Google must take notes from Samsung and repair this Android setting

When Android 16 launched again in June, one of many new options I used to be most excited to attempt on my Pixel was the power to alter what occurs if you double-press the power button.

Earlier than Android 16, your solely choices had been to have it open the digital camera app or flip the function off solely. That was it. However with Android 16, Google lastly added the power to launch Google Pockets as a substitute of the digital camera, much like how double-pressing the ability button on an iPhone opens Apple Pockets.

I instantly set my Pixel 8a so {that a} double-press of the ability button opens Google Pockets, and coming from an iPhone, it genuinely made my Pixel higher to make use of every single day. I usually use my cellphone to pay for issues like gasoline, espresso, and groceries, so having Google Pockets only a fast double-press away makes an actual distinction.

Nonetheless, as good because it was to see Google lastly develop the function on Pixel telephones with Android 16, I could not assist however take into consideration how Samsung has already been doing this and, frankly, doing it higher with One UI on its Galaxy units. Let me clarify.

Samsung has the higher hand over Google right here

Google, please simply copy how Samsung helps you to customise this shortcut

Whereas One UI is constructed on Android, one of many standout tweaks Samsung has made, amongst many others, is supplying you with full management over what occurs if you double-press the ability button.

By default, identical to on a Pixel, double-pressing the ability button on a Galaxy cellphone opens the digital camera. However if you happen to’d fairly have it launch one thing else, you’ll be able to set it to open any app you need, corresponding to Google Pockets, Samsung Pockets, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Google Messages, and even flip in your cellphone’s flashlight.

That is a stark distinction in comparison with Pixel telephones. As I famous earlier, even with Android 16, your decisions are restricted to simply two: opening the digital camera or launching Google Pockets. That is all.

So my plea to Google is an easy one: with Android 17 later this yr, please allow us to customise double-pressing the ability button to open any app we wish, identical to Samsung lets Galaxy customers do.

I have been utilizing my Galaxy S25+ quite a bit just lately, in anticipation of the Galaxy S26 series launching quickly, and having this shortcut set to open no matter app I would like has been extraordinarily helpful. Proper now, I’ve it set to Google Messages, however I’ve beforehand used it for Google Pockets and Spotify.

It actually boggles my thoughts that Google nonetheless limits the ability of this shortcut, particularly since Samsung customers have been in a position to totally customise it for years now. So I feel it is about time Google lastly fastened this.

With all that in thoughts, you probably have a Google Pixel, you’ll be able to change what double-pressing the ability button does by heading to Settings > System > Gestures > Double press energy button.

On a Samsung Galaxy, you will discover the choice below Settings > Superior options > Facet button > Double press. In order for you it to open a particular app, faucet the App choice, then select the one you need from the checklist.