Audio UpgradeAmazon USWireless Earbuds and Headphones Worth Comparing This WeekFrom commuting to workouts, see which wireless earbuds and over-ear picks fit your routine before you decide.See PicksPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCGame Day ReadyAmazon USStreaming and Audio Gear for Football Season Watch PartiesGet your living room ready for Sunday games with streaming sticks, soundbars and smart plugs shoppers are checking.Check Deals×
Skip to content
specifiction.AN INDEPENDENT TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL
Menu
The journal/Editorials

How to Use Edge Lighting on Samsung Phones

How to Use Edge Lighting on Samsung Phones
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Samsung Galaxy phones, especially those with an Infinity Display (a near bezel-less screen), offer a distinctive notification feature called Edge Lighting. This feature illuminates the edges of your phone’s screen with customizable visual effects when you receive new notifications or calls, providing a subtle yet eye-catching alert without being overly intrusive.

Edge Lighting emerged as a creative solution following the trend of minimizing bezels and, consequently, the removal of the traditional LED notification light on many modern smartphones. While the LED light served its purpose by blinking for unread notifications, it was limited in its visual appeal and customization. Edge Lighting leverages the expansive AMOLED displays of Samsung phones, transforming the entire screen edge into a dynamic notification indicator. It first gained prominence with the curved displays of devices like the Galaxy S6 Edge, but its functionality has since been adapted to flat-screen Galaxy models as well. This guide will walk you through enabling and customizing this unique feature.

What is Edge Lighting?

Edge Lighting is a notification style unique to Samsung Galaxy phones that uses dynamic light effects along the perimeter of your screen. Instead of a small, blinking LED, the entire edge of your display lights up in various patterns and colors to alert you to incoming calls, messages, or app notifications. It’s designed to be visually appealing and provide a discreet notification when your phone is face-down or when you simply prefer a less jarring alert than a full screen pop-up.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enabling and Customizing Edge Lighting

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Shopping ad
Sale
FYY Electronic Organizer, Travel Tech Pouch Bag, Cable Organizer Black
  • Dimensions: 7.5" x 4.3" x 2.2". Compact size and lightweight make it easy to carry and put into your backpack, handbags or laptop bag without taking much space. Suitable for family use and daily organization. Note: Small mesh pockets are ideal for charging cords no longer than 3ft; longer cables (over 3ft) fit better in the larger compartments
  • Quality Material: This electronic organizer travel case made of high quality durable waterproof oxford and soft sponge inside to secure your gadgets in place and deliver a quick access whenever you want. Water-resistant fabric protects your gear from unexpected splashes, keeping all your electronic essentials safe and secure
  • Double Layers Design: This tech pouch features a double-layer interior design with 8 compartments, including multiple see-through mesh pockets and ample space to store your cords, cables, USB drives, cellphone, charger, mouse, flash drive and more, keeping all accessories neatly organized and tangle-free
  • Practical and Convenient: Comes with a comfortable hand strap for easy carrying; You may carry it in your hand when heading out. Durable and smooth zipper closure keeps your favorite device securely, convenient for you to have quick access to the items inside the case
  • Portable and Lightweight: The small size and lightweight design durable cable organizer pouch is a perfect choice when going on holiday, business trip, travel, office. Enjoy hassle-free travel without wasting time on tangled accessories. Great gift for yourself also a nice share with families and friends. (No include cords, electronic accessories)

The exact menu names might vary slightly depending on your Samsung Galaxy model and One UI version (Samsung’s custom Android skin), but the general path remains consistent.

  1. Accessing Edge Lighting Settings

The primary way to enable and customize Edge Lighting is through your phone’s notification settings.

  • Open Settings: Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the Quick Panel, then tap the gear icon (Settings). Alternatively, find the “Settings” app in your app drawer.
  • Navigate to Notifications: Scroll down and tap Notifications.
  • Select Notification Pop-up Style: Tap Notification pop-up style.
  • Choose “Brief” Pop-up Style: For Edge Lighting to work, you usually need to select the Brief notification pop-up style at the top of this screen. The “Detailed” style often overrides Edge Lighting with standard full-screen notifications.
  1. Customizing Edge Lighting Style

Once you’ve selected “Brief” pop-up style, you can dive into the visual customization.

