Lock screen shortcuts let you open apps like Camera or Phone instantly, even without unlocking your device. When they stop working, taps may do nothing, or the icons may not respond at all. On the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra running One UI 8.5, this issue is usually tied to settings, permissions, or minor software glitches that are easy to fix.
Why Your Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Lock Screen Shortcuts Are Not Working
- Lock screen shortcuts are disabled or not assigned to any app.
- Accidental touch protection is blocking input on the lock screen.
- The selected apps do not have the required permissions.
- A temporary system glitch is affecting lock screen behavior.
- Software bugs after an update on One UI 8.5.
1. Check Lock Screen Shortcut Settings
If no apps are assigned to the shortcuts, tapping them will not do anything. This is the first thing you should verify before trying other fixes.
Open Settings, and then tap Lock screen.
Tap Shortcuts, and then make sure both left and right shortcuts have apps assigned.
Choose apps like Camera or Phone, and then lock your screen to test them.
2. Turn Off Accidental Touch Protection
This feature prevents unwanted touches when your phone is in your pocket. However, it can sometimes block intentional taps on lock screen shortcuts.
Open Settings, and then tap Display.
Tap Accidental touch protection, and then toggle it off.
Lock your phone and try using the shortcuts again.
3. Check App Permissions
Some apps will not open from the lock screen if required permissions are missing. This can make it seem like the shortcut is broken.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Select the app you assigned as a shortcut, and then tap Permissions.
Allow necessary permissions, and then test the shortcut from the lock screen.
4. Restart Your Phone
A quick restart refreshes system processes and clears minor bugs that may affect lock screen functionality. This is a simple fix that often works immediately.
Swipe down from the top right of the screen, and then tap the Power icon.
Tap Restart, and then wait for the phone to reboot.
After restarting, lock your device and check the shortcuts.
5. Update Your Software
Software updates often fix bugs related to system features like lock screen shortcuts. Keeping your phone updated ensures better stability and performance.
Open Settings, and then tap Software update.
Tap Download and install, and then follow the prompts if an update is available.
Restart your phone after updating, and test the shortcuts again.
6. Reset Lock Screen Settings
If the problem continues, your lock screen configuration may be corrupted. Resetting it restores default settings and often resolves persistent issues.
Open Settings, and then tap Lock screen.
Tap Secure lock settings, and then review and reset shortcut configurations.
Set up the shortcuts again and test them on the lock screen.
Lock screen shortcuts on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are designed to be fast and reliable. Once you correct the settings, permissions, or minor glitches, they should start working normally again.
FAQs
Why can’t I open apps from lock screen shortcuts?
The shortcuts may not be assigned properly, or the selected apps might lack required permissions. Checking both usually fixes the issue.
Do lock screen shortcuts work without unlocking the phone?
Yes. Most shortcuts like Camera are designed to open instantly without unlocking, though some apps may still require authentication for security.
Can a software update break lock screen shortcuts?
It is possible. Some updates introduce temporary bugs, which are usually fixed in later patches. Updating your device again often resolves the issue.
