Samsung Galaxy S21 Guides

Top 12 new features in Android 12 update for Galaxy S21, S20 and S10

Top 12 new features in Android 12 update for Galaxy S21, S20 and S10After updating your Galaxy S21, S20, or S10 to Android 12, you will encounter many new features in Android 12 update (both One UI 4.0 and One UI 4.1).

This Galaxy S21 guide explains the top 12 new features in Android 12 update (One UI 4.1/4.0) for Galaxy S21, S20 and S10 to help you use these new features effectively on your Galaxy S21, S20, or S10.

As discussed in this guide, there are two Android 12 updates for Galaxy S21, S20, and S10.  Some new features were added in the One UI 4.0 update and some in the One UI 4.1 update. The top 12 new features in Android 12 update for Galaxy S21, S20, and S10 discussed in this guide include:

  1. Camera and microphone indicators (One UI 4.0).
  2. More transfer options in Smart Switch (One UI 4.1).
  3. Voice memo on the lock screen (One UI 4.0).
  4. Extra dim screen (One UI 4.0).
  5. Writing Assistant (Grammarly integration) on Samsung Keyboard (One UI 4.0).
  6. Customisable virtual memory (RAM Plus) (One UI 4.1)
  7. Skip an alarm just once (One UI 4.0).
  8. Portraits for pets (One UI 4.0).
  9. Extra time for single-take mode (One UI 4.0).
  10. Telephoto lens in Pro and
… Read the rest

Android 12 update vs One UI 4.0 vs One UI 4.1: update Galaxy S21, S20 and S10 to Android 12

Android 12 update vs One UI 4.0 vs One UI 4.1: update Galaxy S21, S20 and S10 to Android 12In almost all regions, the Android 12 update has been available for Galaxy S21, S20, and S10 since December 2021.

But there is still some confusion about the Android 12 update, One UI 4.0 update, and One UI 4.1 update.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains the difference between the Android 12 update, One UI 4.0 update, and one UI 4.1 update for Samsung Galaxy S21, S20, and S10, then shows you how to update Galaxy S21 to Android 12.  Finally, some questions you may have on updating Galaxy S21, S20, and S10 to Android 12, are answered

As the Android 12 update is almost identical for Galaxy S21, S20, and S10, this guide applies to all these three phones.

What are the differences between the Android 12 update, One UI 4.0 update, and One UI 4.1 update?

Galaxy S21 was released with Android 11. So, Android 12 is the first major update for Galaxy S21. And it will expect to receive at least Android 13, Android 14 and maybe even Android 15 updates.

In comparison, Galaxy S20 was released with Android 10 and already received the Android 11 update. It will probably receive only 3 major updates. So, … Read the rest

How to set and resize photo size on Samsung Galaxy S21, S20, S10, and S9 without using any third-party apps?

set and resize photo size on Samsung Galaxy S21, S20, S10, and S9 without using any third-party appsThe default photo size on Galaxy phones is fine most of the time. But occasionally,  you may want to reduce photo size for various purposes.

This Galaxy S21 camera guide explains how to set photo size on Galaxy phones including Galaxy S21, S20, S10 and S9, how to use the Gallery app to resize photo size on these Samsung Galaxy phones, and how to revert back to the original photo size.

How to set photo size on Galaxy S21?

When Samsung switched from Samsung Experience (Samsung Launcher) to One UI with (Android Pie), the camera app was overhauled.  One of the casualties is the photo size settings.

In the old Camera app, you can set different sizes (resolutions) for the photos to be taken, as in the Galaxy S7 Camera app. If the storage is limited and you mainly share the photos through social media, you can choose a smaller photo size (lower resolution). Of course, if you may need to print the photo or view the photo on a large screen (e.g., an 8K TV), you should choose a higher resolution.

But with the Android Pie update, the user can only set the aspect ratio … Read the rest

How to Customize Galaxy S21 Home Screen?

Customize Galaxy S21 Home Screen in Galaxy S21 Home screen edit modeYou can customize most aspects of the Galaxy S21 Home screen in the Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains what the Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode is, how to use it, how to add/remove/manage home screen panels, and how to assign the one panel as the “home” of the Galaxy S21 Home screen.

How to access Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode?

There are two gestures for you to access the Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode.

Method 1: Pinch to access Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode

As shown in the picture below, you can pinch (moving two fingers together) on the Home screen to access the edit mode of the Galaxy S21 Home screen.

