Database Info

Sense Previews

I've recently started using the stock launcher again, due to a problem of my default home not sticking for some reason. The only thing I really miss is gesture support (zeam, adw), which allowed me to quickly access notifications and previews (to jump to different screens quickly without scrolling). I've mediated my desire to access my notifications quickly, by hitting menu while on a homescreen and tapping notifications (I find this faster and more convenient than pulling it down from the status bar), but I haven't found a way to quickly access previews (other than hitting home when on the default screen). I don't have much use for previews from the default screen since I'm not far away from any other screen. I'm looking for a quick way to access previews so that I can pull them up and jump from screen 1 to screen 7, for example. Long time Sense users, is there a way to do this?

Pinch from any screen.

Yeah you just pinch zoom outwards on any screen to see previews.

[OFFICIAL] Tips & Tricks thread

This is for random tricks that aren't widely known.
I'll start off...
Missing that search button key on the bottom from the SGSII? Have no fear, just press and hold the menu key, which acts like the search key
Annoyed of the home button lag? turn off double tap to activate S voice within that program and your home key will be much more responsive
Can anyone think of anything else?
Edit: Ironlood has put together a list of tips and tricks. Thanks!
1.Hold menu button for search menu - eyecon82
2.To get rid of home button lag open up S-Voice and navigate to settings and untick the launch with double tap home button -eyecon82
3.Lock screen app settings are listed under security in settings - kegacide
4.you can swipe the screen with the side of your hand to take a screenshot, or hold home and power-kegacide
5.Hold down physical button and you can close all open apps and go to the task manager - hawkeye2188
6.Buttons on the bottom of the lock screen and can be swiped and open that application - hawkeye2188
7.You can also swipe away individual apps after holding down the home button - NA 521"
8.first go to settings>language and input and turn on voice cmd for apps. I had it on early today and said cheese and the camera snapped a photo...pretty cool -s3xda (on a side note it seems as though the variants have different voice cues try snap, cheese, shutter, and go)
9.In settings > sound > device vibration, you can select a different pattern of vibrate, or just make your own by touching create! - Zoidpilot
10.In app drawer > widgets, Sammy added a widget to use flash as a flashlight, and a widget to turn the entire phone into negative colors.-Zoidpilot
11.You can set the brightness in the majority of stock apps (i.e. the browser) to be app specific, instead of just setting a brightness for the entire system. For example: set the brightness to auto in the system settings, then open the stock browser > brightness and colors, and set it to high. Now the system will have auto brightness, but it will always go to high/bright when you are in the browser! -Zoidpilot
12.If you go to Phone > Logs > call logs, you can long-press a number (like that telemarketer you always reject) and select "add to reject list" to have the phone automatically reject the call every time. You can also unblock the number in case you change your mind.-Zoidpilot
13.In the stock messaging app, you can go to settings, and on the top you will find options to change the background and bubble style of the messages.-Zoidpilot
14.Samsung's S-Voice can do complex mathematical equations for you, then show them in different answers. For example, open S-Voice, and ask "how many inches are in a mile?". Or "what's the square root of 543,636?". -Zoidpilot
15.In settings > security > lock screen options > shortcuts, you can change what shortcuts appear on your lockscreen, or take them out altogether.-Zoidpilot
16.On the headphones that came with your device, you will see a single button and the volume controls. One press of the single button will pause the music, two presses in quick succession will skip to the next track. -Zoidpilot
17.In settings > wallpaper > home & lockscreen, if you select a live wallpaper, it will show as your lock screen as well. It will deactivate the ripple effect though if you have it active.-Zoidpilot
18.You can also use pop-up play on streaming online videos as long as they're not YouTube videos, and as long as you use the stock video player to stream them.-Zoidpilot
19.Pictures come out better with the camera if you hold the camera button and let it focus before the shot, rather than just pressing it after touching the focus box.-Zoidpilot
20.The stock browser has "incognito mode" just like Google Chrome! You can access it by opening the browser, the touching the top right corner to see open windows, then touching the incognito icon. While you're incognito, no history/cookies/or form data will be saved.-Zoidpilot
21.While you are on a call, on the screen where the contact picture is displayed, there is a speaker icon in a bubble. Touch it to increase the call volume past the maximum setting. It works on speaker or on headset setting.-Zoidpilot
22.If you're not rooted, but want to get rid of those pesky bloatware apps, go to settings > application manager > all, and select the app. Within those settings you can clear the information the app has, then disable the app with the top right button. You may need to uninstall updates before it says disable app though... you can also go to the app drawer, hit menu, then select "hide apps" to hide the bloatware icons you've disabled. -Zoidpilot
23.With voice cmd turned on, you can snooze your alarm by saying snooze. -s3xda
24.Cover the screen with the palm of your hand to pause media playback. -NA 521"
25.You can use S Voice like a translator,for example: What is the meaning of house in spanish?-TitaniumBarbell
26.I just found out the contents of the clipboard stay there even after a reboot.-kingwp
