Samsung Galaxy Tab Active3 User manual

www.samsung.com/ca
USER MANUAL
English (CA). 11/2020. Rev.1.0
SM-T577U/DS

2
Table of Contents
Basics
4 Read me first
7 Device overheating situations and
solutions
10 Device layout and functions
16 Battery
21 SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card)
22 Memory card (microSD card)
25 Protective case
27 Turning the device on and off
28 Initial setup
28 Samsung account
30 Transferring data from your previous
device (Smart Switch)
32 Understanding the screen
42 Notification panel
44 Screen capture and screen record
46 Entering text
Apps and features
49 Installing or uninstalling apps
51 S Pen features
64 Bixby
68 Bixby Vision
71 Bixby Routines
74 Phone
79 Contacts
82 Messages
86 Internet
88 Camera
102 Gallery
109 AR Zone
112 Edge screen
114 Multi window
117 Samsung Daily
118 Samsung Members
119 Samsung Notes
124 PENUP
128 Calendar
129 Reminder
131 Samsung Flow
133 Voice Recorder
134 My Files
134 Clock
136 Calculator
137 Samsung Kids
138 SmartThings
142 Sharing content
145 Music Share
146 Smart View
147 Daily Board
150 Google apps

Table of Contents
3
186 Users
188 Samsung Cloud
189 Google
190 Advanced features
191 Motions and gestures
192 Digital Wellbeing and parental
controls
192 Digital Wellbeing
194 Device care
194 Optimizing your device
194 Battery
196 Storage
196 Memory
196 Security
196 Apps
197 General management
198 Accessibility
198 Software update
199 User manual
199 About tablet
Appendix
200 Troubleshooting
Health and Safety
Settings
152 Introduction
152 Connections
153 Wi-Fi
155 Bluetooth
157 NFC and payment
159 Data saver
159 Mobile data only apps
160 Mobile Hotspot and Tethering
161 More connection settings
163 Sounds and vibration
163 Dolby Atmos (surround sound)
164 Separate app sound
164 Notifications
165 App icon badges
165 Display
166 Dark mode settings
167 Font size and style
167 Screensaver
168 Wallpaper
168 Lock screen
169 Smart Lock
169 Biometrics and security
170 Face recognition
173 Fingerprint recognition
176 Samsung Pass
179 Secure Folder
184 Privacy
184 Location
185 Accounts and backup

4
Basics
Read me first
Please read this manual before using the device to ensure safe and proper use.
•
Descriptions are based on the device’s default settings.
•
Some content may differ from your device depending on the region, service provider,
model specifications, or device’s software.
•
Content (high quality content) that requires high CPU and RAM usage will affect the
overall performance of the device. Apps related to the content may not work properly
depending on the device’s specifications and the environment that it is used in.
•
Samsung is not liable for performance issues caused by apps supplied by providers other
than Samsung.
•
Samsung is not liable for performance issues or incompatibilities caused by edited
registry settings or modified operating system software. Attempting to customize the
operating system may cause the device or apps to work improperly.
•
Software, sound sources, wallpapers, images, and other media provided with this device
are licensed for limited use. Extracting and using these materials for commercial or other
purposes is an infringement of copyright laws. Users are entirely responsible for illegal
use of media.
•
You may incur additional charges for data services, such as messaging, uploading and
downloading, auto-syncing, or using location services depending on your data plan. For
large data transfers, it is recommended to use the Wi-Fi feature.
•
Default apps that come with the device are subject to updates and may no longer be
supported without prior notice. If you have questions about an app provided with
the device, contact a Samsung Service Centre. For user-installed apps, contact service
providers.
•
Modifying the device’s operating system or installing software from unofficial sources
may result in device malfunctions and data corruption or loss. These actions are violations
of your Samsung licence agreement and will void your warranty.

