Question about Minolta Freedom 35AF/QD

[ag1ordano]

Hi,

I'm new here so I apologize if this isn't where this question belongs...

I recently purchased a Minolta Freedom 35AF/QD from eBay. The camera is in near perfect shape. My question is in regards to the auto-flash feature. On the front of the camera, there is a sliding button for flash/no flash. It has the ability to move back and forth but does not click into my place like my other, even less advanced film point and shoots. I know the flash works because if it's dark enough, it will go off. I'm wondering why there would be this mechanism if the user didn't have the option of turning the flash on/off at their convenience? I messaged another seller with the same exact camera for sale and asked how their flash worked... same thing. I can't seem to find the manual anywhere for free download so I figured I'd ask here. Am I missing something?

Thank you for your help and patience with a beginner

 

[dxqcanada]

I suspect that it forces the User to hold it in position if they want to over-ride the auto flash feature ... thus preventing the user to accidentally set it in non-Auto, forgetting about it and missing some usable images.