SMARTPHONE BASICS - Intro to apps

Smartphone Basics:

Intro to Apps

Evacuation

01

Go out the front doors and assemble in the mall carpark.

Toilets

02

03

Questions?

Please ask!

Introduction

Smartphone Basics

Intro to Apps

Using your camera

Things you want to know

B.Y.O. device.

• Sessions are usually 1-2 hours
• Device isn't necessary
• Ask questions as you need

Learning Outcomes

What can we hope to get out of today?

Knowledge

Confidence

Understanding

What is an 'app'.

Understanding about where to get apps from.

Confidence in finding and using apps.

What is an app?

An app (short for application) is a small program on your smartphone, tablet, or computer that helps you do specific tasks, like sending messages, watching videos, or checking the weather. It’s like a digital tool or helper that you can easily open and use whenever you need it.

What is an app?

Most apps are free

Most apps are free to download and use because they make money in other ways, like showing ads or offering extra features you can buy. You can enjoy many useful apps without paying, but some may ask if you want to upgrade for more options.

Don't download too many apps...

Risk of using apps

When using free apps,watch out for: Ads and Pop-Ups – Some apps show ads that may be misleading or try to trick you into clicking on something you don’t need. In-App Purchases – Many free apps offer extra features for a fee, so be careful not to accidentally buy something. Privacy Risks – Some apps collect personal information, so only download apps from trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play. Fake or Scam Apps – Watch out for apps with few reviews, bad ratings, or requests for too much personal information. Unnecessary Permissions – If an app asks for access to things like your contacts, camera, or location and it doesn’t seem necessary, it’s best to avoid it.

Deleting Apps on Android

Deleting Apps on iPhone

Things to consider:

• Some apps cannot be deleted because they are built into your phone’s system and help it run properly, like the phone, messages, and settings apps.

• Think of them like the engine in a car—you may not always see them working, but they are essential for everything else to function smoothly.

• You do not need to download multiple apps, your phone comes with the basics

Spam apps I see regularly are:- Phone Cleaner type apps- Weather apps- PDF Reader Apps

Where to get apps?

Where you get your apps will depend on what type of phone you are using.

Understanding App permissions

Let's have a look!

When you're stuck

There are good help resources should you need them:

• App Store

• The Play Store

Using an app

Using apps is as simple as tapping on their icon to open them, just like picking up a tool for a specific task. Apps are designed specifically for mobile devices to work smoothly on smaller screens, use touch controls, and run efficiently on battery power. Unlike computer programs, mobile apps must handle interruptions like calls and limited storage space, so developers make them lightweight and responsive.

Closing apps (Apple)

Close apps (Android)

Closing apps

Your phone can have mulitple apps open at once, so it's a good idea to close them when you're not using them! For iPhones: Newer iPhones (no home button) – Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle. You’ll see all open apps—swipe up on the one you want to close. Older iPhones (with a home button) – Double press the home button to see open apps, then swipe up on the one you want to close. For Android Phones: Most Android phones – Swipe up from the bottom and hold to see open apps, then swipe left or right (or up) to close. Phones with a navigation button – Tap the square or “Recent Apps” button, then swipe the app away or tap “Close All.” If an app is frozen and won’t close, you can restart your phone to refresh everything.

Apps I use regularly

• Clock / Alarm
• Goodreads
• Games
• FitBit
• My Indici
• Outlook - Work Email
• 2Degrees
• Calculator

• Banking
• Social Media - Instagram / FB Messenger
• Camera app
• Gmail
• Google Suite - Maps etc.
• Libby, Cloud Library, Hoopla (eLibrary)
• Spotify / Podcasts / RNZ
• Power supplier

Keep your software up to date!

What apps would you like to know more about?Let me know for Week 5!

Thank you!Any questions?

lealaf@horowhenua.govt.nz