Android For Dummies. Dan Gookin
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camera: The rear camera is found on the back (duh). Some devices feature multiple lenses for different focal lengths or special effects. The camera may be accompanied by one or more LED flash gizmos.
Speaker(s): The primary phone speaker is located top-center, above the touchscreen. One or more additional speakers might also be found on the phone’s bottom edge or backside. Tablets feature stereo speakers on either side of the device, though some smaller tablets may have their speakers on the back.
Microphone: Somewhere below the touchscreen, you’ll find the phone’s microphone. It’s tiny, about the diameter of a pin. Don’t stick anything into the hole! A second, noise canceling microphone might also be found on the back of the phone. Android tablets put the microphone along the edge, typically on the bottom.
Headphone jack: Somewhere on the device’s edge is the hole where you can connect standard headphones. If the headphone jack is missing, you must use wireless headphones; see Chapter 18 for details on Bluetooth.
Removable storage slot: Into this slot you insert a microSD card, which expands the device’s storage. Not every Android features this expansion option. See Chapter 19 for more details.
SIM card cover: This spot is where you access a cellular device’s SIM card, as covered earlier in this chapter.
USB/Power connector: This slot is where you connect the USB cable, which is used both to charge the battery and to connect your Android to a computer.
Take a moment to locate all items mentioned in this section, as well as shown in Figure 1-1. It’s important that you know where these items are on your device.
As you might expect, some devices feature extra doodads, beyond the basics here. For example, you may find a row of navigation icons along the bottom of the touchscreen. Older Samsung devices feature a physical Home button. Newer Samsung devices have a Bixby button, used to summon Samsung’s eager digital assistant.
The back of the phone may feature a fingerprint scanner, which is used to unlock the device. Refer to Chapter 22.
The Galaxy Note line of Androids features a digital stylus pointing device called an S Pen. It slides into the device’s bottom edge.
It’s common for some phones to feature controls on the back. You may find the power button (near the top-center on the back of the phone), a volume key, or a fingerprint scanner.
Using earphones
You can use your Android without earphones, but they’re nice things to have. If you didn’t find a set of earbuds in the box, I recommend that you buy a pair: The earbud-style earphone sets directly into your ear. The sharp, pointy end of the earphones, which you don’t want to stick into your ear, plugs into the device’s headphone jack.
Between the earbuds and the sharp, pointy thing, you might find a doodle button. The button is used to answer a call on an Android phone, mute the mic, or, on both a phone and tablet, start or stop the playback of music.
A teensy hole on the doodle serves as a microphone. The mic allows you to wear the earbuds and talk on the phone while keeping your hands free. If you gesture while you speak, you’ll find this feature invaluable.
The earphones must be inserted fully into the jack. If they aren’t, you won’t hear anything.
You can also use a Bluetooth headset with your phone, to listen to a call or some music. See Chapter 18 for more information on Bluetooth.
Fold the earphones when you put them away, as opposed to wrapping them in a loop. Put the earbuds and connector in one hand, and then pull the wire straight out with the other hand. Fold the wire in half and then in half again. You can then put the earphones in your pocket or on a tabletop. By folding the wires, you avoid creating something that looks like a wire ball of Christmas tree lights.
Adding accessories
Beyond earphones, you can find an entire phone store full of accessories and baubles for your Android. The variety is seemingly endless, and the prices, well, they ain’t cheap. Here are some of your choices:
Phone case: Protect your phone by getting it a jacket, one that further expresses your individuality.
Pouches, sleeves, and keyboard covers: Android tablets have larger-format cases, almost like folios. Special pouches double as tablet stands. The fanciest tablet accessory is a keyboard cover, which features a wireless (Bluetooth) keyboard.
Keyboard: Speaking of keyboards, even if it isn’t part of the case, a Bluetooth keyboard is a handy Android tablet accessory.
Screen protector: This clear, plastic sheet adheres to the touchscreen, protecting it from scratches, finger smudges, and sneeze globs while still allowing you to use the touchscreen. Ensure that you get a screen protector designed specifically for your device.
Belt clip: To sate your envy of Batman’s utility belt, and demonstrate that you’re definitely over 50, consider getting a fine leatherette or Naugahyde phone case that you can quickly attach to your belt.
Arm band: Demonstrate to the world that you’re not only healthy but you’re also under 50 by wearing your phone on your upper arm. Do so only while jogging or wearing such attire while standing in line at Starbucks.
Selfie stick: Cheaper than having friends and more trustworthy than handing your phone to a stranger, use the selfie stick to take a self portrait minus that awkward “I’m holding my own phone” posture. It’s a must for tourists.
Vehicle charger: Use the vehicle charger to provide power to your phone or tablet for a long trip. This accessory is a must for older vehicles that lack USB ports.
Car mount: This device holds your Android phone so that you can easily see it while driving. It makes for easier access, although these things are forbidden in some states.
Wireless charger: Not every phone can be charged wirelessly, but if yours can, definitely get a wireless charger. Set your phone on the pad or prop it up in the dock. The phone’s battery starts magically recharging.
Portable charger: Battery life isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. These pocket-size power plants let you charge your phone anywhere power isn’t otherwise available.
Screencasting dongle: This accessory connects to an HDTV or computer monitor. Once configured, it allows you to cast the Android’s screen onto the larger-screen device. It’s ideal for watching movies or Netflix or YouTube videos, or for enjoying music. Google’s Chromecast is an example of a screencasting gizmo. See Chapter 19 for more information on screencasting.
Other exciting and nifty accessories might be available for your phone or tablet. Check frequently for new garnishes and frills at the location where you bought your Android. Your credit card company will love you.
Android devices generally don’t recognize more than one button on the earphone doodle. For example, if you use earphones that feature a volume button or mute button, pressing that extra button does nothing.
Another useful accessory to get is a microfiber cloth to help clean the touchscreen, plus a special cleaning solution wipe. See