a Samsung Galaxy S6 case for your shiny Galaxy S6 if:

• you dropped your phone at least once  in last 12 months.
• you are going to sell your Galaxy S6 with in 24 months. For example, you may plan to sell Galaxy S6 to partially  finance your Galaxy S7 purchase.
• you do not mind the look or feel of the original Galaxy S6.

The main purpose of Galaxy S6 case is to protect your Galaxy S6 from scratches or even drops. Some well-designed Galaxy S6 cases may even make the phone look better.

Please note, no matter how slim the Samsung Galaxy S6 case is, it will add some weight to the phone. And the case may make your Galaxy S6 look bulky most of the time.

What’s the “best” Samsung Galaxy S6 Case?

First, there is no best Samsung Galaxy S6 case.

It all depends on your expectations and your taste, and sometimes your budget.

Instead of attempting to find the best Samsung Galaxy S6 case, you should try to find one that is suitable for you.

The criteria you may consider include:

1. The level of protection you need. If you drop your smartphone quite often, you should  get a hybrid Samsung Galaxy S6 case with decent impact protection, e.g., OtterBox case. But you should also be aware that  higher level protection means bulkier case or cover.
2. The budget you have for the Samsung Galaxy S6 case. It is not necessary to overstretch yourself for a case. No matter what budget you have, you probably can find a suitable case.  

… Read the rest

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1. What is Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode?

Safe mode is an integrated, and usually hidden part in Android OS.  It is a defense system of Android to prevent the device from messing up itself, usually due to third-party apps.

Most Android users probably never use Android safe mode because of the improvement in each version of Android. But sometimes, safe mode can solve your problem without modifying your settings or changing your files on the phone.

Some Android vendors may implement safe mode in a slightly different ways. So, in different Android devices, the way to access safe mode may be slightly different.

Samsung fully implemented Android safe mode in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, similar to previous generation of Galaxy devices.

Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode may be launched automatically if the system detects some miscreant apps or operations are trying to crash the system.  But this happens very very rarely nowadays.

Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode is a special state of your Galaxy S6: all third-party apps (apps that are installed by you, not pre-installed) are disabled. Some settings are also temporally rolled back to default settings in Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode.

2. When will you need  Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode?

Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode temporally  turns off all user-installed apps.  Only pre-installed apps are available in safe mode.

You will need  Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode:

• when you need check some weird behavior of your phone. Such abnormal behavior is usually caused by some buggy or incompatible third-party apps.
• when you are locked in kids mode and forget the password to exit kids mode.
• when your Galaxy S6 thinks it should enter safe mode because of the abnormal behavior or operations of certain apps.

3. How to boot into Samsung Galaxy S6 safe mode?

To boot Samsung Galaxy S6 into safe mode, you may follow these steps:

Step 1: Power off the phone.

If your Galaxy S6 is on now, you need power off the phone first.

Press and hold the power button for 2-4 seconds to get the power menu on the screen as shown below.

Tap Power off as shown below.

Tap POWER OFF in the confirmation window as shown below. This step is to avoid powering off Galaxy S6 accidentally.

This will turn off Galaxy S6.

Step 2: Wait one or two minutes.

After Samsung Galaxy S6 is turned off, it ‘s better to wait one or two minutes  before proceeding to step 3.… Read the rest

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Samsung Galaxy S6 touchscreen responses to your finger input. It understands your finger input through gestures.

These touchscreen gestures are actually almost universal on all Android devices. So this guide applies not only to Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge, but also many other Android devices.

This guide also shows you how to properly use and maintain your Galaxy S6 touchscreen.

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 1: tapping

Tapping gesture means you tap the screen with one finger, and you tap it once  (as shown below).  This is the basic gesture on almost all smartphones and tablets.

You will use this Galaxy S6 touchscreen tapping gesture, when you want to to open an app, to select a menu item, to press an on-screen button, or to enter a character using the keyboard on the screen.

Of course, sometimes, you may accidentally tap the screen.

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 2: dragging

Dragging gesture means you tap an object with one finger, without releasing your finger, then move the finger to another location on the screen as shown above.

For example, when you want to move an item, tap, hold and drag it to the target position.

Do not confuse the dragging gesture with swiping. Dragging gesture always has an object and the target location.

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 3: tapping and holding

Tapping and holding gesture means you tapping an object or just the screen with one finger, without releasing your finger for more than 2 seconds (as shown below).

In Galaxy S6 touchscreen, tapping and holding gesture is mainly for you to access available options of the object or the screen.

For example, in Chrome browser, tapping and holding a link should give you some options to open the link or copy the link.

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 4: double tapping

Double tapping gesture means you tap the object twice quickly, usually within 2 seconds as shown above.

In Galaxy S6 touchscreen, you can use double tapping gesture to zoom in a picture or a webpage. Use the double tapping gesture again to return,

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 5: spreading

Spreading gesture means you put two fingers in the screen, then moving them apart as shown below.

Spreading gesture for Galaxy S6 touchscreen is mainly zoom in the screen.  The support of spreading gesture depends on the app. Maps, browser and gallery apps app support this gesture.

Galaxy S6 touchscreen gesture 6: pinching

Pinching gesture is the opposite of spreading as shown above.… Read the rest

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You can use Galaxy S6 motions and gestures to control your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge

As you already learnt, you can use your palm to take screenshot on Galaxy S6. This is one example of Galaxy S6 motions and gestures.

Basically, Galaxy S6 allows you to control your phone with certain gestures and motions.

The accelerometer and gyroscope in Galaxy S6 is able to determine the orientation of the Galaxy S6 and motions. The front camera and proximity sensor is able to identify your gestures.

This is how Galaxy S6 motions and gestures work.

Actually, Galaxy S6 motions and gestures are not new. In previous generations of Galaxy devices, Samsung already introduced motions and gestures. But in Galaxy S6, this feature works better.

What functions are offered by Galaxy S6 motions and gestures?

Galaxy S6 motions and gestures offers 4 different features:

1. Direct call;
2. Smart alert;
3. Mute;
4. Screen capture (screenshot).

Direct Call

When you are checking phone logs, or checking details of a contact, or reading a message, if you move the phone to your ear, Galaxy S6 will call the contact automatically. You don’t need to dial the number.

Samsung named this feature as direct call.

When you in contact page, if the contact has several numbers, the direct call will call the first one in the list.

Smart Alert

Galaxy S6 can alert you by vibrating once if you have missed calls or new messages when you pick up the phone.

Smart alert may not work if the screen is turned on or if Galaxy S6 is not on a flat surface.

Mute

You can mute incoming calls or alarms on Galaxy S6 by putting your palm over the screen, or turn over the screen so that the screen is facing downwards.

Of course, this works when you are in sound mode.  When it rings, you want to mute the ring. If you want to silence Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge, please read this guide.

Please note, mute function of Galaxy S6 motions and gestures can only mute ringtones and alarm tones. It does not mute music or videos.

Screen capture

As discussed in how to take screenshot on Galaxy S6 page, swipe your palm over the screen (method 2) is one of the two methods available on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge to take a screenshot without using any apps.… Read the rest

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Disable apps and uninstall apps on Galaxy S6, what’s the difference?

When you get your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, there are some apps installed by Samsung and local distributors.

The pre-installed apps fall into one of the three categories:

• Essential apps. For example, a smartphone needs phone app, contacts app to function as a phone.
• Value-added apps. For example, your carrier may add an account manager app so that you can easily know your bills and usage.
• Bloatware apps. Some companies paid Samsung or your carrier to pre-load their apps. For example, in Galaxy S6, in most regions, some Microsoft apps are pre-installed.

For all pre-installed apps, you cannot uninstall them, including the bloatware apps. This is the major reason why these greedy companies are willing to pay Samsung or carriers or distributors to pre-install their apps on your phone.

Even if you don’t like them, you cannot uninstall these apps (unless you root Galaxy S6). This is a security setting in Android so that you will not uninstall an essential app inadvertently.

But you can disable such bloatware apps.

For apps which you installed from Google Play store, or Galaxy Apps, or Amazon App store for Android, or any other sources, you can always uninstall them.