The pinch gesture only requires you to move two fingers together, as explained in detail here. It does not matter whether you do it vertically or horizontally. It does not matter where your fingers are placed (as long as on one of the home screen panels).

You can use this gesture to enter Galaxy S21 Home screen edit mode on any home screen panel.

use pinch gesture to access the edit mode of Galaxy S21 Home screen

Method 2: Long tap (tap and hold) to access Galaxy S21 Home screen

… Read the rest

Master Galaxy S21 Lock Screen Settings

Master Galaxy S21 Lock Screen SettingsUnderstanding the Galaxy S21 lock screen settings helps you secure the phone and improve your productivity. You can also customize the locks screen as you want after mastering the Galaxy S21 lock screen settings.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains all items on the Galaxy S21 lock screen settings page. Typical usage of some settings is also illustrated and demonstrated.

This guide applies all Galaxy S21 models (Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra).

How to access Galaxy lock screen settings?

Galaxy S21 lock screen settings page is a sub-page of Galaxy S21 Settings.

There are a few different ways to access Galaxy S21 Settings, for example:

Once on the Galaxy S21 Settings page, as shown below, tap the Lock screen to access the Galaxy S21 lock screen settings page.

Galaxy S21 Settings

What is included on Galaxy S21 lock screen settings?

As shown in the screenshot below, the following 11 items on the Galaxy S21 lock screen settings page are included:

  1. Screen lock type.
  2. Smart lock.
… Read the rest

How to use widgets on Galaxy S21?

widgets on Galaxy S21You can use widgets on Galaxy S21 to instantly access some info or specific features of some apps instead of fiddling around the app.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains what widgets on Galaxy S21 are, how to add widgets to the Galaxy S21 Home screen, how to resize and customize widgets on Galaxy S21.

What are widgets on Galaxy S21?

Some Galaxy S21 owners may think widgets are something new because Apple only added home screen widgets to iOS 14 last year.

In fact, widgets are a built-in feature in Android. Android users have used widgets since Android Cupcake (Android 1.5) in 2009. In other words, iPhone users are 11 years behind Android users in terms of using widgets on the home screen.

So, what are widgets on Galaxy S21 (and Android)?

Most apps offer many functions and features. But most users may often use only a few features or access some specific data. If you have to open these apps, then navigate to the feature or check the data, you may find it is tedious.

Widgets solve this issue.

Widgets on Galaxy S21 allow you to access the special feature or display the specific data on the Home screen … Read the rest

How to Use and Customize Galaxy S21 Side Key?

Use and Customize Galaxy S21 Side KeyGalaxy S21 Side key is more than a power button (key) on Galaxy S21, and you can also customize some features of the Galaxy S21 Side key.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains what the Galaxy S21 Side key is, the functions of this key/button, and how to use and customize the Side key on the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra.

What is Galaxy S21 Side Key?

Since Galaxy S20, Samsung ditched the unpopular Bixby and combined the Bixby key with the power key into the Side key.

As shown in the Galaxy S21 layout, the Side key is located on the right side of the phone and below the volume rockers. Please note, Samsung relocated the volume keys from the left side (as in all previous Galaxy S devices) to the sight side since Galaxy S20.

In a nutshell, the Galaxy S21 Side key is a combination of the traditional power key and the notorious Bixby key.

When the phone is powered off, the Galaxy S21Side key will be just the power key.  The added functions are available only after the phone is powered up.

Functions of Galaxy S21 Side Key

As mentioned, the functions of … Read the rest

How to hide Galaxy S21 password and PIN when typing?

hide Galaxy S21 password and PIN when typingYou can hide Galaxy S21 password or PIN when you type them to unlock the phone. So, the prying eyes will only see dots instead of the actual characters.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains why you should hide Galaxy S21 password or PIN when typing and how to hide Galaxy S21 PIN and password when unlocking your phone or when you type them on any apps.

Although there are some differences among the three Galaxy S21 models, this security feature applies to all of them.

Why should you hide Galaxy S21 password and PIN when typing?

By default, when you type your password or PIN to unlock Galaxy S21, the phone displays the characters briefly (about 1-2 seconds) on the screen. The purpose of showing what you typed briefly is for you to check whether you typed them correctly.

But this can be a security threat to your data and accounts.

