The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE has subtly unveiled a display capability that distinguishes it from the rest of the Galaxy series — and it’s more than just another specification upgrade. The device’s High Brightness Mode (HBM) operates differently compared to any other Samsung smartphone, and while that may sound beneficial, it carries a frustrating limitation: you cannot manually activate it.
Let’s delve into what makes the S24 FE’s HBM unique, why it is significant, and why Samsung ought to provide users with greater control over this powerful asset.
High Brightness Mode is a functionality present in most contemporary smartphones that temporarily enhances screen brightness to improve visibility in bright surroundings, such as direct sunlight. It is typically initiated automatically when the ambient light sensor of the phone detects intense light.
On the majority of Samsung devices, this mode is linked to the phone’s auto-brightness feature and is not accessible to the user. This implies that you cannot manually switch it on — it only engages when the phone deems it necessary.
The Galaxy S24 FE’s High Brightness Mode does not merely elevate the nits — it fundamentally alters how the display functions. Unlike other Samsung AMOLED devices that depend on Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) dimming across all brightness levels, the S24 FE transitions to DC-like dimming when HBM is activated.
This is significant.
PWM dimming rapidly turns the display on and off to emulate lower brightness levels. While effective, it can lead to eye strain, headaches, and discomfort for users sensitive to screen flicker. Conversely, DC dimming adjusts brightness by reducing the voltage directly, resulting in a more stable and eye-comfortable display.
The S24 FE’s shift to DC-like dimming in HBM not only renders the screen easier on the eyes but also taps into its maximum brightness potential — up to twice the brightness above what’s labeled “100%” in the settings.
Despite the obvious advantages, Samsung hasn’t provided an option to manually switch on High Brightness Mode on the S24 FE — or any of its devices. This constraint has prompted tech enthusiasts and display testers to seek alternatives.
Some have attempted to utilize a flashlight to deceive the ambient light sensor into activating HBM. Others have investigated apps and ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands to adjust brightness settings. Unfortunately, these approaches either fail or necessitate root access, which voids warranties and disables critical security features like Samsung Knox.
Even efforts to manipulate system files — such as modifying /sys/class/backlight/panel/max_brightness — are denied access without root privileges. In summary, unless you’re prepared to take risky measures, you’ll have to wait for direct sunlight to illuminate your phone to experience its optimal display.
The inability to manually activate HBM is more than a mere inconvenience — it represents a lost opportunity for Samsung to spearhead user-driven display customization.
Here’s why it is important:
Samsung’s choice to confine HBM to automatic triggers seems arbitrary, particularly when the company promotes its devices as being suitable for everyone. Display quality is a fundamental aspect of the Galaxy brand, and yet, users are denied access to the full capabilities of their screens.
Even the “Extra Brightness” toggle in settings fails to enable HBM — it merely elevates the PWM-dimmed brightness threshold. This means users are still contending with flickering displays and not experiencing the full brightness the hardware can deliver.
Samsung should emulate its own model and provide users with increased control over their devices. Here’s what would make a difference:
