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Galaxy S9 Guides

a community for owners of Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+

  • Home
    • About Galaxy S9 Guides
    • Contact Us
  • How-to Guides
    • Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guides
      • Official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update
      • Top 9 new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+
      • How to use the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to remap Bixby button on Galaxy S9 and S9+ after updating to Android Pie?
      • How to use Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 with the Android Pie update?
      • How to update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9)?
      • How to use the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the new Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
      • How to use the floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the rotation toggle to change and lock screen orientation in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
      • How to use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
    • Meaning of Galaxy S9 status icons and notification icons in Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+
      • How to use Samsung DeX with Galaxy S9 and S9+ and other Samsung phones?
      • How to use Multi Window on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cable
      • How to use Samsung DeX Station for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?
      • How to use Samsung DeX Pad for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?
      • How to use a USB flash drive on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to charge Galaxy S9 battery?
    • Galaxy S9 SIM card guide
      • How to use two SIM cards on Galaxy S9, S10, and S20?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 dual messenger to run two accounts of messenger apps simultaneously on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use micro SD card on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to back up Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use smart switch to transfer and migrate data to Galaxy S9 or S9+?
      • How to reset Galaxy S9 and S9+? What is Galaxy S9 factory data reset?
    • How to disable Bixby button in Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to remove Bixby Home from Galaxy S9 Home screen?
    • Understand and Use Galaxy S9 Home screen
      • How to use Galaxy S9 edge screen on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to show photos on Galaxy S9 Home screen?
      • How to pin files to Galaxy S9 Home screen (add file shortcuts to Galaxy S9 Home screen)?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 Apps screen on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 Home screen edit mode to customize Galaxy S9 Home screen?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 home screen landscape mode?
      • How to hide Galaxy S9 apps screen and how to hide Galaxy Apps button?
      • How to use and customize Galaxy S9 navigation bar and navigation buttons?
      • How to manage Galaxy S9 Home screen panels on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to use and customize Galaxy S9 lock screen?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 always-on display (AOD) on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to use Galaxy S9 notification panel on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use Do Not Disturb on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • Understand and use Galaxy S9 notification number badge (notification dots, app icon badge)
      • How to use quick setting buttons on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use quick-open notification panel on Galaxy S9 and S9+ to check notifications?
    • Galaxy S9 layout (and layout of Galaxy S9+)
      • How to use adapt sound on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • 5 ways to take screenshots on Galaxy S9 and S9+ without using any apps
      • How to use Galaxy S9 touchscreen gestures?
      • How to use wireless printing on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 themes to customize the look and feel of Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • Unbox Galaxy S9: understand package contents in Galaxy S9 box and S9+ box
    • How to reboot into Galaxy S9 recovery mode and to clear Galaxy S9 cache partition on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to reboot Galaxy S9 and S9+ if Galaxy S9 hangs?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 safe mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to use Galaxy S9 camera app?
      • 6 ways to start Galaxy S9 camera app in Galaxy S9 and S9+
      • Understanding and use Galaxy S9 camera settings
      • How to use super slow motion mode (super Slow-mo) on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use Galaxy S9 camera Pro Mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
  • New features
    • Top 9 new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+
      • How to use the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+?
      • How to use the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to remap Bixby button on Galaxy S9 and S9+ after updating to Android Pie?
      • How to update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9)?
      • How to use the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the new Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
      • How to use the floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?
      • How to use the rotation toggle to change and lock screen orientation in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
      • How to use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
      • How to use Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 with the Android Pie update?
    • Top 10 new features of Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+
    • How to remove Bixby Home from Galaxy S9 Home screen?
    • How to use and customize Galaxy S9 navigation bar and navigation buttons?
    • How to use super slow motion mode (super Slow-mo) on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • Understand and use Galaxy S9 notification number badge (notification dots, app icon badge)
    • How to use Samsung DeX Pad for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?
    • How to use Galaxy S9 home screen landscape mode?
    • Understanding and use Galaxy S9 camera settings
    • How to use dual aperture to manually switch Galaxy S9 camera aperture in Pro mode?
    • Galaxy S9 layout (and layout of Galaxy S9+)
    • How to use app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
  • Camera
    • How to use Galaxy S9 camera app?
    • How to use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?
    • Understanding and use Galaxy S9 camera settings
    • 6 ways to start Galaxy S9 camera app in Galaxy S9 and S9+
    • How to use dual aperture to manually switch Galaxy S9 camera aperture in Pro mode?
    • How to use super slow motion mode (super Slow-mo) on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to use Galaxy S9 camera Pro Mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to show photos on Galaxy S9 Home screen?
  • Official User Guides
    • Official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update
    • Official Samsung Galaxy S9 user guides (Oreo)
  • Accessories
    • How to use Samsung Galaxy S9 clear view standing cover (S-view cover)?
    • Samsung Galaxy S9 LED wallet cover guide
    • How to use micro SD card on Galaxy S9 and S9+?
    • How to use Samsung DeX with Galaxy S9 and S9+ and other Samsung phones?
      • Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cable
      • How to use Samsung DeX Station for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?
      • How to use Samsung DeX Pad for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?
      • How to use a USB flash drive on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

How to use Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 with the Android Pie update?

simon · Leave a Comment

use Bixby quick commandsBixby quick commands allow you to use your own phrases to execute a set of commands (tasks) defined by you. No other voice assistant systems have this feature yet.

You can execute Bixby quick commands using voice, or just tap an icon on the home screen without using your voice.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update explains everything you need to know about Bixby quick commands and shows you how to create, modify and use Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9 and S9+.

The Bixby quick commands feature are also available on all Galaxy phones with Android Pie update. So, this guide also applies to Galaxy S8, S8+, Note 8, Note 9, and S10 (all 4 S10 models).

What are Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 with the Android Pie update?

In a nutshell, a Bixby quick command lets you encapsulate multiple commands in one simple phrase you choose. Once created, you can use the simple phrase (which becomes one of your Bixby quick commands) to execute all commands encapsulated in sequence (as you defined).

