Most people use their smartphones for messaging, maps, and photography—but few realize just how powerful some of the hidden features are. One of the most overlooked tools in the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is the built-in compass, especially when accessed through the smart and customizable Edge Panels.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use the built-in compass on Samsung Galaxy A36 5G using Edge Panels, step-by-step, while explaining how it works, how to calibrate it, and why it matters for navigation or outdoor use.
What Are Edge Panels on Samsung Galaxy A36 5G?
Edge Panels are one of Samsung’s most useful multitasking features. Think of them as customizable side toolbars that you can access by swiping in from the edge of your screen. From here, you can launch apps, tools, contacts, or widgets without navigating through your home screen.
By default, the Galaxy A36 5G may not show the compass tool, but it’s available within the Tools Panel—one of the optional Edge Panel modules.
Does the Galaxy A36 5G Have a Built-In Compass?
Yes. The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G includes a built-in magnetometer sensor, which allows the device to detect magnetic fields and determine direction—just like a traditional compass.
“According to a study from Stanford University’s Department of Electrical Engineering (2020), smartphone magnetometers provide reliable direction sensing, especially for short-range orientation and offline navigation when GPS is not available.”
Samsung integrates the compass tool as part of its Edge Panel “Tools” or via diagnostic apps like Samsung Members.
How to Enable and Use the Compass from Edge Panels on Galaxy A36 5G
Step 1: Turn On Edge Panels
- Open Settings
- Tap Display
- Scroll to and select Edge Panels
- Toggle the switch to On
Step 2: Add the Tools Panel
- Still inside the Edge Panels settings, tap Panels
- Find and enable the Tools Panel (this includes ruler, flashlight, surface level, and compass)
Step 3: Access the Compass
- Swipe from the edge of the screen (typically the right edge by default)
- Scroll through the Edge Panels until you reach the Tools Panel
- Tap the Compass tool
You now have a functional digital compass that works even when offline.
How to Calibrate the Compass
Your phone may prompt you to calibrate the compass the first time you open it. To do this:
- Hold your phone flat in your hand
- Move it in a figure-eight motion a few times
- The tool will auto-adjust once calibration is complete
This process aligns the internal magnetometer for better directional accuracy. As noted in a MIT Media Lab publication (2021), recalibrating MEMS sensors like magnetometers is essential when changing locations or after a magnetic disruption.
Tips for Using the Compass Effectively
- Use the compass outdoors for best results
- Keep away from magnetic or metal objects (e.g., cars, speakers)
- Make sure the phone is held flat and steady
- Use along with offline maps when hiking or traveling off-grid
What If the Compass Doesn’t Work?
If the compass doesn’t appear or shows wrong directions, try the following:
- Make sure the Tools Panel is enabled
- Recalibrate using the figure-eight motion
- Restart the phone
- Update the Samsung Members app or use it for diagnostics
- Clear the cache for Edge Panels from Settings > Apps
Conclusion
The built-in compass on the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G, when accessed via Edge Panels, is a powerful and underused feature. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply finding your bearings in a new city, this tool can serve as your pocket navigator—even when offline.
With just a few taps, and a swipe from the screen edge, you gain access to reliable direction sensing powered by the same magnetic field that has guided explorers for centuries—only now, it’s in your phone.
So next time you need to know which way is north, skip the app store. Your Galaxy A36 5G already has you covered.
FAQ:
Q: Does the compass on Galaxy A36 5G require internet?
A: No. It works offline using the phone’s internal magnetometer sensor.
Q: Can I trust the compass for navigation?
A: Yes, as long as it’s properly calibrated and free from magnetic interference.
Q: What if the compass isn’t showing in Edge Panels?
A: Check that the Tools Panel is activated in Edge Panel settings.
