Get to know your new phone

  • Smartphone: a cell phone that can access the internet and has an interactive screen
  • iOS: the operating system for iPhones made by Apple
  • Android: the operating system for other devices made by various companies, including Samsung, LG, Motorola, and Nokia
  • Apps: the icons on the phone; each one represents a program or application
  • App store: the place to download and update apps; called Google Play on Android and Apps on Apple.
  • Data: internet connection that is built into the phone.  Your phone will automatically make this connection.
  • Wireless: internet connection that is stationary.  You may need to sign in at a location like a home, a cafe, or a library, but your phone will remember after the first time.
  • Tap: a light finger tap on the screen will perform an action
  • Swipe: a finger movement across the screen (like turning pages), or down from the top of the screen
  • Social media: online places to connect with people (apps like Facebook and Twitter)
  • Sign up: many apps require you to sign up for an account to use them
  • Cloud: an online storage place, away from your phone, that keeps items safe and accessible
  • Browser: a vehicle to get you on the internet (apps like Chrome and Safari)
  • Search engine: a website that allows you to find things on the internet (like Google or Yahoo)
  • Update: updating the technology on your phone helps it run efficiently and correctly
  • Restart: turning your device on and off can solve issues
  • Help or ?: most apps have a help button
  • Troubleshooting: the process of solving an issue with your phone or other technology
Download this guide as a PDF.

Smartphone Troubleshooting Tips

Most issues can be resolved by updating your apps. If your phone doesn’t automatically ask you about updates, look in the Settings app.
Guide for Android | Guide for iOS

Some issues can be resolved by restarting your device.
  • Hold in the power button for several seconds until the screen prompts you to turn off or restart. 
  • If you have turned off the device, hold in the power button for several seconds to start.

​Within apps, tap on Help or ? for instructions on how to use the app.  
En español: ¿Cómo usar una celular?