So, the difference between disable apps and uninstall apps on Galaxy S6 is:

• If the app is pre-installed, you can disable the app.
• If the app is installed by you, you can uninstall the app.

How to disable apps on Galaxy S6?

To disable apps on Galaxy S6, there are many methods.  You need one of them.

In this guide, I will show you 3 different methods and  I assume you want to disable the pre-installed OneNote app from Microsoft.

Method 1:  disable apps on Galaxy S6 in Edit mode of apps screen

To disable apps on Galaxy S6 in the edit mode of Galaxy S6 apps screen, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Enter Galaxy S6 apps screen

You need tap the Apps icon (16 dots) in Galaxy S6 home screen to enter apps screen.

All the apps with UI, including pre-installed apps,  are listed in Galaxy S6 apps screen.

Step 2: Enter Edit mode of Galaxy S6 apps screen

Tap EDIT in top right as shown below to  enter edit mode of the apps screen.

Step 3: Disable apps

Tap the “–” sign in the top right of OneNote as shown above.… Read the rest

The post How to disable apps and uninstall apps on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Galaxy S6 wallpapers (and S6 edge wallpapers as well) are quite impressive on the most (in 2015) beautiful QHD display.

But you may want to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers to something more personal or just something different.

This is not a problem.

Galaxy S6 and S6 edge is more customizable than previous generation phones (e.g., Galaxy S5 or Galaxy S4). This guide will show you how to change the “look” of your Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.

Although Galaxy S6 is used in the text, this guide equally applies to Galaxy S6 edge.

Use Galaxy S6 themes to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers and many other visual elements

Once of the most welcomed new features in Galaxy S6 is the Galaxy S6 themes.

As detailed in this guide, you can download and install Galaxy S6 themes to get a totally new look of the phone.

One advantage of  Galaxy S6 themes over any other customization options available is that a few apps including Phone, Message, Contacts can also be customized with the theme.

So, changing Galaxy S6 wallpapers with Galaxy S6 themes is just very small portion of the customization. You also get new icons, new home screen, new lock screen, new quick settings panel and new notification panels panel.

After applying new Galaxy S6 themes, you can further change Galaxy S6 wallpapers if you want.

If you haven’t tried Galaxy S6 themes, you should follow this guide to try it first.

You will not be disappointed.

Step-by-step guide to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers

If you are not satisfied with the in-stock Galaxy S6 wallpapers, or you want to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers in Galaxy S6 themes, you can always do it easily.

To change Galaxy S6 wallpapers, please follow these steps.

Step 1: Return to the Galaxy S6 home screen

You can return to Galaxy S6 home screen in many ways. For example:

• Tap the Home button (see Galaxy S6 layout, and Galaxy S6 edge layout to find the buttons).
• Tap the Back button until you arrive at home screen.

Please note, it is NOT necessary to return to the Home panel of the home screen. You can return to any of the home screen pages.

Step 2: Enter Galaxy S6 home screen edit mode

Tap and hold (see this guide on using Galaxy S6 touch screen) any empty area (where there are no app icons or widgets) on the home screen.… Read the rest

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Please Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge share identical SIM card type and identical card slot location. This guide applies to both Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.

What’s Galaxy S6 SIM card size?

SIM (Subscriber identity module) card is an essential device for you to use your carrier’s network. Normally, SIM card comes with 4 different types (sizes):

1. Full-size  SIM
2. Mini-SIM
3. Micro-SIM
4. Nano-SIM

Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge use nano-SIM card, which is the smallest in size. In other words, Galaxy S6 SIM card size should be nano-SIM (4FF).

For your information, Galaxy S5 uses Micro-SIM. This means Galaxy S6 cannot use the old SIM card in your Galaxy S5. You need get a new SIM card from your carrier.

Some carriers may issue SIM cards that can be sued for both Micro-SIM and nano-SIM. You need use the inner part of such SIM cards.

Do not try to cut the nano-SIM card by yourself. If you damage the circuit in the SIM card, the SIM card may not function properly or be damaged,

How to insert Galaxy S6 SIM card?

To insert Galaxy S6 SIM card, please follow these 4 steps as shown below.

Step 1: Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the SIM card tray to loosen the tray.

Galaxy S6 SIM card tray is located in the right side of your Galaxy S6 phone. Please refer to Galaxy S6 layout page to locate SIM card tray if you have any doubts.

Galaxy S6 edge SIM card tray is located in the top side of your Galaxy S6 edge. Please refer to Galaxy S6 edge layout page to locate SIM card tray.

You need ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, Galaxy S6 may be damaged.

Step 2:  Pull out the SIM card tray gently from the SIM card tray slot.

Step 3: Place the SIM or USIM card on the SIM card tray with the gold-colored contacts facing downwards.

Step 4: Insert the SIM card tray back into the SIM card tray slot.

How to remove Galaxy S6 SIM card?

To remove Galaxy S6 SIM card, please follow these 4 steps as shown below.

Step 1. Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the SIM card tray to loosen the tray.

Step 2.  Pull out the SIM card tray gently from the SIM card tray slot.

… Read the rest

The post Galaxy S6 SIM card guide appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Update 1: Added section How to solve “Unable to show notifications” problem for edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?

When Galaxy Note 4 was announced, a variant of Galaxy Note 4 edge was introduced with one edge screen on the right side. However, the reception of Galaxy Note 4 edge was mixed.

But this does not deter Samsung’s experimentation of edges on new smartphones. This is still a feature which standard Android cannot provide.

Galaxy S6 edge now comes with 2 edge screens on both sides. The edge screen on galaxy S6 is  now an integrated part of the main display. This is different from that in Galaxy Note 4 edge.  Some fancy features were also removed.

What is edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?

On each side of Galaxy S6 edge, you can find the screen is curved to warp the phone (see this page on Galaxy S6 edge layout). Samsung  assigned some special features for the curved part of the screen, and named it as edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge.

Although there are two edge screens on Galaxy S6 (right and left),  you can use only one of them at any time. The left edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge is mainly for left-handed users.

You can use the edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge to:

• display information without turning on the screen.
• distinguish up to five contacts by displaying assigned colors.
• communicate with favorite contacts quickly.
• be a clock at night up to 12 hours.

How to set edge location for edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?

As Samsung Galaxy S6 edge has two 2 edges screens on both sides,  you need set the right side or left side to be activated as edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge.

You can choose the edge location based on your preference and experiment it. Normally, right-handed owners may prefer right side, and left-handed owners prefer left side.

You can set or change edge location in Settings — Edge screen — Edge screen position, then select a side.

How to set notification items for edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?

You can select items for providing notifications on the edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge through the color lighting and the colored tabs.

You can set notification items for  edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge through Settings — Edge screen — Select notifications, and then select items.

How to setup and use Edge Lighting for edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?

… Read the rest

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What are widgets in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?

Widgets in Galaxy S6 allow you to use specific app features in Galaxy S6 home screen without starting the app.

In Android, widgets are an essential aspect of home screen customization. They offer  “at-a-glance” views of an app’s  important data and functionality directly from home screen.

For example, you can use contact widgets to make calls or send messages directly from home screen without opening Phone app or Messaging app.

Some widgets can be resized to match Galaxy S6 home screen customization.

Please note, widgets are offered by apps.  Some app developers may offer widgets for their  apps. Some may not.  So, it is up to the developer, not Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, to decide whether there are any widgets for a specific app.

Using widgets in Galaxy S6 and in Galaxy S6 edge is identical.  This guide applies to both Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, and other Galaxy phones as well, although in the text, Galaxy S6 will be used most of the time.

How to add widgets to Galaxy S6 home screen?

By default, in Galaxy S6 home screen, there are a few widgets already. For example, Google search bar, and Galaxy Essentials.

When you install new apps to Galaxy S6, the corresponding widgets (if any) will NEVER be added to home screen automatically, although you can add new apps (icons) to home screen automatically.

To add widgets to Galaxy S6 home screen, you can tap and hold (long tap) any blank area in the home screen to enter edit mode (aka home screen options) as shown below.

Tap Widgets as shown below.

You will then be directed to the widgets page. All available widgets in Galaxy S6 are listed as shown below.

You can swipe left or right to navigate. You can also use the panel indicator in the bottom to navigate as shown below.

