I just got a Samsung Galaxy phone with AI features, but I can’t figure out how to access or use them. The instructions weren’t clear. I’d really appreciate a step-by-step guide or some tips from others who’ve used Galaxy AI. Any help would be great since I want to get the most out of my new phone.
You’re not alone—Samsung’s ‘AI features’ splashy advertising is everywhere, but trying to actually find/use them makes me wonder if some Galaxy phones just hide their fancy new tricks like a shy cat.
So here’s the real scoop, step by step, no fluffy nonsense:
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Unlock the Galaxy AI Stuff: Most “AI” features live inside core apps like Phone, Messages, Notes, Gallery, and the keyboard. Make sure your phone’s up to date (Settings > Software Update). Seriously, half the cool stuff is missing unless you do this.
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Live Translate (for Calls):
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots > Settings > Advanced features > Call Assist.
- Turn on Live Translate.
- When calling, you should see a little “Translate” mic icon. Toggle it on during your call, pick languages. It’ll translate on-the-fly both ways—pretty wild, but sometimes, it butchers slang.
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Note Assist (AI Summarize):
- Open Samsung Notes.
- Make a note > Tap the “AI”/wand icon at the top (sometimes hidden in the “…” menu).
- “Summarize” makes big notes bite-sized, “Autofill” cleans up scribbles.
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Generative Edit (AI Photo Wizardry):
- Open Gallery, pick a photo, tap the pencil icon (edit).
- Find the “AI”/magic wand—might be under “More” or just pop up if the pic is eligible.
- Try “Object Eraser” to zap that random stranger in the background.
- “Generative Fill” can expand pics or repair stuff. Sometimes creates abominations, but when it works, wow.
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Chat Assist (Translation, Tone Tweak):
- Open Messages or your keyboard anywhere (it’s Samsung Keyboard exclusive).
- Tap the “AI”/magic wand or “…” above the keyboard.
- Play with translation, text rephrasing, or “polish my tone” (fun for trolling, or, you know, sounding smart).
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Circle to Search:
- Long-press the home button or navigation bar (varies by model).
- Circle anything on the screen to Google it instantly.
- Legit useful for shopping or “wtf is that dog breed?”
Tips from using it:
- Some features are region-locked cuz Samsung…
- AI stuff can be battery hungry, keep that charger close
- Expect occasional weird translations/images. AI magic ≠ perfect magic.
More stuff is nested in Settings under “Advanced Features” if you want to dig. And Samsung’s AI branding is broad, so if something looks like it sparkles, chances are it’s “powered by AI™.” Dig in and experiment, and definitely ask if you find any (hidden?) features being especially cool or Just Not Working—as there’s a learning curve and some ‘AI’ is apparently camera-shy.
Man, Samsung’s “AI” marketing is like a magician hyping a rabbit, then pulling out a gerbil. Not saying @vrijheidsvogel is wrong, but honestly—half those features are just Samsung slapping “AI” on stuff that’s slightly smarter than it was in 2017. Let’s talk actual AI stuff beyond what’s already listed, plus whether any of this is actually useful.
Here’s what I’ve found after poking around (read: smashing icons in confusion for two days):
- AI Camera tricks? Meh, unless you care about “Best Shot Suggestions” that make your pics look like everyone else’s. Auto-framing is fancy, if not mildly stalkerish.
- Bixby Text Call is supposed to be hands-free nirvana, but gets confused with anything louder than a gentle ceiling fan. You can try it: Phone > Settings > Bixby Text Call, but expect, like, 2019 Siri vibes.
- Transcribe feature for Voice Recorder is actually kinda legit. Fire up Voice Recorder, record, hit “Transcribe” (AI badge will pop up if you’re on the right model). Works best for lectures, doesn’t get rap lyrics.
- Ignore “AI Wallpapers.” It’s just weird glitter and occasionally scary faces.
- If you want proper “smart suggestions,” check inside Samsung Internet browser—search bar sometimes gives context-aware options, if you feel like being watched by your phone.
- AI Privacy toggle: Settings > Security/Privacy > Advanced > Galaxy AI. You can block on-device processing & cloud stuff if you’re not feeling like feeding Samsung’s data dragon.
Contrary to @vrijheidsvogel’s optimism, I’d say 30% of the features aren’t available everywhere and 40% are just jazzed-up regular features—so don’t stress if you can’t find every “magic wand.” Don’t shame yourself if you hit a wall; Samsung’s UI is basically a Russian nesting doll.
Pro tip: half-decent chance you’ll find more “hidden” AI features with Good Lock modules (Samsung’s customization toolkit). But warning: battery drain is real, and sometimes it’s more “Beta Tester Simulator 2024” than polished AI.
If you only use your phone for basic texts/calls/pics, most of this is loud confetti. If you live for gadgets? Make like Indiana Jones and keep hunting. Honestly, just circle random stuff, erase strangers from photos, and watch your battery melt. Welcome to the future, I guess.