If you own a Samsung phone, you probably know there are tons of options in the settings, but what you might not know is that there are hidden configuration layers that aren't immediately visible. These sections, ranging from diagnostic menus to advanced accessibility options, are designed so that technicians or tech-savvy users can get the most out of their device or troubleshoot problems without having to go to a repair shop.
Entering these secret worlds might seem complicated, but it's actually quite simple if you know which keys to press or which codes to enter. From tricks to free up space in a flash to the ability to check if your screen or sensors are working properly, we'll break down all the ways to access these menus so your phone flies and you don't miss a thing.
The universe of USSD codes and the dialer
To access many of these features, we need to use the phone app, specifically the keypad where you dial numbers. This is where USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes come into play. These are combinations of asterisks, pound signs, and numbers that, when entered, open screens that look like something out of a hacker movie. You can learn more about USSD and MMI codes on Android to understand their warnings.
It's crucial to understand that these codes aren't universal ; what works on a Galaxy S7 might not work on an A52 or newer models. Some only display information, while others allow you to change system settings. Here are the most useful ones:
- * # 0 * #The star code. Open the general diagnostic menu where you check if the camera is working correctlythe vibrator, the screen colors, and the proximity sensor.
- * # # 7353: Quick access to hardware tests very similar to the previous one.
- * # # 1234Ideal for checking the version of firmware installed in the team.
- 12580 369 * # * #: It is used to consult detailed hardware information.
- * # # 0228It gives you the real and detailed status of the device battery.
- * # # 0011 o * # # 197328640: Access to the service menu to analyze the network.
- * # # 9900A gem for maintenance. It allows you to use the option 'Deletedumpstate/logcat', which deletes junk files from the registry and frees up internal space without deleting your photos.
For the more adventurous, there are technical codes like *#0808# for USB settings or *#22228378# for the Cabc test. However, be very careful: modifying values ​​in engineering mode can cause the phone to behave erratically, so don't touch anything if you're unsure of its purpose.
External tools and support applications
If you don't want to spend the afternoon blindly trying codes, there are apps like Phone Info Samsung (available on APKMirror) that act as a catalog. This tool compiles a huge list of codes and allows you to launch them more easily, although sometimes you have to manually select them if the app doesn't have root permissions.
The most interesting thing about these tools is that they help you determine if your Samsung phone is genuine or a counterfeit, since clones don't usually respond to these secret menus. They also allow you to analyze the CSC (Country Specific Code) , which is the country code; changing it could allow you to receive system updates before others in your region, although be aware that this process usually erases all user data .
Developer Mode and system menus
Not everything is done with codes. To activate the developer options menu, where animations and USB debugging are configured, go to Settings, then About phone , and tap repeatedly (about 6 or 7 times) on Build number . This unlocks a new section in the main settings menu.
Samsung's Gallery app also has its own secret. If you go into the app's settings, then to About Gallery , and tap repeatedly on the version, you can access hidden photo app settings. Similarly, to manage the hidden album , simply go to the Albums tab and scroll down to enter your security PIN.
Accessibility and shortcuts via physical buttons
Samsung has implemented a very useful feature for those seeking speed: an accessibility menu activated by the volume buttons . To enable it, go to Settings, then Accessibility, and then Advanced settings. There, look for the "Volume up and down button" option.
Once activated, pressing and holding both volume buttons for three seconds brings up a menu where you can configure up to 21 shortcuts . You can set things like "Extra Dim" mode to avoid glare at night, mute the entire device at once, or turn on the flashlight. You can even configure it to perform a single, instant action , such as activating "Do Not Disturb" mode without going through the notification panel.
One UI gestures and customization
The One UI customization layer offers additional tricks in the Display section. In the Navigation bar menu , you can choose swipe gestures and activate "Gesture Suggestion" to learn how to navigate the system. Furthermore, the Function button (which usually launches Gemini or Google Assistant) can be reassigned to quickly open the camera in selfie mode or start a voice note.
For users of foldable devices, there is the Labs feature , which allows you to optimize applications that were not originally designed for large screens, forcing compatibility and improving multitasking.
Having complete control of a Samsung device means knowing how to navigate the USSD codes for diagnostics, the developer menu for technical settings, and the accessibility shortcuts for everyday use. By combining these tools, from clearing the cache with code 9900 to customizing the volume buttons, any user can transform their device into a much more efficient tool, better suited to their specific needs.