Nov 2, 2022
Get the Most From Your Android Phone
Reading time: 7 minutes
You love your cellphone but sometimes you’re unsure how smart it really is. Can’t it be easier to do things like increase the size of the text and install updates? It would be nice if doing these things was a bit more intuitive or user-friendly, but, as they’re not, PureTalk is here to help.
How to increase the font size
Make reading text messages easier by doing the following:
On an iPhone: Under Settings, choose “Accessibility.” Look for and click on the words “Display & Text Size.” On the next screen, you have the option to turn on “Bold Text” and “Larger Text,” among others. Click on “Larger Text” and you can turn on what are called “Larger Accessibility Sizes.” The larger text won’t work on every app, but it will function on many, and that will make reading on your phone easier.
If you’d like to darken the text, which is called bold, turn on “Bold Text.” Again, the text won’t be bolded on every app, but it will be on many of them.
On an Android phone: Under Settings, choose “Accessibility.” At the next screen, tap “Font Size.” Here, you’ll see a slider. Drag it as far to the right as you like. The farther it goes to the right, the larger your font size will be. Then, click “Done” to save your changes.
How to install updates on your phone
On an iPhone: Open Settings, then click on “General” and then “Software Update” and turn “Automatic Updates” to the “on” position. On the next screen, turn on “Download iOS Updates” and “Install iOS Updates.” Now software updates will be made automatically after they have been downloaded. iPhone sends you a notification before updates are installed. All you need to do is make sure your iPhone is charging and connected to Wi-Fi to complete the update.
On an Android phone: Open Settings, then click on “About Phone/Tablet.” On the next screen turn on “Automatic Update.”
How to turn your phone into a hot spot
A hot spot enables you to work on your laptop when you’re away from home or in a place where there’s no public Wi-Fi. Using your phone in this manner allows you to remain productive and connected.
On an iPhone: Open Settings, then tap “Personal Hotspot,” then “Allow Others to Join.”
On an Android phone: Open Settings, then “Connections,” then “Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.”
Once the hotspots on iPhone or Android are on, return to your laptop or other device and go into your Wi-Fi menu. Your phone should be there as an option. Select it and provide the password your phone gave you.
Charge your battery faster – in Airplane mode
Isn’t it always at the most inconvenient times that you discover you’re just about out of battery? Well you can charge it faster if you first put it in Airplane Mode. Because Airplane Mode turns off lots of features of your phone – like cellular and Wi-Fi – there’s much less for the battery to do so it charges more quickly. When you’re all charged up, just turn Airplane Mode off.
On an iPhone: Open Settings, then toggle “Airplane Mode” to the “on” position.
On an Android phone: Open Settings, then click on “Network & Internet.” Tap the button next to “Airplane Mode.”
Take photos with the volume feature
Did you know that tapping the on-screen camera button isn't the only way to take photos? There's actually a much easier way to take photos quickly, without looking at or tapping the screen. Once the Camera app is open, click the volume up button and your phone snaps a photo. This even works with headphones that have inline remotes.
Let Siri help you take photos
Everyone knows they can ask Siri questions, but did you know Siri can make taking photos faster? While it can't actually capture the photo, Siri can open the Camera app to the setting that you ask for, so you just need to tap the camera button (or click the volume button). Here's what to do:
Activate Siri (hold down the Home or Side button, depending on your model) and ask Siri to take a photo or video. Your options are:
"Hey Siri, take a photo" (you can also say "picture")
"Hey Siri, take a square photo"
"Hey Siri, take a panoramic photo"
"Hey Siri, take a video"
"Hey Siri, take a slow-motion video"
"Hey Siri, take a tap-lapse video"
"Hey Siri, take a selfie."
When you have the image you want, tap the camera or volume button.
This hack works on all iPhone models. The selfie feature requires iOS 10 and up.
Get more from your battery
Over time, the battery in your phone won’t last as long as it once did. But there are things you can do to extend its life.
If you have animated or live wallpaper on your phone, delete it. It’s fun and it looks nice, but it drains the battery.
Certain apps, like Uber and Grubhub, track your location. If they’re tracking it all the time, it will drain your battery. On an iPhone, open an app like Google Maps or Uber or Grubhub, etc., and make sure that the “Location” setting is switched to “While Using.”