27.touch wiz scrolling wallpapers fix go Settings > Wallpaper > Home Screen... If you set them independantly you will be able to crop the wallpaper just like any other HC/ICS device-nonmindo
28.you can get your status bar in ANY full screen app, even full screen games. How? Start with your finger touching just outside of the top of the display and drag down, it will fade in and you can check your notifications, it works both in landscape and portrait mode-nonmindo
29.I noticed that any time you send an email in gmail with our new phones (t-mobile version at least), it puts a stupid T-mobile signature at the bottom of the email. I found that you can change it by going to gmail>menu>settings>[email protected]>signature and putting in whatever you want.-moonfire711
30.Also, go into your dialer>menu>settings for more in call goodies.-moonfire711
31.Many probably already know this, but I just found out that you can turn on the screen with the physical home button instead of the power button. Which is nice if it's laying down on a desk or something.-moonfire711
32.If you get tired of re-unlocking your screen when it turns off, you can set it to not lock for a set period of time after the screen turns off... Go to menu>settings>security>Lock automatically and change the timeout.-moonfire711
33.If you go into Settings > Sounds > Auto Haptic It will enable haptic feedback on your games/apps based on sound, pretty neat!! (note: doesnt work on all games/apps, but does on many)-nonmindo
34.In relation to the haptic feedback with sound... Tap on the left side of the toggle (where the text is), and it'll open up a menu to choose which ones to enable/disable. -pizz0wn3d
35.The wiimote controller successfully pairs and works with our SGS3s! -pizz0wn3d
36.For your contacts or logs, slide left to direct call and slide right to direct text.-jaytxvo
37.while in the stock video player press the picture in picture button to pop out the video -s3xda
38.Super video does pic-in-pic -20blks
39.***Sprint Specific*** In order to turn on and off LTE ... Settings >wireless settings>more settings >network mode>lte/cdma -iphony89
40.camera quick access... allows you to touch the lockscreen and rotate the screen to open the camera... Settings > security > lock screen options > camera quick access -Cappurnikus
41.pull down the notification touch the time and it will open the world clock (might be variant specific) -Deputy13
42.I have only tested this with Windows Media Player, but I assume any DLNA equipped TV/media device would work. This is great if you want to quickly show a slideshow of photos or play some media file on your tv/computer.1) Go Settings/More Settings/Nearby Devices 2) Turn on file sharing and change any options you'd like. Since I'm on my own my Wifi network, I just disabled access control, otherwise you have to approve every device.3) Start Windows Media Player. Make sure under Stream "Allow Remote Control" is checked. You should see your phone show up under "Other Libraries" in WMP. Mine shows up as [Mobile]SCH-135.4) Go into Gallery and select a picture. If connected properly, in the upper right hand corner there will be a new little icon with a monitor and some arrows. Touch this and it will allow you to select a playback device. 5) Now the picture should show up in a maximized screen in WMP. Sometimes it takes a good 10-20 seconds. Videos take much longer, but they work and what I got was the first frame, followed by a good 20 seconds of a "Processing" notification on the Galaxy S3. When I browsed from WMP to my phone videos, it buffered for a very long time, so this "processing" notification is the buffering taking place. I don't know why DLNA needs such a long time to buffer over a home Wifi network.6) Whenever you change folders you have to click the DLNA icon again and re-select your playback device. Not sure why this is, seems like a bug...Unfortunately I did a little research and there is no way to physically copy files to your computer through DLNA, you'll have to use other methods.Make sure you turn this stuff off when you connect to public Wifi .-sluzbenik
44.When viewing videos using the stock video player, you can lock the touchscreen by pressing the power button so that the video does not get interrupted by inadvertent touches. This is especially useful if you are using your phone to entertain your baby or toddler. Also works with mx player though haven't tried it with other players -limeaid
45.Do not know if it has been mentioned already, but you can also bring the phone up to your ear and it will call that contact.-ricky babalu
46. if you are in the apps drawer, and you pinch the screen, you will see all pages of your apps and can quickly choose the one you want.-moonfire711
47.Haven't noticed this being addressed but regarding S-Beam it appears that both phones are required to utilize the same app that is involved with the file being transferred. For example, I use "quickpic" as the default image viewer and when I used s-beam to test a pic transfer, the phones connected however my buddy's phone went to the play store and more specifically went to the "quickpic" downlad page. Obviously my buddy's phone required him to dl the app in order to finish the transfer. I then opened the same file via "gallery" and reinitiated the transfer. This time the phones connected and transferred the file without a hitch. -augustorm
48. lock screen shortcuts can be edited on the swipe lock screen go to settings/security/lock screen options/shortcuts click the word shortcuts and not the toggle it will bring up the 4 shortcuts and your allowed to change which app is accessed or what order there displayed in -ironlood
49. Just found a way to substantially increase smoothness. Under Developer Options--> Limit Background Processes. I set mine to 5 and notice a difference -eyecon82

This is great, Thanks!
Currently not being productive on my S3.

23.With voice cmd turned on, you can snooze your alarm by saying snooze. -s3xda
Do I need to have S Voice turned on for this? For example, I completely disabled S Voice (due to the lag it creates) and just set my alarm through ICS/Settings. Will this still work?

