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Samsung

Samsung: Turn Quick Launch Camera On or Off

Double-pressing the Side key should open the Camera app straight from the lock screen, but on some Samsung phones nothing happens or a different app launches instead. This shortcut lives in the Side key settings and often gets reset after a software update or a factory reset. A short check in Advanced features usually brings it back.

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Step 1 of 4: Tap on **Settings**

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Android 11 · One UI 3
Quick Launch Camera via Side Key – One UI 3: step 1 – Tap on Settings
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Samsung

Quick Launch Camera via Side Key auf Samsung

When a double press on the Side key stops opening the Camera app from the lock screen, the action assigned to that key has usually been changed or switched off.

Samsung controls this shortcut through the Side key settings inside Advanced features. There you pick what a double press does: launch the Camera, open a chosen app, or trigger Bixby, depending on your model and software.

To re-enable the shortcut, go to SettingsAdvanced featuresSide keyQuick launch camera.

The double press works both on the lock screen and on the home screen once selected. From a locked device, it opens the Camera directly without unlocking, so you can capture a shot before entering a PIN or pattern. Photos and videos taken this way save normally, but the Gallery itself still requires authentication.

Only one action can be tied to the double press at a time. If Bixby or another app is currently assigned, selecting Quick launch camera replaces it, and the previous shortcut stops responding to that gesture.

A single press of the Side key is unrelated to this feature; it only wakes the screen or, when held, brings up the power menu.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Pressing the Side key twice opens the Camera app directly from the lock screen without unlocking the device. You still need to authenticate to reach the Gallery afterward.

Compatible devices

Tap your device — opens its hub with matching guides.

Android 11 · One UI 3

No compatible devices are listed for this version.