Over the last few years, we’ve seen most Android smartphones keep getting bigger, especially with the Samsung Galaxy S series and the popular Samsung Galaxy Note series. In fact, it is so large that using these devices with one hand can sometimes be difficult.
While owning a smartphone with a beautiful 5.1-inch 1080p full HD display is perfect for gaming, watching Facebook, or even watching Netflix, not everyone wants a device this large or wants to use it with one hand.
Fortunately, Samsung has decided that a “One-Handed” mode or setting is necessary for their smartphones, and many people are not even aware that it exists. If you love your new Samsung Galaxy S5 but sometimes want things to be easier with one hand, below you will find a simple video and a set of instructions for activating the Galaxy S5 One-handed features.
Smartphones are getting bigger and bigger. It’s so big that Apple has used it to its advantage in past advertisements, flaunting all apps using the entire screen with one hand accessible with an average finger, and others mocked Samsung for the large 5.7-inch “phablet” size. Galaxy Note 3.
While everyone’s needs and wants are different, some people love Samsung devices but still love to use it with one hand sometimes. We know that not all parents with one empty hand can use the Galaxy Note 3 because it’s too big to type and use without having both hands free.
One-handed operation mode on the Galaxy S5 is super easy to turn on, then a swipe of your screen will allow you to make your phone as small as you want. It seems a bit strange, but essentially you can make 60% of your screen the whole device. Message, check notifications or make calls easily with one hand. If you like how this sounds or the picture above, here’s how to make your own.
Instructions
To enable one-handed use on Galaxy S5, you need to go to settings and change the option. Once you’ve done that, a simple flick of the screen will bring up the one-handed screen shown in the image above. From there you can resize it as you wish and even move it to the left side for left-handed people like me. Here’s a quick video to check out.
To get started with settings by pulling down the notification bar and selecting the round gear-shaped settings icon at the top right. Then switch to these categories:
From here, just swipe left and right from the edge of the screen, as the screen describes, and you’ll instantly see one-handed mode with whiteboards appear. Head home, then enjoy a much smaller screen.
The phone continues to work as usual, only you are using much less screen space. It actually looks and feels a little weird, but it’s extremely easy to navigate the entire device with one hand. Then there are three buttons at the top for resuming full size, changing quick favorites for searches, and even a multitasking option. Pretty clean isn’t it?
The bottom row has your usual multitasking, home and back buttons, plus volume up/down buttons for easy controls. Instead of wiggling and repositioning the device in your hand before reaching for the volume keys or using a different hand, simply tap the icons at the bottom and you’re ready. It’s a weird approach from Samsung, but it works for those who really need it.
Should You Use This Feature?
Everyone’s use of a device is different. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy a smartphone, and the Samsung Galaxy S5 has a wide array of options, controls, customizations and features to make every user’s experience as special and personalized as possible.
This is just one of many features, and if you like the Galaxy S5 but sometimes find the screen is too big but don’t want something smaller, consider trying the One-handed features outlined above.