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If the Samsung Keyboard is missing, first set it as the default input method, then restart your Galaxy device and check for software updates. If it is missing only on the lock screen, in Samsung DeX, or as a navigation-bar button, use the specific fix for that situation below.
Start by setting Samsung Keyboard as the default
A different input method may be selected even if Samsung Keyboard is installed. On most Galaxy phones and tablets, go to Settings > General management > Keyboard list and default > Default keyboard, then choose Samsung Keyboard. Samsung recommends its preinstalled keyboard; if you prefer a third-party keyboard and it is malfunctioning, contact that app’s developer. Menu names can vary by model, carrier, and software version, so search Settings for “Default keyboard” if the route differs. Samsung’s keyboard troubleshooting steps.
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Try the low-risk fixes
Restart and optimize the device
Close open apps, then use Settings > Device care > Optimize now if that option is available. Restart the phone or tablet and test Samsung Keyboard in a text field. Samsung recommends restarting to address minor software issues and bugs. The Device care route and restart guidance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsCheck for a software update
Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install and install any available update. Labels and availability may differ across models and carriers; use Settings search for “Software update” if needed. Test the keyboard again after the update.
#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 the keyboard is missing on the lock screen
If a third-party keyboard was the default and the keyboard disappears when you need to enter your password, restart the device in Safe Mode. Samsung documents entering Safe Mode from the power menu or with hardware buttons, depending on the device. Safe Mode sets Samsung Keyboard as the default; restart normally to exit Safe Mode. Follow the steps for your model in Samsung’s keyboard troubleshooting guide and Samsung’s lock-screen keyboard guidance.
Use Safe Mode to check for app interference
Safe Mode runs Samsung apps rather than third-party apps. If the keyboard works normally there, a recently installed app may be involved. Restart normally, remove recent apps one at a time, and test the keyboard after each removal to identify whether one of them is causing the problem. Samsung outlines the Safe Mode test in its troubleshooting guidance.
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.
Clear Samsung Keyboard data only as a later step
Clearing its data resets the keyboard and removes personalization, including saved words. Try the less disruptive steps above first. If you decide to reset it, Samsung’s US support route is:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Open Settings > Apps.
- Open the filter or menu and enable Show system apps.
- Select Samsung Keyboard, then tap Force stop.
- Open Storage, choose Clear data, and confirm.
Samsung warns: “This will erase all your keyboard settings, including saved words.” The exact labels may vary by device. Samsung’s reset instructions and warning.
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.
If the keyboard disappears in Samsung DeX
DeX can hide the virtual keyboard when a physical keyboard is connected or when you select an app from the DeX desktop or taskbar. To keep the on-screen keyboard available, open Settings > Connected devices > Samsung DeX > Keyboard and enable Show on-screen keyboard in Samsung DeX. Select a text field if you need the keyboard to appear again. Samsung DeX keyboard guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If only the navigation-bar keyboard button is missing
A missing keyboard shortcut on the navigation bar is not the same as a keyboard that will not open. Samsung’s Galaxy S23-series manual gives this route: Settings > General management > Keyboard list and default, then turn on Keyboard button on navigation bar. The manual applies to that series; on other devices, search Settings for “Keyboard button on navigation bar” because menu options vary. Galaxy S23-series user manual.
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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