Set up the Side button or Bixby key on your Galaxy phone

Last Update date : Feb 27. 2025
Close-up of the Side button on a Galaxy phone, located on the right side under the Volume button.

If you can’t locate the Power button on your Galaxy phone, there’s no need to worry. On most recent models, the traditional Power button and Bixby key have been merged into a single Side button. This innovative button is versatile, allowing you to program it for various actions (such as powering down your device, summoning Bixby, or launching an app). Given the diversity across Galaxy models, which may feature either a Side button or a distinct Bixby key, we’ve provided detailed explanations of both. This will enable you to fully understand and utilize your device's capabilities.

Note: Information provided is specific to mobile devices sold in Canada. Screen availability and settings may vary by wireless service provider, software version and model.

Modern Galaxy phones (and tablets) are equipped with Volume buttons and a multifunction Side button. The Volume buttons adjust sound levels as expected. The Side button (also known as the Bixby key on some models) can be pressed in various ways (short, long or double press) to execute different commands. Depending on your model, these buttons are typically located on either the left or right side of the mobile device.

A close-up view of the side of a light blue Galaxy phone, showing the Volume buttons and a multifunction Side button, with three camera lenses and a small sensor visible. A close-up view of the side of a light blue Galaxy phone, showing the Volume buttons and a multifunction Side button, with three camera lenses and a small sensor visible.

Together, these buttons enable you to create personalized shortcuts for a smoother experience. Here are the standard functions available:

  • Activate Bixby Voice: Press and hold the Side button.
  • Switch the screen on or off: Press the Side button shortly.
  • Power on the device: Press and hold the Side button when the device is off.
  • Capture the screen: Simultaneously press the Side and Volume Down buttons.
  • Access the power off menu: Press both the Side and Volume Down buttons when the device is on.
  • Launch the Camera or another app: Double-press the Side button.

Notes:

  • Galaxy Z Flip specific instruction: Ensure the phone is open when using these shortcuts, as functionality may vary when the phone is closed.
  • Powering off using the Quick settings panel: Swipe down from the top of the screen with two fingers to access the Quick settings panel. Tap the Power icon, then select Power off. Confirm by tapping Power off again.

To prevent accidental Bixby activations or to personalize your device further, you can remap the Side button to perform different functions tailored to your preferences.

1 Open the Settings menu. Then, navigate to and tap Advanced features.
2 Tap Side button to adjust your desired settings.
Side button settings menu on a Galaxy phone.

The options for Double press include:

  • Camera
  • Flashlight
  • Magnifier
  • Voice Recorder
  • Samsung Notes
  • Samsung Capture
  • Modes and Routines
  • Apps

The options for Long press include:

  • Digital assistant
  • Bixby
  • Power off menu (alternatively, use the Quick settings panel or Bixby)
Hand pressing the Bixby key on a Galaxy phone.

Devices such as the Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy S8 series and Galaxy S10, as well as earlier models, are equipped with a dedicated Bixby key located on the left side. This button can be used to wake up Bixby or open specific apps, offering customization options. However, pressing and holding the Bixby key will always activate Bixby Voice.

For users who prefer to tailor their device's functionality, the Bixby key (or button) doesn't have to serve its default purpose. It can be easily remapped to launch other apps or execute different actions, allowing for greater personalization and efficiency.

Note: The customization options mentioned below are specific to devices equipped with a dedicated Bixby key.

1 Open the Settings menu. Then, navigate to and tap Advanced features.
2 Tap Bixby.

Note: You can also press and hold the Bixby key and then ask Bixby to open Bixby Settings directly.

3 Tap Bixby key and then set your preferences as desired.
Bixby menu on a Galaxy phone, highlighting the Bixby key option.

Note: The Bixby key feature may be turned off when you reset Bixby or deactivate the chosen app or quick command.

To enhance ease of use, you can customize your Side and Volume buttons to activate desired Accessibility features directly from these controls.

1 Open the Settings menu. Then, navigate to and tap Accessibility.
2 Tap Advanced settings.
3 Select Side and Volume up buttons or Volume up and down buttons.
4 From here, you can choose your shortcuts, such as TalkBack, High contrast fonts or Universal switch.
Volume up and down buttons settings menu on a Galaxy phone, showing options to choose functions when the buttons are pressed and held for 3 seconds.

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