For apps with 2 or more widgets, you can find a number badge next to it.

For example, in this guide, you want to add Google Now widgets to Galaxy S6 home screen.

So, tap the > button next to Google App as shown below.

2 available widgets is shown in a pop up window as shown above.

For Google app, one widget is Google search bar. 4×1 indicates its default size: the widget will occupy area with width of 4 app icons and height of one app icon.… Read the rest

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What is picture review for Galaxy S6 camera?

Because Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge do not have a physical shutter button for the camera, it is hard to determine whether the photo is taken after tapping the on-screen shutter button if the shutter sound is silenced (please read this guide on how to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound).

Sometimes, you may want to make sure the photos taken have decent quality.

In both scenarios, you can review the picture automatically after it is taken.

This feature is called picture review for Galaxy S6 camera. This feature works identically on both Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.

Of course, it you turn on picture review for Galaxy S6 camera, you have to review the picture after it is taken.

So, some Galaxy S6 owners may want to turn off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera so that they can take more photos for critical moments.

Actually, you can turn on (and off) picture review feature in the camera app or in Settings without launching galaxy S6 camera app.

How to turn on/off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera without launching camera app?

You can turn on or off  picture review for Galaxy S6 camera without launching camera app.

In Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, settings for some stock Samsung apps can be accessed directly in Settings page. Camera app is in the list.

You can access Galaxy S6 settings in one of the following methods.

• In Galaxy S6 App screen, tap Settings.
• In Galaxy S6 quick settings panel (swipe down from status bar, or top of the screen if status bar is hidden), tap gear icon.

Once in Settings page, tap Applications to enter Applications page as shown below.

Tap Camera (under Application settings) as shown below.

In Camera settings page, tap the switch to turn on/off Review pictures as shown below.

How to turn on/off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera in camera app?

You can also turn on/off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera in camera app.

Step 1: Start Galaxy S6 camera app.

You can start Galaxy S6 camera with one of the following 4 methods:

• Tapping the Camera app icon in the favorite tray in Galaxy S6 home screen.
• Tapping the Camera app icon in Galaxy S6 Apps screen (aka App drawer, All Apps).
• Pressing home buttons twice to use Galaxy S6 camera quick launch (even when Galaxy S6 is locked.

… Read the rest

The post How to turn on/off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Turn on or turn off your Galaxy S6 is a basic operation which every phone owners need to know.

This guide applies to both Samsung Galaxy S6 and Samsung Galaxy S6 edge.

If you find your Galaxy S6 is not responsive to home button and power button, this guide will show you how to try some button combinations to avoid a trip to the service center.

If you are locked out of your Galaxy S6 0r S6 edge (your fingerprints are not recognized and your password are not accepted for whatever reasons), reboot Galaxy S6 will NOT help. In this case, please check this guide on how to unlock Galaxy S6 or S6 edge if you are locked out of the phone.

Turn on Samsung Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge)

To turn on Samsung Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge), you need press and hold the Power button for a few seconds. Galaxy S6 power button is located in the right side of the phone. Galaxy S6 edge power button is located in the similar location. Please check this page for Samsung Galaxy S6 layout, and this page for Galaxy S6 edge layout.

When you turn on Samsung Galaxy S6 for the first time or after performing a factory data reset, you need follow the onscreen instructions to set up your Galaxy S6.

Turn off Samsung Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge)

To turn off Samsung Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge), you need press and hold Galaxy S6 Power button, and then tap Power off.

If Samsung Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge is frozen and not responsive, you can press and hold the Power button and the Volume down buttons simultaneously for more than 7 seconds to restart it.

In areas where the use of wireless devices is restricted, such as airplanes and hospitals, you may have to turn off Samsung Galaxy S6, or turn on Galaxy S6 flight mode.

Restart Samsung Galaxy S6 (or Galaxy S6 edge)

You may need restart Samsung Galaxy S6 if:

• Samsung Galaxy S6 responds slowly or improperly.
• Samsung Galaxy S6 freezes (hangs).
• Error messages appear when launching the camera.
• Galaxy S6 drains battery quickly.

To restart Samsung Galaxy S6, you can use one of the following methods

• Press and hold Galaxy S6 power button for a few seconds, then follow the on-screen instructions.
• Press and hold Galaxy S6 power button until the phone restarts.

… Read the rest

The post Turn on/off Samsung Galaxy S6 appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

What’s Galaxy S6 developer options?

Just like other Android devices, Samsung Galaxy S6 developer options are mainly for developers. Developers can test their apps in Galaxy S6 (and Galaxy S6 edge)  under various simulated scenarios, for example, how the app performs  under low memory situation.

Galaxy S6 developer options also provide some useful features for advanced Android users.  For example, you may want to run some ADB commands on Galaxy S6, or take a lot of screenshots on Galaxy S6 (if you just take a few screenshots on Galaxy S6 directly, please follow this guide.), or control and animation speed, or record the Galaxy S6 screen.

Please note, Samsung Galaxy S6  developer options are identical to those of Galaxy S6 edge. So this guide also applies to Samsung Galaxy S6 edge developer options.

How to enable and access Galaxy S6 developer options?

Since Android Jelly Bean 4.2, the developer options have been hidden by default  in all Android phones. The main purpose of hiding developer options is to avoid the accidental usage of these options. Some options, especially those for app testing,  may adversely affect the performance of the phone.

So, when you get Samsung Galaxy S6  or S6 edge, the developer options are hidden.  You need enable (un-hide) it first before you can use Galaxy S6 developer options.

Here are the steps you can follow to enable and access Galaxy S6 developer options.

Step 1: Go to Settings—About device.

Step 2: Tap Build number 7 times.

After tapping build number two or more times, the notifications will be shown on the screen telling you the progress:

You are now X steps away from being a developer.

After tapping the build number 7 times, you will be notified you are a developer.

Now, Galaxy S6 developer options will be available in the Settings menu.

Step 3:  Go to Settings — Developer options.

In the Settings menu, you can find the Developer options right above About device.

Tap Developer options.

Step 4: Enable Galaxy S6  Developer options.

In Developer options page, drag the switch to right to turn it on. The color should change to green as shown below.

Step 5: Use Galaxy S6 Developer options.

For example, you want to turn on USB debugging on Galaxy S6. You can tap USB debugging as shown below. This will enable USB debugging for Galaxy S6.

Full list of Galaxy S6 developer options

Please note, most of the Galaxy S6 developer options are for app developers or Android hackers.  … Read the rest

The post How to enable Galaxy S6 developer options (and S6 edge) appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Samsung Galaxy S6 has so many features. These Samsung Galaxy S6 How-to Guides will help you to explore and better use your latest gadget: Galaxy S6.

This is a live page and will be updated regularly. In other words, more and more Samsung Galaxy S6 guides will be added.

You may also check Galaxy S6 online user manual page for using Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.

If you want to download the official Galaxy S6 user guide (in PDF), you may check this page for Galaxy S6, and this page for Galaxy S6 edge.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 guides  you are looking for, please feel free to leave you questions or problems in the comment box below. The community will try to find a solution or an answer for you.

We also put camera related guides in the Galaxy S6 camera guide page.

1. How to use edge screen on Galaxy S6 edge?  (for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+)

   Edge screen is the unique feature of Galaxy S6 edge. You actually paid about additional $100 for the two curved edges. This guide shows you what edge screen can do for you and how to set configure and use the edge screen. Read on…

2. How to use apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge plus (S6 edge+)? (for Galaxy S6 edge+ only)

   Apps edge is one of the unique features in Galaxy S6 edge+. It adds more functions to the existing edge screen in Galaxy S6 edge. This Galaxy S6 guide answers all questions you may have on the unique apps edge feature in Galaxy S6 edge+: what’s apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge+? How to enable and access Galaxy S6 edge+ apps edge? How to add, order and delete apps in apps edge? Read on…

3. How to disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen? (for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+)

   If you are annoyed by the Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen, I will show you how to disable it in this guide.

4. How to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers? (for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+)

   Galaxy S6 theme is a great feature in Galaxy S6.  You can customize the look (home screen, lock screen, apps screen and some apps as well)  of Galaxy S6 and S6 edge easily with the free Galaxy S6 themes.  