Basics
5
•
Depending on the region or service provider, a screen protector is attached for protection
during production and distribution. Damage to the attached screen protector is not
covered by the warranty.
•
You can see the touchscreen clearly even in strong outdoor sunlight by automatically
adjusting the contrast range based on the surrounding environment. Due to the nature
of the product, displaying fixed graphics for extended periods may result in afterimages
(screen burn-in) or ghosting.
–
It is recommended not to use fixed graphics on part or all of the touchscreen for
extended periods and turn off the touchscreen when not using the device.
–
You can set the touchscreen to turn off automatically when you are not using it.
Launch the Settings app, tap Display
→
Screen timeout , and then select the length
of time you want the device to wait before turning off the touchscreen.
–
To set the touchscreen to automatically adjust its brightness based on the
surrounding environment, launch the Settings app, tap Display , and then tap the
Adaptive brightness switch to activate it.
•
The use of mobile devices on airplanes or ships may be subject to federal and local
guidelines and restrictions. Check with the appropriate authorities and always follow
crew instructions regarding when and how you may use your device.
Maintaining water and dust resistance
Your device supports water- and dust-resistance. Follow these tips carefully to maintain the
water- and dust-resistance of your device. Failure to do so may result in damage to your
device.
•
Do not immerse the device in fresh water deeper than 1.5 m or keep it submerged for
more than 30 minutes. If you immerse the device in any liquid other than fresh water,
such as salt water, ionized water, or an alcoholic beverage, liquid will enter the device
faster.
•
Do not expose the device to water moving with force.
•
Do not open the device’s covers when the device is in water or in very humid places, such
as swimming pools or bathrooms.
•
Do not open the back cover using wet hands or when the device is wet.

Basics
6
•
The rubber seal fitted to the back cover is an important component of the device. Take
care when opening and closing the back cover to avoid damaging the rubber seal. Also,
ensure that the rubber seal is free from debris, such as sand or dust to prevent damage to
the device.
•
The back cover may be loosened if the device is dropped or receives an impact. Ensure
that all the covers are properly aligned and tightly closed.
•
If the device is exposed to fresh water, dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. If the
device is exposed to other liquids, such as salt water, swimming pool water, soapy water,
oil, perfume, sunscreen, hand cleaner, or chemical products such as cosmetics, rinse it
with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. If you do not follow these
instructions, the device’s performance and appearance may be affected.
•
If the device has been immersed in water or the microphone or speaker is wet, sound
may not be heard clearly during a call. After wiping the device with a dry cloth, dry it
thoroughly before using it.
•
The touchscreen and other features may not work properly if the device is used in water.
•
Your device has been tested in a controlled environment and certified to be water-
and dust-resistant in specific situations (meets requirements of classification IP68 as
described by the international standard IEC 60529-Degrees of Protection provided
by Enclosures [IP Code]; test conditions: 15-35 °C, 86-106 kPa, fresh water, 1.5 metre,
30 minutes). Despite this classification, it is still possible for your device to be
damaged in certain situations.
Instructional icons
Warning: situations that could cause injury to yourself or others
Caution: situations that could cause damage to your device or other equipment
Notice: notes, usage tips, or additional information

Basics
7
Device overheating situations and solutions
When the device heats up while charging the battery
While charging, the device and the charger may become hot. During wireless charging or fast
charging, the device may feel hotter to the touch. This does not affect the device’s lifespan or
performance and is in the device’s normal range of operation. If the battery becomes too hot,
the charging speed may decrease or the charger may stop charging.
Do the following when the device heats up:
•
Disconnect the charger from the device and close any running apps. Wait for the
device to cool down and then begin charging the device again.
•
If the lower part of the device overheats, it could be because the connected USB
cable is damaged. Replace the damaged USB cable with a new Samsung-approved
one.
•
When using a wireless charger, do not place foreign materials, such as metal objects,
magnets, and magnetic stripe cards, between the device and the wireless charger.
The wireless charging or fast charging feature is only available on supported models.
When the device heats up during use
When you use features or apps that require more power or use them for extended periods,
your device may temporarily heat up due to increased battery consumption. Close any
running apps and do not use the device for a while.
The following are examples of situations in which the device may overheat. Depending on
the functions and apps you use, these examples may not apply to your model.
•
During the initial setup after purchase or when restoring data
•
When downloading large files