You can also make a long command shorter with a Bixby quick command.

In fact, this is NOT a new feature in Android Pie update.  The feature is available before the Android Pie update. But it was buried deep in My Bixby. So, many Bixby users are not aware of the feature.

In the Android Pie update for Galaxy phones, in addition to allowing you to remap the Bixby button, Samsung made the Bixby quick commands feature more prominent and improved it significantly.

For example, after the February update, you can even add any of the Bixby quick commands to the Home screen and use it without using your voice. You can use it just like using an app.

Another improvement of the Bixby quick commands feature in the Android Pie update is that some examples were added.  You can add them to your Bixby quick commands directly, or modify them as a template to create your own quick commands.

How to create, modify, and manage your Bixby quick commands on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 with the Android Pie update?

Bixby quick commands are tied to your Samsung account. By default, there are no quick commands in your account.

So, you have to create your quick commands … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Bixby, Bixby button, Bixby Home, Bixby quick command, Bixby vision, Bixby voice, Galaxy Note 8, Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy S10, Galaxy S8, Galaxy S9 home screen

How to remap Bixby button on Galaxy S9 and S9+ after updating to Android Pie?

You can now map the single or double press gesture of the Bixby key to a third-party app or a quick command.

simon · Leave a Comment

How to remap Bixby button on Galaxy S9 and S9+ after updating to Android Pie?After the February update of Bixby (version 2.1.04.18), you can now remap Bixby button to an app or a Bixby quick command.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the new features of Bixby in Android Pie update, and how to remap the Bixby button to other apps or a quick command.

New gestures for the Bixby button on Galaxy S9 and S9+ after updating to Android Pie

Traditionally, the Bixby button in Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9 only supports one gesture: press.

You can choose to press to open Bixby (Bixby Home), or do nothing (this essentially disables the Bixby button).  Of course, you cannot remap the press gesture to anything else, or disable Bixby in your phone.

In Android Pie update for Galaxy S19, S9+, Note 9, Note 8, S8, and S8+, Bixby was updated to a new version with new gestures for the Bixby button. Now, the Bixby button supports 3 gestures:

  1. Single press.
  2. Double press.
  3. Long press.

The long press is reserved for Bixby Voice command.  You cannot change it.  When you long press the Bixby button, you can continue with voice commands immediately.

The single press OR the double press MUST be assigned to Bixby Voice page.  For example, if you assign the single press to Bixby Voice, then you can customize (remap) the double press to something else.

Please note, Bixby Voice page, which is different from Bixby Home,  is new in Galaxy S9 Android Pie update. Bixby Home still exists in Galaxy S9 Home screen, and you can still hide it if you want.

Major changes of Bixby in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9

In Android Pie update for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, and Note 9, Bixby Service, Bixby Voice, and Bixby Vision, were bumped to version 2.1.x, and Bixby Home to version 3.x.

The major changes of Bixby in the Android Pie update include:

  • New gestures for the Bixby button. Remapping the Bixby button to third-party apps was added in February update of Bixby.
  • New Bixby quick commands.
  • New Bixby Vision integration in the new camera app.
  • New Bixby Voice page (showing tips, features, and suggestions for Bixby Voice, and accessing Bixby Voice settings).

You can update Bixby in Galaxy Store.

How to remap Bixby button on

… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Bixby, Bixby button, Bixby Home, Bixby quick command, Bixby vision, Bixby voice, Galaxy S9 layout, remap Bixby button

How to use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?

What's new in the camera app on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update? How to use scene optimizer and flaw detection on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

simon · 35 Comments

use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 PlusLike it or not, you need to learn to use the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+  if you want to take lovely photos.

Although some Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners may prefer the old camera app, the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 does introduce some new features (ported from Galaxy Note 9 mainly).

This Galaxy S9 Android Pire update guide explains the new features of the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, and how to use the new camera app.

The new user interface of the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Samsung phones

After you update Galaxy S9 or S9+ to Android Pie, you will first see the new app icon for the camera app.

Once you start the camera app (all the 6 methods to launch camera app on Galaxy S9 and S9+ still work.), you may be surprised by the updated camera app in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

As shown in the screenshot below, you can find it is substantially different from the original camera app in the following aspects:

  • Camera modes are now placed on the bottom (above the shutter button) in the portrait orientation.
  • Camera setting buttons (options for the camera mode being used) are now placed in the top (below the Bixby vision and AR Emoji).
  • Bixby vision button is moved to the top of the screen.
  • AR Emoji is not listed among camera modes. It is now placed on the top of the screen.
  • Auto mode is renamed as Photo mode.
  • The shutter button does not have the zoom function. You cannot drag the shutter button to zoom. You have a new way to zoom (read on).
  • New scene optimizer button was added (read on).
  • Buttons for camera selection (for Galaxy S9+ rear cameras),  were updated. You can also use it to zoom in/out (read on).
  • For supported camera modes, you can now change the aspect ratio of the photo (and photo size) without navigating to Galaxy s9 camera settings. In the screenshot below, the 4:3 button can be used to change the photo aspect ratio to 16:9 or 4:3 or 1:1 or full (18.5:9).  In the original camera app, you can only switch between 18.5:9 and the one you set in Galaxy S9 camera settings.
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, dual, Galaxy S9 camera, Galaxy S9 camera app, Galaxy S9 camera modes, Galaxy S9 camera settings, Galaxy S9 touch screen gesture, picture size, pinch gesture, screenshot

How to use the rotation toggle to change and lock screen orientation in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?

You can change and lock the Galaxy S9 screen orientation to both landscape and portrait mode with Android Pie update

simon · 5 Comments

use the rotation toggle to change and lock screen orientation in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+After updating Galaxy S9 or S9+ to Android Pie, you can use the new rotation toggle to change screen orientation on-the-fly when auto-rotate is turned off.  You can even lock the screen orientation to landscape mode with this toggle (aka orientation lock).

