Samsung's Bixby voice assistant often draws criticism, and much of it is understandable. However, dismissing it entirely overlooks one standout capability on Galaxy phones: Bixby Routines. This feature delivers impressive automation that's well worth exploring.
Many users see Bixby only as Samsung's take on Google Assistant or Siri—that frustrating app triggered by the side button on new Galaxy devices. Yet Samsung applies the Bixby name to an unrelated gem: Bixby Routines, a dedicated automation system.
Bixby Routines let you create simple 'If This, Then That' automations tailored to your Galaxy device. Pick a trigger event, then define the actions to follow. Similar to Google Assistant Routines, these are more deeply integrated with phone hardware and settings.
Here are practical examples of Bixby Routines you can set up:
The setup is straightforward, but the impact is profound. With dozens of triggers and actions available, plus Samsung's ready-made suggestions, the options are endless.
Swipe down from the top of your screen once and tap the gear icon to open Settings.
Scroll to Advanced features.
Enable Bixby Routines and tap its entry.
Navigate the bottom tabs: Discover for pre-built routines, Add routine to create your own, or My routines to manage existing ones. Start with Discover for inspiration.
For a custom routine, select Add routine and tap the + in the If section.
Browse triggers, follow the prompts, and add multiple if needed.
Next, tap the + in the Then section to choose actions.
Select and configure actions—stack as many as required.
Optionally, enable 'Revert actions' to undo changes when the routine ends, like re-enabling Wi-Fi upon returning home.
Tap Next.
Name your routine, pick a color and icon, then tap Done.
You're all set. Bixby Routines scale from basic tweaks to sophisticated workflows. Despite the Bixby branding baggage, this feature shines—give it a shot on your Galaxy.
