Quick tip If you use a Samsung Galaxy smartphone instead of an iPhone, you have access to several Android features that come built in. Samsung also adds its own software tools, including exclusive features designed to make everyday tasks faster and more convenient.
For example, Google Pixel phones include a Now Playing feature on the home and lock screens that can identify songs playing nearby. Before you even search for a song, your phone can display its title and artist.
One of the most useful Samsung Galaxy features is also one of the least-known: the Edge panel. This customizable shortcut bar gives you quick access to frequently used apps, contacts, tools, and other phone features.
If you own a Samsung Galaxy device and have never used the Edge panel—or tried it once and forgot about it—here’s how Samsung’s Edge panels work and how to customize them to improve your mobile experience.
How Samsung Edge panels work
Think of the Samsung Edge panel as a combination of the Windows Start menu and the macOS Dock. It provides something Android does not offer by default: a customizable launcher where you can organize shortcuts to your favorite apps, contacts, and phone tools.
When enabled, the Edge panel appears as a slim handle along the side of your screen. Swipe inward on the handle to open the panel and access your shortcuts. If you don’t see it, open Settings > Display > Edge panels. From there, use the toggle to turn the feature on or tap the menu to customize which panels appear.
Samsung currently offers seven Edge panels: Apps, People, Tasks, Weather, Tools, Clipboard, and Reminder. You can enable one panel, all seven, or any combination in between. After opening the Edge panel, swipe left or right to switch between the panels you have selected.
The Samsung Edge panel provides quick access to favorite apps and shortcuts.Courtesy of David Nield
Each panel is designed for a specific purpose. The Apps panel lets you open frequently used apps without searching through the app drawer or filling your home screen with shortcuts. The People panel provides quick access to your most important contacts, making it easy to call or message someone without opening the Contacts app first.
Source: www.wired.com