Beginner Tips and Tricks for Android – Part 1

Whether you are a first time smart phone user, upgrading from an older device or switching to Android from an iPhone; you will most likely experience a learning curve with your new device. Currently over 50% of all smartphones around the world are Android devices, knowing that you would probably assume there are some pretty awesome features within the operating system. The only problem is how do you find all the different features and learn about just the stock applications that your device comes with.  Luckily for you we have compiled a list, or beginners guide to Android if you will, of everything you need to know to get started.

Sync Contacts and Calendar

Let’s start with how to sync your contacts, calendar, and social media accounts. Android easily integrates with Exchange, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, contacts and other accounts that you may use with your Calendar. Once you set-up all your accounts with your Android device, every time a contact updates their information such as a email address or phone number, your phone will also automatically update.

To set-up accounts you will want to go to your settings “app” and then click the Accounts & Sync section. From here you can easily add an account or even change the settings of previous accounts if needed. These accounts can inlcude Facebook, calendar accounts, Twitter, LinkedIn and many other accounts you may have around the Internet.

Adding a Contact

In order to add a new contact you will want to make sure to add the contact on your Google account so it is backed up, rather than just saving to the phone. In order to add a contact, simply open up your dial pad and type in the number. From there you will see a + sign; click that and you will be taken to the “add a new contact” page. From here you can easily add a picture, name, email, address, phone numbers and any other notes you may have.

Working with Notifications

Although every Android device is a little different, there is a basic general layout that you can except on each device. Notifications will most likely always be on the top bar, which can pull down by simply swiping down on the top of your screen. Applications and widgets will always be in the middle (or main) part of the screen and the bottom will have the main buttons such as home, back and view all open applications.