You can use Bixby while your phone is locked, but with a clear limitation: Bixby cannot bypass a secure lock screen to give you full access to your device. Instead, when you use Bixby while phone locked, it can perform specific hands-free tasks like making calls or checking the weather, provided you have enabled the "Use while locked" setting. This means you can't ask Bixby to "unlock my phone" to browse apps, but you can get useful information and complete quick actions without touching your screen.
What you need before you start
Before you can begin using Bixby from your lock screen, you need a few essentials in place. First, you must have a Samsung phone that supports Bixby, which includes most modern Galaxy devices. Second, you need to be signed in to a Samsung Account on that device. Third, your phone must have an active Wi-Fi or mobile data connection because Bixby relies on network access to process voice commands and fetch information like weather updates. Without these three prerequisites, Bixby won't function properly, even when your phone is unlocked.
How to enable Bixby voice wake-up
To start using Bixby hands-free, you first need to enable its voice wake-up feature. Begin by pressing and holding the Side key (or the PWR/LOCK key, depending on your model) to open Bixby. Once Bixby's interface appears, tap the home symbol (a small house icon) to go to the Bixby home screen. From there, tap the list symbol (three horizontal lines) to open the menu, and then tap the settings symbol (a gear icon). Alternatively, you can tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) directly and then select Settings. Inside the Bixby settings menu, locate and select "Voice wake-up." On this screen, toggle on the option labeled "Wake with 'Hi, Bixby'." If you see a "Recognize voice" toggle, turn that on as well, as it helps Bixby respond to your specific voice from a locked state.
How to train Bixby to recognize your voice
After enabling voice wake-up, Bixby will prompt you to train it to recognize your voice. This is a crucial step because it ensures Bixby responds only to you, not to someone else who might try to use your phone. The system will capture details like your pitch, tone, and pronunciation to create a voice profile unique to you. Speak clearly and at your normal volume, and avoid whispering or exaggerating your words. This training process typically takes just a minute or two, and it significantly improves the accuracy of voice recognition when you use Bixby while phone locked.
How to let Bixby work while the screen is locked
Once your voice is trained, you need to grant Bixby permission to operate while your screen is locked. Go back to the Bixby settings menu by pressing and holding the Side key, tapping the home symbol, then the list symbol, and finally the settings symbol. Turn this switch on. When enabled, Bixby can perform certain functions without requiring you to unlock the phone with your PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. These functions typically include making phone calls, sending messages (if you confirm the recipient), checking the weather, setting alarms, and controlling media playback. It's important to understand that this does not grant full access to your device; it only allows Bixby to complete specific tasks that don't expose sensitive data.
How to use Bixby from the lock screen
With voice wake-up and "Use while locked" enabled, you can now use Bixby hands-free from your lock screen. Simply say "Hi, Bixby" followed by your command. Bixby will listen, verify your voice against your trained profile, and then execute the command while keeping your screen locked. This is especially convenient when your hands are full, like when you're cooking, carrying groceries, or driving (though always prioritize road safety). Remember that Bixby will not unlock your phone for general use; it only performs the specific action you requested. If you need to access apps or browse the web, you'll still need to unlock your phone manually using your preferred security method.
