Galaxy S6 guides

Android Nougat update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ probably is the last major udpate for these 3 devices. Samsung usually released two major Android updates for their flagship phones.

There are many new features and improvements in Android Nougat update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+.

This guide will try to give you the most important and practical info related to Android Nougat update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+.

Where are the updated user manuals for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+?

We have the updated user manuals for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat udpate.

You can download a copy in your own languages or read it online.

For Galaxy S6 with Android Nougat update, the updated user manuals can be found here.

For Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update, the updated user manuals can be found here.

Please note, if you cannot find the language you want, you may leave your request in corresponding pages. We will try to add them.

When will I get the Android Nougat update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+?

It really depends on your region and carrier.

Major Android udpate requires the approval from carriers. In addition, update is always rolled in stages.

Anyway, if you haven’t got Android Nougat update for for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+, you have to wait.

Do not flash the phone with firmware for other regions. You may brick the phone.

New status icons in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge Nougat update

There are a couple of new icons in Android Nougat udpate for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+.

If you encounter any new icons, you may check this guide.

How to use the new multi window feature in Android Nougat udpate for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+?

Multi window feature is getting better in Samsung’s Android Nougat update.

If you want to learn about the new features including: split-screen view action, using more than 2 apps simultaneously, launching app in pop-up view mode directly, managing floating app icons, please check this guide.

How to use the new quick settings panel and customize quick setting buttons in Android Nougat udpate for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+?

… Read the rest “Android Nougat Update Guide for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+”

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The updated official user manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update is now available in multiple languages in this page.

Following last year’s Android Marshmallow (Android 6.0) update, Samsung released Android Nougat update (Android 7.0) for  for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+in most regions.

The updated user manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update will help you to use your Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+ more effectively.

The user guides in this page are for Galaxy S6  edge and Galaxy S6 edge+.  The official user guide for Galaxy S6 (without edge screen) with Android Nougat update are available in this page.

The user manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update in this page is in PDF format (You can get Adobe PDF Reader here).

You can read these official Galaxy S6 user manuals with Android Nougat update by opening the link.  As the user manual is quite long,  you may consider to download and save a copy in your PC or phone. To download user manual for Galaxy S6 with Android Nougat update, you can tap and hold (i.e. long tap) the link, then choose to save as.

1. Updated User Manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update in English language for International versions (Android Nougat 7.0, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia, SM-G925, SM-G928)

This English version of updated User Manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update is for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ sold in Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia with Android Nougat 7.0. The model number of the corresponding  Galaxy S6 includes SM-G925, SM-G925F, SM-G925I, SM-G925C, SM-G925G, SM-G925FQ, SM-G928, SM-G928F, SM-G928I.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 edge (and edge+) User Manual with Android Nougat udpate for your Galaxy S6, you can try  this user guide.

Download link (in PDF): Updated User Manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update in English language for International versions (Android Nougat 7.0, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia, SM-G925, SM-G928)

2. Updated User Manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update in Czech language (čeština, český jazyk)  (SM-G925, SM-G928, Android Nougat 7.0, Czech Republic)

This Czech language (čeština, český jazyk) version of Updated User Manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update is for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ sold in Czech Republic with Android Nougat update.… Read the rest “Official user manual for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update”

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The official Galaxy S6 user manual with Android Nougat update is now available in multiple languages.

Android Nougat update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ has been available in more and more and more regions. This is probably the last major udpate (Marshmallow update is previous one) for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+ because Samsung typically releases 2 major Android updates for flagship phones.

The user guides in this page are for Galaxy S6 (without edge screen).  The official user guide for Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ with Android Nougat update are available in this page.

The official Galaxy S6 user manual with Android Nougat update in this page is in PDF format (You can get Adobe PDF Reader here).

You can read these official Galaxy S6 user manuals with Android Nougat update by opening the link.  As the user manual is quite long,  you may consider to download and save a copy in your PC or phone. To download user manual for Galaxy S6 with Android Nougat update, you can tap and hold (i.e. long tap) the link, then choose to save as.

1. Samsung Galaxy S6 User Manual with Android Nougat update in English language for International versions (Android Nougat 7.0, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia, SM-G920)

This English version of Galaxy S6 User Manual is for Samsung Galaxy S6 sold in Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia with Android Nougat 7.0. The model number of the corresponding  Galaxy S6 includes SM-G920, SM-G920F, SM-G920I and SM-G920FQ.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 User Manual with Android Nougat udpate for your Galaxy S6, you can try  this user guide.

Download link (in PDF): Samsung Galaxy S6 User Manual with Android Nougat update in English for International versions (Android Nougat 7.0, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia)

2. Samsung Galaxy S6 User Manual with Android Nougat update in Czech language (čeština, český jazyk)  (SM-G920, Android Nougat 7.0, Czech Republic)

This Czech language (čeština, český jazyk) version of Samsung Galaxy S6 User Manual is for Galaxy S6 sold in Czech Republic with Android Nougat update. The corresponding model number is SM-G920F.

If your Samsung Galaxy S6 was not bought in Czech Republic, the features (especially the pre-installed apps) describe in this Czech language (čeština, český jazyk) version of Samsung Galaxy S6 user guide may be different from those in your Galaxy S6.… Read the rest “Official Galaxy S6 user manual with Android Nougat update”

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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 “how to use widgets in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?”

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Multi window is a nice feature added by Samsung in Galaxy devices since Galaxy Note II. You can run two apps side by side (split screen view). Android only added this feature in Android Nougat (android 7.0/7.1).

In Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, you can also minimize an app as floating icon (pop up view) and open it any time partially overlapping your current app.

Please check this guide if you want to know how to use multi window in Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+.

Anyway, Samsung’s multi window is good for big screens, for example, tablet.  Some Galaxy S6 owners may don’t want to use the split screen or pop up view multi window.

Unfortunately, there are no settings in Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+ for you to disable multi window.

This guide show you how to disable multi window in Galaxy S6 partially (disable the pop up view gesture) and disable multi window completely (both split screen view and pop up view).