Thanks for the list, awesome information

Death&co said:
23.With voice cmd turned on, you can snooze your alarm by saying snooze. -s3xda
Do I need to have S Voice turned on for this? For example, I completely disabled S Voice (due to the lag it creates) and just set my alarm through ICS/Settings. Will this still work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Disabling s-voice by double clicking home button doesn't deactivate s voice, it does help with the home button lag...just create for s voice icon on your homepage...
however if you completely disable it in settings-->manage applicatoins, then im not sure

Hey, my tip about pinch to zoom in/out while using the Calendar app to quickly go from day to week to month to year view and vice versa isn't here! Haha btw, did you guys know you can rotate your phone while using the dialer? It doesn't add any functionality but it's something random I noticed this weekend.
Also, #34 applies to any toggle in Settings (including voice cmd!) except data usage/mobile data:
34.In relation to the haptic feedback with sound... Tap on the left side of the toggle (where the text is), and it'll open up a menu to choose which ones to enable/disable. -pizz0wn3d
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

I would really like to thank eyecon82 for making this thread (and bump it while I'm at it!). This is worth its weight in gold to a technologically impaired guy like me. I would also like to thank those of you that added along the way. Top notch work all

Android 5.0 totally sucks

I don't even want to compare Android 5.0 to iOS or Windows Phone. Let's compare it with Android 4.4:
1) In new Android long pressing a power button only shows "Switch Off" whereas in Android 4.4 you could enable/disable flight mode and enable/disable silent mode/vibration. In new Android to do the same you have to use a volume slider and then press the screen at least several times.
1a) How can you hide the panel which changes the priority mode? Nothing works - it just hides on its own after a while!
2) Recent Apps button shows phantom apps I removed from the recents.
3) Recent Apps button often shows bad previews (visually distorted).
4) The lock screen doesn't automatically show an unlock widget - once again, an extra swipe just to unlock your phone.
5) To remove all removable notifications you have to scroll them all down! In Android 4.4 the "Mark all read" button was always present at the top!
6) There's too much white everywhere and the whole palette feels inconsistent even among different Google(TM) apps.
7) Quick settings which you pull from the top totally suck. In Android 4.4, e.g. long pressing Wi-Fi icon called a Wi-Fi networks dialog - in Android 5.0 you have to go to settings (a tiny icon at the right top corner).
7a) Quick Settings occupy 100% of the screen estate and they are ridiculously sparse (it looks like 75% of screen space if filled with void).
8) The flow of notifications is totally ****ed up. New temporary notification appear on top of the list and hide permanent apps, so to view the latter you have to scroll the list. I don't know why but permanent notifications at least for me are equally or more important.
9) 12 and 13 Wi-Fi channels for 802.11n are totally disabled no matter which Nexus device you own (US or the rest of the world).
Other annoyances:
1) There's no way to configure the keyboard click sound or its volume - in Android 4.4 I could clearly hear keypresses, in Android 5.0 they are practically mute.
2) There's no gallery app and the Photos app is an abomination. The Gallery app from 4.4 hardly works (it crashes when you try to edit a photo).
3) Backup settings have been modified and now they don't allow to specifically backup /sdcard/DCIM - now it's done via Photos.
To tell you the truth I cannot find a single worthy Android 5.0 feature that I really love and appreciate.

I only use my gmail account for the play store and hangouts. I have zero interest in my gmail email, I've got my own exchange server and work's. So I don't have the gmail syncing emails, contacts or calendar so why is it that the new calendar is full of gmail entries and emails from my wife show her gmail image rather than the image I've added to her exchange contact? The contact app shows the right image so why not when accessing my own exchange server? If I get an email from her work address which is on the same exchange contact I get the right image.
In the new form over function calendar there's no option for month view. Sure you can tap the month but in 4.4 you could open it up at the month view and see exactly what days had events on them.
Unless someone who's played around with it more than I have has some solutions I'll be heading back to 4.4 as 5 adds nothing for me.

