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Welcome to the next level of understanding
and expansion of your user experience!
For some it is enough to master the basics of your new
device, software or hobby. Yet for many, like you, that’s just
the start! Advancing your skill set is the goal of all users of
consumer technology and our team of long term industry
experts will help you achieve exactly that. Over this
extensive series of titles we will be looking in greater depth
at how you make the absolute most from the latest
consumer electronics, software, hobbies and trends! We will
guide you step-by-step through using all the advanced
aspects of the technology that you
may have been previously
apprehensive at attempting, rer the page
Let our expert guide help you i iaieney Continues,
build your understanding and we wil be with you
of technology and gain the
skills to take you from a
confident user to an
experienced expert.
at every ota
ge Co adi
inform and ultimately”
inspire you to
90 Further.Contents
oe
‘
1
THE ULTIMATE
GUIDE TO
FACEBOOK
ere
Senn EXPLORING ANDROID
: get the most from
+ renee Google Home Routines 8
SI err i ;
SS piel 10 Things to Try with Google Home 10
. Ss ena Navigating with Google Maps 12
iS Che ee ci The Ultimate Guide to Facebook 16
Get Started with WhatsApp 22
Android Security Tools 24
Boosting Android Performance 28
Manage Multiple Passwords 30
SIN How to Use Multi-window 32
ANDROID Using a System Monitor 34
PAY How to Boost Battery Life 36
pees
Cees
fea ests
pee
Re ee DOING MORE WITH ANDROID
eens
= pe Using Android Pay 40
‘ Erase and Reset an Android Device 42
5 Things That Can Affect Phone Signal 44
Using the Developer Options 46
Speed Up Android Animations 48
COMMON Cut Blue Light with Twilight 50
ANDROID Hidden Android Test Menus 52
PROBLEMS Save Web Pages Offline 54
SOLVED SMS Messages on a Wi-Fi Tablet 56
Dealing with Viruses on Android se
eee
eye inch Disable Android Bloatware 60
shea ie thai Sideloading Android APKs 62
ees
Geese Smart Home on a Budget 64
of storage space. If you 10 Android Security Tips 66
Seas
enero a Clean Up with Smart Manager 68
10 Common Problems Solved 70“solving common
Ue problems and on to
aed mL learning about adding
7 a launchers and rooting your
device. \ Varela Kel
how to explore the OS and
Ge MMC ie kL)
phone or tablet...”BreesEXPLORING
ANDROID
From using new Android features like Allo, Duo and Google
Assistant to planning a journey and making the most of
every photo taken on your phone, this section is all about
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BOO EE Life RC ol oR ee ks ile Rok dele k omExploring Andr
Google Home
Routines
Routines are a set of actions that your Google Home can perform when activated by a
single voice command. You can customise existing pre-set routines in the Google Home
app, or you can create your own personalised routines from scratch, using a wide variety
of available actions.
Create and Manage Routines
Learn how to customise, create and use Routines with your Google Home speaker and the Google Home app on your
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‘Your Gooale Home app comes with
several prs routines To view oF
edit thas, tp the Menu button at
the top let, and select “More settings" cro
down and tap the" Routines" section Here you
wilse0 displayed al ofthe existing routines,
for example “Good morina” or “Bedtime!
Below each routine name, you
will ee the number of associated
‘setions. Tap 9 routine to start,
editing It While all routines can be edited,
you willrotice they have ditfering numbers
of actions that can be added. The pre-set
routines ilustrate this diference
Each Routine is spit into sections
These are: “When 180." (the
command) "My assistant should
(the main actions to perform) followed by
“And then play. (adltional actions). You
can manage and ect each of thare sections
inividually to create the routine you want.wae ame
ane
© Good moming vi
When say.
"ood moming or "Tellme about
ry day ot
My Assistant should... ovsnor omen
Take phone off ent 2
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© Teime abou tne weather
© Tat me abot commute £8
For example, the single command
"Good morning” could take the
Phone off silent; tell you the
‘weather, reminders and your commute
Information It could then give you the news
hneadlines from a variety of sources (BEC,
‘CNN. etc) before playing your favourte
rac station.
(efoto naan erry
eRe ame
ae
© Listen tothe radio E
What radio station would you
ke to play?
