**Samsung’s Initial Galaxy S26 Update Disables the ‘Hey Plex’ Wake Phrase**
Samsung has rolled out its inaugural software update for the Galaxy S26 series, which prominently eliminates the “Hey Plex” wake command that was used to engage the Perplexity AI assistant hands-free. This alteration means that users must now manually start Perplexity or utilize the side button for access, as the “Hey Plex detection” switch has been removed from the settings. Nevertheless, Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas has assured that the wake phrase will be reinstated as “Hey Perplexity.”
The Galaxy S26, released earlier this year, is part of Samsung’s initiative to enhance its AI ecosystem, unveiling Perplexity AI in conjunction with Bixby and Google’s Gemini. The “Hey Plex” feature permitted users to activate the assistant without physically interacting with the device, even with the screen off. Its removal implies that the feature may not have been entirely ready at launch, and the transition to “Hey Perplexity” could bolster the assistant’s branding.
The update has momentarily deactivated the voice activation capability while Samsung and Perplexity shift to the revised wake word. This change may stem from possible conflicts with other brands or products utilizing the “Plex” name, and employing the complete “Perplexity” title could elucidate the assistant’s identity.
Samsung’s strategy with the Galaxy S26 emphasizes a multi-assistant framework, enabling users to alternate between assistants like Gemini for Google-driven inquiries, Bixby for device management, and Perplexity for online research responses. Perplexity is embedded within Samsung’s ecosystem, collaborating with applications such as Samsung Notes, Calendar, and Reminders.
At present, Galaxy S26 users need to manually launch Perplexity, but once the “Hey Perplexity” command is operational, voice access will be reinstated, providing one of the most adaptable AI configurations available on any smartphone.