Samsung One UI 9 Adds Secure Lock Toggle: How to Customize Lockdown Mode Settings

Photo Credit: Image Credits: Samsung / Android Authority

 Samsung has added a new "Secure lock with Power button" toggle in One UI 9 Beta 4, allowing eligible Galaxy users to choose whether the Quick Settings power shortcut opens the standard power menu or immediately activates Lockdown mode. The change gives users more flexibility while preserving the existing emergency security behavior of the physical side button.

According to Samsung’s One UI 9 Beta 4 release notes, the update introduces a new "Secure lock with Power button" toggle. Android Authority later highlighted the change after it was spotted by AssembleDebug.

Key Takeaways

• New: "Secure lock with Power button" toggle added in One UI 9 Beta 4.

• Behavior Change: Quick Settings power shortcut no longer forces Lockdown mode by default.

• Consistency: Physical side button behavior remains unchanged.

• Availability: One UI 9 Beta 4 on eligible Galaxy S26 devices.

Before You Begin

Some options described in this guide are available only on specific software versions currently in beta testing. If you do not see the "Secure lock with Power button" toggle, ensure your device is running a compatible version of the One UI beta.

Compatibility & Eligibility

Requirement	Details
Device	Galaxy S26 Series
Software	One UI 9 Beta 4
Region	Beta markets only
Stable Release	Not yet confirmed

1. Background

Samsung introduced Lockdown mode several Android versions ago as a security feature that temporarily disables biometric authentication (fingerprint and face unlock), requiring your PIN, password, or pattern for entry. The new toggle in One UI 9 beta represents a refinement of how users interact with this existing security layer rather than the addition of a new capability.

2. Why It Matters

For users who frequently access the power menu to restart or shut down their devices, this change reduces the chance of triggering Lockdown mode unintentionally. For those who rely on the Quick Settings shortcut as a quick "panic button," the option remains available to preserve that high-security behavior.

3. Before vs. New Behavior

Action	Before Beta 4	One UI 9 Beta 4
QS Power Button	Always Lockdown	Optional
Side Button	Lockdown	Lockdown

4. How to Manage Lockdown Settings

Enabling or Disabling the Toggle

1. Open Settings.

2. Navigate to Lock screen and AOD.

3. Tap Secure lock settings.

4. Toggle Secure lock with Power button to On or Off.

Who Should Enable This?

• Enable "Secure lock with Power button" if you:

  • Frequently use Lockdown mode.

  • Handle sensitive information.

  • Want faster security activation.

• Keep it disabled if you:

  • Often restart or shut down your phone.

  • Prefer a normal power menu experience.

Security Note: Lockdown mode is designed to protect users against unauthorized biometric access. Once activated, fingerprint and face recognition remain unavailable until the correct PIN, password, or pattern is entered.

5. Troubleshooting

If the option is missing:

• Verify your device is enrolled in the One UI Beta Program.

• Check for the latest beta update via Settings > Software update.

• Restart your device.

• Note: Some beta features roll out gradually by region.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

• Does Lockdown mode affect Samsung Wallet? Samsung has not specifically stated how this new toggle interacts with Samsung Wallet. Lockdown mode generally disables biometric authentication until your PIN, password, or pattern is entered.

• Does it disable Face Unlock? Yes, it disables all biometric authentication methods.

• Does it affect emergency calls? No, emergency calling remains accessible.

• Can I customize the side button separately? No, the physical side button behavior is fixed for security purposes.

Editorial Analysis

The refinement reflects Samsung's broader approach of adding granular controls rather than replacing existing security features. If this implementation remains in the stable release, it could improve everyday usability while preserving Lockdown mode as a dedicated security option.

Sources

• Primary Sources: Samsung One UI 9 Beta 4 Release Notes

• Secondary Sources: Android Authority, Samsung Support Documentation, AssembleDebug observations (via Android Authority)

Update History

• Published: July 17, 2026 | Last Updated: July 17, 2026

Correction Policy

This guide reflects publicly available One UI 9 Beta 4 features as of publication. If Samsung revises or removes this feature before the stable release, this article will be updated accordingly.

Post Source: Samsung One UI 9 Beta Release Notes / Android Authority

https://www.androidauthority.com/one-ui-9-lockdown-mode-quick-settings-power-button-apk-teardown-3687722/