… Read the rest

The post Samsung Galaxy S6 How-to Guides appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Use the search box to search all Galaxy S6 guides on this site.

If you have any questions on using Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge, you can navigate through the menu above. This search box offers an alternative way to search for solutions for any Galaxy S6 problems.

… Read the rest

The post Site Search appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Update: Added one section on device protection on Android Lollipop 5.1. You will be asked to verify the ownership using your Google account after factory data reset.

Update 2: the OTG method to bypass factory data reset on Galaxy S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+ and Note 5 without knowing old Google account were added in this page. 

What is factory data reset for Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?

Factory data reset is a feature in Android devices. It allows you to erase all your data and settings so that the device returns to the original factory state.

Galaxy S6 and S6 edge fully support factory data reset, i.e., you can clean your Galaxy S6 and S6 edge with factory data reset.

When your settings are erased, the default settings, or factory settings, will be applied until you set up the phone again.

All apps, except pre-installed apps, are removed as well once you perform a factory data reset on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

So, it is extremely important to backup your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge before resetting the phone. Please read this guide on how to backup Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

When you need reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?

If you think you never need reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, you are very likely wrong.

In the following scenarios, you very likely have to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge:

• When your phone is stolen.
• When you pass Galaxy S6 to your kids or sell it (because you get a new phone),
• When you are locked out of your Galaxy S6 and you cannot use Find My Mobile to unlock the phone either.
• When Galaxy S6 or S6 edge refuses to work.
• When you messed up your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.
• When an update messed up your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.
• When Galaxy S6 or S6 edge is getting slower and slower for no reasons.

The purposes to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge include:

• to erase your personal data and apps. Removing an account usually is not sufficient for cleaning your personal data.
• to solve problems on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge caused by you, or by some system apps, or by some nasty apps, or by some system update.

How to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge when you can use the phone?

There are many ways to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.… Read the rest

The post How to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Update 1: Added section 5, How to restore missing icons in Galaxy S6 quick settings panel?

If you find some icons or buttons are missing from the quick settings panel, please follow this section (section 5) to restore the missing icons in quick settings panel.

1. What and where is Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings?

Similar to other Android phones, Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings can be found in the notification panel.

Samsung Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings in the notification panel allow you to quickly toggle on/off some commonly used features without digging further in the settings page.

Android Lollipop even make quick settings interactive. But Samsung Galaxy S6 did not adopt this implementation. This is one of the Galaxy S6 defects: non-genuine Android Lollipop.

So, Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings is more similar to the old quick settings in Galaxy S5 and in Galaxy Note 4 than that in Android Lollipop.

In the top of Setting app (page), Samsung also have a quick settings section where you can put up to 9 items for you to access these settings quickly.

2. How to use Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons?

To access Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons, you can swipe down from top of the screen (i.e., status bar).

As shown below, in the second row of the Galaxy S6 notification panel, you can find 5 Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons. 5 other buttons can be accessed by flicking to left as shown below.

This area is called highlight box for quick settings buttons.

For these 10 Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons in the highlight box, you can:

1. Tap it. This will toggle on/off the corresponding features of the buttons. For example, tap WiFi button, it will turn on/off WiFi on your Galaxy S6.  Tap sound mode button to cycle through the 3 sound modes (mute, sound and vibrate).
2. Tap and hold it. This will open the detailed setting page for this feature. For example, if you tap and hold WiFi button, the Settings–WiFi page will be opened.

Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons do not support other interactions.

3. How to manage Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons?

Besides these 10 Galaxy S6 quick settings buttons, Galaxy S6 also offers many other quick settings buttons in the notification panel. And you can re-arrange the locations of these Galaxy S6 quick setting buttons.… Read the rest

The post How to use Samsung Galaxy S6 quick settings? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Update:  Galaxy S6 specifications are officially announced. The release date for Galaxy S6 will be April 10, 2015 (see this post).

Most the specifications in this post are accurate except

1. no SD card support
2. battery is non-removable
3. 16MP camera, instead of rumored 20MP

Samsung will announce the new Galaxy S6 on March 1.

Galaxy S6 is critical for Samsung in 2015. Nobody can deny it.

Will Galaxy S6 be the best Android phone in 2015?

Will Galaxy S6 help Samsung recover the lost market share in 2015?

We will soon get the answer after Galaxy S6 is announced and released.

But before that date, let’s explore the rumors on Galaxy S6 specifications.

Galaxy S6 specifications:  what’s the version of Android?

Everyone knows Galaxy S6 will come with Android Lollipop 5.0.

There will be definitely no surprise on the OS and the version.  Galaxy S6 will not be a Tizen phone, nor a Windows phone.

Galaxy S series always use Android. Samsung does not have the guts to change this in Galaxy S6. Of course, there is no reason for the change.

Galaxy S6 specifications: will Galaxy S6 use Snapdragon 810 processor or Exynos 7420 processor?

In the past, especially, in last two years, Samsung used Snapdragon processors on most flagship devices with 4G LTE.

This is mainly due to the obvious advantages of Qualcomm’s technology in LTE modem. Samsung does not have its own integrated LTE modem for Exynos processors.

But as Samsung is fighting not only against Apple, but also other Android device manufactures, e.g., HTC, LG, Sony, who are also using identical Qualcomm’s chips.

It is difficult for Samsung to offer some innovative features like Motorola’s touchless control (aka Moto Voice). Such features may require some customization for the processor. In the long run, Samsung has to use its own chips do provide some unique features.

And Samsung has the necessary capacity: its own Exynos chips.

In the 60+ products that will use Snapdragon 810, Galaxy S6 is not listed. It is not an error.

So, it is almost certain Galaxy S6 will use it is own 64 bit, 14nm, Exynos 7420 processor, probably with LTE modem provided by Qualcomm.

Bye-bye Snapdragon 810.

Galaxy S6 specifications: 2GB RAM, 3GB RAM or 4GB RAM?

Although Samsung started to manufacture 20nm 8Gb LPDDR4, Galaxy S6 will not use 8GB module for sure.

As a company striving to make profit, Samsung will probably offer 3GB RAM in Galaxy S6.… Read the rest

The post Galaxy S6 specifications appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Why Samsung made changes on waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen in Android Marshmallow update?

Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+ not only brought a new lock screen, and changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6, Samsung also made significant changes on waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen.

To prevent brute force attack on your lock screen security (for example, when your phone is stolen), Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 substantially extended the waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen.

This will help you protect your personal and private data. At least one more security layer is added.

So, this is actually a security measure for owners of Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+.

What are the changes on waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen in Android Marshmallow update?

As shown in the table below, after 14 failed attempts, you have to wait 60 mins before you can try again in Android Marshmallow update.

This will prevent the thief from guessing your lock screen security continuously.

If auto factory reset is on,  Galaxy S6 will wiped automatically after 15 failed attempts.

As a comparison, the table below is the existing waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen (with Android Lollipop).

You can find the waiting time is substantially (120 times, from 30 seconds to 60 minutes)  increased in Android Marshmallow update.

Also, in most regions, auto factory reset is added to give you better protection for your personal data. Please follow this guide to decide whether you should enable it.

What can you do if you are locked out of Galaxy S6 (S6 edge, and S6 edge+)?

… Read the rest

The post Changes on waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen in Android Marshmallow update appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

If you just updated your mobile phone to Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge, you may notice there is no night mode for Galaxy S6 camera as illustrated in Galaxy S6 camera modes guide.

If you try to follow this guide to install night mode, you will also notice there is no night mode for you to install.

Does it mean Galaxy S6 or S6 edge cannot take good photos in night or low-light conditions?  Or did Samsung forget to add night mode in Galaxy S6?

Of course, not.

Galaxy S6 and S6 edge can take better photos than most other smartphones you can get in 2015 including iPhone 6 Plus, in both normal and low-light conditions.

So, where is Galaxy S6 camera night mode?

The short answer is Galaxy S6 camera night mode is automatic.

In other words, when you choose Auto mode in Galaxy S6 camera, night mode will kick in automatically when certain conditions are met.

Therefore, it is not necessary to manually enable/disable Galaxy S6 camera night mode.

It sounds great.

