Android · Devices
Customize button actions and handwriting for a stylus
Stylus settings let you configure what happens when a supported stylus's button is pressed, enable handwriting-to-text conversion in text fields, and adjust pointer and pressure behavior for compatible pens like Samsung's S Pen or other Bluetooth styluses.
How to open Stylus Settings
- Open Settings
- Tap System (or Advanced features on some devices)
- Select Stylus
- Assign button actions and enable handwriting-to-text
- Pair via Bluetooth if using a wireless stylus model
What you should know
- Assigns actions to the stylus button, such as taking a screenshot or opening notes
- Enables handwriting recognition directly inside standard text input fields
- Shows battery level for Bluetooth-enabled styluses
- Adjusts pointer icon visibility and hover preview where supported
Why it matters
For devices that support stylus input, the pen often becomes the primary input method for note-taking and drawing, so correctly configuring button shortcuts and handwriting conversion directly affects how natural and efficient that workflow feels. Without enabling handwriting-to-text, for example, a user has to switch back to the on-screen keyboard for any text field, defeating much of the convenience of owning a stylus in the first place.
Best practices
- Enable handwriting-to-text if you plan to take notes with the stylus rather than typing
- Assign the stylus button to your most-used quick action, such as screenshot or screen-off note
- Check stylus battery level periodically for Bluetooth-enabled pens to avoid it dying mid-use
- Recalibrate or reconnect the stylus if pointer tracking feels laggy or offset
Common problems and fixes
- Stylus button does nothing when pressed
- Confirm a specific action is assigned in Stylus settings, since some actions require it to be explicitly enabled
- Handwriting isn't converting to text
- Enable the handwriting recognition toggle and confirm the correct language pack is installed
- Stylus disconnects frequently
- Check stylus battery level and re-pair via Bluetooth settings if it's a wireless model
Tips and tricks
- Set the stylus button double-press action to something different from the single-press for more shortcuts in less space
- Use hover preview, if supported, to see button tooltips before committing to a tap
Frequently asked questions
Does this work with any stylus, or only the manufacturer's own pen?
Basic pressure and hover support often works with any compatible passive stylus, but button actions and Bluetooth features usually require the manufacturer's specific pen.
Can I use the stylus without Bluetooth?
Yes, drawing and writing typically work without Bluetooth; Bluetooth is only needed for button shortcuts and battery reporting on supported pens.
Does handwriting recognition work offline?
Yes, once the language pack is downloaded, handwriting recognition generally works without an internet connection.
Related settings
- Connected DevicesConnected devices is the hub screen for every accessory linked to your phone, including Bluetooth headphones, watches, car systems, and USB or NFC connections, plus shortcuts to Cast and Nearby Share preferences.
- Bluetooth DevicesBluetooth settings let you pair headphones, speakers, watches, and other accessories, and manage previously connected devices.
More Devices guides for Android
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- CastCast lets you send audio, video, or your entire phone screen wirelessly to a Chromecast-built-in TV, Chromecast device, or other Cast-enabled speaker on the same Wi-Fi network.
- USB PreferencesUSB Preferences controls what happens when your phone is plugged into a computer or other USB device — whether it charges only, transfers files, shares a network connection, or acts as a MIDI/audio device.
- Android AutoAndroid Auto projects a simplified, driving-friendly interface — navigation, calls, messaging, and media — onto your car's built-in display, either over a USB cable or wirelessly on supported vehicles.
- Fast PairFast Pair detects nearby supported Bluetooth accessories, such as earbuds or speakers, in pairing mode and shows a one-tap notification to connect instantly, skipping the usual manual Bluetooth pairing menu.
- Previously Connected DevicesThis screen lists every Bluetooth accessory, Chromecast, or other device the phone has connected to in the past, even if currently disconnected or out of range, so you can reconnect, rename, or permanently forget them.