  • Tap “Edge lighting style”: This option will appear after you select “Brief.”
  • Choose an Effect: You’ll see a variety of pre-set lighting effects. Tap on each one to preview how it looks:
    • Basic: A simple glow around the edges.
    • Bubble: Bubbles rising from the bottom of the screen.
    • Heart: Heart shapes appearing.
    • Multi-color: A rainbow effect.
    • And many more, which may vary by device and One UI version (e.g., Firework, Eclipse, Echo).
  • Select a Color:
    • Auto: This option usually picks a color based on the app icon or notification content.
    • Custom: Tap this to choose your preferred color from a color picker. You can select a single static color for all Edge Lighting notifications.
  • Adjust Advanced Settings:
    • Transparency: Control how see-through the lighting effect is. A lower transparency makes it more vibrant.
    • Width: Adjust the thickness of the lighting line around the edge.
    • Duration: Set how long the Edge Lighting effect appears on the screen.
  • Tap “Done”: Once you’re satisfied with your choices, tap “Done” to save the settings.
  1. Managing Which Apps Use Edge Lighting

You can control which applications trigger Edge Lighting.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Shopping ad
Sale
Ordilend Keyboard Cleaner & Laptop Cleaning Kit, All-in-1 for Computer PC
  • 【UPGRADED LAPTOP CLEANING KIT 】 The macbook cleaning kit computer screen cleaner comes with a number of accessories including a retractable large brush, polishing cleaning cloth X 2, keycap puller, metal pen tip, flocking sponge, thin soft brush, soft plastic lens cleaning pen, 5 replacing cloth, large cleaning microfiber cloth. You deserve the comprehensive computer cleaning kit keyboard vacuum at a low cost
  • 【PROFESSIONAL KEYBOARD CLEANING KIT】 The laptop screen cleaner keyboard cleaner can pull out the keycaps of gaming keyboards and mechanical keyboards. A retractable keyboard brush works on laptops and keyboards, while the mini high-density brush is great for deep cleaning between keys for cleaning between flatter keys on a laptop, the metal pin tip gently removes any stains. This electronic cleaning kit macbook cleaner totally meets professional cleaning needs
  • 【OFFICE DESK ACCESSORIES】This keyboard cleaner kit is easy to use and can clean your keyboard and electronic screen with just one swipe. Wiping with the 2mm thicken widen polishing cleaning cloth designed at a right angle for better fitting screen corners of computers with our recyclable cleaning spray, The laptop cleaner kit for macbook effectively absorbs stubborn stains, leaves no discoloration, no streaks, and no fiber shedding on the screens
  • 【MULTIFUNCTIONAL TOOLS 】Mini soft brush and soft plastic lens cleaning pen are specially designed for DSLR camera screen, lens, and other delicate surfaces. 5 more cleaning cloths of it supplied for replacement. The flocking sponge is an excellent tool for cleaning earbuds charging cases, And the earbud cleaning kit is ideal. This electronics for college students is equivalent to 10 other electronic cleaning kit
  • 【PORTABLE DESIGN & CLEANER TOOL】 The office supplies is compact in design, easy to carry, and you can easily take it anywhere. It's convenient to keep one in a drawer, one in your car, or in your bag and dorm. It is easy to use and can clean your keyboard and electronic screen with just one swipe. Is the college essentials cleaning tool for your friends, family, colleagues and students
  • From “Notification pop-up style” screen (after selecting “Brief”):
    • Tap “Apps to show as brief”.
    • Here, you can toggle the switch next to each app to enable or disable Edge Lighting for its notifications. This allows you to prioritize important apps or prevent less critical notifications from triggering the effect.
  1. Setting When Edge Lighting Appears

You have control over when Edge Lighting activates.

  • From “Notification pop-up style” screen (after selecting “Brief”):
    • Tap “Show Edge lighting” (this option might be called “Show even while screen is off” or similar on older devices).
    • You’ll typically have options like:
      • Always: Edge Lighting will appear whether your screen is on or off.
      • While screen is off: Edge Lighting will only appear when your screen is off.
      • While screen is on: Edge Lighting will only appear when your screen is on.

Enhancing Edge Lighting with Good Lock and EdgeLighting+

For even more customization options, Samsung offers the Good Lock suite of modules. Good Lock is a Samsung-developed app available on the Galaxy Store that provides powerful customization tools for various aspects of your device’s UI.

