The Samsung Galaxy S21 series has been making waves in the tech world with its sleek design, powerful performance, and impressive camera capabilities. However, one feature that has left many users scratching their heads is the absence of a physical back button. In this article, we’ll delve into the mystery of the missing back button and guide you on how to navigate your way around it.
The Evolution of Navigation
Before we dive into the specifics of the S21, let’s take a step back and look at how navigation has evolved on Android devices. In the early days of Android, phones typically had three physical buttons: Home, Menu, and Back. These buttons were a staple of Android navigation, allowing users to easily navigate between apps and screens.
However, with the introduction of Android 10, Google phased out the traditional navigation buttons in favor of gesture-based navigation. This move was part of a larger effort to create a more streamlined and intuitive user experience. Many manufacturers, including Samsung, followed suit and adopted the new navigation system.
The S21’s Navigation Conundrum
So, where is the back button on the S21? The short answer is: it’s not there. At least, not in the classical sense. When you first start using the S21, you might find yourself instinctively reaching for a physical back button that doesn’t exist. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re accustomed to using the back button to navigate through apps and screens.
Instead of a physical button, the S21 uses a gesture-based navigation system. This means that you’ll need to use swiping motions to navigate through your phone. Here’s how it works:
- To go back, swipe from the left or right edge of the screen towards the center.
- To go home, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
- To open the recent apps menu, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold.
While this new navigation system takes some getting used to, it’s designed to be more intuitive and efficient in the long run. However, we understand that old habits can be hard to break, and it may take some time to adjust to the new way of doing things.
Customization Options
One of the benefits of using a Samsung device is the level of customization available. If you’re not a fan of the default navigation system, you can adjust the settings to better suit your needs.
To access the navigation settings, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > Display > Navigation bar
- Tap on ” Navigation type” and select “Button layout”
- Choose from one of the three available options: “Navigation buttons”, “Full screen gestures”, or “Screen gestures with button”
The “Navigation buttons” option will give you a more traditional navigation experience, complete with a virtual back button. However, this option will also reduce the available screen space, which might not be ideal for users who value a larger screen real estate.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering the S21’s Navigation
While the lack of a physical back button may take some getting used to, there are several tips and tricks that can help you navigate your S21 like a pro:
Use the Edge Panels
The S21’s edge panels can be a handy way to access frequently used apps and features. To access the edge panels, swipe from the right edge of the screen towards the center. From here, you can customize the panels to fit your needs, adding shortcuts to your favorite apps, contacts, or features.
Customize Your Home Screen
The S21’s home screen is highly customizable, allowing you to add widgets, shortcuts, and folders to suit your needs. Take some time to organize your home screen in a way that works for you, and you’ll find it easier to navigate your phone.
Use the Recent Apps Menu
The recent apps menu is a powerful tool that allows you to quickly switch between apps and close unwanted ones. To access the recent apps menu, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold. From here, you can swipe through your open apps, tap to open them, or swipe down to close them.
Third-Party Apps to the Rescue
If you’re still struggling to adjust to the S21’s navigation system, there are several third-party apps that can help. Here are a few options:
| App | Description |
|---|---|
| Navigation Button | A floating navigation button that allows you to customize the layout and design |
| Button Mapper | An app that allows you to remap the navigation buttons to perform different actions |
These apps can provide a more traditional navigation experience or offer additional customization options to help you get the most out of your S21.
Conclusion
The absence of a physical back button on the S21 may take some getting used to, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll be navigating your phone like a pro in no time. Remember, the S21’s navigation system is designed to be more intuitive and efficient in the long run, and with a few tweaks and adjustments, you can customize the experience to fit your needs.
So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a non-existent back button, take a deep breath and remember: the future of navigation is gesture-based, and the S21 is leading the way.
What is the purpose of the back button on the S21?
The back button on the S21 is an essential navigation tool that allows users to go back to the previous screen or app. It’s a crucial feature that helps users navigate through the phone’s interface with ease. Without the back button, users would have to rely on other methods to go back, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
In addition to its primary function, the back button can also be used to exit out of an app or cancel an action. For example, if you accidentally open an app or start a process you didn’t intend to, the back button can help you quickly exit out of it. The back button is an intuitive feature that is deeply ingrained in the Android navigation system, and its absence can be frustrating for users.
Why can’t I find the back button on my S21?
If you’re having trouble finding the back button on your S21, you’re not alone. The back button is not always visible on the S21, and this can be confusing for users who are accustomed to seeing it on other Android devices. The reason for this is that the S21 uses a gesture-based navigation system, which replaces traditional navigation buttons with gestures.
To access the back button on the S21, you’ll need to use a gesture instead of a physical button. To do this, swipe from the left edge of the screen towards the right. This will take you back to the previous screen or app. It may take some time to get used to, but this gesture-based navigation system is designed to be more intuitive and efficient in the long run.
Can I customize the navigation system on my S21?
Yes, you can customize the navigation system on your S21 to some extent. While you can’t bring back the traditional back button, you can adjust the gesture-based navigation system to better suit your needs. For example, you can adjust the sensitivity of the gestures or enable gesture hints to help you get used to the new navigation system.
Additionally, you can also enable the “Navigation buttons” option in the Settings app, which will give you a more traditional navigation experience. This will add a virtual back button to the screen, along with home and recent apps buttons. However, keep in mind that this will disable the gesture-based navigation system, and you’ll be stuck with the traditional navigation buttons.
How do I use the back gesture on the S21?
Using the back gesture on the S21 is relatively straightforward. To go back to the previous screen or app, swipe from the left edge of the screen towards the right. Make sure to start your swipe from the very edge of the screen, as swiping from anywhere else on the screen won’t trigger the back gesture.
It’s also important to note that the back gesture only works when you’re within an app or on the home screen. If you’re on the lock screen or in a full-screen mode, the back gesture won’t work. Additionally, some apps may have their own custom gestures or navigation systems, so you may need to learn those as well.
What are some alternatives to the back button on the S21?
If you’re not a fan of the gesture-based navigation system on the S21, there are some alternatives you can use to go back to the previous screen or app. One option is to use the “Back” function in the Recents menu. To access the Recents menu, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold for a second. Then, tap on the “Back” button to go back to the previous screen or app.
Another alternative is to use a third-party launcher or app that offers a more traditional navigation system. Some popular launchers offer customization options that allow you to add a back button to the screen. Keep in mind that these alternatives may not be as seamless as the built-in navigation system, but they can be a good option if you’re struggling to adapt to the gesture-based system.
Will Samsung bring back the traditional back button in future updates?
There has been no official word from Samsung on whether they will bring back the traditional back button in future updates. However, Samsung has been known to listen to customer feedback and make changes to their software based on user input.
It’s possible that if enough users express their discontent with the gesture-based navigation system, Samsung may consider adding an option to bring back the traditional back button in a future update. However, for now, the gesture-based navigation system is here to stay, and users will need to adapt to it.
Can I use a third-party app to add a back button to my S21?
Yes, there are several third-party apps available that can add a back button to your S21. These apps typically work by overlaying a virtual back button on the screen, which you can tap to go back to the previous screen or app.
Keep in mind that these apps may not be as seamless as the built-in navigation system, and they may not work perfectly with all apps. Additionally, some apps may require root access or other modifications to your phone’s software, which can be risky. Be sure to research and read reviews carefully before installing any third-party apps on your S21.