How to disable pop up view of multi window in Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+

One way to enter multi window mode in Galaxy S6 and S6 edge is through the pop up view gesture as explained in this guide.  When a supported app is running, you can drag down diagonally from the top edge (either left or right) of the app window to make the app as a pop up view multi window.  Of course, you can later turn it into split screen view of multi window if you want, or back to normal full screen window mode.

This is the feature that has gotten many complaints.  A lot of Galaxy S6 and S6 edge owners may accidentally enter the pop up view mode.

If you just want to disable pop up view multi window mode, you can disable this gesture in Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+.

Go to Settings — Advanced features as shown below.

Tap Pop-up view gesture as shown below.

In the Pop-up view gesture page, you can turn on (enable) or turn off (disable) pop-up view gesture as shown below.

Please note, this only disables the gesture so that you will not enter pop-up view accidentally.  It does NOT disable pop-up view actually.

When you are in split screen view of multi window, you can still convert any app into pop-up view mode.… Read the rest “How to disable multi window in Samsung Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+?”

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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 “Changes on waiting time for wrong input on Galaxy S6 lock screen in Android Marshmallow update”

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What is Galaxy S6 auto factory reset in Android Marshmallow update?

Galaxy S6 auto factory reset is one of the new security features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+.

If enabled, Galaxy S6 (S6 edge and S6 edge+) will be wiped out if you attempt to unlock the phone incorrectly for 15 times.

So, Galaxy S6 auto factory reset is intended to protect your phone from unlocking by repeated attempting when it’s stolen.

Normally, the thief may use brute-force attack to guess your PIN/password automatically (with some software).  For a 6-digit PIN, it only takes a few minutes to crack it on a normal desktop.

Now, if he fails 15 times, your phone will be reset. Your data on your S6 will be destroyed. Similar features has been in iPhones for a few years.

After the phone is reset, the thief still cannot activate your Galaxy S6 without your Google account thanks for the factory data reset (FDR) protection feature since Android Lollipop 5.1.

In short, Galaxy S6 auto factory reset adds one more layer of support for your data if you lost your Galaxy S6, S6 edge or S6 edge+.

How to enable/disable Galaxy S6 auto factory reset in Android Marshmallow update?

By default, Galaxy S6 auto factory reset is turned off after you update Galaxy S6, S6 edge or S6 edge+ to Android Marshmallow.

To enable Galaxy S6 auto factory reset, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Enter Settings

You can access Galaxy S6 Settings in different ways:

1. from apps screen, tap Settings icon as shown below.
2. from Galaxy S6 Home screen, tap Settings icon if it is added to home screen.
3. from notification panel (swipe down from status bar or top of the screen with one finger), tap Settings (gear) icon.

Step 2: Enter lock screen  and security settings

Tap Lock screen and security as shown above.

Step 3: Enter Secure lock settings

Tap Secure lock settings as shown below.

Step 4: enable Galaxy S6 auto factory reset

Now in Secure lock settings page, you can find Auto factory reset as shown below.

Tap the switch to enable Galaxy S6 auto factory reset.

If the switch is blue, it means this feature is enabled already. Tap the switch to disable auto factory reset.

Should I enable Galaxy S6 auto factory reset?

Just like any security settings, auto factory reset may backfire.… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 auto factory reset in Android Marshmallow update”

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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 “Changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+”

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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 “Top 10 new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge and S6 edge+”

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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 “FAQs on Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6”

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Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge were released with Android Lollipop 5.0. They were later updated to Android Lollipop 5.1 in almost all regions.

Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update was released earlier this month in a few regions.  More and more Galaxy S6 owners can enjoy Android Marshmallow (Android 6.0) on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

This Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update page was created to answer your questions on Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update.

Detailed guides showing you how to use the new features in Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update will be added gradually.

For other Galaxy S6 how-to guides, please check this page.

For Galaxy S6 online manual, please check this page.

You can also read and download PDF version of official Galaxy S6 user manul,  Galaxy S6 edge user manual and Galaxy S6 edge+ manual inn your own languages.

Here are the list of Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guides.

More guides will be released gradually. If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guide, you may check this page later or post your question/request in the comment box below.

1. Top 10 new features in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6

   Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 brings many new features and under-the-hood improvements. This Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guide explains to you the top 10 new features you will enjoy in Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update: fingerprint as a backup security measure; customizable lock screen; new app permission control; dose mode; revamped quick settings panel; scroll capture (smart capture); new Google settings and Now on tap; video collage and live broadcast camera modes; auto factory reset and auto restart and more edge screen functions. These top new features and many other improvements in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6 may justify the update. Read on.…

2. FAQs on Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6?

   You may have some questions on Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update, e.g., when you will get Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, how to solve performance or battery drain issues after installing Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6. These guide will help you make better decision and usage of Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6. This guide will give you answers.

3. Changes on using fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in Android Marshmallow update for Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+

   Samsung made substantial changes on the usage of fingerprint to unlock Galaxy S6 in this Android Marshmallow update.

… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 Android Marshmallow update guide”

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Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ has a bigger screen (5.7″) as you definitely know. But you may be not aware of some new features in Galaxy S6 edge+.

Apps edge is one of the unique features in Galaxy S6 edge+.  This feature adds more functions to the existing edge screen in Galaxy S6 edge.

This guide will show you how to use apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge+.  As apps edge is a a feature under edge screen, you may check this edge screen guide if you are new to edge screen.

What is apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge+?

Galaxy S6 edge+ apps edge lets you quickly launch frequently used apps from the edge screen.

You can put some favorite apps in the apps edge so that you can launch them without navigating to home screen (if you have added the apps to home screen) or navigating to apps screen.

This feature, if used properly, can significantly increase you productivity on the phone with the help of the edge screen.

Please note:

1. Apps screen is exclusive to Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ currently.  It is not available in Galaxy S6 edge yet. Samsung did not commit that apps edge will be added to Galaxy S6 edge in the future in all regions.
2. Like in home screen, only app shortcuts are added to apps edge. So, when you remove the apps from apps edge, only the shortcut is deleted, It will NOT uninstall you app.
3. You can assign and re-arrange the apps in apps edge.

