Looks like someone finally broke down and got you an Android phone for Christmas. You’ve made a wise choice my friend. Android phones are as useful as they are cool. However, learning how to use a brand new operating system takes time. We’re sure you’ll learn the ropes in time. For now, let’s go over a few things you can do right now with your new Android phone.
Make Your Own App
Google is constantly working on new ways to make your lives easier. When the company introduced the world to Android with the G1, we had no idea the platform would explode like it did. Smartphones such as this require applications to survive. There are thousands of apps in the Android Market, but you can also make your own using software Google provides. App Inventor is a Google created program that tries to simplify the app making process by using connection blocks. Make no mistake, there is a learning curve involved, but Google starts you off by helping you make a meowing kitty application. This process goes over the basics so you can get a better idea of what you’re up against.
Check on Your T-Mobile Account
T-Mobile accounts have access to an application called My Account. My Account keeps track of your data usage, minutes used and text messaging limits. This is particularly useful when you have no idea how many minutes or texts you have left. You can set up alerts that will inform you of when you’re running out of either. No one wants to go over the limit and pay for each time someone unwittingly sends you a text.
T-Mobile accounts have access to an application called My Account. My Account keeps track of your data usage, minutes used and text messaging limits. This is particularly useful when you have no idea how many minutes or texts you have left. You can set up alerts that will inform you of when you’re running out of either. No one wants to go over the limit and pay for each time someone unwittingly sends you a text.
Get in the Swype Beta
Swype is a neat way to input text on your phone. I don’t know what the voodoo is behind it, but Swype is really freaky. Instead of typing in letters, you drag your finger across the keyboard to form words. Somehow Swype knows what word you wanted to use. Some Android phones already have Swype installed, but if your phone doesn’t, check it out anyway and blow your parent’s minds.
Swype is a neat way to input text on your phone. I don’t know what the voodoo is behind it, but Swype is really freaky. Instead of typing in letters, you drag your finger across the keyboard to form words. Somehow Swype knows what word you wanted to use. Some Android phones already have Swype installed, but if your phone doesn’t, check it out anyway and blow your parent’s minds.
Never Get Lost Again
The Google Maps application should come pre-installed on your phone. You can get regular word directions to your destination like a caveman, or you can use Google Navigation. Google Navigation gives you real-time, turn-by-turn directions. The robot lady’s voice is also easy to understand. One of the things I like most about Google Navigation is the fact that it’s just as good as any other GPS device. A little blue triangle lets you know exactly where you are at all times, and you can move the Map to see what’s coming up. You can also choose routes for public transportation or if you’re on foot.
The Google Maps application should come pre-installed on your phone. You can get regular word directions to your destination like a caveman, or you can use Google Navigation. Google Navigation gives you real-time, turn-by-turn directions. The robot lady’s voice is also easy to understand. One of the things I like most about Google Navigation is the fact that it’s just as good as any other GPS device. A little blue triangle lets you know exactly where you are at all times, and you can move the Map to see what’s coming up. You can also choose routes for public transportation or if you’re on foot.
Setup Visual Voicemail
With Android, you’ll never have to dial your own number to listen to voicemail. This app can be found in the Android Market, and is tied to your mobile carrier. After setting up your visual voicemail account, messages you receive are stored in your visual voicemail mailbox. You can also save those messages to your SD card for safe keeping.
With Android, you’ll never have to dial your own number to listen to voicemail. This app can be found in the Android Market, and is tied to your mobile carrier. After setting up your visual voicemail account, messages you receive are stored in your visual voicemail mailbox. You can also save those messages to your SD card for safe keeping.
One Touch Calling and Messaging
Android lets you customize your many home screens. It usually takes two or more steps to call someone, but not anymore. You can assign a contact to your home screen by holding down on the screen, selecting shortcut and choosing the direct dial option. The same can be done for direct messaging. If you must call someone while driving, this is at least somewhat safer than scrolling through the phone book.
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