‘ap the checkbox next to each
‘action toad or remove fom
the routing, the action has 2|
‘900 con next tit, you can tap this to see
further settings For example the Play Radio
‘ction allows you to choose the radio station
{you want to use, and music settings lets you
‘choose the music source
© Edit commands
00d moring
Teme about my doy
Fmup
You can also change the
command that activates the
actions (although you wil sit
need to say "Hoy/Okay Google” fist), Most
pre-set routines have @ couple of
commands aready set, Bt you can add 2
‘new one by tapping the top section, then
tap + and type your desired command,
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tame .
tone of the pre-set routines
7) your own from seratch. Open the
routines settings in the Goosle Home app
‘and tap the + button, Start by editing the
(€9. Good Morning”), Simple commands
{are the most effective, so keep it short for
best results
If you wish, you can seta day/
time of day when the routine
activates automatically although
‘you can stil activate the routine at other
times withthe commands. Next, ad an
‘2ction, ether by typing the name of
‘Google Assistant command. or by tapping
“Choose popular action’, selecting one and
tapping "Ade"
‘when you've finshed setting up
the new routine tap the check
‘mark atthe top and the screen
will change to display all routines. Your
nesly created routine wil be siven the
name of the command word you used (2.
Entertain me") Test the routine by
speaking the command te your Google
Home speakerExploring Android
10 Things to Try with
Google Home
Your Google Home speaker is great for playing music or listening to the news, but it also
allows you to do so much more! From getting information about your day, reading out a
recipe and finding your phone, to playing a game or telling you a joke, there are literally
hundreds of things it can do.
eo Listen to Audio
Your Google Home allows
you to listen to music, news,
Dodeasts rac stations,
audiobooks and more
Sou can aso tell
to play ambient
founds in the
Backgroune.
Sst say “Hey
ge F G005%0, hel
mmerelax or
“Hey Google
play forest/
fature/ocean
Sounds You
Can even make i
play white noise!
Start your day off by
saying, "Hey Gooale,
Good morning,” to
hear traffic, weather
and news reports
along witha list of
your appointments,
reminders, and
‘more; you can
also ask for these
things individually.
If you need to find
something nearby,
Just say, “where
is the nearest
pharmacy?"
for example.
my
e Control Your TV
Ifyou have a Chromecast
plugged in (or builtin) to
your TV, you can easily
control it with your
Google Home speaker,
If your Chromecast
is plugged in to
a power socket
(rather than
UsB), you can
‘even use the
speaker to turn
your TV on
and off, Just
say, Turn on
the TW" or”
turn my TV oft”
eG Create Lists
a
a
gue
oweFind Your
Phone
Never lose your phone
again! Provided Voice
Match is set up, you
can ask your Google
Assistant to ring your
phone. To do this say,
"Hey Google, find/ring
my phone,” and your
Google Assistant will
ring your phone,
even ifit's set to ‘Do Not
Distura’ mode.
eG Manage Tasks
You can easily
set and ask about reminds
reminders by saying,
“Hey Google, remind | =
me to.." You can
also use it to set meee
timers and alarms
by saying, "Hey sik
Google, set a timer
for 10 minutes." If toe
you want to check
how much time is | soma
left just say, "..how
much time isieft?"
You set alarms in see
the same way.
e Control Your Home
If you have smart home devices such as smart
plugs, a Nest thermostat or security cameras,
you can link them to your
Google Home and
control them using
your speaker. You
will need to add
the devices in
the Home app,
and follow any
instructions to
set them up.
You may also
assign devices
toa room.
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from your Google ae
erect me
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then say, “..prepare
ee
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e Get Answers
You can ask your ¥ SeseaiT
Google Home to os
give you information
about everything tow
from finance to nates
sports, you can ask
for calculations,
translations and
unit conversions,
for example, “Hey
Google, how much
is 1000 Danish
Krone in dollars?"
You can even ask
for the nutritional
information on most
types of food.
© Have Fun
Your Google Home [= wees
speaker lets you os 2
play games with
it, simply say, “Hey very
Google, play lucky
trivia" (other games| ME Tuueepreneae
include Crystal Bal ——
{and Mad Libs). if you
don't want to play a
game, just tell it to
entertain me," or ‘ele
say, “let's have fun.”
You can even ask it
to tell you a joke!
atmo Gog eatNavigating with
Google Maps
Google Maps is a fantastic tool but it can often be overlooked by Android users in favour
of the seemingly more exciting features that their device offers. Google Maps is much
more than just a way to find out where you are. It can help you find hotels and restaurants
in the local area, show you a list of local plumbers, act as a satellite navigation tool and
show you the distance between two points.
