Leaked Firmware Points to Features for Galaxy Note 9’s Bluetooth-Equipped S Pen

Ever since we learned the new S Pen for Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Note 9 features Bluetooth, we’ve been scratching our heads, wondering what a Bluetooth-enabled stylus could bring to the table for users. Thanks to a recent teardown by XDA of leaked firmware for the soon-to-be-released Galaxy Tab S4, we now have a very solid idea of what to expect when it comes to features.

According to the data taken by XDA, users will be able to control music playback with S Pen, control remote camera shutter functionality, access a remote phone unlock feature, as well as set up single and double press Pen actions.

Here’s the complete summary, as provided by XDA.

• Control music with the S Pen. This will probably allow you to control music like you can with earbuds by pressing the play/pause button. The S Pen button will probably let you play and pause music while also allowing you to skip music tracks.
• Use the S Pen as a remote camera shutter. This could be useful in situations where you want to take a picture of yourself and prop up your phone.
• You will be able to remotely unlock your phone if the S Pen was removed from the phone and then the phone locks.
• You will be able to press the S Pen button to do more in a range of apps. We don’t know about what other integrations with apps the S Pen will have, though, as the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 hasn’t launched.
• Press and hold the Pen button to open any app or S Pen feature.
• Set up single and double press Pen actions.

While I know plenty of folks will love using some of these, even as a Note fanboy, I still don’t think I’ll ever use the S Pen. I’m just not a stylus lover.

Samsung Galaxy Note 9. August 9 in NYC. We’ll be there.

// XDA