But, how do I know my S6 is in Galaxy S6 camera night mode?

If low-light condition is detected, you will noticed the night mode icon as shown below.

Once you see the Galaxy S6 camera night mode icon appears, it means Galaxy S6 will automatically apply some special settings which you find in most smartphone’s night mode, e.g., using longer exposure time than the camera normally does when there is plenty of available light.

When taking photos in Galaxy S6 camera night mode, the exposure time will be longer. This means you need hold Galaxy S6 or S6 edge as sturdy as possible. Otherwise, you will get blurred photos in Galaxy S6 camera night mode.

Why did Samsung “hide” the Galaxy S6 camera night mode?

Samsung camera app was often criticized for cluttered interface.  A lot of new smartphone users find it is confusing because there are so many options.

Even seasoned users may have problems to get the optimum settings to take nice photos.

So, apparently, Samsung is trying to simplify the camera app so that most users can take incredible photos without fiddling around the options or settings.

People just need a smartphone camera that just works.

The new camera app in Galaxy S6 does achieve this. Most Galaxy S6 users now can just fire the camera (you can even launch the camera app faster than any other smartphone users)  and take very nice photos.  … Read the rest

The post Where is Galaxy S6 camera night mode? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Once you decide to upgrade your phone to Galaxy S6 (from Galaxy S5? or Galaxy S4?), the first question you will face is Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge.

Should you pay additional $100 for Galaxy S6 edge?

This buyer guide will show you Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S6 edge and help you decide which one is for you.

Except the two edge screen, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge share almost identical hardware and software

Although Galaxy S6 edge has a slightly larger battery, the difference is marginal (2600mAh vs 2550mAh, less than 2% difference).

All other hardware specs (CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, camera, software..) are almost identical.

In other words, anything between the screen and the back cover is almost identical for Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.

If someone tells you Galaxy S6 edge has better hardware or software, he is wrong.

For example, some reviewers “feel” the camera in  Galaxy S6 edge can take better photos. This is very likely a delusion. If you take two pictures with S6 edge under same conditions with identical settings, some reviewers may still tell you one is taken with a better camera.

Always take reviews with a pinch of salt.

Edge screen in Galaxy S6 edge has really limited function. This is both good and bad.

Samsung first tried the edge screen in Galaxy Note 4 edge.  The reception is mixed. Some embrace additional features from the edge screen. While others are not impressed with these gimmicks in the tiny and isolated edge screen.

Most smartphone users now expect a simple, intuitive, style and functional phone.

Apparently Samsung got this message.

In Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, the bloatware was reduced significantly. Most useless or half-baked S features were removed from the new TouchWiz.

Although some old Galaxy owners may feel the simplification was overdone (see this post on the defects of Galaxy S6), most owners agree that Samsung is moving towards a right direction.

For the edge screen, Galaxy S6 also used a different approach from Galaxy Note 4 edge. The edge screen is now an integrated part of the main screen.  The edge screen functions only when the main screen is locked.

Another improvement on edge screen is  you can use either left side or right side as edge screen. Left-handed owners will not complain about the location of edge screen as that  in Note 4 Edge.… Read the rest

The post Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Sometimes, unexpected sound or vibration from your Galaxy S6 may be annoying or embarrassing, e.g., when in an important meeting.  This guide will show you how to silence Samsung Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge.

This guide works for both Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, although  in the text, we often just use Galaxy S6.

1. What are the 3 sound modes in Samsung Galaxy S6?

Unlike other Android Lollipop devices, Samsung Galaxy S6 still uses the old 3 sound modes, instead of the new Android Lollipop notification and interruption system.

Some Galaxy S6 owners may like it; some may hate it.

The 3 sound modes are:

1. Sound mode. This is the default. All sounds will be played. All vibrate will be allowed.
2. Vibrate mode. System sound is turned off. Vibrate is allowed.
3. Mute mode (aka silent mode). Sound and vibrate are all turned off except for alarms. But some settings or apps do not follow this setting.

There are two ways to change the sound modes in Samsung Galaxy S6: from Settings or from Galaxy S6 Notification panel  (quick settings).

Method 1: from Settings app.

In Settings—Sound and notifications, tap Sound mode as shown below.

Then you can choose from the three galaxy S6 sound modes: sound, vibrate or mute as shown below.

Method 2: from notification panel (quick settings)

Another way to access and change Galaxy S6 sound mode is from Quick settings in the notification panel.

Swipe down from the top of the screen (status bar) to get notification panel. In the quick setting part, you can tap the icon as shown below to cycle through the 3 modes: Mute–>Sound–>Vibrate–>Mute.

2. How to silence annoying tapping sound  and vibrate on Samsung Galaxy S6?

By default, when you tap the screen, there is a tapping sound. Haptic feedback (vibrate) is also turned on by default in Samsung Galaxy S6.

You can silence these annoying tapping sound and haptic feedback without going into mute mode or vibrate mode.

In Settings—Sound and notifications, tap Ringtones and sounds.  In the Ringtones and sounds page as shown below, you can drag the switch to left to silence the following sounds  in Galaxy S6 individually:

• Touch sounds;
• Dialing keypad tone;
• Screen lock sounds;
• Keyboard sound.

Similarly, to turn off or silence the vibrate on Galaxy S6, you can go to Settings—Sound and notifications —Vibrations.… Read the rest

The post How to silence Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Android Marshmallow (Android 6.0) is the latest version of Android OS.  There are some cool new features and under the hood improvements in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6.

Samsung started to roll out Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 in early February from Korea.  Most regions will get the Marshmallow update before Galaxy S7 is released in the second week of March.

Some Galaxy S6 owners have some questions or concerns on getting Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6. This post will try to address these questions and concerns.

Although “Galaxy S6” is used in the text, this post also applies to Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+.

For details of new features in Android Marshmallow and user guides for Android Marshmallow, you may check this page.

For step-by-step guides on new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, you can find them in this Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guide

When will I get Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 ?

The No.1 question Galaxy S6 owners may have is when they will get the Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 (including Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge, and Galaxy S6 edge+).

The answer is that it depends.

Galaxy S6 was shipped with slightly different firmware in different regions due to local legal requirements and carriers’ requests.

The new firmware of Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 need approval from carriers. The duration of the carrier testing varies significantly from one carrier to another carrier.

This is one of the major reasons why Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 is available in some regions and some carriers earlier than the others.

Once the update is approved, Samsung will put it on their servers. You will then get a notification that the update is ready for you to download unless you turn off the auto-check in Settings — About device —Software update —Auto update as shown below

It is recommended not to turn off the auto update. Android update usually includes some security updates as well.  Samsung releases security patch regularly.

Of course, you can manually check the availability of the Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 by tapping Update now as shown above.

If the Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 is not ready for your device, you will get the following message:

The latest updates have been installed.

Anyway, it is not necessary to check the update everyday.… Read the rest

The post FAQs on Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

As mentioned in top 10 new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+, Samsung made significant changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6.

Many Galaxy S6 and S6 edge owners are very confused on these changes. And some changes are really absurd.

This guide will try to explain to you all changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in Android Marshmallow update.

Fingerprint is not a standalone lock screen security measure

After applying Android Marshmallow update, fingerprint is no longer a standalone method to unlock Galaxy S6. In other words, fingerprint requires you to set up another lock screen security.

You need set lock screen security type to PIN/pattern/password if you want to use fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge or Galaxy S6 edge+.

Before the Marshmallow update, using fingerprint is mutually exclusive with all other security types: none/swipe/pattern/PIN/password.

So,  this is a major change on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6. And it is a major change on lock screen security hierarchy.

Just after you finished the Marshmallow update, if you were using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 before the update, you will be prompted to update security policy for fingerprints as shown below.

It details the changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in Android Marshmallow update.

You can tap Next as shown below to finish the setup.

As mentioned, if you want to continue to use fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6, you need setup the main lock screen security type as patter, or PIN, or password as shown below.

No backup password for Fingerprints

Before applying Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+, you must setup a backup password for your fingerprint.

When you fingerprint is not recognized for whatever reasons, you can use the backup password. Whenever fingerprint can be used, you can use the backup password.