Galaxy s4 tips and tricks: Get the most out of lollipop

GALAXY S4 TIPS AND TRICKS: GET THE MOST OUT OF LOLLIPOP
Ever since the Galaxy S4 got the Lollipop update, the old beast has been chugging along just fine. We're so fond of the S4 that we thought we'd share our ultimate list of Galaxy S4 tips and tricks, specifically for the Lollipop update. The Galaxy S4 is still a great phone, but read on to see just how much greater you can make it.
1. Disable S Voice for faster navigation
S Voice can be launched by double-pressing the S4's home key. This shortcut actually slows down the home key response, however, because TouchWiz pauses momentarily after the first press, waiting to see if you press it a second time, before taking you to the home screen. Go to S Voice, press the menu soft key, select Settings and uncheck the box next to Open via the Home Key to make home key navigation faster.
2. Turn off annoying Samsung sounds
While you're at it, why not turn off some of those annoying Samsung sounds? Even if you like them I can assure you that everyone on the train, at work and in the supermarket hates them. To do the world a favor, go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications > Other Sounds and un-check the boxes for as many sounds as you can live without.
3. Use shortcuts to call or message contacts
Why use messy menu buttons when a gesture will suffice? In your contacts list you can simply swipe a contact's name to the left or right to instantly call or message them. Now you can stay in touch more easily and save time while you're doing it.
4. Access the Galaxy S4's hidden settings
There's a great app called Note 2 Hidden Settings that also works with other Galaxy devices, including the S4. It won't work with some carrier-branded models, but it's worth installing it and giving it a shot because there's heaps of cool stuff in this app.
5. Secure your lock screen notifications
Lollipop comes with lock screen notifications meaning you don't have to completely unlock your phone just to read a text or email. But perhaps you don't feel comfortable having the contents of your notifications plastered all over your lock screen for anyone see. If so, go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications. You can select which apps will display content on the lock screen in Application notifications and the level of content in While locked.
6. Use your phone to control the TV
Download the WatchOn app and use it to set up your TV guide, favorite channels, control your TV, set-top box and plenty more. You can even put it on your lock screen or the notifications shade to make sure you're always the couch commando in charge.
7. Use your voice for hands-free control
Did you know your S4 has lots of voice control options? You can use your voice to turn off alarms, take photos, play music and answer or reject calls. Just go to Settings > My Device > Voice Control and flip the switches for the commands you want to use. You can also use S Voice to set reminders or check the weather.
8. Get a better launcher
If TouchWiz feels a little slow to you, why not replace with a faster launcher such as Google Now Launcher, Nova Launcher or Action launcher? Give them a try – they're free and you can always switch back if you want to.
9. Make your own Qi wireless charger
If you want the wireless charging experience that the Galaxy S6 offers, without needing to fork out a fortune to actually get an S6, why not buy a wireless charging pack? All you need to do then is take the back off your phone and align the tab as instructed in the packaging, before replacing the phone's back panel.
10. Activate Smart stay
Smart stay uses your phone's front-facing camera to detect whether you're looking at the screen or not, and makes sure that the screen remains on for as long as you look at it. This is great if you want to have a short screen timeout but also do a lot of reading on your phone.
To activate Smart stay, go to Settings > My device > Smart screen and press Smart stay.
11. Customize your lock screen
Don't settle for a boring old lock screen, add a camera and dialer shortcut, select a clock or private message and give it some pizzazz with a custom wallpaper. Go to Settings > My Device > Lock Screen and check the box for camera, then customize your lock screen widgets.
12. Customize your Quick Settings
Why settle for the standard Quick Settings when you can curate a custom batch of the most useful toggles and switches for the way you use your phone? You can even arrange them exactly how you like. Swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the little grid in the top right corner and then the little pencil to edit and rearrange your Quick Settings.
13. Make the keyboard smarter
If you're using the stock Samsung keyboard, make sure you have both predictive text and swipe typing enabled.You'll be amazed at how much time they can save you. Go to the keyboard and long press the button to the left of the space bar. Tap the Settings cog and make sure Predictive Text is on and that Keyboard Swipe is set to Continuous Input. You could also replace the keyboard with SwiftKey or another keyboard app.
14. Use Do Not Disturb mode
Another great Lollipop feature is Priority Notifications, which is also known as Do Not Disturb mode. It lets you set times where you won't be interrupted by any but the most critical notifications or alarms. You can keep calls from your family and boss on the white list, set days and times of the week and choose between calls, messages and calendar reminders. Go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications > Interruptions and get busy.
15. Supercharge your camera
Install the Samsung Smart Camera app and connect your phone to your camera with NFC to trasfer photo faster, use your phone as a remote viewfinder (hello, selfie sticks) and more. Best of all, your camera will automatically connect to your phone when it's on.
16. Always get the best display
One of the best things about Samsung displays is that they adapt to different conditions, so you always get the best possible viewing experience, whether you're reading, looking at photos or watching a movie. Just got to Settings > My Device > Display > Screen Mode and choose Adapt Display or check out the other options.
17. Try the floating keyboard
Your keyboard isn't actually locked to the bottom of the screen. Depending on what you're doing, a smaller, floating keyboard might be more suitable. Go to the keyboard, long press the button to the left of the space bar and tap the tile with the two overlapping boxes. Your keyboard will shrink a little and be movable.
18. Save battery with smarter Wi-Fi
If you have your Wi-Fi set to disconnect whenever the screen is off, you might think you're saving battery. That's not the case. Most of us turn our screen on an average of 150 times a day, so keeping Wi-Fi connected is actually better than having it turn off and on and search for connections every time. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the soft menu key and then Advanced and set Keep Wi-Fi on During Sleep to Always.
19. Fix bugs in Safe Mode
If your Galaxy S4 is acting strangely, you might want to restart it in Safe mode until you solve the problem. To do so, simply turn your S4 off and then back on again. As soon as you see the Samsung screen, press and hold the volume down key and you will see that many apps have been disabled when it boots up. To get out of safe mode, just turn your phone off and back on again.
20. Make things simpler with Easy Mode
If you're a bit bamboozled by all the Samsung widgets and doodads in TouchWiz, give Easy Mode a shot. It'll clear things up, so you only see the most important stuff, as well as enlarge icons and make everything easier to manage and navigate. Go to Settings > My Device > Easy Mode to make the switch.
22. Always get the best photo
Let's face it, not all of us are Pulitzer Prize-winning photographers. So when a moment really maters, why not shoot a burst of pics and have your S4 choose the best one for you? Just open the camera app, tap Mode and Best Photo. Hold down the shutter to shoot a bunch of pis and let your phone choose the best one automatically.
23. Get better battery life
The Galaxy S4 doesn't have the stock Android Lollipop Battery Saver mode but it does have Samsung's Power Saver Mode. Go to Settings > My Device > Power Saving Mode and flip the switch to enable it. It works by disabling certain functions in order to conserve battery life. You can choose which functions these are in the settings.
25. Make security smarter
Why would you want to unlock your phone with a PIN or pattern when you're at home where (I hope) you can trust everyone? That's where Lollipop's cool Smart Lock feature comes in. You can save the trouble of unlocking your phone in certain places by adding a trusted face or voice, or a smartwatch or other trusted device.
26. Make Chrome easier and better
Chrome on Lollipop is a little annoying. By default your Chrome tabs will live individually in your recent apps list (accessed by long pressing the home button). If you prefer the old way – all your tabs contained in Chrome itself – go to Chrome, tap the three dots in the top right-hand corner, select Settings and turn off Merge Tabs and Apps
Press the thanks button if I helped you!
Any problems? Ask me!