On an Android phone, go to Settings, click on “Location” then “Mode,” and on the next screen tap “Battery Saving Option” to turn it on. Set this way, your phone will only know its location when it’s connected to a network.
If your screen is very bright, which you might have needed it to be prior to enlarging your font size, it will drain your battery. To dim it, under Settings click on “Display & Brightness,” then use the slider to adjust the brightness down a notch. These directions apply to iPhones and Androids alike.
Turn Bluetooth off
Using Bluetooth to transmit data requires an enormous amount of battery power. Enable it when necessary, and shut it off when you don’t need it.
On an iPhone, go to Settings and click on “Bluetooth.” Move the slider to the left to turn it off.
On an Android phone, go to Settings and click on “Bluetooth.” Move the slider to the off position.
Adjust email retrieval
If you get your email on your iPhone or Android, it’s important to note that the more frequently your device looks for new data, the more it drains your battery. To adjust the frequency, on an iPhone open Settings, then click on “Mail” and then “Accounts.” On the “Accounts” screen, click “Fetch New Data” and then how often your phone should check for email. The longer you go between checks, the better for the life of your battery.
On an Android phone, open Settings and click on “Accounts.” On the “Accounts” screen, tap on the three dots icon in the right hand corner. This will bring up “Auto Sync Data.” Click on “Ok” to disable auto syncing.
With both iPhones and Androids, even though you adjust the frequency with which they check for email, you can still check your email manually by opening up Gmail, etc.
All this information about saving your phone’s battery might make you wonder…at what point do you need a new phone?
Most people upgrade every one to two years, but you really can go three years or more. If you’re considering getting a new phone, here are a few reasons to take the plunge:
- To get the latest updates. If your current phone has reached the point where it simply can’t support them, it’s time for an upgrade.
- If despite all your best efforts and trying all the suggestions provided above for saving your phone’s battery your phone holds a charge for only a half day or less, it’s time for a new phone.
- And if, even though you made the font size larger and maybe even bolder you’re still having trouble reading what’s on the screen, it’s time for a bigger screen. One that’s attached to a new phone.
Now that you know a number of tips & tricks for your smartphone (and the signs you might need a new one), make another smart move: Switch to PureTalk
Save $1,000 a year
If you’re using one of the pricy wireless providers – Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile – you could save yourself a bundle by switching to PureTalk.
We offer plans starting as low as $24.99 a month and, no matter what your wireless needs are, PureTalk's plans give you incredible, wallet-friendly options. In fact, families of four who switch to PureTalk save an average of $1,000 a year!
Choose from PureTalk’s most popular plans
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As a patriotic, Veteran-owned company, PureTalk salutes all active duty military personnel, Veterans and first responders for their bravery and selflessness. It’s our honor to offer a 20% discount to the heroes. Explore our plans, select the one that best meets your needs, and apply the 20% discount at checkout. The land of the free wouldn’t be, without you.
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At PureTalk, when you refer your friends, you reward yourself.
When you join PureTalk, you’re given a unique referral link you can share with friends and family. For each friend who signs up through your unique link, you receive a $50 bill credit applied to your accounta. Best of all, there are no limits. You can refer as many friends as you want, and you will get a $50 credit for every single one of them who switches to PureTalk!
With the PureTalk referral program you can earn as many credits as you have friends and save even more on the plan of your choice!
PureTalk’s Risk-Free, 30-Day Money Back Guarantee makes it easy to give us a try
With PureTalk’s risk-free, thirty-day money back guarantee you have absolutely nothing to lose. Sign up and give us a try for one month. We know you’ll love us. But if you don’t, simply call to cancel your service within thirty-days and we’ll return your money. No penalties. No hassles.
Why choose PureTalk?
When you choose PureTalk, you’re choosing to support a company whose values align with your own. You’re choosing to support a company whose CEO is a U.S. Veteran. And you’re also choosing to support American jobs: 100% of our customer service is based right here in the United States.
Plus, with PureTalk, you can bring your phone and keep your phone number or choose from our terrific selection of the latest iPhones and Androids.
Don’t wait. Pick a plan now that meets your needs, suits your lifestyle, and helps you save!
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Frequently asked questions about PureTalk
When do I get my bill?
If you are signed up for e-bills, you will receive a reminder notification two days before your AutoPay deduction and a confirmation once it has been completed. Your payment is always due on the same date each month. Log into MY ACCOUNT any time to double check your due date.
