How to Activate the Always On Display Feature on Your Galaxy Phone

Last Update date : Oct 28. 2021

The display of the Galaxy phone is set to turn off when not in use, and only appears when you tap the phone screen. However, you can set the device to display information while the screen is turned off. This guide will teach you how to set up this feature, called the Always On Display feature.

Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version. To update your mobile device's software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to Settings > Software update.

Step 2. Tap on Download and install.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Activate the Always On Display feature

When the screen is off, you can view information such as a clock or calendar or control music playback on the screen. You can also see notifications for new messages or missed calls.

By default, Always On Display only appears when you tap the screen. Follow these steps to change the settings to allow the screen to be displayed continuously or for a set amount of time.

Step 1. Launch the Settings app, and then select Lock screen.

Step 2. Tap Always On Display.

Step 3. Tap the switch at the top of the screen to turn it on, and then choose the mode that best suits your needs.

always on display enable
  • Tap to show: The Always On Display will appear for a short time after tapping the screen.
  • Show always: The Always On Display will be continuously shown whenever the phone is locked.
  • Show as scheduled: You can set up a schedule for when Always On Display will display. For example, you can make it display during the day but turn off at night.

Note:

  • The brightness of the Always On Display may change automatically depending on the lighting conditions.
  • Always On Display is optimized to use very little battery. Any setting that keeps the display on longer will use more battery.
  • The Always On Display option may be grayed out if you have Power saving mode enabled. Turn off Power saving mode to use Always On Display.

When you receive a message, missed call, or app notification, a notification icon is displayed. Double-tap the notification icon to view Always On Display notifications.

always on display notification

Note: If the screen is locked, you must unlock it to view notifications.

You can disable Always On Display in Settings screen just like you enabled it. Another way is to simply turn it on and off in the notifications panel. For this, follow the steps below.

Step 1. Open the notifications panel, swipe downwards.

Step 2. Tap the Always On Display button to deactivate it.

Step 3. If you cannot find Always On Display, tap Add (+) icon and drag the button over to add it. 

always on display deactivate

Note: Device screenshots and menu may vary depending on the device model and software version.

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