Many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners find this feature extremely useful once they realize the functions of the small rotation toggle icon.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the functions of the rotation toggle, and how to use it to change and lock the screen orientation on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update.

What is the rotation toggle in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+?

Most smartphone owners hate the auto-rotate. It often rotates the screen when you are not intended to do so.

So, most smartphone owners disable the auto-rotate and use the portrait mode.

However, occasionally, you may want to switch to landscape mode temporally for some apps. For example, you may want to show others the photos or videos shot in the landscape mode.

In this case,  without the rotation toggle,  you have to go to quick settings (this is the fastest router prior to Android Pie ), tap the auto-rotate button, rotate the phone, then show the photos. Once you finish it, you need to disable auto-rotate in the quick settings.

In the stock Android Pie, Google added the rotation toggle (orientation lock) to solve this issue.  The toggle will appear (and animates) in the navigator bar once the phone detects the orientation is different from the “locked” one.  You can tap the toggle to change the orientation. Of course, you can ignore the toggle (and do not change the orientation).

Samsung customized this feature a bit in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+. The rotation toggle animates only twice in Galaxy S9 and S9+, then disappear if you do not tap it.

It is unclear why Samsung decided not to show the toggle all the time.

How does the orientation lock work?

The rotation toggle (orientation lock) in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ works only when auto-rotate is off (it is obvious).

So, you will see the rotation toggle in the navigation bar (if you are using the new navigation gestures, the toggle will appear in a simialr location.) only when:

  • Auto-rotate is disabled.
  • The phone detects that you
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, auto-rotate, Galaxy S9 camera app, Galaxy S9 home screen landscape mode, Galaxy S9 navigation bar, Galaxy S9 quick settings panel, landscape mode, orientation lock, portrait mode, quick setting buttons, Recents screen, rotation toggle

How to lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

simon · 1 Comment

lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ allows you to lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout so that you will not lose you customization due to accidental touches.

Although it sounds trivial and can be found in some other Android phones, many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners will find this is one of the very useful features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide shows you how to lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update, and what the caveats are if you lock the home screen layout.

Why you may need to lock the home screen layout?

You can customize the Galaxy S9 home screen in many ways. You can use third-party themes, remove Bixby Home from the home screen, change wallpapers, adjust the grid layout, add app folders, pin individual files to the home screen, show photos on Galaxy S9 home screen (using widgets), and manage home screen panels.

Besides, Galaxy S9 and S9+ also support landscape mode of the Galaxy S9 home screen.

But very easily, the customization can be instantly wiped by accidental taps.  For example, your kids may delete the widgets from the screen if they get their hands on the screen.

Many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners want to lock the customization after the initial setup because most owners seldom change the home screen after one or two months.

Now, in the Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, you can lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout so that you will not lose your customization so easily.

Of course, it only locks the layout. You cannot add or delete app icons or widgets once you lock Galaxy S9 home screen layout. But you can still use Galaxy S9 home screen edit mode to customize the home screen.

How to lock the Galaxy S9 home screen layout?

As other new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, the lock home screen layout feature is not enabled by default.

You need to enable this feature to lock the home screen layout.

In Galaxy s9 Settings, tap Display as shown below.

Settings Home screen settings

In the display settings page, as shown in the screenshot above, tap Home screen.

In the home screen settings page, you can then find … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, app folders, apps icon grid, Bixby Home, Galaxy S9 home screen, galaxy S9 home screen edit mode, Galaxy S9 home screen landscape mode, Galaxy S9 Home screen panel, Galaxy S9 themes, Galaxy S9 widgets, lock down, pin files to Galaxy S9 home screen, Samsung themes, show photos on Galaxy S9 home screen

How to use the floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

You can float Samsung keyboard anywhere on the screen.

simon · 2 Comments

 how to enable, use, and customize the floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie updateIn Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung keyboard can be in the floating mode, and therefore, you can put the keyboard anywhere on the screen and use the keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ flexibly.

The floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update works on all apps, once enabled.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains how to enable, use, and customize the floating keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update.

Please note, the Writing Assistant on Samsung Keyboard requires the Android 12 update, which Galaxy S9 will not get. You have to use the third-party keyboard if you need the grammar check (in addition to the spelling check).

What is the new resizeable keyboard on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

By default, the Samsung keyboard or keypad is fixed on the bottom of the Galaxy S9 or S9+ regardless of the orientation (portrait or landscape) of the phone, just like in other Android phones.  The screen area occupied by the keyboard will not be used by the app.

This means the keyboard may waste a lot of screen space for the app.

When you hold the phone is the landscape mode (FYI, Galaxy S9 Home screen supports landscape mode as well), the keyboard will have to stretch a lot and waste even more screen space. So, the screen size is not fully utilized.

The problem has been exacerbated in the last few years because the aspect ratio of smartphones has become larger and larger.

Of course, the solution already exists on some Samsung tablets: using a freely resizable keyboard.

Now, in Android update for Galaxy  S9 and S9+, Samsung brought the resizeable (free form) to Galaxy S9 and S9+ so that you can type easier.

The floating keyboard allows you:

  • To let the keyboard poping over any apps when using it. Therefore you will get more usable screen space when using the keyboard.
  • To put keyboard anywhere you want.
  • To relocate the keyboard when you typing.
  • To resize the keyboard  (subject to minimum and maximum size).
  • To switch back to standard mode (fixed mode) at any time.
  • To switch back to the one-handed keyboard,

Basically, if you feel the keyboard affects your usage of any apps, you should try the floating keyboard after updating Galaxy S9 … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, floating keyboard, Galaxy S9 home screen landscape mode, Galaxy S9 navigation bar, keyboard, landscape mode, navigation gestures, night mode, Samsung keyboard, Samsung keyboard floating mode

How to use the new Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?

simon · 29 Comments

Recents buttonSamsung revamped the Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ to align some features with the stock Android Pie.

However, the difference between the overview screen in the stock Android Pie and the Recents screen in Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ with Android Pie update is significant.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the new features in the Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus, how to use the new Recents screen gestures, how to dismiss individual app, and disable suggested apps in the Recents screen.

