For the most useful Galaxy features that keep helping after setup, start with Modes and Routines for automation, Secure Folder for selected private content, and lost-device settings while your phone is still with you. Quick Share, Battery protection, and Quick panel controls are also worth checking if your model and software offer them. Samsung notes that feature availability and menu names vary by device and software version, so treat the paths below as starting points and confirm them on your phone.
Automate recurring tasks with Modes and Routines
Galaxy Routines run selected actions when chosen conditions are met. Samsung’s support guidance describes a routine as an “If” condition paired with a “Then” action. You can begin with a recommended routine or make your own.
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On the documented Android 14 and 13 interface, open Settings > Modes and Routines. Samsung points users on Android 12 and 11 to the Bixby Routines app instead. Labels and availability can differ, so search Settings for “Routines” if the path does not match your screen.
- Open the Routines screen and choose the option to add a routine.
- Set the condition under “If,” such as arriving at a location or reaching a time you choose.
- Choose the action under “Then,” such as changing a notification or display setting.
- Name the routine and save it. Check the routine list later if the phone behaves unexpectedly.
Practical examples in Samsung’s guidance include silencing notifications and turning on Wi-Fi at work, or lowering brightness and enabling a screen filter at bedtime. Samsung’s older Bixby Routines guidance says changed settings revert by default when a routine’s trigger ends; behavior may differ across software versions.
#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
If a setting or app starts changing or becomes restricted without an obvious reason, review active routines. A routine may be responsible for the change.
Put selected content in Secure Folder
Secure Folder creates a protected space for selected files, photos, and apps, guarded by a separate passcode or biometric lock. It is useful when you want an additional lock around particular content, rather than simply relying on the phone’s main screen lock.
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.
On supported devices, Samsung documents this route: Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder. Follow the prompts to set it up and choose the lock method. If Secure Folder is not listed there, Samsung says the device may not support it. Screens can also differ by carrier or software.
Secure Folder’s separate lock is not a backup. Keep another appropriate copy of important files if you need protection against loss or device failure.
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.
Prepare lost-device settings before you need them
Samsung’s US support guidance describes Find My Mobile as a way to locate a missing Galaxy device. Check its current settings and account requirements while you still have the phone; do not assume location or remote controls are enabled just because the device is a Galaxy.
The same guidance describes an optional Guardian, who may be able to locate the device, enable Emergency mode, and monitor battery status. Review the options actually shown on your phone and choose a trusted person only if you want to use that feature. These controls can help with preparedness, but they do not guarantee that a lost device can be found or accessed in every circumstance.
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.
Check convenience and maintenance controls on your software version
Samsung’s update notes for the SM-S926B describe changes to Quick Share, Battery protection, and Quick panel customization. These are update-specific examples, not promises that every Galaxy phone has the same controls. Check your installed software and the support information for your model before relying on a particular option.
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| Feature | What to check | Why it may be useful |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Share | The SM-S926B update notes describe recommended devices and continuation of some transfers over the internet if devices move too far apart. | Sharing may be easier when nearby devices move out of range, if your version supports the capability. |
| Battery protection | Those same model-specific notes describe an added control for a maximum charge range between 80% and 95% in that update. | Check whether your phone offers a charging limit that suits your routine. |
| Quick panel | The notes describe customization of the Quick panel layout. | Put the controls you use most within easier reach, if the layout options are available. |
The 80%–95% range above is specific to the cited SM-S926B update notes; it is not a universal Galaxy setting. Likewise, Quick Share capabilities can depend on model and software.
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
Use accessibility controls that fit your needs
The SM-S926B update notes also mention one-finger zoom and enhanced Assistant menu controls. If these options are useful to you, look for them in your phone’s accessibility settings and confirm they appear on your installed software. The cited update notes establish that these controls were included in that model’s update, not that every Galaxy device has them.
Choose what to set up first
- For recurring actions: set up a routine for a trigger and action you repeat often.
- For selected private content: check whether Secure Folder is available and move only the content you want behind its separate lock.
- For loss preparedness: verify the relevant account and Find My Mobile settings while the phone is in hand.
- For sharing, charging, and quick access: inspect Quick Share, Battery protection, and Quick panel options after software updates.
Samsung’s guidance makes compatibility the key caveat across these features: the model, region or carrier, Android and One UI versions, account setup, and the presence of the relevant menu can all matter. A missing setting may mean the feature is unsupported or named differently—not that you have overlooked a universal control.
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