The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To set up a new Samsung Galaxy phone, follow its first-run prompts, transfer only the data you want with Smart Switch, install available software updates, turn on the supported lost-device feature, and review Auto Blocker. The exact screens and options vary by Galaxy model, Android and One UI version, carrier, and country.
Complete the first-run setup
Turn on the phone and follow its on-screen prompts to connect to a network, sign in to your accounts, and choose device preferences. Setup screens differ by model and software version; Samsung’s Galaxy setup guide also shows how to begin a Smart Switch transfer during setup.
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Choose how to transfer data
Smart Switch can move selected information from an old phone. You do not have to transfer everything: review the available categories and choose what you need. Keep the old device until you have checked that important data arrived on the new one.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →| Option | When it suits you | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Wired Smart Switch | You have a compatible cable and prefer a direct connection. | Samsung’s setup instructions use a USB-C cable. A compatible cable you already own may work; buying a new one is not automatically necessary. The old phone may ask you to authorize the connection. |
| Wireless Smart Switch | You prefer not to connect the phones with a cable. | Samsung documents wireless transfer for Secure Folder data; available choices and prompts can vary by device. Follow the Smart Switch instructions displayed on both phones. |
Smart Switch includes an authentication-code option for file transfers. If you transfer using an SD card or USB flash drive, Samsung also describes password or Samsung-account protection options for external-storage and Secure Folder encryption. Review the choices in the app before starting, particularly when using removable storage. See Samsung’s Smart Switch guidance for the applicable settings.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Install available software updates
After setup, check for updates and follow the instructions shown on the phone. Depending on the device, the menu may be called Software update or System updates; Samsung also documents updating through Smart Switch on a Windows PC or Mac. Menu labels and update availability vary. Samsung’s software update instructions cover the available routes.
Turn on lost-device recovery
Enable the find-device feature available for your Galaxy and confirm that you can access the account associated with it while you still have the phone. Samsung documents both Samsung and Google recovery routes, with paths that depend on One UI version. Follow the matching instructions in Samsung’s lost-device support guide; the service name and Settings path may differ by software version or region.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Review Auto Blocker and its tradeoffs
Samsung recommends using official app stores, keeping software current, and reviewing Auto Blocker. On supported software, the documented path is Settings → Security and privacy → Auto Blocker. If you do not see it, search Settings for “Auto Blocker” or consult local Samsung support, since availability and menus vary. Samsung says the feature can help block installs from unauthorized sources, commands sent over USB, and suspected malicious images in messaging apps. These are protections, not a guarantee that a device cannot be compromised. See Samsung’s Auto Blocker and malware guidance.
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Samsung’s US support guidance states: “Avoid using anti-malware apps. Samsung does not recommend third-party anti-malware products.” That is Samsung’s recommendation for Galaxy users, rather than a claim that any single setting eliminates security risks.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Auto Blocker also offers an optional Maximum restrictions mode on supported devices. It can add limits, but may interfere with device-admin apps and work profiles, messaging previews, shared albums, and location data in shared pictures. It also blocks 2G; where 2G is the only available network, that can disrupt calls, texts, and mobile data. Check Samsung’s Canada-specific Auto Blocker guidance for details, and use country-appropriate support if you are elsewhere. Choose the mode with those compatibility and connectivity costs in mind.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Decide whether to use Secure Folder
Secure Folder is optional and may not be available on every Galaxy. If it is present and useful to you, set its lock method and check what will move before resetting or giving away the old phone. Samsung’s current US guidance says creating new Secure Folder backups is no longer supported, though older backups can be restored and Smart Switch can transfer Secure Folder data. Verify the transfer on the new device before wiping the old one. See Samsung’s Secure Folder guidance for availability and migration details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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