What’s new in the Recents screen in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus?

In the Samsung Galaxy phones, the Recents screen is usually called Overview screen in the stock Android. Correspondingly the overview button in the stock Android is Samsung’s Recents button.

Basically, the Recents (overview) screen lists all recently used apps. You can quickly re-open them, or open them in the multiwindow mode (both in the split-screen and pop-up views).

Android Pie (Android 9) revamped the Overview screen to stack the list horizontally (instead f vertically as in previous versions of Android) to work better with the new Android Pie navigation gestures.

In Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung adopted its own full-screen navigation gestures and own Overview screen design.

Compared to Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Oreo,  Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ made has a different Recents screen:

  • As in the stock Android Pie, the Recents screen stacks apps horizontally.
  • A row of suggested apps is added by default on the Overview screen. Of course, you can disable the suggested apps on the Recents screen (read on).
  • Some multiwindow features were removed. For example, you cannot find the snap window feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update.
  • You have to use the gesture (swipe up) to close an app. In S9 or S9+ with Oreo, you can swipe left/right, or use the close button to close individual apps.
  • You have to use the app icon to launch the app in a split-screen view or pop-up view.
  • There is no list view of apps. You have to use the thumbnail view.

Please note, compared to the Overview screen in the stock Android Pie, the Recents screen in Android Pie update for … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, app finder, Galaxy S9 multiwindow, Galaxy S9 navigation bar, Multi Window, navigation buttons, navigation gestures, pop-up view, Recents screen, screen pinning, split screen view, suggested apps, swipe gesture, touchpad gestures

How to use the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

simon · 6 Comments

use the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie updateThe lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update lets the phone be ready when you want to use it.

Although it is a minor feature, many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners like this feature in the Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ because it is very practical.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the details of the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update and shows you how to enable and use it on Galaxy S9 and S9+.

What is the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

Often, when you pick up the phone, you actually want to use the phone.

Now, in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung finally added this lift to wake feature. So, when you pick up (lift) the phone, the screen will wake up automatically. You do not need to press any buttons.

Surely, this is extremely useful when you just want to check time or notifications on Galaxy S9 lock screen.

If iris scanner or face recognition was enabled, it may unlock the phone at the same time when the screen wakes up (if you are staring at the screen).

Of course, many other Android manufacturers introduced similar features for some time already. For example, Motorola added the active display in the first-gen of Moto X.  Samsung now is now catching up in adding more cool features in the One UI.

Please note, the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ will not work if you are using the LED cover or the clear view cover when the cover is closed. These two cases are designed to lock the screen when they are closed.

How to enable and use the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

By default, the lift to wake feature on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update is disabled after you update the phone.

You need to enable it if you intend to use this feature on Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus.

In Galaxy S9 settings, tap the Advanced features as shown in the screenshot below.

Galaxy S9 advanced features motions and gestures

In the advanced features page, tap Motions and gestures as shown above.

Now, in the motions and gestures page, you can find the lift to wake.

As shown below, you can tap the switch on … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, AOD, Galaxy S9 always-on display, Galaxy S9 lock screen, Galaxy S9 new features, lift to wake, motions and gestures, raise to wake

How to update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9)?

simon · 4 Comments

update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9)As in January 2019, you can update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9) in most regions.

Of course, for carrier-locked phones, Android update always arrives slower than unlocked ones.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains why and how to update Galaxy S9 or S9+ to Android Pie, and answers some questions you may have on Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

Should I update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie (Android 9)?

The short answer is yes, for most owners.

Once the update is available, you should update Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus to Android Pie for the following reasons:

  • Security. All future monthly security update/patch will be based on Android Pie. Samsung will not release Galaxy S9 and S9+ security patches for Android Oreo after Android Pie update is released in your region.
  • Performance. Android Pie address not only some security but also performance issues.  Especially, Android Pie has improved a lot in battery management to extend the battery life (screen-on time, SOT) for Galaxy S9 and S9+.  Of course, Android Pie cannot increase the battery capacity, or make the CPU run faster. But it does make the power consumption and CPU usage more efficient.
  • New Android Pie features. Besides the underhood improvements, Android Pie brought many useful new features for most users as explained in this page. For example, you can use the lockdown mode to temporally disable biometric unlock and smart lock. Or you can use the magnifier when selecting text.
  • New One UI features.  Samsung changed the Samsung Experiences to One UI (FYI, it has nothing to do with Android One) in the Android Pie update.  In addition to the visual (UI)changes, there are many functional updates as well. For example,  you can try the navigation gestures on Galaxy S9 or S9+ (which is different from the navigation gestures in stock Android Pie). The night mode in Galaxy S9 and S9+ works better than the stock Android Pie dark theme (+night mode).

Of course, you cannot expect “stock” Android Pie in the Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.  As an Android manufacturer, Samsung has to customize the OS to differentiate itself from other manufacturers.

For a very small portion of owners of Galaxy S9 and S9+, you may have to withhold a while if:

  • You are using
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Oreo, Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, back up, back up Galaxy S9, flash firmware, lockdown mode, navigation gestures, night mode, One UI, wipe Galaxy S9 cache partition

How to use the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

simon · 2 Comments

use the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie updateIn Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, you can use the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ to get the dark (black) theme at any time (not only in the night).

The night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update is the combination of the dark theme and night mode. In the stock Android Pie, the settings of dark theme and night mode are independent of each other.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the details of the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update, and how to use the night mode so that you can enjoy the phone in all situations.

What is the night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

In Android Nougat update, Samsung introduced the blue light filter to tint the screen so that you can use the screen comfortably for a long time (e.g., for reading), or in a dimmed environment.

Many owners also hate the default white theme, which looks great in the showroom. For day-to-day use, many owners preferred a dark theme.

Of course, you can use third-party themes to customize the Galaxy S9 home screen and Samsung apps. But most of the dark themes in the Galaxy Apps (theme store) are poorly designed.

