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Start with four jobs your Galaxy can take off your hands: automate recurring settings with Modes and Routines, keep selected content behind Secure Folder, prepare the phone to be found if it goes missing, and check whether newer convenience controls are available on your model. These features vary by device, region, carrier, account state, and software version, so use the settings actually shown on your phone rather than assuming every Galaxy has the same options.
Automate recurring settings with Modes and Routines
Galaxy Routines run selected actions when chosen conditions are met. A routine uses an “If” condition and a “Then” action, letting you automate small changes instead of making them manually each time.
Samsung’s support guidance lists Settings > Modes and Routines for the documented Android 14 and Android 13 interfaces. For Android 12 and Android 11, it points to the Bixby Routines app. Names and availability can differ, so search Settings for “Modes and Routines” or “Bixby Routines” if the path does not match.
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- Choose the option to add a routine. Start with a recommendation or create one yourself.
- Set the If condition that should trigger it, then select the Then actions to run.
- Name the routine and save it. Check its details later if you need to change the trigger or actions.
Useful examples
- At work: use a location condition to silence notifications and turn on Wi-Fi, if those actions and conditions are offered on your phone.
- At bedtime: use a time condition to lower screen brightness and enable a screen filter, if available.
Samsung’s older Bixby Routines guidance says changed settings revert when the trigger ends by default. That behavior can depend on the software version and routine, so check the routine’s behavior on your device rather than treating it as universal.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
When a setting changes unexpectedly
An active routine may be responsible if an app becomes restricted or a setting changes without you doing it. Review running routines in Modes and Routines or Bixby Routines and inspect their actions before changing the affected setting again.
Separate selected content with Secure Folder
Secure Folder creates a protected space for selected files, photos, and apps, guarded by a separate passcode or biometric lock. It is useful when you want particular content kept apart from the rest of the phone; setting it up is not, by itself, a backup.
Rank #2
- 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.
- Open Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder.
- Follow the on-screen setup and choose a passcode or biometric lock.
- Add the files, photos, or apps you want to keep in the protected space.
Carrier and software versions can change the screens or labels. If Secure Folder is not listed in that menu, Samsung says the device may not support it.
Prepare Find My Mobile before the phone goes missing
Samsung’s US support guidance describes Find My Mobile as a way to locate a missing Galaxy device and recommends checking its controls in Settings. Confirm the feature and account-related settings on the phone while you still have it; do not assume they are enabled simply because the phone is a Galaxy.
Rank #3
- 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
Samsung also describes an optional Guardian who may be able to locate the device, enable Emergency mode, and monitor battery status. Check the current settings screen for the options available to your account and device. Location or remote actions are not guaranteed in every circumstance.
Check for newer sharing, charging, and quick-panel controls
Some Galaxy software updates add controls that are useful but not consistent across models. Samsung’s update notes for the SM-S926B describe the following changes; they should be treated as model- and update-specific, not as features guaranteed on every Galaxy.
Rank #4
- 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.
| Control | What the cited update describes | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Share | Recommended devices and continuation of some transfers over the internet if devices move too far apart. | Open Quick Share and check which options your installed software provides. |
| Battery protection | An additional control with a maximum charge range between 80% and 95% in the cited update. | Look for Battery protection in your battery settings; the available choices may differ. |
| Quick panel | Customization of the Quick panel layout. | Open the Quick panel’s edit controls to see whether your version supports layout changes. |
The update notes also mention one-finger zoom and enhanced Assistant menu controls. If those options would help, look for them in Accessibility settings on your software version; the labels and availability may vary.
Choose settings by the job you want done
| Your need | Feature to check | Compatibility detail |
|---|---|---|
| Automate repeated settings | Modes and Routines or Bixby Routines | Menu name and capabilities depend on Android/software version. |
| Put selected content behind another lock | Secure Folder | Unsupported devices may not show it in Security and privacy. |
| Prepare to locate a missing phone | Find My Mobile and, if offered, Guardian | Verify the relevant account and settings on your own device. |
| Adjust sharing, charging, or quick controls | Quick Share, Battery protection, Quick panel | Check installed software and model-specific availability. |
For any feature that is missing or has a different label, check Samsung support information for your exact model and installed software. A menu’s absence can indicate a compatibility difference rather than a setup mistake.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
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