This is convenient if you can remember the backup password. Of course, there are sizable Galaxy S6 owners forget the backup password because it is seldom used. But when you need the backup password, a big problem comes: you are locked out of your phone! You may check this guide (and comments) on what you can do if your fingerprint is not accepted and you forget the backup password.

Now, in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+, fingerprint is backed up by pattern/PIN/password.… Read the rest

The post Changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+ appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

What is Galaxy S6 camera burst mode?

Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge) has the best smartphone camera you can find in 2015.  Galaxy S6 camera is not only fast to focus, fast to launch (quick launch), but also fast to take photos.

When you want to take photos continuously for any critical moments, you can use Galaxy S6 camera burst mode.

Galaxy S6 camera burst mode allows you to take up to 30 photos (in about 3-4 seconds) continuously in one shot. You can choose the best photos later or manage individual photos.

Galaxy S6 camera burst mode is most useful when:

• you want to capture the transition of facial expression or body language.
• you want to select the best photo later.
• you want to capture the transition of the background (e.g., fountain)

Please note, Galaxy S6 camera burst mode is NOT good for fast moving objects.  You may try Sports mode (please follow this guide to install Sports mode for Galaxy S6 camera).

How to use Galaxy S6 camera burst mode?

If you follow this Galaxy S6 camera modes guide, you will find there is no burst mode for galaxy S6 camera.

You cannot download and install Galaxy S6 camera burst mode either.

So, where is Galaxy S6 camera burst mode?

Burst mode is always enabled on Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge). It is NOT necessary to enable or choose it.

To use Galaxy S6 camera burst mode, you just press and hold the on-screen shutter button in Camera app.

Galaxy S6 will stop taking photos when either:

• you release the shutter button;
• or, 30 photos have been taken.

Of course, you can use the burst mode again immediately 30 photos were taken.

If you didn’t silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound, you should hear the shutter sound when photos are being taken.

How to manage photos taken with Galaxy S6 camera burst mode?

Photos taken with Galaxy S6 camera burst mode can be managed as a group or as individuals in Gallery app.

However, if you are using other apps, or  copy the photos to other devices, you have to treat them as individual photos.

Manage burst mode photos as a group

By default, in Gallery app, burst mode photos are shown as a group as shown below.

The icon illustrated in green circle indicates this is a group of photos taken with Galaxy S6 camera burst mode.… Read the rest

The post How to use Galaxy S6 camera burst mode? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

As Samsung will announce Galaxy S6, one of the most anticipated flagship smartphones in 2015, soon, a new community on Samsung Galaxy S6 is created and online now (1/11/2015).

Galaxy S6 is one of the most important Android phones in 2015.

For Samsung, this device will determine the fate of Galaxy S devices. Samsung gained sufficient momentum from Galaxy S2 and S3, These two devices made Samsung the king of Android phones. Unfortunately, the feature overloaded Galaxy S4, and slightly simplified Galaxy S5 did not get the expected acceptance by consumers.  Galaxy S5, still the most popular Android phone, missed the sales forecast about 40%.

Will Galaxy S6 turn the wheel of  fortune for Samsung in 2015?

For Android, 2015 is a a year of Android Lollipop against iOS 8. Most reviewers believe that Android Lollipop marks an era: iOS is playing catch-up.

Will Google further enhance its leadership in mobile OS in 2015?

Consumers, you and me,  will give the verdict.

The community will bring you:

• Latest news and rumors of Samsung Galaxy S6
• Samsung Galaxy S6 reviews (e.g., Galaxy S6 vs iPhone 6, Galaxy S6 vs LG G3…)
• Samsung Galaxy S6 user guide (How-to guides, official S6 user manual….)
• Samsung Galaxy S6 tips and tricks
• Samsung Galaxy S6 accessories
• Anything about Samsung Galaxy S6

You can find most valuable info on Galaxy S6 and discuss the gadget with other Galaxy S6 owners or potential owners.

This is a community for Galaxy S6 owners or anyone who is interested in this flagship Android phone.

The logo for this community is simple: S6 highlights the focus of the community. In the bottom right, a Gadget Guide Online (G²O) logo highlights this community is part of the parent community of GadgetGuideOnline.com.

If you have any questions on Galaxy S6 or want to discuss about Galaxy S6, you can leave comments in the comment box below.

You can also contact us through contact us page.… Read the rest

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What is Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect?

Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect allows you to search for nearby devices and quickly connect to them without going through the detailed Bluetooth or WiFi Direct settings.  The connection can be through Bluetooth or WiFi direct (including screen mirroring through Miracast).

Actually, if you are a long-term Samsung Galaxy devices user, you probably noticed Quick connect in a few devices already, for  example, Galaxy S5, Galaxy Note 4. Unfortunately, many owners have no idea on how to use it.

Many smartphone users, especially new Android users, may have problems to connect two devices through Bluetooth or WiFi direct.  Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect can make the job easier for many Galaxy S6 owners.

Please note, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge has the identical Quick connect. This guide applies to both Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, although in the text, I used Galaxy S6 only most of the time.

Where can I find Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect?

Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect is part of the notification panel.  Actually, you can only access Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect from the notification panel.

To access Quick connect in Galaxy S6, you need swipe down (see this page on gestures on Galaxy S6 touchscreen) from the status bar (top of the screen, please see this page on status bar) with one finger to open notification panel.

Use Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick Connect to connect to other devices, and share contents

If the other device does not support Quick connect, you need turn on Bluetooth or WiFi Direct on these devices manually.

If the other device supports Quick connect, you just need turn on Quick connect on that device. Quick connect will enable necessary settings automatically for you.

Step 1:  Open the notification panel and tap Quick Connect.

Swipe down from the status bar to open Galaxy S6 notification panel.

Tap Quick connect as shown below.

If you are using this feature for the first time, select a visibility option and tap TURN ON QUICK CONNECT as shown below.

For security reasons, you should set the visibility of Galaxy S6 as Only when Quick connect turned on, as shown below.

You can modify the Galaxy S6 visibility later by tapping Settings on top right.

You can also set the privacy for Samsung Galaxy S6 Quick connect as shown above so that Galaxy S6 is visible to contacts only.… Read the rest

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Location tag on your photos can help you organize photos neatly. You can also recall the location, not just time, of the photo after many years.

The new Google Photos can also use location tag of the photos to create albums, stories and collections for you automatically.

What’s is location tag for Galaxy S6 photos?

Location tag for photos is simply a tag with GPS info embedded in the photo file.

Galaxy S6 camera can add location tag to photos automatically if you enable this Galaxy S6 camera feature.

In other words, the location info is saved in the photo file in your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge. When you copy the photo, or backup the photo, the location info will also copied automatically.

If location tag was added into a photo, when you check the details of the photo in Gallery app or Google Photos app, it will look like below respectively.

Please note, map is NOT embedded in the photo. Only the GPS info of latitude and longitude  is saved in the file. The map is loaded by the apps on the fly. If your Galaxy S6 is not connected to internet, the map will not be shown or will be shown as an empty map.

Is it a privacy concern if I add location tag to Galaxy S6 photos?

Location tag in the photos will reveal the location where the photo was taken, not your home address or other personal info.

Of course, if you take photos at home or on the bed, such an address will be added through the location tag.

The main usage of location tag is for you to organize your photos. Sometimes, it can help you remember where the photo was taken.

Nowadays, taking photos is so easy. The result is that we have piles of photos. Location tag can help you sort them.

Privacy concern arises when you share some sensitive photos on the internet. You may want to share photos without revealing the location tag.

This is not a big issue. There are two solutions at least:

1. You can automatically remove location tag when sharing photos through links in Google photos (read on).
2. Manually remove location tag from photos or edit location tags on Galaxy S6 (read on)

How to enable/disable location tag to Galaxy S6 photos?

By default, location tag is disabled in Galaxy S6 camera. You need enable it in Galaxy S6 camera settings.… Read the rest

The post Add location tag and remove location tag for photos in Galaxy S6 appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Welcome to the magic land of Galaxy S6 Guide.

Galaxy S6 Guide@GadgetGuideOnline is a dedicated technical community for Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge users.

Mission

To help every Galaxy S6 and S6 edge owners.

Approach

We produce and share the best guides for you to use galaxy S6 and S6 edge properly, and effectively.