  • Download Good Lock: Go to the Galaxy Store and search for “Good Lock.” Download and install it.
  • Install EdgeLighting+ Module: Inside the Good Lock app, you’ll find various modules. Look for and install EdgeLighting+.
  • Explore New Effects: EdgeLighting+ offers additional, more dynamic, and often more intricate lighting effects not found in the default settings. These can include effects like “Boomerang,” “Celebrate,” “Galaxy,” and “Loop.” You can also often fine-tune the speed and direction of these effects.

Troubleshooting Edge Lighting Issues

If your Edge Lighting isn’t working as expected, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Shopping ad
Sale
BAGSMART Large Electronic Organizer Travel Case for Tech Accessories, Black
  • Compatible Space: This electronics organizer bag features 2 zippered mesh pockets fits phones, standard power banks, 4 elastic loop pouches for small items, 2 elastic loop pouches for wireless headphones and small chargers. Elastic loops for phone charging cable. And specific slots for SD cards. Please check the size to ensure it meets your needs
  • Lightweight Travel Accessories: The size of the electronic organizer travel case is 10.6" L x 7.5" W x 1.2" H, Compact but substantial size fits your intended bag or space. Suitable for traveling use and daily organization
  • Keep Everything Organized: This compact travel organizer features dedicated compartments for your phone charger, cables, and tech accessories, keeping them tangle-free and ready to go. You can find travel accessories quickly, no chasing cords in your pack anymore
  • Durable Travel Essentials: Features double zippers for easy access, elastic loops with non-slip grips for daily protection. Organizer for office use and traveling, (Not including cords, electronic accessories). It can serve as a travel checklist. Before you leave a place, just open the case and check if everything is there, preventing you from leaving things behind
  • Versatile Use: Its practicality and convenience make it a travel essential bag. It is suitable for a weekend trip, business trip, and travel. This organizer pouch is suitable for office, business, daily use and can be given as a gift for friends, family, or men, for birthdays, Valentine's Day, Christmas Day, Father's Day
  • Check Notification Pop-up Style: Ensure your notification pop-up style is set to “Brief”. If it’s on “Detailed,” Edge Lighting will not activate for most notifications.
  • Verify App-Specific Settings: Double-check that Edge Lighting is enabled for the specific apps you want it to work with under “Apps to show as brief.”
  • Review “Show Edge Lighting” Setting: Make sure it’s set to “Always” or “While screen is off” if you expect it to work when your screen is off.
  • Restart Your Phone: A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches.
  • Clear Cache for “System UI” or “One UI Home”:
    1. Go to Settings > Apps.
    2. Tap the three dots in the top right corner and select “Show system apps.”
    3. Find “System UI” or “One UI Home” (your launcher).
    4. Tap “Storage” then “Clear cache.”
  • Disable “Remove Animations”: Some accessibility settings can interfere.
    1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Visibility enhancements.
    2. Ensure “Remove animations” is turned off.
  • Check Do Not Disturb (DND) Mode: If DND is active, it might suppress all notifications, including Edge Lighting. Adjust your DND settings to allow notifications from certain apps if needed.
  • Software Update: Ensure your phone’s software is up to date. Samsung regularly releases updates that include bug fixes and performance improvements.
  • Test with Different Apps: Test Edge Lighting with various apps (e.g., Messages, WhatsApp) to see if the issue is app-specific or system-wide.

Edge Lighting is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to enhancing user experience through unique display features. By understanding its settings and options, you can truly personalize your notification experience.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why isn’t Edge Lighting working on my Samsung phone?

Ensure your “Notification pop-up style” is set to “Brief” (not “Detailed”). Also, check if Edge Lighting is enabled for the specific apps you want, and verify the “Show Edge lighting” setting (e.g., “Always” or “While screen is off”). A phone restart can also help.

Q2: Can I change the color of Edge Lighting for different apps?

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Shopping ad
ColorCoral Cleaning Gel Universal Dust Cleaner for PC Keyboard Car Detailing Office Electronics Laptop Dusting Kit Computer Dust Remover, Computer Gaming Car Accessories, Gift for Men Women 160g
  • Universal fit: ColorCoral cleaning gel, simple and convenient cleaning kits for PC/laptop keyboard and other rugged surface, such as the car vent, camera, printer, telephone, calculator, Instrument, speaker, air conditioner, TV and other appliances
  • Safe cleaning gel: The keyboard cleaner gel is made from natural gel, no sticky to hands, smells sweet with lemon fragrance, no stimulation to skin
  • Easy dust cleaning: Make sure your hands are dry and clean, knead the cleaning gel into a ball, press the cleaning gel slowly into the keyboard, car vent and rugged surface till the cleaning gel could touch the bottom and then pull out, the dust would be carried away with the cleaning gel
  • Reusable: The keyboard cleaning gel could be used repeatedly till the color turn to dark or it become sticky, then you have to replace the cleaning gel with a new one. After cleaning, please stock the cleaning gel in cool place. (Note: Don’t wash the gel in water.)
  • In the package: 1 can of universal cleaning gel, we provide the cleaning gel with brand new, if you find the package broken, the cleaning gel dirty, or any other quality issues, please email us through message, we provide you new one soon