munimjaffer said:
GALAXY S4 TIPS AND TRICKS: GET THE MOST OUT OF LOLLIPOP
Ever since the Galaxy S4 got the Lollipop update, the old beast has been chugging along just fine. We're so fond of the S4 that we thought we'd share our ultimate list of Galaxy S4 tips and tricks, specifically for the Lollipop update. The Galaxy S4 is still a great phone, but read on to see just how much greater you can make it.
1. Disable S Voice for faster navigation
S Voice can be launched by double-pressing the S4's home key. This shortcut actually slows down the home key response, however, because TouchWiz pauses momentarily after the first press, waiting to see if you press it a second time, before taking you to the home screen. Go to S Voice, press the menu soft key, select Settings and uncheck the box next to Open via the Home Key to make home key navigation faster.
2. Turn off annoying Samsung sounds
While you're at it, why not turn off some of those annoying Samsung sounds? Even if you like them I can assure you that everyone on the train, at work and in the supermarket hates them. To do the world a favor, go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications > Other Sounds and un-check the boxes for as many sounds as you can live without.
3. Use shortcuts to call or message contacts
Why use messy menu buttons when a gesture will suffice? In your contacts list you can simply swipe a contact's name to the left or right to instantly call or message them. Now you can stay in touch more easily and save time while you're doing it.
4. Access the Galaxy S4's hidden settings
There's a great app called Note 2 Hidden Settings that also works with other Galaxy devices, including the S4. It won't work with some carrier-branded models, but it's worth installing it and giving it a shot because there's heaps of cool stuff in this app.
5. Secure your lock screen notifications
Lollipop comes with lock screen notifications meaning you don't have to completely unlock your phone just to read a text or email. But perhaps you don't feel comfortable having the contents of your notifications plastered all over your lock screen for anyone see. If so, go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications. You can select which apps will display content on the lock screen in Application notifications and the level of content in While locked.
6. Use your phone to control the TV
Download the WatchOn app and use it to set up your TV guide, favorite channels, control your TV, set-top box and plenty more. You can even put it on your lock screen or the notifications shade to make sure you're always the couch commando in charge.
7. Use your voice for hands-free control
Did you know your S4 has lots of voice control options? You can use your voice to turn off alarms, take photos, play music and answer or reject calls. Just go to Settings > My Device > Voice Control and flip the switches for the commands you want to use. You can also use S Voice to set reminders or check the weather.
8. Get a better launcher
If TouchWiz feels a little slow to you, why not replace with a faster launcher such as Google Now Launcher, Nova Launcher or Action launcher? Give them a try – they're free and you can always switch back if you want to.
9. Make your own Qi wireless charger
If you want the wireless charging experience that the Galaxy S6 offers, without needing to fork out a fortune to actually get an S6, why not buy a wireless charging pack? All you need to do then is take the back off your phone and align the tab as instructed in the packaging, before replacing the phone's back panel.
10. Activate Smart stay
Smart stay uses your phone's front-facing camera to detect whether you're looking at the screen or not, and makes sure that the screen remains on for as long as you look at it. This is great if you want to have a short screen timeout but also do a lot of reading on your phone.
To activate Smart stay, go to Settings > My device > Smart screen and press Smart stay.
11. Customize your lock screen
Don't settle for a boring old lock screen, add a camera and dialer shortcut, select a clock or private message and give it some pizzazz with a custom wallpaper. Go to Settings > My Device > Lock Screen and check the box for camera, then customize your lock screen widgets.
12. Customize your Quick Settings
Why settle for the standard Quick Settings when you can curate a custom batch of the most useful toggles and switches for the way you use your phone? You can even arrange them exactly how you like. Swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the little grid in the top right corner and then the little pencil to edit and rearrange your Quick Settings.
13. Make the keyboard smarter
