How to Change to Landscape on Samsung Devices: 1 Minute to Resize Your Screen Quickly

Changing your Samsung device’s screen orientation to landscape is a straightforward process, but it can sometimes be confusing if your settings aren’t right. Whether you’re watching videos, browsing photos, or planning a new layout for your living room using a design app, landscape mode offers a wider view and often a better experience. Here’s how you can easily switch your Samsung device from portrait to landscape:

1. Unlock Screen Rotation:
2. Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings panel.
3. Look for the icon labeled "Portrait" or "Auto rotate." If it says "Portrait," tap it once— it should switch to "Auto rotate."
4. Your device can now automatically rotate to landscape when you turn it sideways.
5. Switch to Landscape Mode:
6. Hold your device horizontally—the content on your screen should rotate to fit the new orientation.
7. Troubleshooting:
8. If the screen isn’t rotating, check if "Auto rotate" is enabled, and make sure your app supports landscape mode. Some home screens and apps remain in portrait regardless of the setting.

As a designer, I often use room planner tools on my Samsung tablet. Enabling landscape mode gives me a broader canvas to visualize room layouts and furniture arrangements, making the design process smoother and more enjoyable.

Tips 1:

If you frequently switch between orientations, consider adding the "Auto rotate" shortcut to your Quick Settings panel for quick access. For customized settings, go to Settings > Display > Screen rotation on your device. Remember, certain screen protectors or phone cases can block the sensors that control rotation, so double-check those accessories if rotation isn’t working.

FAQ

Q: Why won’t my Samsung device switch to landscape mode?

A: Make sure “Auto rotate” is enabled in the Quick Settings panel. Also, some apps do not support landscape mode, and accessories may block rotation sensors.

Q: Can I lock my device in landscape mode?

A: Samsung devices natively let you lock in portrait, but not in landscape. However, some third-party apps in the Play Store can lock your device in landscape mode.

Q: How do I add the "Auto rotate" button to Quick Settings?

A: Swipe down twice from the top of your screen, tap the three-dot menu, select "Edit buttons," and drag “Auto rotate” into the active panel.

Q: Does rotation work with all apps?

A: No, some apps—especially certain home screens and older applications—do not support landscape orientation.

Q: Why does my Home screen not rotate?

A: By default, many Samsung home screens don’t support landscape. You can enable it in home screen settings, or use a third-party launcher with rotation support.