Basics
8
•
When using apps that require more power or using apps for extended periods
–
When playing high-quality games for extended periods
–
When recording videos for extended periods
–
When streaming videos while using the maximum brightness setting
–
When connecting to a TV
•
While multitasking (or, when running many apps in the background)
–
When using Multi window
–
When updating or installing apps while recording videos
–
When downloading large files during a video call
–
When recording videos while using a navigation app
•
When using large amount of data for syncing with the cloud, email, or other accounts
•
When using a navigation app in a car while the device is placed in direct sunlight
•
When using the mobile hotspot and tethering feature
•
When using the device in areas with weak signals or no reception
•
When charging the battery with a damaged USB cable
•
When the device’s multipurpose jack is damaged or exposed to foreign materials, such as
liquid, dust, metal powder, and pencil lead
•
When you are roaming
Do the following when the device heats up:
•
Keep the device updated with the latest software.
•
Conflicts between running apps may cause the device to heat up. Restart the device.
•
Deactivate the Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth features when not using them.
•
Close apps that increase battery consumption or that run in the background when
not in use.
•
Delete unnecessary files or unused apps.
•
Decrease the screen brightness.
•
If the device overheats or feels hot for a prolonged period, do not use it for a while. If
the device continues to overheat, contact a Samsung Service Centre.

Basics
9
Precautions for device overheating
If you begin to feel uncomfortable due to the device overheating, stop using the device.
When the device heats up, the features and performance may be limited or the device may
turn off to cool down. The feature is only available on supported models.
•
If the device overheats and reaches a certain temperature, a warning message will appear
to prevent device failure, skin irritations and damages, and battery leakage. To lower the
device’s temperature, the screen brightness and the performance speed will be limited
and battery charging will stop. Running apps will be closed and all calling and other
features will be limited, except for emergency calls, until the device cools down.
•
If a second message appears due to a further increase of the device’s temperature, the
device will turn off. Do not use the device until the device’s temperature drops below the
specified level. If the second warning message appears during an emergency call, the call
will not be disconnected by a forced shut down.
Precautions for operating environment
Your device may heat up due to the environment in the following conditions. Use caution to
avoid shortening the battery’s lifespan, damaging the device, or causing a fire.
•
Do not store your device in very cold or very hot temperatures.
•
Do not expose your device to direct sunlight for extended periods.
•
Do not use or store your device for extended periods in very hot areas, such as inside a
car in the summer.
•
Do not place the device in any areas that may overheat, such as on an electric heating
mat.
•
Do not store your device near or in heaters, microwaves, hot cooking equipment, or high
pressure containers.
•
Do not use a cable whose covering is peeled off or damaged, and do not use any charger
or battery that is damaged or malfunctioning.

Basics
10
Device layout and functions
Package contents
Refer to the quick start guide for package contents.
•
The items supplied with the device and any available accessories may vary
depending on the region or service provider.
•
The supplied items are designed only for this device and may not be compatible
with other devices.
•
Appearances and specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
•
A case is supplied to protect your device. If you want to remove the case attached
to the device, it is recommended to detach it from the top corners. (Whether a case
is supplied may vary by region or service provider.)
•
You can purchase additional accessories from your local Samsung retailer. Make
sure they are compatible with the device before purchase.
•
Use only Samsung-approved accessories. Using unapproved accessories may cause
performance problems and malfunctions that are not covered by the warranty.
•
Availability of all accessories is subject to change depending entirely on
manufacturing companies. For more information about available accessories, refer
to the Samsung website.

