Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip foldable phones offer a unique software feature called Flex Mode, which allows the devices to stay unfolded at certain angles. This feature enables users to take advantage of various software features, such as capturing hands-free photos and videos without a tripod or multitasking with split-screen functions. However, for apps that don’t officially support Flex Mode, these foldable smartphones have a hidden gem – a built-in touchpad that works similarly to a laptop’s trackpad and even includes a visible mouse pointer. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to access and enable this touchpad feature, enhancing the user experience of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip owners.
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Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip foldable phones are revolutionary devices that offer users a unique and versatile experience. These devices take full advantage of the foldable form factor through various software features. One of the standout features is Flex Mode, which allows the device to stay unfolded at certain angles, similar to a laptop. In this article, we will explore the Flex Mode and its features, the apps that support it, and how to access the touchpad and mouse functionality on a Galaxy Z Fold or Galaxy Z Flip.
Flex Mode and its features
Flex Mode is a feature that enables users to utilize the foldable form factor of the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip beyond just the regular “folded” and “unfolded” positions. With Flex Mode, the devices can be positioned at angles between 75° and 115°, allowing for new possibilities and enhanced user experiences.
Some of the key features enabled by Flex Mode include hands-free photo and video capture, multitasking with split-screen functionality, and utilizing half of the screen as a touchpad for app control. Flex Mode enhances productivity and convenience by effectively transforming the foldable phone into a mini laptop when needed.
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Apps that support Flex Mode
Many apps officially support Flex Mode and adapt their layouts and functionalities accordingly. These apps include popular ones like Google Chrome, Gmail, and Netflix, among others. When the device is positioned in Flex Mode, these apps utilize the screen space effectively, offering users a seamless experience. For instance, in Google Chrome, users can use the touchpad as a mouse, allowing for cursor movement, clicking, scrolling, and other mouse-related actions.
Touchpad and mouse functionality
One of the standout features of Flex Mode is the inclusion of a touchpad on the bottom half of the screen when the device is unfolded. This touchpad functions similarly to the touchpad on a laptop and offers users the ability to navigate and control apps with precision.
In certain apps, the touchpad even adds a visible mouse pointer, replicating the experience of using a traditional computer mouse. This feature is particularly useful when browsing the internet or using apps like Gmail or Netflix, where precise cursor movements and actions are necessary.
How to access touchpad on a Galaxy Z Fold or Galaxy Z Flip
To access the touchpad functionality on your Galaxy Z Fold or Galaxy Z Flip, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Scroll down and tap “Advanced features.”
- Select “Labs.”
- In the “Labs” menu, tap “Flex mode panel.”
- Switch on the feature using the toggle at the top of the screen.
Enabling Flex Mode will allow you to open apps and fold the phone upright, which will snap the app to the upper half of the screen and bring up the touchpad on the bottom half. If Flex Mode doesn’t activate automatically, simply tap the white icon at the bottom left corner of the screen to force it manually. It’s important to note that Flex Mode only works in landscape orientation, so ensure that auto-rotate is turned on.
How to manually enable Flex Mode for some apps
While many apps officially support Flex Mode, there may be some apps that don’t adapt to it automatically. However, you can manually enable Flex Mode for these apps by following these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Scroll down and tap “Advanced features.”
- Select “Labs.”
- In the “Labs” menu, tap “Flex mode panel.”
- If the feature is not already enabled, switch it on using the toggle at the top of the screen.
- Tap the “Apps to show Flex mode panel automatically” option to see a list of all installed apps.
- Use the toggle next to your desired apps to enable Flex Mode for them.
By manually enabling Flex Mode for specific apps, you can enjoy the enhanced functionality and optimized layouts even in apps that don’t officially support it.
Mouse and trackpad settings in General management
To customize your touchpad and mouse settings on a Galaxy Z Fold or Galaxy Z Flip, you can access the Mouse and trackpad menu under the General management section in the device’s settings. Here, you can adjust settings such as pointer speed, scrolling speed, pointer size, and pointer color according to your preferences.
It is worth noting that these settings will apply not only to the touchpad feature but also if you ever connect an external mouse to your phone via Bluetooth or a USB cable.
In conclusion, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip offer users a unique and versatile experience through features like Flex Mode. The inclusion of a touchpad and mouse functionality adds an extra layer of usability and productivity to these devices. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can easily access and customize these features to suit their preferences and maximize their foldable phone experience.