In Android Pie, Google introduced a dark theme. But it does not apply to Settings or to most Google apps.

Besides, Android Pie also introduced the night mode in developer options. But it is independent of the theme settings if dark them is used already. You may refer to this guide on how to use the dark theme and night mode in stock Android Pie.

In the Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung added the night mode as an alternative to the default light theme.

The night mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update lets you:

  • Set the display to the dark (black) theme.
  • Apply the dark theme to Galaxy S9 Home screen, Apps screen, Settings, quick settings, notifications panel, power button options, Bixby home, most Samsung apps include Phone, Messages, Contacts, Camera, Gallery, Clock, Calendar, Calculator, Samsung Notes, Email, My Files, Internet, Bixby, Finder.
  • Instantly turn on/off night mode in quick settings.
  • Instantly change the night mode settings in the developer options as “always-on”
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Bixby Home, blue light filter, dark theme, developer options, Galaxy apps, Galaxy S9 apps screen, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 notification panel, Galaxy S9 settings, Galaxy S9 themes, Gallery app, My Files, navigation gestures, night mode, power button options, quick setting buttons

How to use the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

Everything you need to know about Android Pie lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+

simon · Leave a Comment

Everything you need to know about Android Pie lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ You can use Android Pie lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie (Android 9) update to temporally disable biometric unlock and smart lock. PIN or password will be required to unlock the phones.

The lockdown mode is a standard security feature in Android Pie (Android 9).  Luckily, Samsung did not mess up this feature in the One UI.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains everything you need to know about the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update and shows you how to use it.

You may also check this updated guide on using lockdown mode on Galaxy S9, S10, S20, S21, and S22.

What is the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

If enabled, Galaxy S9 and S9+ offer many ways to unlock the phone.

In addition to PIN/password/pattern, you can also unlock Galaxy S9 and S9+ using:

  • Fingerprints.
  • Iris.
  • Face.
  • Trusted devices, trusted places, trusted faces, and matched voices through the smart lock.

All these additional unlock methods are provided for your convenience.  Many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners enjoy these fast unlock methods.

However, in some special situations, for example, someone attempts to force you to unlock the phone to get your data, you may try to disable these unlock methods temporally (and quickly), then type the wrong password/PIN a few times so that you have to wait longer and longer to try again.

When the lockdown mode is enabled, notifications will not be shown on the Galaxy S9 lock screen.

The lockdown mode is one of the new features in Android Pie.  Samsung kept the stock feature and did not mess it up this time in the Android update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, unlike what they did to the navigation gestures.

How to enable the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update?

By default,  the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update is not enabled.

You need to enable it in the power button options (power menu) before you can use it.

As shown in the screenshot below, tap Lock screen in Galaxy S9 Settings.

enable the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update enable the lockdown mode on Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update

As shown above, in the lock screen settings page, tap Secure lock settings.

In the secure lock settings, as shown below, you can find the Show lockdown option.… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Galaxy S9 apps screen, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 layout, Galaxy S9 lock screen, Galaxy S9 notifications, Galaxy S9 safe mode, Galaxy S9 touch screen gesture, lock down, lockdown mode, navigation gestures, power button, power button options, power off Galaxy S9, power on Galaxy S9, screenshot, smart lock

How to use the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+?

simon · 37 Comments

How to use the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+? In Android update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung did not implement the stock Android Pie navigation gestures. Instead, they added their own new navigation gestures as one of the new features in the One UI.

Some owners may get confused on the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, especially those who tried the navigation gestures in the stock Android Pie.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the details of the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+,  the difference between the Android Pie navigation gestures and the full-screen navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, and show you how to enable and use them.

What are the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+?

In Android Pie (Android 9), Google introduced a set of gestures for the home buttons, Android Pie navigation gestures, to help users to navigate and switch apps very quickly.

Essentially, in stock Android Pie, if the navigation gestures are enabled, the Recents/Overview button will be removed. The back button appears only if it is needed. This creates a very clean UI with one Home button as explained in this page.

Of course, Samsung thought they have a better solution.

In the Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, Samsung chooses to collapse the 3 navigation buttons into 3 lines on the bottom of the screen. You then just swipe up from these 3 lines to replace the function of pressing the buttons.

So, you will find the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ are substantially different from the Android Pie navigation gestures.

The major differences between Android Pie navigation gestures and the new navigation gestures in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ include:

  • In the stock Android Pie, all navigation gestures are based on the home button. In Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+, there are 3 lines for the gestures.
  • In the stock Android Pie, you have 5 touch screen gestures for the home button: press (tap), long press (long tap), swipe upwards, slow swipe upwards (or double swipe upwards), swipe to the right, swipe to the right and hold. But in Galaxy S9 and S9+, swipe upwards is the only
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, button order, Galaxy S9 Home button, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 navigation bar, Galaxy S9 navigation button, Galaxy S9 touch screen gesture, navigation gestures, One UI

Official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update

Download the official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in your local language for your Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus

simon · 3 Comments

Download the official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in your local language for your Galaxy S9 and S9 PlusIn this page, you can find the updated official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android update in your local language.

Android Pie (Android 9) update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ brought lots of new features. You may check this post for the top 9 new features in Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

Detailed how-to guides for new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 plus can be found here.  You can also post your questions on Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9 plus in this page.

If your Galaxy S9 or S9+ is still running Android Oreo (Android 8), you can find the official user manuals here.

If you cannot find the official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in your language, please let us know in the comment box below. We will try to add them as early as possible.

#1. Official user manual for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the English language (UK)  for the international versions of Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ (Android Pie 9, UK English, SM-G960F/DS, and SM-G965F/DS; Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia)

Official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the English language (UK)  for the international versions of Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ (Android Pie 9, UK English, SM-G960F/DS, and SM-G965F/DS; Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia)The official user manual for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in English language (UK)  is for Samsung Galaxy S9, and Samsung Galaxy S9+ sold to in international market including Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia with Android Pie (Android  9) update. The corresponding model number is SM-G960F,  SM-G960F/DS, SM-G965F, and SM-G965F/DS.