If you're using the stock Samsung keyboard, make sure you have both predictive text and swipe typing enabled.You'll be amazed at how much time they can save you. Go to the keyboard and long press the button to the left of the space bar. Tap the Settings cog and make sure Predictive Text is on and that Keyboard Swipe is set to Continuous Input. You could also replace the keyboard with SwiftKey or another keyboard app.
14. Use Do Not Disturb mode
Another great Lollipop feature is Priority Notifications, which is also known as Do Not Disturb mode. It lets you set times where you won't be interrupted by any but the most critical notifications or alarms. You can keep calls from your family and boss on the white list, set days and times of the week and choose between calls, messages and calendar reminders. Go to Settings > My Device > Sounds and Notifications > Interruptions and get busy.
15. Supercharge your camera
Install the Samsung Smart Camera app and connect your phone to your camera with NFC to trasfer photo faster, use your phone as a remote viewfinder (hello, selfie sticks) and more. Best of all, your camera will automatically connect to your phone when it's on.
16. Always get the best display
One of the best things about Samsung displays is that they adapt to different conditions, so you always get the best possible viewing experience, whether you're reading, looking at photos or watching a movie. Just got to Settings > My Device > Display > Screen Mode and choose Adapt Display or check out the other options.
17. Try the floating keyboard
Your keyboard isn't actually locked to the bottom of the screen. Depending on what you're doing, a smaller, floating keyboard might be more suitable. Go to the keyboard, long press the button to the left of the space bar and tap the tile with the two overlapping boxes. Your keyboard will shrink a little and be movable.
18. Save battery with smarter Wi-Fi
If you have your Wi-Fi set to disconnect whenever the screen is off, you might think you're saving battery. That's not the case. Most of us turn our screen on an average of 150 times a day, so keeping Wi-Fi connected is actually better than having it turn off and on and search for connections every time. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the soft menu key and then Advanced and set Keep Wi-Fi on During Sleep to Always.
19. Fix bugs in Safe Mode
If your Galaxy S4 is acting strangely, you might want to restart it in Safe mode until you solve the problem. To do so, simply turn your S4 off and then back on again. As soon as you see the Samsung screen, press and hold the volume down key and you will see that many apps have been disabled when it boots up. To get out of safe mode, just turn your phone off and back on again.
20. Make things simpler with Easy Mode
If you're a bit bamboozled by all the Samsung widgets and doodads in TouchWiz, give Easy Mode a shot. It'll clear things up, so you only see the most important stuff, as well as enlarge icons and make everything easier to manage and navigate. Go to Settings > My Device > Easy Mode to make the switch.
22. Always get the best photo
Let's face it, not all of us are Pulitzer Prize-winning photographers. So when a moment really maters, why not shoot a burst of pics and have your S4 choose the best one for you? Just open the camera app, tap Mode and Best Photo. Hold down the shutter to shoot a bunch of pis and let your phone choose the best one automatically.
23. Get better battery life
The Galaxy S4 doesn't have the stock Android Lollipop Battery Saver mode but it does have Samsung's Power Saver Mode. Go to Settings > My Device > Power Saving Mode and flip the switch to enable it. It works by disabling certain functions in order to conserve battery life. You can choose which functions these are in the settings.
25. Make security smarter
Why would you want to unlock your phone with a PIN or pattern when you're at home where (I hope) you can trust everyone? That's where Lollipop's cool Smart Lock feature comes in. You can save the trouble of unlocking your phone in certain places by adding a trusted face or voice, or a smartwatch or other trusted device.
26. Make Chrome easier and better
Chrome on Lollipop is a little annoying. By default your Chrome tabs will live individually in your recent apps list (accessed by long pressing the home button). If you prefer the old way – all your tabs contained in Chrome itself – go to Chrome, tap the three dots in the top right-hand corner, select Settings and turn off Merge Tabs and Apps
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How To Guide [GUIDE] Device Settings Menu | Part IV - S Pen, Advanced Features, Maintenance, Apps