Set Up Google Maps
Before you can use Google Maps on your device, you will need to ensure that a fow other services are activated. These
may vary, depending on where you are trying to use the app.
tats
a as
Google Maps uses Live data 20 To take fll advantage ofa the > Now that you have a connection
you wil almost always need to be features of Gooale Maps, you wl ‘nd loestion-tracking on, you ean
Connected tothe Internet to use it ‘also need to ensure that Location ‘90 ahead and open Google Maps
toi fll extent. So the fst thing you need to Services are enabled and that the GPS feature Give the app afew seconds andi wll pinpoint
dois connect toa WiFi networkor.f you are of your device ison Yu can use maps your location and zoom in to show it on
fut ofrange ofa Wi-Fi network, connect ta'8 without these features turned on ut the Screen You are now ready to start using Maps
‘mobile data network such 8836 oF AG, Information shown wil be much more Basle. to find places and navigate your way to them
Location History
Lecation History helps you get useful information such as automatic commute predictions
and improved search results by creating a private map of where you go with yout logged-in
devices. Rediscover the places you've been andthe routes you've travelled in your timeline.
1s easy to change or delet locations, days or your entire Location History. You can turn it
‘nor off at anytimeINE Eeur Re Retort
1. Maps Menu 2. Search Maps 3. Map Icons
> Tap this to open the main menu in Google _ You can search for both locations tke » As you scroll around the map, you wil see
‘Maps. Within the menu you willfind inks to towns, tis, landmarks, ec. aswell as various leans marking paces of interest,
‘Your Paces. This shows previous searches, speci businesses or types of business. restaurants train stations and many other
‘tc, maps that have been saved for offi ‘When you tap the soarch bar, alist of things. You can tap any ofthe icons to
Viewing (more an that later and enebied previous searches, routes and locations wll see more information inthe pane! atthe
literent map layers ‘pen allowing you to pick ane again. bottom of the map sereen (ap on oF drag
the panel up)
4. Find North
> This isthe compass,
showing you at all times
whieh direction you are
facing. You can tap the
compass button at anytime
to find North. The map view
will rotate until itis aligned
With North andl you can then,
match it up to the compass.
5. Info Panel
> When the map i focused
‘vera town or ty the
Information panel wil show
information about that
location cbars, restaurants,
te). Tap or drag the panel
up to view the info. you
tapan icon or set pln in the
‘map by tapping a location,
the info pane wll show
details about that location.
6. Find Route
> This isthe button you tap
te start planning a route and
Using the navigation tool. If
you have a pin inthe map,
tapping this wil ind
‘route between your
current location and the pin.
Ifyou tap it without a pin, a
new sereen will pen where
finish points
Offline Maps
> You can save maps for use
cine when you have no
‘access toa mobile or Wi-Fi
network, fer example)
Depending on the size of
wound Exeter the area you save, these
offline maps can be quite
large end will expire ater @
certain umber of days to
avoid fling your storage
up. To make an offine
‘map, tap the menu button
and select “Offline Maps"
Follow the instructions toExploring Android
Navigating with Maps
‘The Navigation option for Google Maps works just like a proper stand-alone Sat Nav. Let Google find your current
location, enter a destination and then follow the directions shown on the screen, You can enter the destination by typing
‘oF speaking, although the voice option is not 100% accurate.
> Ensure that GPS, Wi-Fi and > Press the bie Directions button >It you have searched for
‘ptionally, date connection ae located on the bottom menu that ‘snything in mops before now,
looks ike 3 road sign. Type in your ‘you wil ea ist of your locaton
enabled and open Google Maps
Let the GPS pinpoint your curentocation if destination (and starting point nat your history on ths screen, Tap any to select
a previous destination, Once the route is
you ae indoors, the GPS may struggle to find current ocation) and then touch the Get
2 satelite, so give the app abit of time Directions button Enable Navigation if asked plotted, tap the Navigation button at the
bottom of the sere
(ist use only)
> The map view will nw change, > while in Navigation mode, press > Atany time, whist navigating,
You can now use your devies in the Menu button to see options to {yeu can zoom and slide the map
exactly the some way as you would mute the voiee directions, check ‘round to Sut your needs. To centre
the map again, tap the Recentre button atthe
bottom To view an altemtive route, tap the
spit arow button atthe bottom right
the overall route, change map lyers and exit
"Navigation. You can tap the mic button to
record the audio directions if you wish
standard satlite navigation system. Cp it
somewhere you can see it and start iving
Yeu can buy car holders for aimast any sized
‘Android device fay cheaply.Neca nMakertre en css)
Local Search
You can use Google Maps to find people, places and businesses in your local area. This is very useful both at home, for
locating tradesmen, etc. and also great for finding places to vist or restaurants when you are in an area you don’t know:
‘on holiday for example.