If you cannot find the Galaxy S9 user guide in your language for your Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+, you may try this one.

Download link (in PDF): Official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the English language (UK)  for the international versions of Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ (Android Pie 9, UK English, SM-G960F/DS, and SM-G965F/DS; Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia)

#2.  Official user manual for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the French language (le français) (Android Pie 9, French language (le français), SM-G960F/DS and SM-G965F/DS, France)

Official user manual for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the French language (le français) (Android Pie 9, French language (le français), SM-G960F/DS and SM-G965F/DS, France)The official user manual for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in the French language (le français) is for Samsung Galaxy S9, and Samsung Galaxy S9+ sold to … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Croatian, Czech language, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, Galaxy S9, Galaxy S9 Plus, German, Greek, Hungarian language, Latvian, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Russian, Slovenian, Swedish, user manual

Top 9 new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

One UI, night mode, lift to wake, floating keyboard, lock home screen layout, lockdown mode, new camera app, navigation gestures, and adaptive battery are the most exciting new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

simon · 8 Comments

Top 9 new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+If your Galaxy S9 or S9+ was updated to Android Pie, you should enjoy many new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

As the first major update of Galaxy S9 and S9+, Android Pie (Android 9) update brings not only Android Pie features to Galaxy S9 and S9+ but also a totally new UI (One UI).  Some  Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners may be overwhelmed by so many new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

If you haven’t updated your Galaxy S9 or S9 to Android Pie (Android 9), you may follow this guide to check whether the update is available in your region.

If you want to download the official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9+ with Android Pie update, please check this page.

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the top 9 most useful new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+: One UI, night mode, lift to wake, floating keyboard, lock home screen layout, lockdown mode, new camera app, navigation gestures, and adaptive battery.

# 1. One UI: the most eye-catching new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

In the Android Pie update, Samsung debuted the new UI: One UI, to replace the old Samsung Experience.

Do not confuse one UI with Android One. They are totally unrelated.

The One UI was designed to make the phone look beautiful and help the owner focus on what really matters.

In addition to a new set of app icons for Samsung apps (phone, camera, contact, messages, gallery, My files, calendar, smart switch, clock), the default font and the use of white space deliver a fresh look.

The new full-screen navigation gestures were also added and they are even different from the stock Android Pie navigation gestures.

You can also use the rotation toggle button in the navigation bar to change and lock screen orientation on-the-fly very easily.

#2. Night mode: the most wanted new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ for night owls

Many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners complained about the white color scheme.  It is painful to use the white theme in low-light conditions.

Although you can change the Galaxy S9 home screen theme to a dark one, some Samsung apps may not follow the theme.

Blue light filter may … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides Tagged With: adaptive battery, Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Android update, Bixby quick command, blue light filter, Galaxy S9 camera, Galaxy S9 camera app, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 new features, lift to wake, lockdown mode, navigation buttons, navigation gestures, night mode, One UI, Samsung DeX, Samsung DeX cable, Samsung keyboard, Samsung keyboard floating mode, update Galaxy S9

Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guides

Use the new features of Android Pie (Android 9) update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

simon · 2 Comments

Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guidesAndroid Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ has been rolled out since December 2018.

More and more Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners are enjoying the new features of Android Pie update.  Samsung also updated the official user guide with Android Pie update.

Android Pie (Android 9) is a major update for Android. There are many new features in Android Pie.

On top of the standard Android Pie features, Samsung also updated the UI for Galaxy S9 and S9+ to One UI.

So, many Galaxy S9 and S9+ owners sometimes get confused on how to use the new features in Android Pie (Android 9) update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

A series of guides on new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ have been prepared and tested since December 2018.

Now, we are releasing these Android Pie guides for Galaxy S9 and S9+ here.

This is a live post. A new guide is released only after it passes all our testing and verifications. We will update this post once a new guide is released.

Here is the list of released or coming-soon guides on the new features of Android Pie (Android 9) update for Galaxy S9 and S9+.

If you cannot find the Android Pie guides you need, or if you have any questions on Android Pie features on Galaxy S9 and S9+, please let us know them in the comment box.

We will try to release the guide earlier, and the community will help you get the answer or solution.

1.  Top 9 new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

As the first major update of Galaxy S9 and S9+, Android Pie (Android 9) update brings not only Android Pie features to Galaxy S9 and S9+ but also a totally new UI (One UI).

This Galaxy S9 Android Pie update guide explains the top 9 most useful new features of Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+ including One UI, night mode, lift to wake, floating keyboard, lock home screen layout, lockdown mode, new camera app, navigation gestures, and adaptive battery

Read on …

2. The official Galaxy S9 and S9+ user guides with Android Pie update for Galaxy S9 and S9+

 You can read online or download the official user manuals for Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus with Android Pie update in your local language for your … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Android Pie, Android Pie update guide, Android update, AOD, floating keyboard, Galaxy S9 always-on display (AOD), Galaxy S9 camera app, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 multiwindow, Galaxy S9 new features, Galaxy S9 notifications, lift to wake, lock down, navigation gestures, night mode, pop-up view, Recents screen, Samsung keyboard floating mode, scene optimizer, split screen view, update Galaxy S9

How to use a USB flash drive on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

You can use a USB flash drive or even a 2TB USB drive to expand Galaxy S9 storage

simon · 7 Comments

use USB flash drive on Samsung phonesA USB flash drive is often the most convenient tool to quickly share files between Galaxy S9, Galaxy S8, Galaxy S10, Galaxy S20  and other devices.

So, in addition to using a micro SD card, you can further expand Galaxy S9 and other Galaxy phones storage with a USB storage.

This Galaxy S9 guide explains when you need to use a USB flash drive, the limitations of using USB storage on Galaxy S9 and other Galaxy phones, how to use and manage USB storage on Galaxy S9 and S9+.