Device Settings Menu Guide, Tips & Discussions
Part 4 - Advanced features, Device maintenance, Apps
If you're new to this series or want to see the index, please read the Introductory Post first.​
Advanced features
Link to Windows: ENABLED!! You can text, get notifications, call, see phone photos and in fact run Apps on your phone via your computer! View features here.
Call & text on other devices: You can make calls and text using your Watch, Tab or Speaker and they are routed via your main device. Thus, if you are logged into the same Samsung account on your Watch, you can call using it even if you are not in range of your primary phone and still use the phone mobile plan. For this, your devices need to be connected to the internet. Disable Use Wi-Fi only to use this feature even if your primary phone is on Mobile Data.
Continue apps on other devices: You can copy on one device and paste on the other that is logged into the same Samsung Account. Since this feature is enabled by default, be careful if you are signed it to the same account on your kid's device and do not want to let them see your copied text or pictures. It also supports apps (few for now) that can be synced to other device's recents.
Samsung DeX: Take the powerhouse with you! You can use your phone to get a desktop-like experience on your TV and PC screens. You can use it to make PPTs, manage photos on the device and endless possibilities. Your PC or TV becomes a desktop with your phone as the CPU! It works both wirelessly and by using an HDMI to USB C wire.
Android Auto: Must-have for car owners. My car, for now, does not support Android Auto, so can anyone add something to this?
Quick Share: You can make shareable links to share large files and even use Wi-Fi direct to share with nearby devices. I use the former much to avoid using my GDrive storage while sharing.
Labs: I have enabled both Multi window for all apps (if apps can use the feature, why not?) and Full screen in Split screen view (I will use split-screen rarely and when I do, I want full real estate).
Side key: When you Press and hold the power key, Wake Bixby is set to default and this is why you were struggling to find Power off menu in the beginning. You could still see the power off options in the Quick panel and also do it by pressing side and volume down keys together. Since they have now got rid of the Bixby button, I choose to get used to this since I power off my device rarely. Quick launch camera with Double press is great for the photographer in you. Pay with Samsung Pay is accessible by swiping up from the bottom of the lock-screen too! Open app will require unlock anyways!
Motion and gestures:
Lift to wake: Enabled since I pick it up mostly to see notifications and with fast unlock, it is a breeze to unlock device! Can anyone comment on the battery usage?
Double tap to turn on screen: Enabled. Useful when I just need to check notifications.
Double tap to turn off screen: Enabled. No need to go for physical buttons. If you use launchers like Nova, you can enable this feature in their settings.
Keep screen on while viewing: Would want to keep this ON sometimes (maybe a quick tile?) but sceptical about battery usage!
Alert when phone picked up: If enabled, you can purposely lift the phone (or when you lift to take it) just to check if you missed some call or messages.
Mute with gestures: Mute the annoying calls by just putting your hand above the screen or just turning your phone. The latter becomes a reflex after a few days!
Palm swipe to capture: Might be useful if you don't want to hit buttons. Enabled only because it does not interfere with any other gestures or accidental touches.
One-handed mode: A much-needed feature when you're on-the-go. If you hide the navigation bar, you cannot check 'Button' mode anymore. OHM is also a shortcut in my Edge panel that is easily accessible from one hand.
Bixby Routines: I have used much of Google Home Routines, Alexa, Samsung Routines and Tasker so I need to see about this.
Smart suggestions: You get suggestions with Samsung Keyboard, Widget, Calendar, Reminders and Messages based on the activity you are doing or what you receive from the other side (actually what is visible on your screen).
Screenshots and screen recording:
Show toolbar after capturing: You can scroll capture, crop and draw, add tags and share the screenshot as soon as you take it! Can be disabled when you need to take bulk screenshots since the toolbar will come in between.
Delete after sharing from toolbar: Storage saver! Enabled it since when I share a screenshot, it is mostly for one-time.
Hide status and navigation bars: Switched to Enabled! Yes, I don't want to show them. Disable from here when you want to take screenshots for embedding them into phone screens.
Format: JPG since I mostly share them. Switch to PNG for greater quality when you need to!
Screen recording: Choose if you want to record Sound from the mic while screen recording, set Video quality, set Selfie Video size and choose if you want to show taps and touches (useful when sharing a guide).
Video call effects: Just like Google Meet, you can hide your background and use a clearer voice. Works with Duo only for now.
Game Launcher: Optimizes and enhances your gameplay. You can also hide your games from appearing in the menu while they are categorized by Game Launcher.
Video brightness [Formerly Video Enhancer]: Makes colour vibrant and increases brightness while you are on chosen Video apps. Make sure to disable them for editing apps so that you get idea of the real colours and brightness of the video.
Dual Messenger: You can use two separate accounts for compatible apps (WhatsApp, Facebook) and restrict your contacts for the second ones. Suggested in case you have multiple accounts. You can even Use separate contact list to make your other WhatsApp number refer not to your main contact list. For more James Bond feel, use 'Secure Folder'. Delete all my data in Menu when you want to flush history.
[Discontinued] Finger sensor gestures: Open/close notification panel or launch Samsung Pay using the fingerprint sensor. Make this a habit. Looks cool.
[Discontinued] Device assistance app: Set to Google. Explore settings for the DAA - it was really cool to see Hindi (India) as an option there. Analyzing on-screen text/images is a very useful feature. Read the guide here and here on how to use Google Assistant like a pro.
[Discontinued] Multi window: One of the best features and legacy of Samsung and for Note, it's a must-use one. By default, you can use SSV (Split screen view) by selecting it for the required app in recents. 'Use Recents button' is much faster. 'Pop-up view action' can interfere if you generally drag down the notification panel from near the corners (enabled for me).
[Discontinued] Direct Share: Helps you save an extra tap while sharing something. Ninja guide here.
[Discontinued] Touch sensitivity: In case you use screen protectors or live in Antarctica (gloves), Enabled. Disabled for me.
Advanced features > S Pen