Turn on Location connect to Wi-
Fiand open Gooale Maps. The local
search feature alo works using jst
your 3G or 4G connection whichis easier on
your battery but isnt quite as accurate
Map Layers
ere toni ki @
> From the main map seen, tp in
the sear field and type what you
‘want to search for You ean search
for spectic businesses oust type something
Iie “harrassersto see alin that area
> Results relevant to your search
wil now be shown onthe map. The
bottom haf of the screen contains
2 ist thse locations, long with a button to
‘uicky load directions to each one
‘There are several different ways that you can view the map in Google Maps, from basic block colours to full satelite
Image. To see the available different layers, tap the menu button in the app.
Traffic
> The Trafic ayer allows you to se cifferent
tafe densitis for the roads you pan to
travel on Trafic density is overlaid ont the
standare map as a series of coloured lines.
Red shows where trafic heaviest, whist
‘green shows where itis flowing smoothly.
If no coloured lines are shown for 3 ection
‘ofr the trafic information is normal oF
Uunovaiobe for tat strotch The information
Is usually more accuatein and around major
tone and ete,
Satellite
This changes the map view from block
colour image to afl satelite image. You
tan z00m into the satelite image as you
‘ean with the normal map, and the level
fof detall captured is pretty impressive.
You ean overlay any other layer onto the
satelite view (trafic places, ec). If you
dre using @ mobil Internet connection to
iw Mops, bear in mind that viewing the
satelite view wll take more data and may
‘cost more mone,
Street View
» To see StreetView on the Google Maps
‘90, re58 and hold on the map to drop &
Bin. You can them tap the | conto pull up the
information sheet to learn more about that
place tind dvections, check out Street View
‘3nd sa¥8 of share the location by text or ema
‘When in Street View, tap the arrows onthe
reed to move the camer in that ection, To
laaveStret View, simply tap the Back button
‘on your device to return tothe maps view.A] Facebook
ac
2e00Navigating the Facebook App
‘The Facebook app is laid out differently to the browser version, even on th
at the key part of the app on a mobile device.
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trund a moe vie Te carers nde es ot
Sal wera eset orem err ecto
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@ Frecebook ten = iss vee you can id ot te
O inet.
ia new direct messaging feat
fn the nerean who rele! (Once the
Conversation ends the images o videos sant wil isp
Baers-e
Into the night.
Custom oll drum lid
© stories - think of stories n Facebook ike me
make tsvalabie
The Ultimate Guide to Facebook
Poe ae en
Your frends. ewil paar atthe op
ed fortwo days before disappearing.Eeeienucie
Peet
og te
Login Alerts
If you are concerned that someone logging
into your account without your knowledge
the frst option to mediately change your
password Anather option is to enable Login
‘Alen. This lets you choose a method le
exmaor sms message of ting yu know
ven anew device los in
Wo an see your future pos
.”
Who can see my stuff?
Move in ta the privacy settings and you can
90 controls fer who can see your posts,
including images, that you add to Facebook.
Yeu can change wi sees future posts (rom
this point on or you can lt future and ol
posts. Content you have shared may change
fer some people.
Facebook Security and Privacy
With the Facebook app up and running on your device, the next thing you should do is check and edit the privacy and
ree tee Care Leet
1 See i ns a
1 Ser a 5 Nn At nd
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tenn en Ae tn
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Known Login’s Change Password
‘The security setings includes an section Changing your password is one ofthe
called Where you ae logaedin. Ths ists all simplest ways to add security deal. use 2
ofthe devies (phones, tablets, computers) combination ofa east 6 letters, numbers and
iti have accessed your Facabook account punctuation marks. Avoid including your name
Inthe past isa good idea clear tis lst for commen wards Dnt use your Facebook
{you ae using the Login Alerts option. passwoed anywhere ese online and never
share your password
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Who can contact me? Who can look me up?
“This controls who can send youfrend requests, Ths section controishow visible you are or
Anyone or Friends of Friends and bow tebe more exact, now visible your Facebook
messages arefitered out within our inbox _proflinformaton i If you want to allow
Basic fitering allows you to seo messages people o be abl to view your emai and
‘mostly from people you know but the ‘hone number used when setting Up your
ceasional unknown contact may get through. account eave as aot, change these
settings a 2 prion,The Ultimate Guide to Facebook
Posting on Facebook
Posting a message to the News Feed, sometimes known as
to include several different features and post type:
Se Cay
a
‘These are some thoughts.
eooeece
amee
the ‘What's on your ming? at
the top of the News Feed. In its
simplest form, a pestis made up of us text
You can type inthe box that opens and then
tap the Post button atthe top right ofthe
post creation screen Your pos then appears
eo0o000
you want to tll your frends on
you are posting, you can Check
In. Using your location, Facebook will pul up
list of suggestions and previous check in
locations, You can eter pick one ofthese oF
create a brand new checkin locaton
ad
thoughts.