Since Galaxy S8, Samsung has moved to USB-C port on all Galaxy S and Galaxy Note phones. So, this guide applies to all Galaxy phones with USB-C port, including Galaxy S8, Galaxy S9, Galaxy S10, Galaxy S20, Galaxy Note 8, Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy Note 10, and Galaxy Note 20.

In this guide, we use SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive in some examples. You may get a detailed guide on how to use SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive here.

When do you need to use external USB storage on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

Although you can expand Galaxy S9/S9+ storage with a micro SD card as explained in this guide, sometimes you may find you have to use a USB flash drive or using a flash drive is more convenient than other tools/methods.

For example, if you use two SIM cards on Galaxy S9 or S9+, you then cannot use the micro SD card because slot 2 in the SIM card tray was used by the SIM card already.

Or if you want to share some large videos on your phone with others and you do not want to hand over the phone to that person, you can then directly transfer files from Galaxy S9 to a USB flash drive, or even an external USB drive.

Or when you want to transfer some large files between Galaxy S9 and the PC/notebook without using the USB cable, then a USB flash drive probably is the fastest solution.

Some Galaxy S9 owners also use a USB flash drive to save offline videos and music files.  They can use the drive on multiple devices without making copies on each device.

What are the limitations of using a USB flash drive on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

Although a USB flash drive is a plug-and-play (PnP) device, sometimes you may find the USB flash … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Accessories Guides, Galaxy S9 Guides Tagged With: device maintenance, eject SD card, exFAT, FAT32, Galaxy S9 layout, Galaxy S9 notification icon, Galaxy S9 notification panel, Galaxy S9 status bar, Galaxy S9 status icon, micro SD card, My Files, NTFS, pin files to Galaxy S9 home screen, unmount SD card, unmount USB storage, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB connector, USB flash drive, USB OTG, USB storage, USB-C

How to use Samsung DeX Pad for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?

simon · 2 Comments

use Samsung DeX Pad for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9Samsung DeX Pad lets you instantly transform Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9 into an Android PC.

Compared to Samsung DeX Station, Samsung DeX Pad has an improved design and offers generous accessories in the box.  For a detailed comparison of the Samsung DeX Pad, DeX Station and DeX Cable, please check this guide.

This Galaxy S9 accessories guide shows you the contents in the Samsung DeX Pad box, the layout of the DeX Pad, and how to use Samsung DeX Pad.

What is Samsung DeX Pad?

Samsung DeX Pad, announced together with Galaxy S9 and S9+, is the 2nd generation of Samsung DeX dock accessories. But it is NOT a replacement of Samsung DeX Station. Rather it is a compliment to the DeX Station.

DeX Pad features a smaller footprint than its predecessor (DeX Station). And one of the significant changes is your phone can lay down on the DeX Pad.  So, it is very easy to use the phone screen as a touchpad.

Samsung DeX Pad works with all DeX-enabled devices: Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8, Note 9 and Tab S4. It also offers identical Samsung DeX features as the DeX Station and DeX cable.

For the detailed comparison of three current DeX accessories DeX Pad vs DeX Station vs DeX cable, please check this page.

What is included in the Samsung DeX Pad package?

Samsung DeX Pad package includes the essentials you need to use Samsung DeX.

You can find the following items in the package:

  • One Samsung DeX Pad.
  • One HDMI cable.
  • One USB cable. The USB-A to USB-C cable is for you to connect the power adapter/wall charger to the DeX Pad. It can also be used for data transfer between your phone and a PC (e..g, for backing up Galaxy S9). The cable itself is similar to the USB cable included in Galaxy S9 box.
  • One USB power adapter/wall charger. In most regions, the included wall charger is identical to that in your Galaxy S9 box. Of course, you can use this power adapter to charge Galaxy S9 battery.
  • One quick start guide in multiple languages.

Basically, you just need a monitor to try Samsung DeX immediately.  Remember Samsung DeX Station package does not include the cables and power adapter as explained in … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Accessories Guides, Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: adaptive charger, charge Galaxy S9 battery, DeX, DeX mode, Galaxy S9 layout, Galaxy S9 new features, Galaxy S9 touch screen gesture, HDMI, Linux on DeX, Samsung DeX, Samsung DeX cable, Samsung DeX Pad, Samsung DeX settings, Samsung DeX station, touchpad, touchpad gestures, USB Ethernet, USB-C

How to use Samsung DeX Station for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?

Everything you need to know about Samsung DeX Station.

simon · Leave a Comment

use Samsung DeX Station for Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9Samsung DeX Station works with all Samsung DeX-enabled devices: Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9. You can instantly convert your phone as an Android PC (or a Linux PC if you enable Linux on DeX beta) with a DeX Station.

Although Samsung DeX Pad, Dex Station and DeX cable (for Note 9 and Tab S4) share identical DeX features, the design of these DeX accessories is substantially different. You may check this guide on using Samsung DeX Pad, and this guide (coming soon) on using Samsung DeX cable on Galaxy Note 9.  For the comparison of Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cable, please check this guide.

This Galaxy S9 accessories guide explains everything you need to know about Samsung DeX Station: contents in the package (box), the layout of the DeX Station, step-by-step guide on using the DeX Station. Frequently asked questions on Ethernet port, display resolution, charging and covers are also covered.

What is Samsung DeX Station?

Samsung DeX Station, as shown above,  is the first DeX accessory required by Samsung DeX. It was announced together with Galaxy S8 and S8+ in 2017.

Although it was announced as a companion to Galaxy S8/S8+, Samsung DeX Station works with all DeX-enabled devices: Galaxy S8, S8+, S9, S9+, Note 8, Note 9 and Tab S4.

The design of the Samsung DeX Pad is similar to Samsung’s fast wireless charging stand.  You need to push the top part so that it stands up to support the phone.

You may check this guide on the differences among three Samsung DeX accessories: Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX Cable.

What is included in the Samsung DeX Station package?

In the Samsung DeX Station package, there are only two (maybe one if you find the quick start guide is useless) useful items:

  • Samsung DeX Station (aka multimedia dock).
  • Quick start guide in multiple languages.