By default, Edge Lighting usually picks a color based on the app’s icon. While the standard settings allow you to choose a custom color for all Edge Lighting notifications, some advanced features (like those found in the EdgeLighting+ module within Samsung’s Good Lock app) might offer more granular control, including assigning specific colors to individual contacts or apps.

Q3: Does Edge Lighting drain battery life?

Edge Lighting uses minimal battery as it only illuminates a small portion of your AMOLED screen (where black pixels are truly off). However, using very bright or long-duration effects, especially with many notifications, can have a negligible impact. It’s generally not a significant battery drain.

Q4: Is Edge Lighting available on all Samsung Galaxy phones?

Edge Lighting is primarily available on Samsung Galaxy phones with an Infinity Display (most modern Galaxy S, Note, and some A series phones). Older models or entry-level devices might not support this feature, or it may have a slightly different implementation.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Shopping ad
Sale
HOTO Pocket-Size Laser Measuring Tool, EDC Gadget Birthday Gift for Men Dad
  • Award-Winning Compact Design & EDC-Ready Gift Choice: Weighing only 0.09 lb and sized like a credit card, this compact laser measure is designed for everyday carry. It slips easily into a pocket, tool pouch, or bag, and can attach to a keychain for quick access wherever you go. Its minimalist design, premium tactile finish, and practical one-button measuring make it a useful EDC gadget for DIYers, real estate agents, homeowners, and tech enthusiasts. A thoughtful gift for men on any occasion
  • One-Button Easy Measuring, Simple to Use: Designed with simple one-button operation, this compact laser tape measure makes quick measuring easy without complicated controls. Just press to measure room dimensions, furniture spacing, window height, wall décor placement, and everyday distances around the home. Ideal for users who want a smart, pocket-size measuring tool that fits naturally into an everyday carry (EDC) setup and feels intuitive, modern, and easy to use
  • Fast & Accurate Indoor Measurements with Class 2 Laser: Measure distances from 0.16 ft to 98 ft with up to ±1/16 in / ±2 mm accuracy. With quick measurement response in about 0.2 seconds, HOTO helps you check spaces efficiently for home renovation, furniture layout, moving, decorating, craft projects, and DIY planning. Built with a Class 2 laser for everyday indoor measuring; use as directed and avoid direct eye exposure
  • Low-Power OLED Display & USB-C Rechargeable Convenience: The low-power OLED display provides clear indoor readings while helping reduce battery drain. With USB-C rechargeable design, auto shut-off, and up to 1000 measurements per charge, this digital laser measure is built for repeated daily use without frequent battery replacement. Compact enough to keep in a drawer, toolbox, bag, or pocket
  • Useful for Home, Work & Everyday Projects: From home renovation and furniture measuring to room planning, real estate checks, interior design, and light construction projects, this pocket-size laser distance measure is made for practical everyday use. Compact enough to keep in a drawer, toolbox, bag, or pocket, it is a stylish measuring tool that feels just as giftable as it is useful

Q5: What is the difference between “Brief” and “Detailed” notification pop-up styles?

Brief notifications only show a small pop-up with the app icon and a quick summary, and they allow Edge Lighting to activate. Detailed notifications display a larger pop-up with more information directly on your screen, and they usually override Edge Lighting.

Q6: Can I get more Edge Lighting effects than the default ones?

Yes, you can download the Good Lock app from the Galaxy Store and then install the EdgeLighting+ module within it. This module provides a wider range of animated effects and advanced customization options for Edge Lighting.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Q7: My Edge Lighting sometimes shows up even when I’ve turned it off. Why?

This can sometimes happen if you have a Bixby Routine or a custom routine set up that includes Edge Lighting as an action for specific scenarios (e.g., “When unlocking phone”). Check your Settings > Modes and Routines to ensure no routine is overriding your preference.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.