Customize the Side button or Bixby key on Galaxy phones and tablets
If you can’t locate the Power button on your Galaxy device, there’s no need to worry. On most recent models, the traditional separate Power button and Bixby key have been merged into a singular Side button! This innovative button is versatile, allowing you to program it for various actions like powering down your device, summoning Bixby, or launching an app. Given the diversity across models featuring either a Side button or a distinct Bixby key, we provide detailed explanations of both, enabling you to fully understand and utilize what your device's button or key offers.
Note: Menu options and settings will vary by device model and OS version.
About the Side button
For devices operating on One UI 5.1.1 or later, a Side button replaces the traditional side key, offering customization for actions like activating Bixby or other specific functions. Modern Galaxy phones and tablets are equipped with Volume buttons and a Side button, occasionally referred to as keys. The Volume button adjusts sound levels as expected, while the Side button—or Power/Bixby button—can be pressed in various manners (short, long, or double press) to execute different commands. Depending on your model, these buttons are located on the device's left or right side.
Together, these buttons enable you to create personalized shortcuts for a smoother experience. Here are the standard functions available:
Activate Bixby Voice by long-pressing the Side button.
Toggle the screen on or off with a short press of the Side button.
Power on the device by long-pressing the Side button when it's off.
Capture the screen by simultaneously short-pressing the Side and Volume down buttons.
Access the power off menu by long-pressing both the Side and Volume down buttons while the device is on.
Launch the Camera or another app by double-pressing the Side button.
For Z Flip users, ensure the phone is open when using these shortcuts, as functionality may vary with the phone closed.
For more on Bixby setup and use, refer to our Bixby guide.
Also, you can power off your device via the Quick settings panel by swiping down from the top of the screen with two fingers, tapping the Power icon at the top right, and selecting Power off.
Customize the Side button
In case of accidental Bixby activations via the Side button, you can remap it for different functions. Navigate to Settings > Advanced features > Side button or Side key, and adjust as desired.
Options for Double press include:
Quick launch camera
Opening a specific app (via Settings icon selection)
For Press and hold, choose between:
Wake Bixby
Displaying the Power off menu (alternatively use the Quick settings panel or Bixby)
For comprehensive Bixby setup and usage instructions, see our Bixby guide.
About the Bixby key
Devices like the Galaxy Note 9, S8 series, and S10 and earlier models come with a dedicated Bixby key on the left side. This key can awaken Bixby or open specific apps, with customization for single or double presses, though long pressing always activates Bixby Voice.
For additional details about setting up and using Bixby, please check out our Bixby guide.
Customize the Bixby key
For those who do not want to use the Bixby key for its default purpose, it can be remapped to launch other applications or actions. To remap the Bixby key, open Bixby Assistant Home using the Bixby key and navigate through Menu > Settings > Bixby key to set your preferences. Select the option to single or double press to activate Bixby or execute a quick command.
Note: This function may be turned off when you reset Bixby or deactivate the chosen app or quick command.
Customize the buttons with Accessibility settings
To easily access Accessibility features, customize your Side and Volume buttons to activate desired settings swiftly. This is achieved through Settings > Accessibility > Advanced settings. Here, you can choose various shortcuts like the Accessibility menu or Magnification for quick activation via the Side and Volume up buttons.
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