For example, if you unlock Galaxy S21 on public transport, prying eyes can easily see the password or PIN.  The security cameras in the lift or other locations may also “see” the password or PIN.

You may argue it does not matter because you are holding the phone. … Read the rest

How to power on, power off, and reboot Galaxy S21,even when the phone hangs?

power on, power off, and reboot Galaxy S21,even when the phone hangsYou need to power on, power off, or reboot Galaxy S21 once in a while. Sometimes, you may have to reboot Galaxy S21 without accessing the power-off menu if the phone hangs.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains how to power on, power off, and reboot Galaxy S21 even if the phone hangs and how to access the power-off menu.

In this guide, Galaxy S21 refers to all Galaxy S21 models, including Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra. The features discussed in this guide are common on all these Galaxy S21 phones.

Why and when do you need to power on, power off, and reboot Galaxy S21?

To set up Galaxy S21 or migrate from an old phone to Galaxy S21, you have to power on the phone first.

It is a dead brick when it is powered off. So, you need to keep it on if you want to use your Galaxy S21.

Sometimes, you may need to power off Galaxy S21. For example, when you enter some sensitive locations, you may be asked to power off the phone and lock it in the locker.  On the aeroplane, during taxing and landing, normally, you are asked to power … Read the rest

How to use Galaxy S21 quick settings panel?

use Galaxy S21 quick settings panelGalaxy S21 quick settings panel (aka Galaxy S21 quick panel or Galaxy S21 quick setting buttons) lets you turn on/off some features or change some settings quickly from a dropdown panel without navigating through the Galaxy S21 Settings.

This Galaxy S21 guide explains what Galaxy S21 quick settings panel is, how to access the Galaxy S21 quick panel, the components in the quick settings panel on Galaxy S21, how to customize the layout of the quick settings panel, and how to add (and remove) buttons to Galaxy S21 quick panel.

What is Galaxy S21 quick settings panel?

Galaxy S21 quick settings panel (aka Galaxy S21 quick panel, quick settings buttons) is a special page with some buttons for you to access or turn off some features directly without digging into the Galaxy S21 Settings page.

Just like other Android phones, you can turn on or turn off some features quickly on the quick settings panel of Galaxy S21 so that you can use the phone effectively.

For example, you want to turn on mobile data on Galaxy S21. You can do it by tapping Settings, tap Connections, tap Data usage, then Tap the switch for Mobile data. So, … Read the rest

How to lock Galaxy S21 screen?

set screen lock type to lock Galaxy S21 screenYou need to lock Galaxy S21 screen to protect your data and privacy. Just like that, you need to close the gate or door of your home.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains why you must lock Galaxy S21 screen, available screen lock types on Galaxy S21 and how to use them. The guide also explains the relationship and differences among  PIN/password/password, smart lock, and biometric unlock (face or fingerprint).

This screen lock feature is identical on all three Galaxy S21 models. So, this guide applies to all of them (Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra).

Why you MUST lock Galaxy S21 screen?

Screen Lock is a security feature on almost all smartphones. It is like the lock for your door.

Of course, the “door” of the phone is the Galaxy S21 lock screen.

So, the screen lock is actually a “lock” for the lock screen.

If you do not set up a screen lock for the door (lock screen), anyone who manages to get the phone can access all your messages, photos, call logs, apps, and even many data saved on the cloud.

Some Galaxy S21 owners may assume the phone will be held … Read the rest

How to use NavStar (Good Lock) to customize navigation buttons and navigation bar on Samsung Galaxy phones?

You can customize Galaxy S21 navigation buttons and navigation bar with NavStar (a module of the Good Lock app) if you are not satisfied with the default navigation buttons and navigation bar.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains what NavStar is, how to install and enable NavStar through Good Lock,  and how to use it to customize Galaxy S21 navigation buttons and navigation bar.

Because NavStar works identically on all Samsung Galaxy phones with Android 11, this guide applies to not only Galaxy S21 but also other Galaxy phones with Android 11 updates, including Galaxy S20, Galaxy S10, Galaxy Note 10, and Galaxy Note 20.

What is NavStar (and Good Lock)?

Samsung removed most of the navigation bar customizations (e.g., as in Galaxy S8) when One UI was introduced. On Galaxy S21, by default, you can only customize the button layout, as discussed here.