Nothing else. No cables. No power adapters.

So, you need to prepare the following items to use Samsung DeX Station:

  • A Samsung fast wall charger (adaptive wall charger). The wall charger included in your Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9 is sufficient.
  • An HDMI cable.
  • (optional) A USB (or wireless)  mouse/keyboard. You can use the phone screen as the trackpad. But unlike Samsung DeX Pad, 
… Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Accessories Guides, Galaxy S9 Guides Tagged With: 4K, Bluetooth, DeX, DeX mode, fast charger, Galaxy S9 clear view standing cover, Galaxy S9 layout, Galaxy S9 LED wallet cover, HDMI, keyboard, Linux on DeX, mouse, Samsung DeX, Samsung DeX cable, Samsung DeX Labs, Samsung DeX Pad, Samsung DeX station, USB Ethernet, USB-C, USB-C to HDMI, wall charger

Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cable

Which one do you need to use Samsung DeX on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9?

simon · Leave a Comment

Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cableSamsung DeX is one of the best productivity features offered in Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9.  You need either a Samsung DeX Station, or a Samsung DeX Pad, or a Samsung DexX cable to enjoy this feature.

But these 3 accessories may work differently in the supported devices. Please check this guide on how to use Samsung DeX Station and this guide on how to use Samsung DeX Pad.

This Galaxy S9 accessories guide explains the difference among the Samsung DeX accessories: Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad vs Samsung DeX cable, to help you get the correct DeX accessories for your phone.

What are the available Samsung DeX accessories needed to use Samsung DeX?

To use Samsung DeX, you need one of the following official accessories:

  • Samsung DeX Station; or
  • Samsung DeX Pad; or
  • Samsung DeX cable.

Samsung DeX Station was released in 2017 for Galaxy S8 and S8+. So, in addition to Galaxy S8 and S8+,  Samsung DeX station works with all later devices: Galaxy S9, S9+ Note 8 and Note 9.

Samsung DeX Pad was released in 2018 for Galaxy S9 and S9+. So, it officially supports Galaxy S9, S9+ and Note 9. But in Android Oreo update, Galaxy S8, S8+ and Note 8 can also use Samsung DeX  Pad to enjoy Samsung DeX.  So, Samsung DeX Pad supports similar devices as Samsung DeX Station unless you haven’t updated your S8 (or S8+ or Note 8) to Android Oreo.

Samsung DeX cable was released in 2018 for Galaxy Note 9. Currently, it only supports Galaxy Note 9 (and Tab S4)  in DeX mode. For Galaxy S8, S8+, S9, S9+ and Note 8, the cable is identical to other normal USB-C to HDMI cable: you can only use it for screen mirroring without a Chromecast (or Miracast device).

Which phones support Samsung DeX?

As mentioned, currently, you can use Samsung DeX in the following devices:

  • Galaxy S8
  • Galaxy S8+
  • Galaxy Note 8
  • Galaxy S9
  • Galaxy S9+
  • Galaxy Note 9
  • Galaxy Tab S4

To use Samsung DeX Pad, Galaxy S8, S8+, and Note 8 must upgrade to Android Oreo. DeX Station does not have this requirement.

Samsung DeX Station vs Samsung DeX Pad: what are the differences?

If your Galaxy S8, S8+ or Note 8 are still using Android Nougat, then  Samsung DeX … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Accessories Guides, Galaxy S9 Guides, Galaxy S9 New Features Tagged With: Bluetooth, DeX mode, Galaxy S9 layout, Samsung DeX, Samsung DeX cable, Samsung DeX Pad, Samsung DeX station, screen mirroring, USB Ethernet, USB-C, USB-C to HDMI, wall charger

How to use app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

You can launch two apps simultaneously with app pair on Galaxy S9, S9+, S8, S8+, Note 8 and Note 9.

simon · Leave a Comment

use app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+App pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+ allows you to launch and use two apps as a pair in the split-screen view of the Multi Window mode.

Samsung first introduced app pair on Galaxy Note 8 on 2017. It was then available for all newer Galaxy phones including Galaxy S9, S9+ and Note 9. App pair was also backported to Galaxy S8 and S8+ in the Android Oreo update.

This Galaxy S9 guide explains how app pair works on Galaxy S9 and shows you the two methods of creating app pairs. The guide also shows you how to manage app pairs and how to use app pair together with dual messengers.

As mentioned, the app pair is not an exclusive feature of Galaxy S9 or S9+. Instead, it is a standard Multi Window feature on Samsung phones with Android Oreo. So, this guide applies to other Samsung Galaxy phones including Galaxy Note 8, S8, S8+ and Note 9 as well.

What is app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

As explained in the Galaxy S9 Multi Window guide, you can use two apps in the split screen view simultaneously.

You may need to use a certain pair of apps often. App pair is to address this demand: you create a pair so that the two apps are launched in the split screen view directly.

Of course, this is faster than the old workflow: entering Multi Window mode,  then selecting apps.

Even better, you can use app pair in Galaxy S9 edge screen to launch the two apps without navigating to the home screen.

Essentially, app pair on Galaxy S9 is a shortcut to the split-screen view of two apps. You can put the shortcut on Galaxy S9 home screen or edge screen.

If you are using the dual messenger feature to run two copies of messenger apps (e.g., WhatsApp), you can put these two copies of the messenger app in the app pair so that you can check messages in two accounts simultaneously.

Two ways to create an app pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+?

There are at least two methods to create an app pair on Galaxy S9 or S9+:

  1. Converting the current split-screen view to an app pair;
  2. Manually creating an app pair in the apps edge of Galaxy S9 edge screen settings.

Method 1: Converting current split-screen view to an app pair

When … Read the rest

Filed Under: Galaxy S9 Guides Tagged With: app pair, apps edge, dual messenger, Galaxy S9 edge screen, Galaxy S9 home screen, Galaxy S9 multiwindow, Galaxy S9 touch screen gesture, Multi Window, split screen view

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