How to Customize the Side Key on Samsung Galaxy Devices

Learn how to reassign the side key on your Samsung Galaxy to launch apps, trigger the camera, or activate Bixby.

1. 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. 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. 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. 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.
5. 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.