How to enable apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge+?

In most regions, galaxy S6 edge+ apps edge is not enabled.

To use this feature, you need go to  Settings — Edge screen — Apps edge. Then tap the switch to activate it.

You can access Galaxy S6 edge+ settings in different ways:

1. from apps screen, tap Settings.
2. from notification panel (swipe down from status bar or top of the screen with one finger), tap Settings (gear) icon.

How to access Galaxy S6 edge+ apps edge?

To access Galaxy S6 edge+ apps edge, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Drag the Edge screen handle towards the center of the screen as shown below.

Step 2:swipe to the right  to access apps edge screen as shown below.

Please note, you can switch between apps edge and people edge by swiping left or right.… Read the rest “How to use apps edge in Galaxy S6 edge plus (S6 edge+)?”

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Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ (S6 edge plus) is an up-sized Galaxy S6 edge with a bigger screen, bigger battery and  some new features.

This page shows you the Galaxy S6 edge+ layout so that you can get accurate info on the location of the buttons and components, and their functions.  Knowing layout of Galaxy S6 edge+ will help you use the phone more effectively and avoid some common mistakes.

Please note layout of Galaxy S6 edge+ is slightly different from Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge.  This page is dedicated for Galaxy S6 edge+ layout.

If you own a Galaxy S6 (flat screen), please this page for the layout of Galaxy S6.

If you own a Galaxy S6 edge, please check this page for the layout of Galaxy S6 edge.

If you are looking for Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual, please check the official S6 edge+ user manual in your languages here.

The front view of  Galaxy S6 edge+ layout

The front view of Galaxy S6 edge+ layout is shown below.

As shown below, in the front of S6 edge+, you can find

• LED indicator. This LED will light up and show different colors for charging or notifications.
• Proximity/light sensor. Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ uses light sensor to detect the lighting conditions to adjust brightness of the screen automatically so that you can get the best view experience. The proximity sensor helps Galaxy S6 edge+ decide whether you are close the the phone screen. For example, when you are engaged in a phone call and move the phone to your ear, the screen will be automatically turned off to avoid accidental operations.
• Touch screen.  Touch screen make it possible for you to interact with Galaxy S6 edge+.  The screen will respond to your gestures depending on apps you are using.
• Home key with fingerprint sensor. Tap this button to return to Galaxy S6 edge+ home screen. Fingerprint sensor is embedded in the home key. Touch the key can also unlock the phone and authenticate yourself if you configure it in Galaxy S6 edge+ fingerprint manager.
• Recent Apps key. It is also sometimes referred as multitask key. Tap this key to show a list of recent used apps. You can quickly switch to them without reloading the app. You can also launcher Galaxy S6 multi window from the list of recent apps.
• Back key.

… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 edge+ layout”

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On August 13, Samsung launched the 5.7″ version of Galaxy S6 edge: Galaxy S6 edge+ (together with Galaxy Note 5).  This page is a collection of official Samsung Galaxy edge+ user manual in all languages.

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual will help you use the Galaxy S6 edge+ properly and effectively, especially for Galaxy S6 edge+ owners who are not familiar with Samsung Galaxy devices.

All Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual is in PDF format. You can download and read on any devices: smartphone, tablet or PC with a PDF reader. You can also print them out if you still prefer the hard-copy.

If you own a Galaxy S6, you can find Galaxy S6 user manual here.

If you own a Galaxy S6 edge, you can find Galaxy S6 edge user manual here.

For all Galaxy S6 devices (S6, S6 edge, and S6 edge+) , you may also check our detailed Galaxy S6 how-to guides page and detailed Galaxy S6 online manual page to know and use your S6 better.

If you cannot find the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual in your language or for your S6 edge+ model, please  let us know in the comments section below.

1. Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual in English language for International versions (SM-G928, Android Lollipop 5.1, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia)

This English version of Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual is for Galaxy S6 edge+ sold in Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The corresponding model number is SM-G928F, SM-G928C, SM-G928G, SM-G928I and SM-G9287C.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S6 edge+ User Manual for your Galaxy S6 edge+, you can try  this user guide.

Download link (in PDF): Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ User Manual in English language for International versions (SM-G928, Android Lollipop 5.1, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia)

2. AT&T Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual in American English (SM-G928A, Android Lollipop 5.1, AT&T, US only)

This AT&T American English version of Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual is only for Galaxy S6 edge+ sold to AT&T customers in USA. The corresponding model number is SM-G928A.

If your Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ was not bought from AT&T, the features (especially the pre-installed apps) describe in this AT&T Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user guide may be different from those in your Galaxy S6 edge+.… Read the rest “Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual”

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Update 1: Official Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ user manuals are available here. Download the Galaxy S6 edge+ user manual in your own languages.

Samsung just announced the plus-size sibling of Galaxy S6 edge: Galaxy S6 edge+ on August 13 (together with Galaxy Note 5).

Apparently, the sales of the duo (Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge) are not as good as expected as reported. Samsung need new flagship phones to get the market.

Will Galaxy S6 edge+ give Samsung a lift in poor sales?

This post will try to highlight new features of Galaxy S6 edge+ vs Galaxy S6 edge.

1. Galaxy S6 edge+ is bigger (and heavier)

As suggested by its name, Galaxy S6 edge+ is really a plus-size sibling of Galaxy S6 edge.

The screen size of Galaxy S6 edge+ is 5.7″, which is significantly larger than the 5.1″ S6 edge.

The dimension of the Galaxy S6 edge+ is 6.08″ x 2.98″ x 0.27″; while Galaxy S6 edge only has a dimension of 5.59″x 2.76″ x 0.28″.

You will also feel Galaxy S6 edge+ is about 16% heavier (153g) than S6 edge (132g).

But for most owners, one-hand operation is not a big issue.

2. More features for edge screen

Edge screen is a signature feature in Galaxy S6 edge.

In addition to all features of the edge screen in Galaxy S6 edge, the Galaxy S6 edge+ adds more features to the edge screen.  Now you can add favorite apps to edge screen.

