How to Customize the Side Key on Samsung Galaxy Devices

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
One UI 6.1 - Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
You will need
Samsung Galaxy device running One UI 6.0 or later

Step by step

  1. 15 sec

    Open the Settings menu

    Unlock your device and locate the Settings app on your home screen or app drawer. Tap the gear icon to enter the main configuration menu.

  2. 15 sec

    Access Advanced features

    Scroll down the list of system options until you reach the Advanced features category. Tap this menu to reveal device-specific hardware settings.

  3. 10 sec

    Select Side button settings

    Tap the menu labeled Side button. This screen contains the customization controls for both the Double press and Press and hold actions.

  4. 30 sec

    Assign a Double press action

    Ensure the toggle for Double press is set to On. Choose between Quick launch camera or Open app. If you select Open app, tap the gear icon next to the selection to choose your preferred application from your installed list.

    Note: Quick launch camera is set by default for immediate access to photography.
  5. 30 sec

    Configure Press and hold behavior

    Review the options under the Press and hold section. You may select Wake Bixby to use Samsung's voice assistant or Power off menu to access shutdown, restart, and emergency calls.

    Note: Using the Power off menu is recommended for users who prefer standard physical power management.