5 Useful Features You Forgot or NEVER Knew Existed

Naveen Thakur

19 Dec, 2023

Samsung Galaxy smartphones are packed with features, some of which are so powerful yet so underrated that even long-time users often overlook them. With One UI’s evolution over the years, Samsung has integrated dozens of hidden tools, shortcuts, and functionalities that go beyond the obvious everyday apps.

If you’ve ever thought your Samsung phone is just about calls, camera, and apps, you’re missing out on a treasure chest of productivity hacks, safety features, and customization tricks. Whether you own the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold, or even an A-series device, these features are tucked away inside your phone waiting to be explored.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into 5 useful Samsung Galaxy features you probably forgot about or never knew existed. By the end, you’ll know how to unlock your phone’s full potential.

1. Samsung Finder – The Universal Search Engine Inside Your Phone

Have you ever wasted time scrolling through menus, trying to find a setting or an app? That’s where Samsung Finder comes in – a feature hidden in plain sight.

What is Samsung Finder?

Samsung Finder is a built-in search tool inside your Galaxy device that can locate apps, contacts, files, settings, and even content inside apps. Think of it as Google for your phone’s data.

How to Use It:

Swipe down on your home screen to open the Quick Panel.
Tap the Search bar (Finder) at the top.
Type anything – for example, “Wi-Fi” – and it instantly shows you the Wi-Fi settings, saved Wi-Fi networks, or related apps.

Why It’s Useful:

Saves time navigating deep settings.
Finds documents, notes, and images without opening multiple apps.
Works across apps like Messages, Samsung Notes, and even Files.

👉 Many users forget this feature exists, but once you start using it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

2. Samsung Secure Folder – Your Hidden Private Vault

Privacy is a top priority, and Samsung has an underrated gem called Secure Folder. This feature allows you to create a completely separate, encrypted space within your device.

What is Secure Folder?

It’s like having a second phone inside your phone. You can store private photos, apps, documents, and even contacts in a locked folder that requires a password, fingerprint, or face unlock.

How to Enable Secure Folder:

Go to Settings → Biometrics and Security.
Tap Secure Folder and set up your authentication method.
Add apps, files, and media that you want to keep private.

Why It’s Useful:

Hide apps like WhatsApp or banking apps for privacy.
Store sensitive work files or confidential media.
Dual usage – you can install the same app twice (e.g., two WhatsApp accounts).

👉 This feature is especially useful if you share your phone with kids, family, or colleagues.

3. Edge Panel – A Floating Toolbox You Forgot to Use

The Edge Panel is one of the most unique Samsung features, but surprisingly, many Galaxy users either disable it or never explore its full potential.

What is the Edge Panel?

It’s a customizable side panel that slides out from the edge of your screen, giving you instant access to shortcuts, apps, tools, and contacts.

How to Use Edge Panel:

Swipe from the side of your screen where the handle is located.
You’ll see customizable panels such as:
- App shortcuts
- Clipboard
- Smart select (screenshot tools)
- Weather, tasks, and reminders

Why It’s Useful:

Quick multitasking without going back to the home screen.
Copy and paste text or images using the Clipboard Edge.
Drag and drop apps for split-screen multitasking.

👉 Power users swear by Edge Panel because it makes multitasking on big-screen devices like the Galaxy S24 Ultra or Galaxy Z Fold insanely efficient.

4. Samsung One-Handed Mode – Shrink Your Screen Instantly

Phones are getting bigger, and not everyone has giant hands. That’s why Samsung created One-Handed Mode – a hidden lifesaver for single-handed use.

What is One-Handed Mode?

It shrinks your entire screen into a smaller window so you can reach everything with one thumb.

How to Enable It:

Go to Settings → Advanced Features → One-Handed Mode.
Choose either Gesture (swipe down in the center of the bottom edge) or Button (double-tap home button).

Why It’s Useful:

Great for quick texting or browsing with one hand.
Perfect when you’re holding groceries, coffee, or traveling.
Works seamlessly on large devices like Galaxy S24 Ultra or Galaxy Note series.

👉 Most users don’t even realize this exists, but once enabled, it becomes a daily lifesaver.

5. Samsung Bixby Routines – Automate Your Phone Like a Pro

While Google Assistant handles voice commands, Samsung’s Bixby Routines are all about automation.

What are Bixby Routines?

It’s a smart automation tool that lets you create “if this, then that” rules for your phone.

Example Routines You Can Create:

At Night → Turn on Blue Light Filter, lower brightness, and mute notifications.
While Driving → Enable Do Not Disturb, auto-launch Maps, and connect to car Bluetooth.
At Work → Auto-connect to office Wi-Fi, lower ringtone volume, and launch Microsoft Teams.

How to Enable Bixby Routines:

Go to Settings → Advanced Features → Bixby Routines.
Tap Add Routine and create your automation.

Why It’s Useful:

Saves time by automating repetitive tasks.
Reduces battery drain by disabling unused features.
Makes your Galaxy feel like a true smart assistant.

👉 If you’ve ignored Bixby in the past, this feature alone is worth a revisit.

Bonus Features You Might Have Forgotten

Apart from the top 5, here are a few more hidden gems worth mentioning:

Samsung DeX → Turn your phone into a desktop by connecting it to a monitor or TV.
Call & Text on Other Devices → Answer calls and texts on your Galaxy tablet or laptop.
Video Enhancer → Boosts brightness and colors while watching videos.
Smart Select → Create GIFs from videos or capture parts of the screen.
Samsung Kids Mode → A safe environment for children with parental controls.

Why These Features Matter

Most users buy Samsung phones for the camera, display, and battery life – but hidden inside One UI are dozens of features that can:

Save time → Finder and Edge Panel reduce unnecessary tapping.
Improve privacy → Secure Folder keeps sensitive data safe.
Boost convenience → One-Handed Mode and Bixby Routines adapt to your lifestyle.
Unlock productivity → Samsung DeX and multitasking features make your phone a mini PC.

The key is not just owning a Samsung Galaxy but knowing how to maximize its ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

Samsung doesn’t just build phones; it builds an experience-rich ecosystem. Many of its features often go unnoticed simply because they aren’t advertised as much as flashy camera upgrades or design changes.

By revisiting tools like Samsung Finder, Secure Folder, Edge Panel, One-Handed Mode, and Bixby Routines, you’ll unlock the hidden genius of your Galaxy device.

So, the next time you pick up your phone, don’t just scroll through social media or take photos – explore these hidden features you forgot or never knew existed. They just might make your Samsung Galaxy feel brand new again.