How to fix Galaxy Note 9 S-Pen issues

The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is one of the most powerful smartphones in the series. Bluetooth featuring the S-Pen stylus is one of the best features of this smartphone. Ahead of that, the added benefits are so amazing that every Note 9 user relies on S-Pen. But the more advanced it is, the more fragile it is. How do I fix the Galaxy Note 9 S-Pen issues when it is malfunctioning? Here, we are going to show you how to do just that.

Fixing the Galaxy Note 9 S-Pen issues

Solution 1: Use Samsung’s recommendation

Looks like Samsung is already aware of the imminent issues with the S-Pen. That is why they published some notes related to troubleshooting. As per Samsung, if the S-Pen is unable to connect via Bluetooth, disconnects very often or does not respond to any command then it needs to be reset. In order to reset the S-Pen, insert it back into its Galaxy Note 9 slot. Reach the S-Pen remote settings and tap the three-dot (checklist or more) menu option in the top right corner. From there, choose Reset S-Pen. This will reset the S-Pen. After that, bring out the S-Pen and try using it. If there was a connectivity error or the S-Pen was not set up properly in the first place, it will start working accurately.

Solution 2: Restart in Safe mode

If the S-Pen stops working or it does not respond in a way, it should then try the Safe Mode option. This may resolve the issue. Once it is in Safe mode, all third-party apps will be disabled. If everything works fine in Safe mode, it means that one of the third-party apps is causing the problem.

To enter Safe mode, you need to shut down Note 9 first. First, you need to press and hold the Power button and wait for the Samsung logo to show up. Once you see the logo, just release that button. Then press and hold the Volume down key and hold it until the restart is done. If you did it correctly, you’ll see “Safe Mode” words one screen, in the lower-left corner of it.

Try using the S-Pen while in Safe mode. It should respond properly. If it does, one of the apps you installed recently is causing the problem. Go back to normal mode and remove recently installed apps one by one until the issue is resolved.

Solution 3: Remove the case

Everyone is trying to protect the premium product ever acquired. Whether it is a car, a motorbike or a smartphone we all wish to keep them just like they were when they were new. In doing so, most of the time, we do more than needed. Just like adding metal cases on the Galaxy Note 9 or using thick protectors for the screen. The cases block the interface between Note 9 and the S-pen. This creates blank spaces on the screen which the phone does not read. In the same way, thick protectors for the screen reduce sensor activity. The blockade makes it difficult to use the S-Pen. If, in a way, the S-Pen does not begin to work properly even after Safe Mode, simply remove the fancy case or protective cover.

Solution 4: Check for software updates

Old software patches can also cause trouble. It's best to keep the Note 9 up to date. If the updates do not perform automatically, try checking for updates manually as newer system patches enhance the performance level as well as keep the phone healthy.

To check it manually, tap the Menu key and go to Settings > About phone > Software updates > Check for updates. If there is a new version, click on Download now. Just confirm your choice by choosing the option Install update.

Solution 5: Factory Reset

If none of these solutions help to fix the issue, then perform a factory reset on your Note 9. But before you do that, make sure to back up all your data.

You can perform a factory data reset once the device is powered off. Then press the Volume Up, Bixby and Power buttons at the same time and continue to hold all three until you see the Samsung logo. Then you’ll see “Android Recovery screen”. Scroll through the options with volume buttons and choose Wipe data/factory reset using the Power button. Select Yes to Wipe all user data and wait until the reboot process is complete. You’ll have to set up your phone as a new device.

Reach out to the nearest Samsung support

Samsung Support is the last resort. If none of the solutions help you resolve the issue, we recommend reaching out to your nearest Samsung Support. The problem could be because of a connection defect within the phone or the sensors might be troubled.