Basics
11
Device layout
Volume key
Back key
Recents key
Home key (Fingerprint
recognition sensor) Multipurpose jack
(USB Type-C)
Side key (Power/Bixby)
Active key
Front camera
Proximity/Light sensor
Touchscreen
Keyboard dock port
SIM card / Memory
card tray
Rear camera
Main antenna
Flash
Back cover
Microphone
GPS antenna
Earphone jack
Microphone
Speaker
NFC antenna

Basics
12
•
When using the speakers, such as when playing media files or using speakerphone,
do not place the device close to your ears.
•
Be careful not to expose the camera lens to a strong light source, such as direct
sunlight. If the camera lens is exposed to a strong light source, the camera image
sensor may be damaged. A damaged image sensor is irreparable and will cause
dots or spots in pictures.
•
If you use the device with its glass or acrylic body broken, there may be a risk of
injury. Use the device only after it has been repaired at a Samsung Service Centre.
•
If dust or foreign materials enter the microphone, speaker, or receiver, the device’s
sound may become quiet or certain features may not work. If you attempt to
remove the dust or foreign materials with a sharp object, the device may be
damaged and its appearance may be affected.
•
Connectivity problems and battery drain may occur in the following situations:
–
If you attach metallic stickers on the antenna area of the device
–
If you attach a device cover made with metallic material to the device
–
If you cover the device’s antenna area with your hands or other objects while
using certain features, such as calls or the mobile data connection
•
Using a Samsung-approved screen protector is recommended. Unapproved screen
protectors may cause the sensors to malfunction.
•
Do not cover the proximity/light sensor area with screen accessories, such
as a screen protector, stickers, or a cover. Doing so may cause the sensor to
malfunction.
•
The light may flicker at the top of the device during calls due to proximity sensor
operation.

Basics
13
Hard keys
Volume key
Side key (Power/Bixby)
Active key
Back key
Home key
Recents key
Key Function
Volume key
•
Press to adjust the device volume.
Side key
•
When the device is off, press and hold to turn it on.
•
Press to turn on or lock the screen.
•
Press and hold to start a conversation with Bixby. Refer to Using
Bixby for more information.
•
Press twice or press and hold to launch the app or feature you set.
Side key +
Volume Down key
•
Press simultaneously to capture a screenshot.
•
Press and hold simultaneously to turn off the device.
Active key
•
Press or press and hold to launch preset apps.
Recents key
•
Press to open the list of recent apps.
Home key
•
Press to turn on the screen while the screen is locked.
•
Press to return to the Home screen.
•
Press and hold to launch Google Assistant app.
Back key
•
Press to return to the previous screen.

Basics
14
Setting the Side key
Select an app or feature to launch by pressing the Side key twice or pressing and holding the
Side key.
Launch the Settings app, tap Advanced features
→
Side key , and then select an option you
want.
S Pen
S Pen button
S Pen nib
Name Functions
S Pen nib
•
Use the S Pen to write, draw, or perform touch actions on the
screen.
•
Hover the S Pen over items on the screen to access additional
S Pen features, such as the Air view feature.
S Pen button
•
Hover the S Pen over the screen and press the S Pen button to
display the Air command features.
•
While pressing and holding the S Pen button, drag the S Pen over
items to select them.

Basics
15
Replacing the S Pen nib
If the nib is dull, replace it with a new one.
1 Firmly hold the nib with the tweezers and remove it.
2 Insert a new nib into the S Pen.
2
1
Be careful not to pinch your fingers with the tweezers.
•
Do not reuse old nibs. Doing so may cause the S Pen to malfunction.
•
Do not press the nib excessively when inserting the nib into the S Pen.
•
Do not insert the round end of the nib into the S Pen. Doing so may cause damage
to the S Pen or your device.
•
Do not bend or apply excessive pressure with the S Pen while using it. The S Pen
may be damaged or the nib may be deformed.
•
Do not hard press on the screen with the S Pen. The pen nib may be deformed.
•
If you use the S Pen at sharp angles on the screen, the device may not recognize
the S Pen actions.
•
If the S Pen is not working properly, take it to a Samsung Service Centre.