For existing Galaxy S6 edge owners,  Samsung may bring this feature to your phone in future update.

3. New camera features

Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge set the standard for smartphone cameras in 2015.

Although  Galaxy S6 edge+ uses the identical camera sensors as Galaxy S6 edge, significant improvements in camera features can be spotted.  These include:

• RAW support in Pro Mode. For advanced users,  Galaxy S6 edge+ can save photos in RAW format. This means you have the full freedom to edit the photos after they are taken. You are not limited to effects and filters. You can travel back and re-adjust camera settings.
• Video collage mode. You can capture multiple videos and play them in a single collage.
• Live broadcast. You can broadcast yourself live through YouTube in Galaxy S6 edge+ camera app. You can set the broadcast as private (only invited contacts can watch) or public.

Again, probably (no confirmation or guarantee from Samsung yet) these features will be added to Galaxy S6 edge in future update.… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 edge+ vs Galaxy S6 edge: top 6 new features you should know”

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What can Galaxy S6 Gallery app can do?

Gallery app is an essential app in all Android devices. Galaxy S6 (and Galaxy S6 edge) is not an exception.

Galaxy S6 Gallery app organizes all photos, images and videos stored on your S6 or S6 edge.  The features of Galaxy S6 Gallery app include:

• View photos and videos saved on Galaxy S6.
• Organize photos by creating albums, events, categories.
• Edit photos.
• Delete photos and videos.
• Share photos or video to other apps.

Please note, Galaxy S6 Gallery app does not have its own storage folder. The info of photos and videos on Galaxy S6 is provided to Gallery app through media scanner service on the phone.

This means the photos and videos are saved in the folders of corresponding apps. Galaxy S6 Gallery app does not make a copy of them.

How to access Galaxy S6 Gallery app

You can access Galaxy S6 Gallery app in different ways, for example:

• In Galaxy S6 apps screen, tap Gallery app icon
• In Galaxy S6 home screen, if you have added Gallery app to home screen, you can tap the Gallery app icon.
• In Galaxy S6 home screen, if you added the Gallery widget to home screen, you can tap the widget.
• In Galaxy S6 camera interface, tap the thumbnail.

Use Galaxy S6 Gallery app  to view images and videos

By default, when Galaxy S6 Gallery app is started, you will get the default album (folder) view as shown below.

The CAMERA  button is for you to switch to Galaxy S6 Camera app.

The MORE button is context sensitive.  If you are in album view, the functions will be related to album, e.g., create an album.  If you are in events view, you will have the option to create an event.

You can tap the Albums as shown below to switch to other views:

• Time. Your photos and videos will be organized based on date instead of folders.
• Events. You can organize photos by creating events.
• Categories. Galaxy S6 will automatically organize the photos and videos based on camera modes (e.g., video, burst mode….) used, and objects in the photo (e.g, people, food, scenery, documents…)
• Favorites. It will only show your favorite photos (you specified them explicitly).

Use Galaxy S6 Gallery app to delete photos and videos

Once you open a photo in Galaxy S6 Gallery app, the photo will be shown in full screen.… Read the rest “Use Galaxy S6 Gallery app to manage and edit your photos”

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What is  Galaxy S6 notification reminder?

Normally, when you get a new message, or missed a call, Galaxy S6 will give you a notification in the notification panel. This alerts or reminds you that there are something new.

Most of the time, such notification messages are accompanied with the notification icon in the status bar. The LED, by default, will flash as well when the screen is off..

But the notification tone is played only once, by default, even if you don’t check the phone at all. Most Android phones are designed to work in this way.

Sometimes, you may want to be reminded that you have a new message or you need to do something until you read the message or check the item.

Samsung has a solution for this requirement for long time. In Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, if you want, you can be reminded again and again until you take the action. This is called Galaxy S6 notification reminder.

Galaxy S6 notification reminder allows you to get notified repeatedly until you read the message or check the items.

By default, Galaxy S6 notification reminder is turned off in almost all regions.

How to use Galaxy S6 notification reminder?

To use Galaxy S6 notification reminder, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Access Galaxy S6 Settings

You can access Galaxy S6 Settings in different ways:

1. from apps screen, tap Settings.
2. from notification panel (swipe down from status bar or top of the screen with one finger), tap Settings (gear) icon.

Step 2: Access Accessibility

Galaxy S6 notification reminder is put under Settings—Accessibility.  This is different from previous generation phones.

As shown below, in Galaxy S6 Settings page, tap Accessibility.

Step 3. Enable Galaxy S6 notification reminder

By default, Galaxy S6 notification reminder is not enabled.

In Settings—Accessibility page, tap Notification reminder as shown above.

Now, you can enable Galaxy S6 notification reminder by drag  the switch to right side. You can also just tap the switch and it will toggle between on and off.

Once the notification reminder is enabled, the switch should shown as green color in default Galaxy S6 theme. Of course, if you are using other Galaxy S6 themes, the color will be different.

Step 4: Configure Galaxy S6 notification reminder

You can configure Galaxy S6 notification reminder to meet you needs:

• Choose notification interval.

… Read the rest “How to use Galaxy S6 notification reminder?”

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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 “Site Search”

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Galaxy S6 and S6 edge is a smartphone, although they offer the best smartphone camera you can find in 2015.

Making phone calls is still a basic feature for Galaxy S6 and S6 edge. This guide will show you how to use the Phone app to make phone calls (both voice calls and video calls) in Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

How to make phone calls on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge

To make phone calls on Galaxy S6, you need use the Phone app.

By default, the Phone app is in the favorite tray in home screen.

If you cannot find it in favorite tray, you can find it in the Galaxy S6 Apps screen.

Anyway, start the Phone app.  There are a few items in the phone app interface as shown below:

1. make phone calls (voice).
2. make video calls. Some carriers may not support video calls.
3. hide the keypad (9 to show)
4. switch to another view (for phone logs, favorites and contacts)
5. phone call settings
6. number to be called
7. tap and hold to access voicemail
8. keypad correction
9. show keypad
10. check phone logs, including incoming, outgoing and missed calls
11. favorite contacts
12. list contacts

To make phone calls on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, you just input the number (or tap the contact), then tap phone icon (1)  as shown below.