Logo

Our logo is simple. S6 indicates the community is on Galaxy S6. GGO indicates that we are part of the GadgetGuideOnline network.

Community

You can find the detailed user guides to power up your experience with your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

As a technical community, you are welcomed to participate in all discussions. Share your thoughts and comments in corresponding pages. Comments are open in all pages.

Galaxy S6 Guide@GadgetGuideOnline does NOT cover all topics. The focus is how to use Galaxy S6 and S6 edge effectively.

Contents

The contents are organized through various sections on the website. You can navigate the site through the menu on top of the site.

You may also navigate from this page.

Galaxy S6 User Guide (PDF) in your own language

• For S6: Samsung Galaxy S6 User Manual (PDF) in different languages.
• For S6 edge: Samsung Galaxy S6 edge User Manual (PDF) in different languages

Galaxy S6 online user manual or How-to guides

• Galaxy S6 How-to guides. Galaxy S6 how-to guides show you detailed steps to use certain features, or solve specific problems on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge. These Galaxy S6 how-to guides are updated regularly. The guides are for both Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.
• Galaxy S6 online manual. The Galaxy S6 online manual shows you how to use Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.
• Galaxy S6 camera guide. How to use the best smartphone camera in your Galaxy S6 and S6 edge? We have some guides for you.

Galaxy S6 buyer guide

• Galaxy S6 buyer guides. Galaxy S6 buyer guides show you how to maximize the value of your money to get most suitable gadgets for you. For example, whether Galaxy S6 is for you, whether you should get Galaxy S6 edge or S6. Of course, you can also find the Galaxy S6 case guide to help you find a suitable case within your badget, and guides for other accessories.
• Galaxy S6 reviews. The reviews of Galaxy S6 will be posted on the website regularly to hep you better understand the pros and cons of Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

… Read the rest

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What is Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen?

Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen is one dedicated page/panel (the leftmost) showing you latest articles in various categories based on your interest and configurations.

In a nutshell, it is a customized full-page widget of the  Flipboard app.

Nobody knows why Samsung still insists on adding Flipboard Briefing in Galaxy S6  home screen.  If it was just a normal re-sizable widget, I believe more people would have used it frequently.

Flipboard Briefing was not welcomed in Galaxy Note 4 and many owners are asking how to remove it on Galaxy Note 4.  The older version of Flipboard Briefing is called My Magazine in Galaxy S5, which is equally unpopular.

Flipboard is an excellent magazine app and many Galaxy S6 owners like it. But if you force Galaxy S6 owners to use it as a fixed-page widget, many are not happy with it.

To make the situation worse in Galaxy S5 and Galaxy Note 4,  once Flipboard Briefing (or My Magazine in Galaxy S5) is enabled, you cannot scroll across it when you try to swipe the home screen panels in one direction.  Luckily, in Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy S5, you can disable Flipboard Briefing (or My Magazine), and cycle through all home screen panels in both directions.

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge has the identical Flipboard Briefing  on the home screen, so this guide also applies to disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 edge.

Good news and bad news on Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen?

The good news on Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen is that you can disable it.

The bad news is that you still cannot cycle through the first panel or last panel of the Galaxy S6 home screen, even after you disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen.

This is the limitation (improvement??joking??) of  the new and improved TouchWiz in Samsung Galaxy S6 and Samsung Galaxy S6 edge.

How to disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen?

You can easily disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen by following these steps.

Step 1:  enter editing mode of Galaxy S6 home screen

Tap and hold any empty area in the home screen to enter editing mode for Galaxy S6 home screen.

You can also use pinching gesture on home screen to enter editing mode.

Step 2: Swipe to the leftmost panel

As mentioned, Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen lies in the leftmost (first) panel.… Read the rest

The post How to disable Flipboard Briefing on Galaxy S6 home screen? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Samsung Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge) has the best smartphone camera in 2015 (source 1 , source 2). You can take nice photos without any settings in most of scenarios.

You can even launch the Galaxy S6  camera app quicker (through quick launch) than any other smartphone users to capture important moments.

But if you want to get more from Galaxy S6 camera, you may tweak some settings of the camera app.

This Galaxy S6 camera guide page is a collection of how-to guides for using Galaxy S6 camera, and tips and tricks of using Galaxy S6 camera.

We will update this Galaxy S6 camera guide page regularly by adding more guides, tips and tricks.  You can also ask any questions on using Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge) camera here.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 camera guide you want, please let us know in the comment box below. We will try to add it as early as we can.

Please note, each Galaxy S6 camera guide page is in a individual page. You can bookmark this page to get the latest Galaxy S6 camera guide.

You can also subscribe to our Galaxy S6 Tips & Tricks Newsletter to get the latest update.

List of Galaxy S6 camera guide (all guides apply to Galaxy S6 edge as well):

1. How to use Galaxy S6 camera quick launch?

You can launch Galaxy S6 (and S6 edge)  camera directly without unlocking the phone, without even turning on lock screen. Here is how to use Galaxy S6 camera quick launch.

2. Samsung Galaxy S6 camera modes guide

There are 10 pre-install Galaxy S6 camera modes in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge. Do you know when to use and how to use them? Please read this Galaxy S6 camera guide.

3. How to download and install additional Galaxy S6 camera modes?

If the 10 pre-installed Galaxy S6 camera modes cannot meet your expectations, you can install more camera modes for your Galaxy S6 and S6 edge from Galaxy apps. Check this  Galaxy S6 camera guide.

4. How to use Galaxy S6 camera voice control?

When you hands are not free to tap the shutter button, you can use your voice to control the camera. Just shout cheese or smile to take photos.  Is not cool? and useful? This Galaxy S6 camera guide shows you how.

5.

… Read the rest

The post Galaxy S6 camera guide appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

What’s Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch?

Camera is one of the most frequently used features on most smartphones. Many Samsung Galaxy S6 or S6 edge owners may use camera more frequently than using the phone for voice calling.

So, launching the camera app quickly is in the wishlist of many smartphone owners.

In old  Symbian based smartphones, most phones have a dedicated camera button for the users to launch camera quickly.

Unfortunately, almost all smartphones released in last a few years do not have a hardware button dedicated for camera. Actually, Android OS prefers software buttons.

Some Android vendors use some actions (gestures) to launch camera app. For example, Moto X uses double twist gesture to launch camera quickly.  HTC uses motion launch to wake the phone into camera app directly.

In addition, in Android lock screen, camera app (shortcut) can be added. For example, in Galaxy S6 lock screen, you can tap the camera button so that you can use the camera without unlocking the phone.

But, most Galaxy S6 owners probably still prefer a hardware button.

So, in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, Samsung used home button as camera button by double tapping it. This is usually refer to as Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch.

Of course, Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch offers the fastest way to launch camera in your S6 or S6 edge. You can simply double tap home button at any time to launch camera.

How to enable or disable Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch?

By default,  in most regions, Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch is enabled by default.

So, you can try to press the Home button twice quickly (not tap and hold) to see whether you can launch the camera.

You can turn on  or turn off Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch easily from Camera settings.

To enable or disable Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch, you can start Camera app in your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

Tap settings icon (gear) as shown below.

As shown below, you can drag the switch for Quick launch. If the switch is on the right side, it means Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch is on. The color should be green.

If you want to turn off (disable) Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch, drag the switch to left side.

There is an alternative way to access Galaxy S6 camera (general) settings in Settings.… Read the rest

The post How to use Samsung Galaxy S6 camera quick launch? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

1. Why you may want to customize Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone?

The default Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone can confuse you if some other people are also using the default ringtone.

Sometimes, you may want to know who is calling you based on the ringtone without check the screen.

Some Galaxy S6 owners may want to customize Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone with own music files (or other audio files).

This guide will show you:

• how to change the default  Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone;
• how to use your own music file as Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone;
• how to use different ringtones for different contacts.

As the ringtone setting for Samsung Galaxy S6 is identical to that for Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, this guide also applies if you want to customize Galaxy S6 edge ringtone.

2. How to change Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone?

To set or change Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone, you can go to Settings.

Tap Sounds and notifications as shown below.

Tap Ringtone as shown below. Please note, the current default ringtone is listed behind Ringtone.

