Your Samsung S10 is equipped with a combination of physical buttons and interactive on-screen navigation keys designed for seamless interaction. Understanding each one helps you navigate and utilize your device efficiently.
Here's a breakdown of the essential controls on your Samsung S10:
Overview of Samsung S10 Buttons and Keys
| Button/Key Name | Location | Primary Function | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Key | Right Side | Power on/off, lock screen, Bixby launch (customizable) | Physical Button |
| Volume Key | Left Side | Adjust media volume, ringer volume, alarm volume | Physical Buttons |
| Home Key | On-screen | Return to the home screen, access Google Assistant (long press) | On-screen Key |
| Return Key | On-screen | Go back to the previous screen or close current application | On-screen Key |
| Application Key | On-screen | View recently opened applications (Recents) | On-screen Key |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Under Display | Unlock phone, authorize secure payments and apps using biometric authentication | In-display Sensor |
Detailed Explanation of Each Control
The Side Key (Power/Bixby Button)
Located on the right side of your Samsung S10, the Side key serves multiple crucial functions:
- Power On/Off: A long press will typically bring up power options, allowing you to power off, restart, or initiate an emergency call.
- Screen Lock/Wake: A quick press will lock or unlock your phone's screen.
- Bixby Activation: By default, a single press can launch the Bixby assistant, while a long press can also trigger Bixby. Samsung allows for customization of this button's actions through settings, enabling you to remap it to open a different app or perform other functions.
The Volume Key
Situated on the left side of your device, the Volume key is a rocker switch that allows you to:
- Adjust Volume: Press the upper part to increase volume and the lower part to decrease it. This controls media playback, ringer volume, and alarm volume depending on what is currently active.
- Mute/Vibrate: Pressing the volume down button repeatedly can silence the ringer, often switching to vibrate mode.
- Camera Shutter: When the camera app is open, either part of the volume key can act as a physical shutter button to capture photos or start/stop video recording, offering a more tactile experience than tapping the on-screen button.
The Home Key
As an on-screen navigation element, the Home key (usually represented by a circle or a home icon at the bottom center of your display) is fundamental for navigation:
- Return to Home Screen: Tapping this key instantly brings you back to your primary home screen, regardless of which app you are currently using.
- Access Google Assistant: A long press on the Home key typically activates Google Assistant, allowing you to use voice commands or search.
- App Drawer Access: While not directly tied to the Home key, a swipe up from the home screen usually reveals the app drawer.
The Return Key (Back Key)
The Return key, an on-screen button (often an arrow pointing left) typically located to the left of the Home key, is used for:
- Go Back: It allows you to navigate back to the previous screen within an application or the operating system.
- Close Menus/Keyboards: It can also be used to dismiss on-screen keyboards, pop-up menus, or notifications without exiting the current app.
- Exit Apps: If you're on the first screen of an application, pressing the Return key will typically exit that application.
The Application Key (Recents Key)
Also an on-screen navigation element (often represented by three vertical lines or a square icon) usually found to the right of the Home key, the Application key provides access to:
- Recent Apps: Tapping this key displays a list or carousel of all recently opened applications, allowing you to quickly switch between them.
- Split-Screen Mode: On supported apps, you can often long-press an app icon in the recents view to enter split-screen mode, enabling you to use two apps simultaneously.
- Close Apps: From the recent apps view, you can swipe individual apps away to close them or use a "Close All" option.
The Fingerprint Sensor
Unique to the Samsung S10, the Fingerprint sensor is an ultrasonic sensor integrated directly underneath the display. While not a physical "button" in the traditional sense, it acts as a crucial interactive element for:
- Biometric Security: It provides a secure and convenient way to unlock your phone, authenticate purchases, and log into various applications using your unique fingerprint.
- Quick Access: By simply placing your registered finger on the designated area of the screen, your phone can quickly verify your identity.
Understanding these buttons and interactive keys will help you master your Samsung S10 and streamline your daily usage.