Basics
16
Battery
Installing the battery
1 Remove the back cover.
Be careful not to damage your fingernails when you remove the back cover.
Do not bend or twist the back cover excessively. Doing so may damage the cover.
2 Insert the battery with the battery’s gold-coloured contacts properly aligned with the
device’s contacts.

Basics
17
3 Replace the back cover.
Press
Ensure that the back cover is closed tightly to prevent water and dust from entering
the device. An open or loose back cover may allow water and dust to enter the device
and cause damage.
Use only Samsung-approved back covers and accessories with the device.
Removing the battery
1 Remove the back cover.
2 Pull out the battery.

Basics
18
Charging the battery
Charge the battery before using it for the first time or when it has been unused for extended
periods.
Only use a Samsung-approved battery, charger, and cable specifically designed for
your device. An incompatible battery, charger, or cable can cause serious injuries or
damage to your device.
•
Connecting the charger improperly may cause serious damage to the device. Any
damage caused by misuse is not covered by the warranty.
•
Only use the USB Type-C cable supplied with the device. The device may be
damaged if you use a Micro USB cable.
To save energy, unplug the charger when not in use. The charger does not have a
power switch, so you must unplug the charger from the electric socket when not in
use to avoid wasting power. The charger should remain close to the electric socket
and easily accessible while charging.
1 Connect the USB cable to the USB power adapter.
2 Plug the USB cable into the device’s multipurpose jack.

Basics
19
3 Plug the USB power adapter into an electric socket.
4 After fully charging, disconnect the charger from the device. Then, unplug the charger
from the electric socket.
Do not remove the battery before removing the charger. This may damage the
device.
Reducing the battery consumption
Your device provides various options that help you conserve battery power.
•
Optimize the device using the device care feature.
•
When you are not using the device, turn off the screen by pressing the Side key.
•
Activate power saving mode.
•
Close unnecessary apps.
•
Deactivate the Bluetooth feature when not in use.
•
Deactivate auto-syncing of apps that need to be synced.
•
Decrease the backlight time.
•
Decrease the screen brightness.
Battery charging tips and precautions
•
When the battery power is low, the battery icon appears empty.
•
If the battery is completely discharged, the device cannot be turned on immediately
when the charger is connected. Allow a depleted battery to charge for a few minutes
before turning on the device.
•
If you use multiple apps at once, network apps, or apps that need a connection to
another device, the battery will drain quickly. To avoid losing power during a data
transfer, always use these apps after fully charging the battery.
•
Using a power source other than the charger, such as a computer, may result in a slower
charging speed due to a lower electric current.
•
The device can be used while it is charging, but it may take longer to fully charge the
battery.

Basics
20
•
If the device receives an unstable power supply while charging, the touchscreen may not
function. If this happens, unplug the charger from the device.
•
While charging, the device and the charger may heat up. This is normal and should not
affect the device’s lifespan or performance. If the battery gets hotter than usual, the
charger may stop charging. If this occurs during wireless charging, disconnect the device
from the charger to let it cool down, then charge the device again later.
•
If you charge the device while the multipurpose jack is wet, the device may be damaged.
Thoroughly dry the multipurpose jack before charging the device.
•
If the device is not charging properly, take the device and the charger to a Samsung
Service Centre.
Fast charging
The device has a built-in fast charging feature. You can charge the battery more quickly while
the device or its screen is turned off.
Increasing the charging speed
To increase the charging speed, turn the device or its screen off when you charge the battery.
If the fast charging feature is not activated, launch the Settings app, tap Device care
→
Battery
→
Charging , and then tap the Fast charging switch to activate it.
•
While charging, you cannot activate or deactivate this feature.
•
You cannot use the built-in fast charging feature when you charge the battery
using a standard battery charger.
•
If the device heats up or the ambient air temperature rises, the charging speed may
decrease automatically. This is a normal operating condition to prevent damage to
the device.