This section is exclusive to the former Note and now the S Ultra series so you should definitely give some time exploring it.
Air actions: Displays the availability of the S Pen and its charging level. Configure Pen button actions for each compatible App and master control. I've tweaked it a little bit to make 'Scroll up/down' for Chrome and 'Single press' to 'Skip' while 'Double press' to 'Play/Pause' for Music. You can always tap 'Reset S Pen' in Menu in case you want to get back the default settings.
S Pen unlock: If enabled, you can unlock your phone with your S Pen in case it was taken out while the device was unlocked. This helps you to stay with your S Pen and get back to work on your device if its screen turns off. In case you've enabled it, please keep an eye on your S Pen.
Screen off memo: Very useful when enabled. Just take the S Pen out while the device is unlocked and start solving math problems, writing notes or just passing your time with the oddly satisfying scratching noise.
Quick create notes: Holding the S Pen button, tap the screen twice and you can start taking a note. Looks cool if nothing, right?
S Pen to text: You can now use your S Pen in input fields and convert your handwriting to text. Even after they are converted, you can use S Pen to modify the text (insert or delete word or space) with marks defined in Learn how to edit with your S Pen.
Air view: Very useful features. Review them. 'Learn about S Pen features' on the bottom or watch this 30-min video.
Show air command icon: I don't like any over-the-screen icons so have disabled it. You can always open the Shortcuts menu by tapping the S Pen button while it's near the screen. I've also set 'Open Air Command' 'when S Pen is removed'.
Warn if S Pen is left behind: Works when the screen is off since if it's on, you probably be using the remote feature.
Sound; Vibration: Enabled since I don't like accidents. 'Oper Air command' in when S Pen is removed also helps in this case.
Digital Wellbeing
To be filled
Battery and device care
Info: Add a home screen or edge panel shortcut to it as it's going to be really useful. Tap 'Optimize Now' once in a while. It includes virus scanning, memory cleaning, storage cleaning and battery optimization. Read below for more on these.
Battery:
Battery Usage: Do review this once in a while in order to identify culprits. 'Refresh' for real-time monitoring. In an ideal case, all of your compatible apps should be set to 'Optimise battery usage'. In case any of them not working fine in the background and you need them to, disable the optimization for the app. You can click an app (after clicking the displayed graphs) and then Limit usage to put it on sleep or deep sleep. This is permanent until you change, right?
Power saving: You get this option in Quick Bar too. It turns off AOD and 5G while limiting CPU to 70% and decreases the brightness by 10%. If you enable Limit apps and Home screen, you will get a dark theme with only a few selected apps. Do this when you are very low on battery and need it to pick up calls only.
Background usage limits: Enable Put unused apps to sleep so that your device regularly puts apps to sleep. Review the Sleeping apps and Deep sleeping apps if you are not getting notifications from an app. You can also manually add apps here for those you know you only use rarely and don't need notifications or background usage. For apps you never want to kill, put them in Never sleeping apps. Many apps would tell you to put them in here. Unless it is necessary, try them without putting them here.
Wireless power sharing: Enable it only when needed. You can skip taking the charger of your watch and charge it from your device! This is called Reverse Wireless Charging.
More battery settings:
Adaptive battery: How is it different from Put unused apps to sleep?
Processing speed: Default is optimised and should be good enough. You can turn your phone into a beast with High and Maximum modes.
Show battery percentage: Using only a simple battery icon will always confuse you about the real juice left. Enable it!
Show charging information: If enabled, this will show Charging information even when AOD is off. I like it.
Fast charging: It is for 15W adapters. Disabled by default and this is the reason you are not seeing Fast Charging text while using an older but Fast charger. You can keep it disabled if you charge overnight from a 15W charger.
Super fast charging: It is for 25W or 45W chargers.
Fast wireless charging: For wireless charging which is already slow, so enabled!
Protect battery: For usual days, you can keep this enabled. Limits your battery to charge up to 85% only which is very good for you battery health
Storage: Love to see 512 GB here but only when it's the denominator. User Data is also categorized so you can review and remove files of different types. 'Storage settings' summarizes device storage and you can tap the items to get to respective apps or apps settings. You also get to see the Large files and empty the Recycle bin of Gallery and Messages.
Memory:
Tap 'Clean Now' to clear your RAM. Likewise, for battery, these apps may appear here again. However, you might not need to clear your RAM anytime on Android.
Excluded apps: These apps never go out of RAM.
RAM Plus: SWAP finally! Since you cannot decrease it further from 2 GB, why not use 8 GB then! You will get a total RAM of 20 GB (with 12 GB RAM model)!! Restart required.
Device Security: The virus scanning is powered by McAfee. Since it's disabled by default, enabling it never hurts.
Software update is here.
Diagnostics checks your sensors, touch screen, ports and more. This should be the first thing to do when you face any issues or want to make a report on the phone to send.
Menu > Automation:
Auto optimize daily: Enabled at 10 PM because Sleep tracking apps are working in the night. You can choose to close apps to free memory if you need everything clean.
Auto restart at set times: Enable if you are obsessed about that restart feeling! I won't do it because it would clear all the notifications that I would have missed.
Adaptive power saving: Enabled, let us see how it works. Any experience?
Auto scan for malware: Why not?
Apps
All of your apps settings including Usage, Battery, Storage (Clear Data/Cache), Uninstalling and Force stopping, Notifications settings, Permissions, Defaults and Version/App details in store. I use 'Sort by size' with 'Show system apps' to occasionally review the apps taking the most storage. Change your 'Default apps', 'App permissions' and 'Special access' in the Menu. You can set 'set default apps automatically' as well. In 'Set as default', I've disabled 'Open links in app' even if they're not installed since I get annoyed when I have not installed an app because I want to browse on Chrome only (reduce usage of separate apps whenever possible). Read about 'Instant Apps' here (you can use these even without installing them). In case you mess up with the defaults and notifications, tap 'Reset app preferences'.

-- Reserved for FAQs --