To cater for seasoned Samsung phone owners, Samsung put most of the available customizations into NavStar, which is NOT pre-installed. Most Galaxy S21 owners, who migrated from iPhone or other Android phones, may not know that the Galaxy S21 navigation bar and navigation button are fully customizable through the official NavStar app.

In … Read the rest

How to Use Galaxy S21 Camera Modes?

How to Use Galaxy S21 Camera ModesSooner or later, you will find the default camera mode (Auto mode) is not sufficient. You may want to try other Galaxy S21 camera modes to get desired photos or videos.

This Galaxy 21 camera guide explains what Galaxy S21 camera modes are, the meaning of all (15) available Galaxy S21 camera modes, when to use them, how to use them, and how to manage them on Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra.

Although Galaxy S21 Ultra differs significantly from Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S21+, in terms of the camera lens and capabilities, they all share an almost identical camera app. The camera models in these three Galaxy S21 phones are almost identical. So, this guide applies to all of them.

What are Galaxy S21 camera modes? Why do you need them?

By default, when you open the camera app on Galaxy S21 from the home screen or lock screen, you are in the Photo (Auto) mode. Of course, you can set it to the last used camera mode in Galaxy S21 camera settings.

Please note, you can also use Galaxy S21 camera quick launch to start the camera app without unlocking the phone.

In most scenarios, … Read the rest

How to use Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover (S-View Flip Cover)?

How to use Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover (S-View Flip Cover)Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover (aka Galaxy S21 S-View Flip Cover in some regions) offers some unique features and decent protection for Galaxy S21. And it is “officially” designed and manufactured by Samsung.

This Galaxy S21 accessories guide explains the unique features and layout of the Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover and demonstrates how to use the Galaxy S21 S-View Flip Cover, including attaching to or removing the cover from Galaxy S21 properly, adjusting the text orientation on the cover, accepting or rejecting calls without opening the cover, and controlling music play on the Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover.

Due to the differences in size and camera lens in Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, the Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover is NOT interchangeable among these 3 phones. In other words, if your Galaxy S21 is a Galaxy S21+, you MUST buy the clear view cover for Galaxy S21+.  If it is Galaxy S21 Ultra, you need to buy the one for S21 Ultra.

What are the unique features of the Galaxy S21 Smart Clear View Cover (S-View Flip Cover)?

As an official Galaxy S21 accessory, compared to most third-party flip covers, Galaxy S21 Smart Clear … Read the rest

Understand and Use Galaxy S21 Lock Screen

Understand and Use Galaxy S21 Lock ScreenYou have to use the Galaxy S21 lock screen to secure your Galaxy S21 and control access to your phone and data.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains the role of the Galaxy S21 lock screen, pages, layout and the meaning of each item on the Galaxy S21 lock screen, and how to use gestures on the lock screen.

The lock screen is identical on all Galaxy S21 phones (Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra). So this guide applies to all Galaxy S21 phones.

The role of the Galaxy S21 lock screen

The lock screen is an essential part of a smartphone.  It is part of the security system of the phone.

You can think Galaxy S21 lock screen as the only entrance for your Galaxy S21. It is an analogy of the main door of your home.

Therefore, you need to secure the lock screen on Galaxy S21 so that only you can “unlock” it. You should set up a screen lock (PIN, password, or pattern) to lock down the lock screen.

But at the same time, you may want to check some info (e.g., check the time or notifications) or control music … Read the rest

How to use navigation gestures on Galaxy S21?

how to use navigation gestures on Galaxy S2You can use navigation gestures instead of the default navigation buttons on Galaxy S21.

In fact, Galaxy S21 offers two sets of navigation gestures, and you can choose any of them and switch between them (or switch back to navigation buttons if you want) at any time.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains the two sets of navigation gestures on Galaxy S21, how to use them, and how to switch between navigation gestures and navigation buttons on Galaxy S21.

Navigation gestures are identical n all Galaxy S21 models. So this guide applies to Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra.

Navigation buttons vs navigation gestures: who needs what?

Prior to Android 9, Android uses 3 navigation buttons (Back, Home, Recents/Overview) for you to navigate through pages (panels) and apps.

Google introduced the two-button navigation gestures in Android 9 (Android Pie). Full-screen navigation gestures were introduced in Android 10.

In Google’s view, the future is navigation gestures, not navigation buttons. It is a natural evolution from physical navigation buttons (like this one) to software (on-screen) navigation buttons, and now to navigation gestures.

