Unlocking the Hidden Wi-Fi Capabilities on Your Samsung Galaxy for Enhanced Connectivity

Samsung includes some of its most advanced networking tools buried within the menu of Galaxy phones, specifically targeting Wi-Fi aficionado users. Unfortunately, this useful menu isn't conveniently accessible.

Enabling and Utilizing Samsung’s Connectivity Labs

If you own a Samsung device with One UI 6 or a later version, this unlocks the opportunity for you. This includes models like the Galaxy S20 series and beyond, where newer functionalities are integrated.

1. How to Access Connectivity Labs

Navigate to the Intelligent Wi-Fi settings by launching the Settings app, selecting the Connections option, and then Wi-Fi. Click on the three dots at the upper-right corner for advanced settings and choose Intelligent Wi-Fi.

To unlock Connectivity Labs, scroll down and repeatedly tap the software version located at the bottom, in my S25 Plus it’s noted as ‘Intelligent Wi-Fi 8.0.0.’ A message will prompt you with the number of taps required to activate the feature.

Once activated, a secret menu appears. It will display key details about your Wi-Fi network such as the duration of your connection, the access point used, and weekly connection time. You'll also see the Wi-Fi bands and standards you’ve employed.

With my setup, predominantly powered by multiple Wi-Fi 7 bands, my AT&T fiber line provides just over a gigabit speed as verified by Ookla Speedtest — quite swift, indeed!

Let's dive into more intriguing features that await.

2. Conduct a Home Wi-Fi Survey

The Home Wi-Fi inspection tool performs a survey of your Wi-Fi signals.

After identifying your Wi-Fi access points, traverse through your home or office. The tool highlights weak spots and strong signals, aiding you in finding optimal device placements.

In my project, it guided me to place my Orbi satellite perfectly, unlike Wan who used it for video camera installations.

Sure, third-party apps offer similar capabilities, but with Samsung's built-in solution, there’s little need for extras.

3. Automatically Join Carrier Wi-Fi

The auto-reconnect feature logs your Samsung device into your carrier’s public Wi-Fi hotspots when in range, bypassing cellular data usage.

This is particularly beneficial if your provider has a vast hotspot network, as it can improve speed and lessen data usage.

While I primarily rely on Verizon and Google Fi, those with Xfinity Comcast, Spectrum/Charter, or Cox can potentially enhance their connections and reduce costs when away from home.

4. Employ L4S Low-Latency Protocol

The lesser-known L4S (Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable Throughput) protocol is excellent for minimizing latency even during high network loads.

Ideal for real-time activities like gaming and video calls, it tackles network congestion effectively, accelerating connections significantly.

L4S, however, demands compatibility on both your device and network hardware to function. Check your ISP's resources for terms like "Low Latency DOCSIS" or "L4S."

5. Enable Wi-Fi 7 Mode

Activating Wi-Fi 7 mode ensures you maximize any equipment boasting this new Wi-Fi technology for superb speed.

6. Quick Shift to Mobile Data

When in environments like hotels with fickle Wi-Fi, your device can experience poor connectivity due to frequent shifts between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

This setting hastens the switch to mobile data as Wi-Fi weakens, improving reliability despite increased data use.

7. Try Out Intelligent Wi-Fi Handover

The Intelligent Wi-Fi Handover helps maintain seamless connectivity by smoothly transferring data from Wi-Fi to cellular when degradation is detected.

While AI-assisted solutions are offered, I found manual settings provided no noticeable improvement, so I prefer direct control.

8. Display Network Quality Info

Turn on this option to receive ratings like 'Best,' 'Good,' or 'Worst' regarding local Wi-Fi service levels.

Alongside Nearby Wi-Fi information, you’ll gain insights into access point signal strengths, aiding in selecting the optimal network.

For at-home users, a display shows active Wi-Fi channels with suggested optimal channel selections for peak performance.

These highlighted features offer substantial utility in refining your internet experience. Happy tweaking!