How to make phone calls on  Galaxy S6 and S6 edge lock screen?

If you set lock screen security to swipe, you can make phone calls from log screen directly by dragging the phone icon in the lock screen out of a circle as shown below.

However, if you have other lock screen security settings, you can only make emergency calls.

The emergency call can be made to people in your ICE group even when Galaxy S6 or S6 edge is locked. Please refer to this guide on how to make emergency calls.

How to make video calls on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?

To make video calls on Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge is similar to make voice calls. You just tap the camcorder icon (2)  as shown in previous screenshot.

Please note, Galaxy S6 video calls are different from those through Hangouts or Viber or FacetTime or some other apps.

Galaxy S6 video calls in phone app, if supported by your carrier, does NOT require internet connection.  The call is connected directly through 3G network.… Read the rest “Use Galaxy S6 phone app to make phone calls (voice calls and video calls)”

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What is Galaxy S6 screen grid?

When you look at Galaxy S6 home screen, you will notice the apps are always organized in rows and columns.

We usually call this as Galaxy S6 screen grid. Each app icon occupies one grid spot. Widgets use the grid as a reference for their sizes.

You cannot move apps to random locations in the home screen.  When you try to move apps in Galaxy S6 home screen, they will have to snap to the nearest “grid”.  If you try to move one app to another app, an app folder will be created.

When you add apps to Galaxy S6 home screen or add widgets to home screen, the apps or widgets also snap to the invisible “grid” automatically.

This makes your screen clean and neat.

But it also limits the number of apps or widgets you can put on the home screen page.

Of course, you can add more home screen pages for Galaxy S6 to create more spaces.

In Galaxy S6, Samsung gives you a bit more options: you can configure Galaxy S6 screen grid to 4×4, 4×5 or 5×5.

You can essentially change the app icon size in the Galaxy S6 home screen, because app icon size is always proportional to the size of the grid spot.

This is a new feature in Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge. If you are using other Galaxy devices that are older than Galaxy S6, you cannot adjust screen grid.

Please note, some third-party launchers may offer such a feature.

How to change Galaxy S6 screen grid?

By default, Galaxy S6 screen grid is 4×4. So, there are 16 spots in one home screen pages.  The corresponding app icon size usually is quit large.

You can change the screen grid so that there are 20 or 25 grid spots for your apps and widgets. The size of app icons will surely be adjusted (smaller) accordingly.

To change Galaxy S6 screen grid, please follow these steps.

Step 1: Return to Galaxy S6 home screen

You can return to Galaxy S6 home screen in different ways.

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

Please note, it is NOT necessary to return to the Home panel of the home screen.… Read the rest “How to use Galaxy S6 screen grid (to change app icon size in home screen)?”

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Samsung started to roll out Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update in US and a few European countries.

Although Android Lollipop 5.1 is not a major update to Lollipop 5.0, in addition to some under-the-hood improvements,  we find some nice new features you should try.

Here are the  top 6 new features you should try in Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update.

#1. A-Z App sorting in Apps screen in Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update

As mentioned in the top 6 defects of Galaxy S6, the new TouchWiz simply removed many useful features. Many Galaxy S6 and S6 edge owners are not happy with this.

Once of the removed feature is app sorting in Galaxy S6 Apps screen (app drawer). If you read the comments of that page, you can find many S6 owners, especially long-term Galaxy phone users,  are frustrated with this missing feature.

In the Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update, Samsung finally brought back this old feature. So, now you can sort apps in alphabet order.

Of course, you can also organize apps in Apps screen by creating app folders as detailed in this guide.

#2. S Finder and Quick connect are configurable in Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update

S Finder and Quick connect are quite useful if you get used to them. This is probably why Samsung put them in the premium location (notification panel)  in Galaxy S6  (actually in previous Galaxy devices as well, for example, in Galaxy Note 4, and Galaxy S5) and made them irremovable.

But not all Galaxy S6 owners like them. They want to remove S Finder and Quick Connect from notification panel.

Of course, they cannot. And they complained.

Samsung listened. In Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update,  you can enable/disable these two controversial features in Quick Settings.

#3. Auto stop background apps in Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update

Galaxy S6 battery life is usually in par with Galaxy S5, although galaxy S6 and S6 edge has fore more pixels in display and faster CPUs.

But battery drain is always a problem for all Android devices.  Galaxy S6 fast charging may alleviate the problem a bit.

Most of the battery drain actually is caused by third-party apps running in background.

In Galaxy S6, abnormal battery usage can be reported in  Settings—Battery.

Now, Samsung moved a step further.  … Read the rest “Galaxy S6 Android Lollipop 5.1 update: top 6 new features you should try”

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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 “How to change Galaxy S6 wallpapers?”

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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 “Add location tag and remove location tag for photos in Galaxy S6”

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Taking photos for a moving object is always challenging. Galaxy S6 offers Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) for you to get better photos with moving objects.

What is Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus)?

Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) allows you to track and automatically focus on a selected subject, even when the subject is moving or when you change the shooting composition.

This feature can be found in some DSLR cameras, not commonly on smartphone cameras.

Basically, Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) is utilizing the fast auto focus feature in Galaxy S6 camera to track the motion of the object and adjust the focus accordingly.

How to enable Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus)?

By default, Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) is turned off in most regions.  You need follow these steps to enable it before  you can use the auto focus tracking.

Step 1:  Start Galaxy S6 camera app

You can start Galaxy S6 camera with any of the following 4 methods as detailed in this page:

• 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. Please refer to this guide on Galaxy S6 camera quick launch).
• Using Google Now voice command  (e.g., “Start camera”) or S Voice command (“Open Camera app”).

Step 2: Go to Galaxy S6 Camera settings

Tapping gear icon in Galaxy S6 camera app interface as shown below.

Step 3: Enable Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus)

In the Galaxy S6 camera settings, you can find the Tracking AF as shown in the left.

Tap the switch to enable it.

Once it is enabled, the color of the switch will be changed to green.

