Samsung, like most Android smartphone and tablet manufacturers, has an ecosystem of apps, many of which are pre-installed on Galaxy S smartphones, though there are others you can download in the Google Play Store. Whether you want to track your workouts, transfer data, take notes, automate your home, or make mobile payments, Samsung has you covered.
In addition to the ones we describe below, Samsung has apps for its Galaxy Edge line of smartphones as well as a virtual assistant called Bixby, which supplanted the S Voice app that managed voice commands on earlier devices. Samsung+ is a premium customer support app that offers live help and other resources.
Here are five apps worth highlighting—and worth downloading.
Best for Note-Taking: Samsung Notes
Samsung Notes, which replaces S Notes, is a repository for your scribbles, images, voice recordings, and music. You can import files from the S Note app too. You add text by typing or using your finger or S Pen to write. There’s also a brush tool for drawings. If you type out a phone number, as we did above, you can tap on that number to make a call. You can also lock notes with a password that you want to keep private.
Works well with the S Pen.
Intuitive interface.
Take handwritten notes.
Integrated with email, phone and web.
Only one, plain default background.
Action note no longer supported.
Best for Mobile Payments: Samsung Pay
Samsung Pay works with most U.S. credit cards and banks on certain devices running Android 6.0 and higher. Like Apple and Google Pay, it lets you swipe your phone at checkout to pay. It has a technology, though, that works with nearly all credit card machines, not just those that support mobile payments.
Compatible with most major U.S. credit card companies and banks.
Exclusive deals.
Lets you earn points for purchases.
All features not available in some countries.
Only works on certain Samsung devices running Android 6.0 or higher.
Best for Monitoring Your Health and Fitness: Samsung Health
Samsung Health, which replaces S Health, can measure your heart rate as well as track your running, cycling, and sleep. It also keeps tabs on food and water intake. Some Samsung smartphones have built-in heart rate sensors next to the primary camera. Place your finger on the sensor and wait while it takes your measurement.
Intuitive dashboard.
Integrates with numerous health apps.
Works on most Android phones.
Compatible with Galaxy smartwatch.
Not accessible via the web.
Limited functionality.
You can link Galaxy smartwatches with Samsung Health, as well as compatible scales, glucose monitors, bike speed sensors, blood pressure monitors, and more. Compatible third-party apps include MapMyRun, MyFitnessPal, and Endomondo.
Best for Transferring Data to a New Phone: Samsung Smart Switch
Move contacts, music, photos, calendar, text messages, and device settings to your Samsung Galaxy from another Android smartphone or an iPhone. Samsung Smart Switch uses a direct Wi-Fi connection to move data from one Android device to another, while iPhone transfers can be completed with a wired connection or through iTunes. Just install the app on both phones and follow the on-screen directions; it’s easy.
Works on multiple platforms.
Easy to use wizard.
PC app available for full backups.
May not always transfer app data.
Larger transfers can get complicated.
Best for Managing Your Smart Home: SmartThings
SmartThings is Samsung’s take on home automation control. With it, you can control compatible smart devices and appliances from home or remotely. When you fire up the app, it scans your wireless network for available units, and you can also add them manually through the app and check compatibility.
Affordable.
Z-Wave and Zigbee compatible.
Easy to set up.
Supports many third party devices.
Design is not very flashy.
Adding devices can be complicated.
Requires wired router connection.
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