FAQ: What is Side sense and how do I use it?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Side sense feature

What is Side sense?

Side sense is a feature that allows you to double-tap the side of the screen to show predicted apps based on your device usage. Side sense makes it easy to use your device with one hand.

How do I launch or exit the Side sense menu?

You can launch the Side sense menu by double-tapping either side of the screen. To close the Side sense menu, tap the screen anywhere outside the Side sense menu.

Can I use Side sense on both sides of my device?

Yes, Side sense can be enabled on both sides, or only on the right-side or left-side. You can configure Side sense in your device’s settings. The settings menu path differs depending on your model:

• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure Side sense bar → Show Side sense bar.
• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure touch position → Enabled side. 
• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure Side sense bar → Show the bar to interact with Side sense.

I used the Side sense menu to launch an app. How do I return to the previous screen?

To return to a previous screen, slide your finger up or down along the side of the screen, or tap the back button.

Why isn’t the Side sense menu launched when I double-tap the side of the screen?

Try the following steps:

• Hold your device with one hand and use your thumb to double-tap the side of the screen. Tip: You can find an animation explaining how to do this in Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense.
• Double-tap a little further up on the side of the screen.
• Adjust the sensor sensitivity in Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Sensor sensitivity or Side sense bar sensitivity → Double-tap speed.

I have tried everything, but the Side sense menu still doesn’t launch. Why?

In the following use cases, Side sense is automatically disabled:

• When using the device in landscape view.
• When Glove mode is on.
• When charging the device with a wireless charger.
• When Ultra STAMINA mode is activated.
• During incoming or outgoing calls.

Why does the Side sense menu seem to launch and disappear when I’m just holding the phone?

Adjust the sensor sensitivity in your device’s settings: 

1. Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Sensor sensitivity or Side sense bar sensitivity → Double-tap speed
2. Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Sensor sensitivity or Side sense bar sensitivity → Slide length.

Will the side sensor react when I use a phone cover?

You can enable Side sense for only one side in your device’s settings. The settings menu path differs depending on your model:

• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure Side sense bar → Show Side sense bar.
• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure touch position → Enabled side. 
• Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Configure Side sense bar → Show the bar to interact with Side sense.

Can I disable Side sense for specific apps, such as games?

Yes, you can enable or disable Side sense for specific applications. Go to Settings →  Display →  Advanced →  Side sense → Select apps that work with gestures. Tap the switch beside an app to enable or disable Side sense for that particular app.

In 2019 products: Settings → Display → Advanced → Side sense → Apps with Side sense enabled.