Of course, it is merely Google’s perspective. Many Android users still prefer the old-school navigation buttons … Read the rest

Ultimate Guide for Galaxy S21 Camera Settings

Galaxy S21 Camera SettingsGalaxy S21 camera settings let you fine-tune the camera so that you can take desired photos with Galaxy S21.

This Galaxy S21 camera guide explains everything you need to know about Galaxy S21 camera settings, the meanings and usage of Galaxy S21 camera settings, and how to reset Galaxy S21 camera settings.

Although Galaxy S21 Ultra has significantly more powerful camera sensors than Galaxy S21 and S21+, the camera app is almost identical on all these three Galaxy S21 phones. So, this guide applies to all 3 Galaxy S21 models.

How to access Galaxy S21 Camera Settings?

You can access Galaxy S21 camera settings from the Camera app.

As shown below, you can tap the gear (settings) icon in the Galaxy S21 camera app preview screen to open Galaxy S21 camera settings.

access Galaxy S21 Camera Settings

Of course, you can open the Galaxy S20 camera app in multiple different ways, as explained here, for example:

… Read the rest

Master Meaning of Galaxy S21 Status Icons and Notification Icons

Meaning of Galaxy S21 Status Icons and Notification IconsYou need to understand the meaning of Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons to use the phone properly and effectively.  Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons can tell you rich information about the status of the phone status, phone health, and notification from individual apps.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide first explains the differences between Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons, then explains the meaning of Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons you may find in Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra.

Because Samsung uses slightly different icons in different regions or for some carriers, you may get Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons that are different from those shown in this guide. This is normal. If you cannot figure out the meaning of those icons, you may share the screenshot on our FaceBook page so that the community can help you identify them.

Update: Android 12 update for Galaxy S21 (S20 and S10) brought a new camera and microphone indicators icon when the camera or microphone is accessed.

What is the difference between Galaxy S21 status icons and notification icons?

Like all other Android phones,  Galaxy S21 use the top part of the screen … Read the rest

How to use touchscreen gestures on Galaxy S21?

use touchscreen gestures on Galaxy S21You cannot skip touchscreen gestures when using Galaxy S21.  Even if you choose to use navigation buttons, you still need to use the touchscreen gestures for many operations on Galaxy S21.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explains the 8 supported touchscreen gestures on Galaxy S21 and demonstrates how to use them. Some advice on taking care of the Galaxy S21 screen is also covered.

This guide applies to all models and variants of Galaxy S21 phones because the touchscreen gestures are a common software feature on these phones.

What are the supported touchscreen gestures on Galaxy S21?

Galaxy S21 supports 8 touchscreen gestures:

  1. Tap (single tap).
  2. Double-tap.
  3. Triple tap.
  4. Long tap (tap and hold).
  5. Swipe (slide).
  6. Drag.
  7. Pinch.
  8. Spread.

These are touchscreen gestures supported at the system level. Some apps may support other fancy gestures.

Tap (single tap)

Tapping is the simplest and most frequently used touchscreen gesture on Galaxy S21.

You touch (tap) somewhere on the Galaxy S21 screen once, then move your finger away from the screen, as illustrated below.

Galaxy S21 touchscreen gestures: Tap (single tap)

When using DeX with a mouse, the corresponding operation is  “click”.

The action of the tapping gesture depends on the object you touched and the app you … Read the rest

How to Use Galaxy S21 Home Screen?

Galaxy S21 Home screenGalaxy S21 Home screen is an essential part of your phone. It is a convenient location for you to open apps and check widgets.

This Galaxy S21 how-to guide explained what the Galaxy S21 Home screen is, why you need it, the meaning and usage of all items you may find on the Galaxy S21 Home screen, and how to use gestures on the Galaxy S21 Home screen.

Although Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra differ in hardware configurations and a few software features, the home screen is identical on these 3 phones. So, this guide applies to all Galaxy S21 phones.

What is the Galaxy S21 Home screen? Why do you need it?

Galaxy S21 Home screen is the centre of the phone. You always start from the home screen after you unlock the phone (you SHOULD set up lock screen security for Galaxy S21). It is like your desktop on a PC.

Like on other Android phones, the Galaxy S21 Home screen can be used to hold frequently used apps, app folders, and widgets. You can also use it to pin files and pictures.

So, the Galaxy S21 Home screen can help you use the phone … Read the rest