If you cannot find the tracking AF option in the camera settings, very likely, the front camera is active. You need switch to rear camera.

In other words, Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) is for rear camera, not for front camera.

Please note, the setting for Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) is persistent. If you want to disable it, you must manually disable it through the same procedure. Rebooting the phone will not change this setting.… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 camera tracking AF (auto focus) guide”

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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 “Where is Galaxy S6 camera night mode?”

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What are the differences between Galaxy S6 camera effects and camera modes?

As detailed in Galaxy S6 camera modes guide, you can choose different camera modes for different scenarios to get the best photos. In addition to the pre-installed camera modes, you can even install more camera modes for Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

In a nutshell camera modes most of the time change the settings of the camera before you take the photos. In other words, Galaxy S6 camera modes applies a set of pre-defined settings to the camera.

But Galaxy S6 camera effects work on the photos after the photos are taken.

You can imagine Galaxy S6 camera effects is like the Photoshop which edits your photo. But this editing will be done automatically once the photo is taken. Of course, the identical results can be achieved in any photo editors manually.

Please note, when Galaxy S6 camera effects are applied, the original photo will NOT be saved. The saved photo is the edited version.

Galaxy S6 camera effects can save you some time compared to manually apply effects later.

How to apply Galaxy S6 camera effects?

Galaxy S6 camera effects are applied immediately after photo is taken.

In Galaxy S6 camera interface, tap the Effects button as shown below.

In the Galaxy S6 camera effects page, the available effects are listed as shown below.

By default, “No effect” is applied. This means the photo will be saved without  applying any Galaxy S6 camera effects.

Galaxy S6 camera offers live preview of the final photo to help you decide which one is what you want.

Tap any one of the effects will use it and return to preview screen with effects applied.

Now tap the shutter button (or use your voice, or use your gesture) to take the photo. The photo will be taken with the selected effects applied automatically.

How to download and install additional Galaxy S6 camera effects?

By default, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge offer 7 pre-installed Galaxy S6 camera effects including:

• Tint
• Vintage
• Moody
• Grayscale
• Vignette
• Cartoon
• Faded color

If you need other camera effects, you can download and install more  Galaxy S6 camera effects from Galaxy Apps, similar to Galaxy S6 camera modes.

To install additional camera effects, please follow these steps.

Step 1: Start camera app

You can start Galaxy S6 camera (or S6 edge camera) with any of the following methods:

• Tapping the Camera app icon in the favorite tray in Galaxy S6 home screen.

… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 camera effects guide”

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To take photos or record videos with Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, you first need access Galaxy S6 camera interface (launch the Galaxy S6 camera). It is important to understand and familiarize yourself with the camera app interface so that you can take the best photos or videos with Galaxy S6 camera or S6 edge camera.

How to access Galaxy S6 camera interface?

There are at least 4 different ways to launch Galaxy S6 camera so that you can access the Galaxy S6 camera interface.

Method 1: launch Galaxy S6 camera from Home screen

You can tap the Camera app icon in the favorite tray in Galaxy S6 home screen.  This will launch Galaxy S6 camera app and you are directed to the camera app interface.

Method 2: launch Galaxy S6 camera from Apps screen

You can tap the Camera app icon in Galaxy S6 Apps screen (aka App drawer, All Apps) to launch Galaxy S6 camera.

Recommended! Method 3: launch Galaxy S6 camera with Galaxy S6 camera quick launch

You can press home buttons twice to use Galaxy S6 camera quick launch (even when Galaxy S6 is locked. Please refer to this guide on Galaxy S6 camera quick launch) to launch Galaxy S6 camera.

Method 4: launch Galaxy S6 camera with your voice

You can use your voice to launch Galaxy S6 camera.  You can use Google Now voice command  (e.g., “Start camera”) or S Voice command (“Open Camera app”)on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge to launch Galaxy S6 camera.

How to use Galaxy S6 camera interface?

When the Galaxy S6 camera app is launched, the camera interface is defaulted to preview screen as shown below.

Please note the location of the icons in Galaxy S6 camera interface (preview screen) depends on the orientation of the phone. Items 1-5 should be close to the Home button (bottom in portrait mode, see this page for Galaxy S6 layout.) and 6-11 close to Samsung logo (top in portrait orientation)

Items 7-10 are often referred as Galaxy S6 camera quick settings. Please do not confuse this with Galaxy S6 quick settings in the notification panel.

The meaning of these numbered items shown above is:

1. Camera mode button. Tap this icon to change Galaxy S6 camera modes or download additional Galaxy S6 camera modes.
2. front-rear camera switch. Tap this button will switch the active camera. For example, if rear camera is active (by default), you can tap it once to switch to front camera.

… Read the rest “Galaxy S6 camera interface”

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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 “How to use Galaxy S6 camera burst mode?”

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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 “How to turn on/off picture review for Galaxy S6 camera?”

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Why do you want to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound?

Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound serves as a notification sound when a photo is taken. This is very common in almost all current smartphones (not just Android phones) in which a physical shutter button is not available.

Without the Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound, some users may get confused whether the on-screen button is registered.

As most Galaxy S6 owners turned off the picture review, there is no immediate feedback on whether the photo is taken or not if the shutter sound is silenced.

But Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound can be disturbing or embarrassing when you want to take photos in a quiet environment, e.g., in a library or a museum. Or you want to silently film the activities in the office or during a meeting.

In such scenarios, you may want to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound.

How to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound?

Camera app in Galaxy S6 camera or Galaxy S6 edge does NOT have the options to turn on or turn off Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound.

Actually, Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound is controlled by Galaxy S6 sound mode.

As detailed in this guide, Galaxy S6 has 3 sound modes: sound, vibrate and mute. Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound is activated only in sound mode.

In other words, you can silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound by entering vibrate mode or mute mode.  Once your phone is in either vibrate or mute mode, the camera shutter sound will be silenced.

There are several different methods to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound.

Method 1: Pressing and holding volume down buttons

This method works only when Galaxy S6 camera app is not active.  When Camera app is active, the volume button may be assigned other functions to control Galaxy S6 camera as detailed in this guide.

