Galaxy S26 Plus: How to Get Swipe for Assistant Back with Good Lock

I’ve been testing the Galaxy S26 Plus for just over a week now, and the new Samsung flagship is packed with upgraded AI features as part of One UI 8.5. Although there’s a lot to like about the software, one notable downgrade has persisted on Samsung’s latest devices, and it relates to how easily you can access Gemini. Specifically, a convenient gesture for launching the AI assistant is still missing.

One of my favorite shortcuts on many Android phones – including Pixels, OnePlus, and Motorola devices – is “Swipe for Assistant.” When enabled, a diagonal swipe from the bottom corner of the screen instantly brings up Gemini. It’s incredibly useful for quick tasks, but Samsung removed this gesture on its phones several years ago. I reached out to Samsung for clarification on why this feature was removed, but I haven’t received a response.

However, I’ve found a workaround using Samsung’s own tools that brings back a similar functionality. This involves leveraging the Good Lock app and its One Hand Operation + module.

Good Lock and One Hand Operation +

If you’re unfamiliar, Good Lock is a Samsung app that allows you to customize various aspects of your phone’s UI through downloadable plugins. Each plugin focuses on a different area, offering granular control over your device’s appearance and functionality. It’s a powerful tool for those who like to personalize their experience.

The One Hand Operation + plugin is designed to make larger phones easier to use with one hand. It allows you to customize handles that appear on either side of the screen, triggering various actions when swiped. This makes it a nearly perfect substitute for the missing Swipe for Assistant gesture.

Setting up One Hand Operation + for Gemini

First, download the Good Lock app from the Galaxy Store. Once installed, open Good Lock and install the One Hand Operation + module. Then, follow these steps:

1. Toggle the module on.
2. Tap Left handle.
3. Tap the Diagonal up option, then select Assistance app. I recommend leaving the Straight right and Diagonal down options set to None. Repeat this process for the Right handle.
4. In the main menu, open Advanced settings.
5. Toggle on System back gesture to retain back navigation when swiping outside the handle area.
6. (Optional) Adjust animation style, size, and color in the Animation section, or disable it entirely.
7. (Optional) Use Hide handle to disable the gesture on specific screens, and App exceptions to disable it within certain apps.
8. On the main menu, scroll down to adjust the size of the handles. I set mine to the smallest size, but adjust to your preference.
9. Tap Handle color and set the opacity to 0% to make the handles invisible.
10. (Optional) In Gesture settings, toggle on Quick action to have Gemini start appearing before you release your finger. You can also adjust gesture angles, swipe distance, and vibration settings.

With these settings configured, you should be able to invoke Gemini by swiping from the bottom corner of your screen. It takes a little getting used to, as the handles don’t extend all the way to the corners, but once you adjust, the gesture works well.

A Better Trigger Than Samsung’s Default

I prefer this workaround to Samsung’s default method for launching Gemini: a long press of the power button. Google began pushing this change with Android 12, and Samsung adopted it on the Galaxy S26 series and other recent models. However, I strongly dislike this approach.

My primary concern is that it changes the established behavior of the power button. I’m reluctant to alter a function that’s been ingrained in users for years, simply because Samsung and Google haven’t prioritized a dedicated AI button. I don’t want to awkwardly press two buttons to power off my phone, especially when it’s so similar to taking a screenshot. This is why I appreciate having the Swipe for Assistant option as an alternative.

To ensure the power button functions as intended, navigate to Settings > Advanced features > Side button > Long press and set it to Power off menu. This allows you to retain the traditional power-off functionality while still having a convenient way to access Gemini.