If you have ES File explorer or other ringtone handling apps installed, you may get the options of choosing apps to handle your request.

For example, I installed ES File Explorer on the Galaxy S6, so I get the option of choosing ES File Explorer or Media storage.

Media storage option will allow you to select any pre-installed ringtones and any music files you put in the Ringtones folder.

Tap Media Storage.

Tap JUST ONCE a shown below

Now you can select any of these ringtones.  It will become the new default Galaxy S6 ringtone.

3. How to customize Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone with your own music files on the phone?

In addition to the pre-installed ringtones, you can also use your own music files or any audio files as  Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone.

The music can be on your phone or on your PC.

In this section, we assume the music file to be added as Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone is located in your phone. If the music file is located on your PC, please read next section.

To customize Samsung Galaxy S6 ringtone with your own music files on the phone, please go to Settings—Sounds and notifications—Ringtone. Similar to the steps in section 2, you need choose Media storage and JUST ONCE if you are given the options.… Read the rest

The post How to customize Samsung Galaxy S6 Ringtone? appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Please note, Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode is identical to emergency mode in Samsung Galaxy S6 edge. So, this guide applies to Galaxy S6 edge as well although in text only Galaxy S6 is used.

What’s Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode?

Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode is intended to:

• help your Galaxy S6 battery last longer in case you may have no access to a charger for extended period.
• send notice of your proximate location to emergency contacts you specified

Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode also makes it easy to  quickly make emergent calls, sound alarms and turn on the flashlight torch.

The estimated battery life will also be displayed on the simplified home screen so that you can make better decision in case of emergency.

When Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode is activated, some limitations are imposed on the phone, for example:

• screen will turn into gray scale.
• screen brightness will be lower.
• WiFi and Bluetooth will be turned off.
• mobile data will be turned off when screen is locked.
• only essential apps are allowed.
• CPU speed very be throttled aggressively.

How to turn on Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode?

To turn on Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode, you can press and hold the Power button, and then tap Emergency mode as shown below.

How to configure Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode?

The home screen under Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode is shown below. It is different from the normal Galaxy S6 home screen.

By default, there are 5 apps on the home screen under Samsung Galaxy S6 emergency mode:

• Flashlight. Tap it to turn on flashlight torch.
• Emergency alarm. Tap it to sound alarms to get attention.
• Share my location. Tap it to send a message with your location info to emergency contacts you specified.
• Phone.  Make phone calls.
• Internet.

In the bottom, it show the battery level, and estimated remaining usage time. This is just a rough estimation.

You can choose to add Maps or Facebook to the home screen by tapping the + icon as shown below. You are not allowed to add any other apps. Customization is not available.

In the top right of the home screen, you can find the MORE button (as shown above) to get more options.

Tap it to see the available options under Samsung Galaxy S6 emergence mode as shown below:

• Turn off Emergency mode.

… Read the rest

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Android marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 is a major update for Galaxy S6 and S6 edge. The new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+ will add significant value to most owners.

This post will highlight top 10 new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+. The detailed how-to guides for these new features will be available in individual Galaxy S6 How-to guides page, and Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guide page (new!!)

1. Fingerprint as a backup security measure

In Lollipop, you can set lock screen security as fingerprint.

This means you can unlock the phone with your fingerprint at any times. If your fingerprint is not recognized, you can use the backup password, which is setup when you register fingerprint.

Some owners have problems with this arrangement: fingerprint is not recognized, and they don’t remember backup password. You can read all comments on this issue in this page.

One common cause of the issue is that owners tend to forget the backup password if it is not used for long time (although some may swear Galaxy S6 forgets it).

In Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 (S6 edge and S6 edge+), Samsung made the following changes on using fingerprint to unlock the phone:

• Fingerprint cannot be a standalone security measure. You must set pattern/PIN/password as lock screen security before you can set fingerprint.
• If you reboot the phone, you must first use pattern/PIN/password to unlock the phone. You can use fingerprint for subsequent screen unlock.
• If you don’t use the phone for more than 24 hours, you must first use pattern/PIN/password to unlock the phone. You can use fingerprint for subsequent screen unlock.

Please refer to this guide on how to use fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+ after Android Marshmallow update.

2.  Customizable lock screen

After applying Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+, you can now customize the two app shortcuts in the bottom of the lock screen.

By default, they are Phone app and Camera app in the left and right side respectively.

For example, you can use quick lunch to start Camera app even when the screen is off. So, it is probably not necessary to put camera app there.

If you want, you can specify any apps on the phone to be used.… Read the rest

The post Top 10 new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+ appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

Update 1: it is confirmed Samsung Galaxy S6 release date will be April 10, 2015. It will be first available in 20+ countries /regions and then released in 150+ countries/regions within Q2 2015.

It is almost certain that Samsung will announce Galaxy S6 on March 1, 2015, one day before Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2015.

But you may wonder what the Samsung Galaxy S6 release date is. Or in other words, when can you get the Samsung Galaxy S6?

What is the difference between Samsung Galaxy S6 release date and March 1, 2015?

On March 1, 2015, Samsung will only announce the Galaxy S6.  You cannot buy it on that day.

Samsung Galaxy S6 release date means you can buy the phone on that day. A smartphone usually is announced or launched (it is usually demoed as well in the event) before the release date. Of course, on a few occasions (usually for smaller players), the phone may be announced and released at the same day.

For Samsung, most flagship smartphones and tables are released about one month after they are announced. As a comparison, Apple, usually releases new iPhone or iPad about one week after the announcement.

The duration (waiting period) between the release date and announcement is more profound than what you may think.

In the technical and logistic aspect, a large-scale product release requires more staff to cope with the surge in sales. The stocking and dispatching to distributors is also a factor to be considered. Apple has full control of its sales channel in most regions. Samsung has to rely on distributors in some regions.

In the marketing aspect,  if the duration is too long, people already forget the announcement and the excitement.  If it is too short, the product will not be talked enough in the newspaper and social media.  Apple usually has no issue with media coverage when a new iPhone or new iPad is announced because they have very limited new products each year.

On the contrary, Samsung has so many phones; they have to find a suitable time slot for each product. Normally, Galaxy S series phones are announced in February/March to catch the sales in summer. Galaxy Note devices are announced in September/October to catch the sales in the holiday season.

In short, you have to wait from a few weeks to a few months before you can get the Galaxy S6 depending on your region.… Read the rest

The post Samsung Galaxy S6 release date appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.

If you forget the password or PIN for your Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, S6 Edge+, or any other Samsung Galaxy phones, the only way to unlock the phone is using Samsung’s Find My Mobile. The latest guide can be found here.

Google Android Device Manager (Find My Device) can only lock or erase your phone with your Google account.  It is not able to unlock your Android phone with a Google account any more.

Update: In most regions,  you can use Google account to unlock Galaxy S6 again if you forget your PIN or password or backup password.  The guide was added below (link to this part). Please notice the two requirements: internet connection and main Google account.

Why Samsung Galaxy S6 does not accept my password and fingerprint?

It is usually recommended to set up lock screen security for your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge if you have any concern on your personal data on the phone and possible loss of the phone.

As detailed in this page, there are different levels of security you can set for Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

However, maybe suddenly, your password or fingerprint is not accepted by Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

You are locked out of Samsung Galaxy S6 or S6 edge. 

Rebooting Galaxy S6 or S6 edge is useless. This is the purpose of the screen lock: if someone steals your galaxy S6, they cannot access your data on the phone if it is locked.

But if you are locked out of your own phone, it is hard for you to calm down. Most owners may blame the “stupid” lock screen policy.

Anyway, the stupid unlock policy is here to protect your data from unauthorized access.

There are a couple of ways to unlock Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge even when your password or fingerprint is not recognized:

1. You can reset the phone. All personal data and files will be erased, and you have to set up the phone just like a new one. Please follow this guide on how to reset the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.
2. If the fingerprint is not recognized, you can still use the backup password. The problem is Samsung enforce a security policy on backup password length and complexity, and many owners forget it very quickly.
3. If you use pattern lock, after a few fails, you can use your Google account to unlock Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

… Read the rest

The post How to unlock Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, if you forget the screen lock password (and your fingerprint is not accepted either) appeared first on Galaxy S6 Guide.