So, before launching Galaxy S6 camera app, you can press and hold volume down button  (you may check Galaxy S6 layout or Galaxy S6 edge layout for the  location of volume down buttons) to enter vibrate mode. In this mode, you essentially silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound.

When pressing volume down button, volume level will be shown on the screen as shown below.

Once the volume level decreases to minimum (slider in leftmost), Galaxy S6 enters vibrate mode automatically. This will silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound immediately.… Read the rest “How to silence Galaxy S6 camera shutter sound?”

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Why Galaxy S6 photo size and video size matters?

Galaxy S6 and S6 edge does not have a SD card slot. This means all your photos and videos taken with Galaxy S6 camera or Galaxy S6 edge camera will be saved in the phone (internal) storage. This is considered as one of major Galaxy S6 defects in design.

If you take photos or record videos in maximum resolution (size), you will find the available internal storage is shrinking quickly when you are on a trip.

The problem is severe for the 32GB model, which only has less than 25GB usable storage.

The main camera (rear camera) in Galaxy S6 and S6 edge can take 16MP photos or record  4K UHD videos.  But you may want to save storage by taking photos or recording videos in lower resolutions (smaller sizes).

Some Galaxy S6 camera modes may only allow smaller photo or video size. For details of the pre-installed Galaxy S6 camera modes, please check this guide.  For additional Galaxy S6 camera modes, please check this page.

How to choose Galaxy S6 photo size and video size?

You need choose photo size and video size based on the main usage of the photos and videos.

For videos, for most Galaxy S6 owners, full HD at normal 30fps (frame per second) rate is usually sufficient even you have a 4K TV.

For photos, you have two factors to consider:

1. Aspect ratio. 16:9 is good  for viewing in PCs and TVs.  4:3 is good for printing on photo papers. 1:1 is only used by some web designers.
2. Size (resolution, number of pixels). If you want to print the photo in 8R or larger photo papers, you should set photo size as 12M (3984×2988, 4:3). For 4R photo paper, 8M is sufficient. If you just want to share the photos in social media or through MMS, the smallest size  (2.4M for the rear camera) is sufficient.

When you share photos or videos through MMS, the photos and videos will be compressed and down-sized automatically.  But occasionally, the processing may fail. Some carrier may pose strict limitations on photo size and video file size.

Most social media also compress and down-size the resolution of your photos.

So, it is better to share photos or videos through Google Drive or other cloud services if you want to keep the original resolution and quality.

How to set Galaxy S6 photo size for the main camera (rear camera)?

… Read the rest “How to set Galaxy S6 photo size and video size?”

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What do I need to print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?

As you already know, Galaxy S6 or S6 edge is as powerful as some laptops. According to the calculation of Expert Exchange, Galaxy S6 has about 35 GFLOPS raw processing power, which is comparable to most middle range laptops.

This explains why many Galaxy S6 owners use the phone as pocket laptop to process documents, edit photos and perform other office duties.

When you have documents in Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, you may wonder whether you can print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge directly.

The answer is yes. Google have this solution in Android for a few years already.

You can print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge locally (to a printer in your local network) or through cloud.

In this guide we will discuss about printing to local printers.  Google cloud printing will be discussed in a separate page.

What you need to print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge include:

• a network connected printer.
• same network for printer and Galaxy S6 or S 6 edge,  preferably connecting to the same router.
• the Android printer plugin provided by the printer manufacturer, normally released in Google Play store for free.
• patience.

Step-by-Step guide on how to print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge to local printer

Step 1: prepare your printer

The first step to print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge is to make sure the printer is ready. This means:

• the printer is connected to network either through Ethernet cable, or through wireless connections. Most modern printers are network enabled.
• the printer should have no errors, e.g., out of paper, no ink/toner…..

You need follow the printer setup guide to set the printer and connect it to the network.

Step 2: install printer plugin

In this guide, I suppose you use a Brother printer. For other brands, you can search Play store to find the corresponding print service plugins.

If you are using a Samsung printer, you may skip this step because Samsung printer plugin was pre-installed on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

As shown below,  when you search “brother printer”, two top results are returned under apps.

What you need is the second one “Brother Printer Service Plugin”. For other brands, you should also check for plugins, not standalone app.

Tap  Brother Printer Service Plugin to enter app info page.… Read the rest “How to print from Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?”

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Update 1: After Android Marshmallow udpate, you may follow this guide to use default apps in Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+. 

What’s default application on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?

One of the notable advantages of Android is the endless options (Be together, not the same).  For one task, you can choose many different applications based on your preferences. Some apps in Galaxy S6 apps screen may perform same operation, e.g., both Internet and Chrome on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge can open website.

When more than one app on your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge can perform the same task, by default, you will be asked to choose one app to proceed.

If you want Galaxy S6 or S6 edge to remembers your choice, you can set one app as the default application for this task.  Next time, Galaxy S6 will use the default application to perform the task without asking you to select.

So, it is usually convenient (save your time) for you to assign default application on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge for certain tasks.

But sometimes, you may assigned the wrong app as default application, or you may find a better app for the task. In this case, you can reset default application on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge.

If you want to know how to disable or uninstall apps on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, please check this guide.

How to assign default applications on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?

In this guide, I will use ringtone setup as an example.  If you want to know more on how to customize Galaxy S6 ringtone, please read this page.

For other tasks, the procedure to assign default application or to reset default application is similar.

After installing ES File Explorer, when I customize Galaxy S6 ringtones, Galaxy S6 now asks me to choose use which app to proceed as shown below.

Because I used the default media storage last time, media storage is shaded as shown below.

Now I want to use ES File Explorer as the default application for ringtones.

After tapping  ES File Explorer, I have two options as shown below:

1. Just Once. This means ES File Explorer will be used only in this session. Next time, Galaxy S6 will ask me to select an app again. In other words, default application is NOT set.

… Read the rest “How to assign and reset default application on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?”

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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 “How to reset Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?”

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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 “How to use Galaxy S6 motions and gestures?”

