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On many Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets, Wi-Fi Direct is under Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct. It lets compatible nearby devices connect directly without a wireless router. If the option is not there, check the Wi-Fi screen’s More options (⋮) menu, or consult the manual for your exact model.
What Wi-Fi Direct does—and what it does not do
Wi-Fi Direct allows compatible devices to communicate directly rather than through a wireless router or access point. Connecting this way does not join your Galaxy to your home Wi-Fi network or provide internet access. Samsung lists TVs, printers, and cameras as possible endpoints, but support depends on the particular device and the task you want to perform.
The setting and menu labels vary across Galaxy models and software versions. Samsung’s Galaxy S9+ manual documents one route, while other Samsung instructions show Wi-Fi Direct under the Wi-Fi screen’s More options menu. Neither route should be treated as universal.
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How to turn on Wi-Fi Direct and connect
- Open Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi. Turn Wi-Fi on if it is off.
- Open Wi-Fi Direct. Look for it on the Wi-Fi screen. If it is not visible, tap More options (⋮) → Wi-Fi Direct.
- Wait for nearby devices to appear. Select the compatible device you intend to use; check its displayed name before selecting it.
- Accept the connection request on the other device. The connection is not complete until the other endpoint accepts when prompted.
Samsung’s documented routes are described in its Galaxy Wi-Fi Direct instructions, alternate Wi-Fi Direct menu instructions, and Samsung UK Wi-Fi guidance. The Galaxy S9+ manual gives a model-specific example of the Connections → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct path.
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If the other device is not listed
- Ask the other device’s user to enable its Wi-Fi Direct feature, then refresh or reopen the device list and try again.
- Check that both devices support Wi-Fi Direct. A device’s ability to use Wi-Fi generally does not by itself establish that it supports Wi-Fi Direct.
- If the setting or connection behavior differs, look up the exact Galaxy model in Samsung’s manual and check the endpoint’s manual as well.
Samsung’s support instructions and UK guidance both call out enabling Wi-Fi Direct on the other device as a check when it cannot be found.
Check the endpoint before using a TV or printer
Wi-Fi Direct support is model-dependent, including on Samsung TVs. Samsung’s TV e-manual says availability depends on the TV model; its advice about disabling Wi-Fi Direct when connected to a 6 GHz access point applies to the covered TV documentation, not generally to Galaxy phones or every TV.
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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For printing, verify in the printer’s exact model manual or specifications that it supports Wi-Fi Direct. Finding the setting on a Galaxy does not guarantee that every printer, TV, or camera can connect for every file-sharing, printing, streaming, or mirroring task. Check both devices’ documentation for the workflow you need.
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
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- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
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- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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