Where do I get my bill?
MY ACCOUNT is the place to go for all of your account information. You can sign up for e-bills in MY ACCOUNT. You can also view your invoices by logging into your account as well. Invoices will be located under "Transactions" which is located under the "Billing" tab.
Can I pay my bill online?
You sure can! Log into MY ACCOUNT and click on the Billing tab and Pay Now. Note that making a one-time payment outside of your AutoPay will incur a $5.00 transaction fee. We encourage our customers to enroll in AutoPay where payments are automatically deducted each month on your bill due date.
Can I pay for my service with a prepaid credit card?
Yes, as long as the prepaid credit card is a VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover, you may use a prepaid credit card.
How do I update my payment method?
You can update your payment method by logging into MY ACCOUNT. “Change AutoPay” will be located under the "Billing" tab. You can also call Customer Support at 1-877-820-7873 or 611 from your PureTalk phone if you need some help.
When does my billing cycle start?
Your first monthly billing cycle begins on the day you activate service. Your billing cycle will start on the same date each month. If you activate your line on the 15th of February, for example, you will be billed next on the 15th of March and on the 15th of every month thereafter. To find your bill date, log into MY ACCOUNT or call Customer Support at 1-877-820-7873 or 611 from your PureTalk phone.
How long is my billing cycle?
Your billing cycle is monthly. Payment is always due on the same date each month depending on the date you completed your activation. Visit MY ACCOUNT for details or call Customer Support at 1-877-820-7873 or 611 from your PureTalk phone for more billing details.
What taxes or fees will I have to pay with PureTalk?
PureTalk doesn't charge line activation fees or monthly line access fees like many carriers do, but the Federal government does require us to charge taxes and regulatory fees (such as 911 emergency services) which are added to your monthly payment as "taxes & fees." Taxes vary based on your city/state location. You can view a breakdown of the taxes and fees in the MY ACCOUNT Billing section.
Can I change my plan during the month?
You can change your plan at any time. Simply go to MY ACCOUNT click the Plan tab and choose Change Service Plan.
How do I add a line to my account?
Log in to MY ACCOUNT and go to the PLAN tab. Then click the "Add a new line" button on the right side of the page. This is will ensure that you receive your multi-line discount.
How do I know how many minutes/messages/data I’ve used at any time?
Just log into MY ACCOUNT to check how many minutes/message/data you have used during the month.
How do I reset my password?
You can log into MY ACCOUNT at any time to change your password. Simply go to the Profile tab and choose Change Password.
What should I do if my phone is lost or stolen?
If your phone is lost or stolen, and you think you may find your phone, you can choose to suspend your line temporarily. Suspending your line means your phone will not be able to make calls or text. However, while suspended, you are still responsible for your monthly payment. If you believe you will not find your phone, we suggest to go ahead and purchase a new device, so we may port your number over to your new device.
NOTE: Our system only allows the line to be suspended until your next bill date. If you reach your next bill date, your line will automatically be unsuspended.
If I am out of the US for an extended period how much do I pay per month to maintain my service? Is there a time limit?
If you wish to keep your service active, your monthly payment is required to be paid in full each month while you are away. PureTalk does not offer service suspension.
I'm going to add another line to my account. My account bills in a few days. How will it work if I add the line now?
At PureTalk, you have one monthly payment date for all lines on your account, even if you add a line during a monthly billing cycle. When adding a line, you are required to prepay for the monthly plan. PureTalk will then prorate the monthly plan and a credit will appear on your bill.
Do I have to cancel my old plan before starting a new one with PureTalk?
No, please keep your current service active. We want to make sure you have continuous coverage until your PureTalk activation has been completed. Additionally, if you are porting your number, your account will be required to remain open to transfer the number over.
Why can’t I close my PureTalk account online without having to call?
To protect your security and privacy, all cancellations must take place over the phone.
Does PureTalk offer nationwide coverage?
Absolutely! PureTalk runs on the nation's largest GSM network, which covers 99% of Americans. Check out our coverage map. PureTalk also offers 5G coverage. Actual 5G availability, coverage, and speed may vary. 5G is not available in all areas and a 5G capable device is required.
Is PureTalk right for me?
If you are looking for a wallet-friendly wireless service that runs on a nationwide 5G network, then PureTalk is right for you!
Posted 3 years ago