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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 “How to disable apps and uninstall apps on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge?”

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What’s Galaxy S6 recovery mode?

All Android devices have a special partition named recovery.  Tools helping you repair Android installations and install official Android/firmware updates are saved in this partition.

Galaxy S6 is not an exception.

Recovery partition is bootable, i.e., it is a self-contained, although usually simple, system (aka recovery console). Different Android manufacturers may deploy different tools in recovery mode.

When you turn on Galaxy S6 or S6 edge, by default, Galaxy S6 is booted into Android and Android is ready to use on the phone.

But if you want, you can also boot into recovery partition and enter Galaxy S6 recovery mode to fix some issues or reset Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

You can imagine Galaxy S6 recovery mode in this way: it can alter Android installation in Galaxy S6. Normally, if Galaxy S6 is booted into Android, you can only change the “settings”, but not the system files.

When you need boot into Galaxy S6 recovery mode?

There are many possible usages of Galaxy S6 recovery mode.

But for most Galaxy S6 owners, you may need boot into  Galaxy S6 recovery mode for two scenarios.

Scenario 1.  You need reset the phone, but you cannot access the Settings menu.

If your Galaxy S6 is not responsive even after rebooting, and therefore you cannot access the settings menu to reset the phone, you may use Galaxy S6 recovery mode to perform a factory reset for Galaxy S6.

Also, sometimes, the lock screen refuses to accept your password/PIN/fingerprints. You may swear what you entered is correct one, but Galaxy S6 does not nudge. In this case, if you have added a Samsung account to Galaxy S6, you may use Find My Mobile to unlock the phone as detailed in this guide.

But if you haven’t added a Samsung account, or if you disabled both WiFi and mobile data before you are locked out, you then have no choice but to reset the phone through Galaxy S6 recovery mode.

Please note, when you reset Galaxy S6, all of your data, settings and apps will be removed. Galaxy S6 will be simply in a state as you got it first time. This is why it is referred as factory reset.

So, it is important to backup your data and files in Galaxy S6 regularly as detailed in this guide.

Scenario 2. You want to clear cache partition.

… Read the rest “How to boot into Galaxy S6 recovery mode?”

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You can use volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera

You probably already know you can launch Galaxy S6 camera quicker than any other smartphone owners by double pressing the Home button, thanks to the quick launch feature in Galaxy S6 camera.

When taking photos, in addition to tapping the on-screen shutter button, you can also use your voice to control Galaxy S6 camera, or use your gesture to take selfies on Galaxy S6.

Now, there are even one more method to take photos on Galaxy S6: pressing the volume key.

Of course, the volume key can also be configured to record videos on Galaxy S6 or to zoom in and out the camera.

Please note, use volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera is not new. Most old Galaxy devices and many other Android phones also have this feature. But many owners are not aware of it and therefore seldom use it.

How to configure volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera?

By default, you can use volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera out of the box.

The default function of the volume key in Galaxy S6 camera is to take photos. But you can change or configure it to record video or zoom the view.

To configure volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera, you may follow these steps.

Step 1: Start 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).
• Pressing home buttons twice to use Galaxy S6 camera quick launch (even when galaxy S6 is locked).
• Using Google Now voice command  (e.g., “Start camera”) or S Voice command (“Open Camera app”).

Step 2: Go to Camera Settings.

Tap Settings icon (gear icon) as shown below to access Galaxy S6 Camera settings.

Step 3: Select the functions for volume key

Under Galaxy S6 Camera settings, you  can find the current function assigned to volume key as shown below.

Tap this field to change current function for volume key as shown below.

You can configure the volume key function as:

• Take pictures.
• Record video. If the camera is in camera mode, volume key will switch it to video recorder mode and start recording.
• Zoom. Galaxy S6 camera does not have optical zoom, so the zoom is digital zoom, which may result in a poor quality photo in some scenarios.

… Read the rest “How to use volume key to control Galaxy S6 camera?”

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Why you should  backup Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?

You should never try your luck when you have anything valuable on your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge.

Like any electronic gadgets, you may lose the access to the data on your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge suddenly, for example, the phone is stolen, the phone dies, the phone is messed up and you need to reset it.

You should backup Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge, and make sure the backup actually works.

How to backup Galaxy S6 Photos?

Most Galaxy S6 or S6 edge owners are using the camera features very often, thanks to the great Galaxy S6 camera.

But did you backup Galaxy S6 photos?

Backup Galaxy S6 Photos to the cloud

Actually, it is deadly easy to backup  Galaxy S6 Photos without installing any third-part apps. The pre-installed apps can do the job nicely, and automatically.

To backup Galaxy S6 Photos to the cloud automatically, you have two options:

1. enabling auto backup feature in Photos app to backup all photos and even other pictures in Galaxy S6 to Google drive automatically.
2. enabling camera upload in  OneDrive App to automatically backup Galaxy S6 photos to Microsoft OneDrive automatically.

You can actually enable both of them so that you have two copies of backup.

Backup Galaxy S6 Photos to your PC

If you want to keep a copy of your photos on the PC, you can directly copy the photos in Galaxy S6 to the PC when you connect Galaxy S6 to the PC with a USB cable.  Photos and videos taken with Galaxy S6 camera are in the folder of DCIM/Camera.

You can also use Samsung SmartSwitch on your PC to backup Galaxy S6, including photos. As detailed in this guide, in addition to transfer data between devices,  the PC version of the SmartSwitch is also a backup software for Galaxy S6.

How to backup Galaxy S6 Phone logs?

If you need keep your phone logs (call logs) for whatever reasons, you can let Galaxy S6 backup them to the cloud automatically.

Backup Galaxy S6 phone logs to the cloud automatically

Galaxy S6 introduced a new feature of backup to Samsung servers.

To backup Galaxy S6 to Samsung servers, you of course need to add a Samsung account to Galaxy S6.  Actually, you should add a Samsung account to Galaxy S6. For example, when you are locked out by the lock screen on Galaxy S6, you can use Samsung account to unlock the phone.… Read the rest “How to backup Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge?”

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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 “Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 edge?”

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