On many newer Samsung Galaxy phones, the traditional Power button is now known as the Side button.
Identifying the Power Button on Samsung Galaxy Devices
On most modern Samsung Galaxy smartphones, the button located on the right side of the device, typically positioned beneath the volume rocker, serves as the primary power control, now often referred to as the Side button. This evolution consolidates the functions of the traditional power key with other features like the Bixby button.
Evolution of the Power Button
Historically, Samsung phones featured a dedicated "Power button." However, with the introduction of newer Galaxy models, this button has been redesigned and renamed to the "Side key" or "Side button." This change reflects its multi-functional role, not just for powering the device on or off, but also for quick access to other features like Bixby or the camera, depending on user settings.
Using the Side Button for Power Functions
While its name has changed, the Side button remains crucial for managing your phone's power state.
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To Power Off or Restart (Newer Galaxy Phones):
- Press and hold the Side button and the Volume down button simultaneously for a few seconds. This action will typically bring up the Power off, Restart, and Emergency mode options on your screen.
- Alternatively, you can access the power menu by swiping down twice from the top of your screen to fully open the Quick Panel, then tapping the power icon (usually located at the top right corner).
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To Turn On Your Phone:
- If your phone is off, simply press and hold the Side button for a few seconds until the Samsung logo appears.
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Customizing Side Key Behavior:
- You can often customize what a single press, double press, or press-and-hold action of the Side key does. To do this, navigate to Settings > Advanced features > Side key on your device. Here, you can change the "Press and hold" action to either wake Bixby or open the Power off menu directly.
Summary of Power Button Functionality
The following table outlines the typical power button behavior across different Samsung Galaxy device generations:
| Samsung Model Type | Power Button Designation | How to Power Off/Restart |
|---|---|---|
| Newer Galaxy Phones | Side button | Press & hold Side button + Volume down; or use Quick Panel power icon. |
| Older Galaxy Phones | Power button | Press & hold Power button. |
Regardless of the naming convention, the button's core purpose is to provide control over your device's power, allowing you to turn it on, off, or restart it efficiently.
