On many newer Samsung Galaxy phones, the physical button you might be accustomed to for powering off your device has a dual function and often defaults to activating Bixby. This is because the traditional Power key and the Bixby key have been combined into what is now called the Side button. However, you absolutely can turn off your phone without directly engaging Bixby; there are several easy alternative methods.
The Evolution of Your Phone's Side Button
On many newer Galaxy phones, the Power and Bixby keys have been replaced with a single, multifunctional Side button. This design streamlines the device's hardware, but it can lead to confusion if you're used to a dedicated power button. By default, pressing and holding this Side button often triggers Bixby, Samsung's virtual assistant. This creates the perception that Bixby is inextricably linked to the power-off function.
While the Side button handles both power and Bixby functions, your phone offers straightforward ways to access the power menu without invoking Bixby.
How to Power Off Your Samsung Galaxy Phone Without Bixby
You have several convenient options to power off your device or access the power menu, bypassing Bixby entirely.
Method 1: The Two-Button Combination
This is a quick and effective way to bring up the power menu using a physical button combination.
- Press and hold the Side button (the button you previously associated with power/Bixby) and the Volume Down button simultaneously.
- Hold both buttons for a couple of seconds until the Power menu appears on your screen.
- From the options, tap "Power off" to shut down your device.
Method 2: Accessing the Power Menu from Quick Settings
Your phone's software provides a dedicated power icon within the Quick Settings panel, making it easy to turn off your phone or restart it.
- Swipe down from the top of your screen twice to fully expand the Quick Settings panel. This is the area where you typically find Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other toggles.
- Look for a Power icon (often represented by a circle with a line through the top) in the top-right corner of the panel.
- Tap this icon to bring up the Power menu.
- From the options, tap "Power off" to shut down your device.
Method 3: Remapping the Side Button (Your Long-Press Preference)
You can customize the Side button's long-press action so that it directly brings up the Power off menu instead of Bixby. This allows you to revert to a more traditional power-button experience.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on Advanced features.
- Select Side key (or Side button settings).
- Under the "Press and hold" section, you'll see two options.
- Choose "Power off menu" instead of "Wake Bixby."
After making this change, pressing and holding the Side button will directly display the power options, giving you control without Bixby interference.
Quick Reference: Side Button Functions
| Action | Default Side Button Function (Newer Galaxy) | Remapped Side Button (Long Press) |
|---|---|---|
| Short Press | Wake Bixby / Launch App (Customizable) | Wake Bixby / Launch App (Customizable) |
| Long Press | Wake Bixby (Default) | Power off menu (Customizable) |
| Side + Volume Down | Power off menu | Power off menu |
By understanding these alternative methods and customizing your Side button settings, you can easily manage your phone's power without relying on Bixby. For more details on customizing your Samsung device, you can explore Samsung's official support pages.
