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To automate tasks on a supported Galaxy phone or tablet, open Settings > Modes and Routines. Create a Routine by choosing a trigger under If, choosing what the device should do under Then, and saving it. Use a Mode instead when you want a bundle of settings for a context such as sleep or focus.
Modes and Routines: what’s the difference?
| Feature | What it does | How it starts |
|---|---|---|
| Mode | Applies a set of context-related settings, such as Do not disturb, app restrictions, or wallpaper. | Manually, or automatically when its configured conditions are met. |
| Routine | Runs selected actions when a particular condition is met—the “when this happens, do that” option. | When its configured condition is met. |
The two features can complement one another, but they are not interchangeable: a Mode applies a broader context, while a Routine automates a specific response. Samsung describes both in its Modes and Routines guide and guide to creating and managing them.
Create a custom Routine
- Open Settings > Modes and Routines. If the feature appears as an app on your Apps screen, you can open it there instead.
- Select Routines, then tap Add (+).
- Under If, choose the condition that should start the Routine and complete any requested options.
- Under Then, choose the setting or action the device should apply.
- Review the condition and actions, then save. Give the Routine a clear name and, if prompted, choose an icon.
For example, you could make a bedtime Routine respond to a chosen condition by changing a display setting, or make a work-related Routine adjust sound or connectivity. These are examples, not guarantees that every trigger or action is offered on every Galaxy device; check the choices shown on yours. Samsung’s Routines guide explains the If/Then setup and notes that available options can vary.
Start with a recommended Routine
If you want a shortcut, open Routines > Discover and choose a suggestion such as Going to work, Leaving work, or preparing for sleep. Inspect its conditions and actions, customize the options offered, and save it. A recommendation is a starting point, not a promise that its settings will suit your device or preferences.
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 512GB, Black
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Create a custom Mode
- Open Modes and Routines and select Modes.
- Choose Add mode > Custom.
- Enter a name and choose a color and icon.
- If you want the Mode to start on its own, configure conditions under Turn on automatically.
- Choose the settings it should apply, such as Do not disturb, restricted app use, or wallpaper, then save.
The labels and options available for custom Modes can differ by device and software version. Samsung’s Modes and Routines instructions describe the setup.
Choose manual or automatic activation
| Activation | Best suited to | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Manual | A context you decide when to enter, such as starting a focus period. | You turn the Mode on yourself. |
| Automatic | A context or event you want the phone to recognize. | A Mode or Routine starts when its configured conditions match. For location-based conditions, check that location services and the relevant permission are enabled. |
Some trigger types may not be available on every model or in every country. Review the condition’s instructions and available choices on your device.
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Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 256GB, Black
- 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
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue
- 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
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- 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
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
- 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
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- 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.
Rank #2
Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
- 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.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
If the menu or automation behaves differently
- You can’t find Modes and Routines: Start in Settings and look for Modes and Routines; on some software versions the feature may appear under Bixby Routines. Samsung’s UK instructions place it in Settings on Android 13 and 14, and identify the Bixby Routines app for Android 11 and 12. Menu paths can change with device model, software, and app version, so the exact wording on your phone may differ.
- A setting changes unexpectedly: Open the app and inspect running Routines, or tap the Routine notification to review its conditions and actions. An active Mode may also appear in the lock-screen Now bar.
- A location trigger does not run: Check location services and the permission requested for that condition, then review its instructions on the phone.
- You don’t see a trigger or action in the instructions: Use the options available on your device. Samsung cautions that labels, layouts, and options vary by model and software version.
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