amnee
EFR SBAReA:
Ifyou wont to alert rind to your
post, yu ean tag them in the
‘nate Tagging means thatthe
person wil 562 notification when they next
check Facebook, making ita great way to
‘Typing their Facebook name in the text box
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We have everything for all of your needs. Just open https://avxlive.icuUsing Facebook Messenger
‘Although designed primarily for use on phones, Facebook Messenger can be used effectively on your other Android
devices. Additional features include group chats, easier photo sharing and Chat Heads.
ae
ex ry
‘You wil nas tohave the Facebook
app installed on your device before
you can use Facebook Messenger
‘once you have installed Facebook and fogged
Inwth your account details, 190k for the
"Messenger chat bubbe icon atthe top ofthe
eee
oe Ast of any recent chats, lncuding
those from other devices, will bs
shown at the top. These ae ust
blow the new area forthe Messenger Day
featur. This lows you to show your finds
‘on Messenger what you are up to and to
lecourage them to interact with you
20
Messenger chat feature is ©
8 seperate (out linked) opp, $0 08
wil now need to instal You can search for
and instal the app from the Google Pay store
Dut tis just as quick nc eazy to dit rough
the Facebook app, Just tap instal.
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[Active Now and Favourites These
e canbe hidden using the menu
button besice the section te. Taping any
image wil open conversation with tht
person. You can tap the New Message button
at he bottom right ana then choose a contact
‘Thave ate varus sections including
Tohave anormal instant chat with
‘any one of your Facebook Friend,
‘pen the main Facebook sop and
tap the messenger chat bubble ean atthe
top ofthe screen If this ste fst time you
have used the app you wil be prompted to
(Open Messenger and then signin (using your
FB deta).
& ©
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‘At tha bottom ofthe Messenger
main screen, you will see the main
‘contro tabs These take you to
Cals, Peopie (where you find new contacts)
‘and the information serees. nthe mide
ofthe to bar's a camera button, used for
creating your Messenger Day messageThe Ultimate Guide to Facebook
cee Seg QB en top garth stcvecty
a Notations
© cor
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‘==
co Nicknames:
@Qa cote sect conversation
Enter a conversation wth You can customise ech of Fecebook Hessngar ads 2
Someone ond you wil se 2 Your Mossnoe coats ond Clever new feature which the old
Telos cht won The onvoratons nly Open ‘ternal cat ysten Br hve
icons at tho bottom alow yout fom ft anon comeration and tap tho Chat Heads eee a sal cre rte
toriht Toc. ake Phota Add Photo Add canattheopight of he screen Hereyou ples which at on your screen when
2 Sticke Add nGIF Recor Voce Message canchange he cou ofthe comerston conversations ctv Even you lave
tnd Aid Location Thefaliconopensa, buble eda ictnare or dale Messenger (ond Facebook) te Chat Hood
tran of eden messoge oo, noteations for that contact. reine accesible a eo
Checking In
king in is @ simple way of updating your status to show where you are. Check-in’s can either be places you have
Re eee note eter ray
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‘Open the Facebook app and ap It you see your curent location ifyoudon' se your required
‘the What's on your mind? box at listed apt, and then tag any location inthe checkin Ist. you
the top of the sreen. You can type friends you are with Gi you wish) on can acd one there and then Tap
‘a stotusvodate you wish, or simply tap the the next screen. You can skp this step using the search fe atthe op of the Ist and type
Checkin button below the text Box. Ast of the button at the top ofthe sereen, You now thera ofthe location Ii ready has 2
previous ecations avaliable to check nto wil simply need 1 tap the Post button to update check-in logged (by someone else), tap it
then be asplayet onscreen your status withthe checkin not at your home for example, you wll be
sole to enter one
21Exploring Android
Get Started with
WhatsApp
WhatsApp started as an alternative to SMS but now supports sending and receiving a
variety of media, including text, photos, videos, documents and locations, as well as voice
calls. WhatsApp messages and calls are secured with end-to-end encryption, meaning
that no third party including WhatsApp can read or listen to them. This makes it the
perfect choice for your private and personal conversations.
How to Chat on WhatsApp
\WhatsApp Is a very popular chat platform and not just because it is secure and private. There are dozens of features to
‘explore but here are the most important tools and functions.
ore
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Adding Contacts
> WhatsA\pp quickly and easly recognises
Which of your contacts are using WhatsApD
bby accessing your phones adress book
It you cant see your contacts, make sure
you have alowed WhatsApp to access your
‘Phone's contacts in your phone's Settings
(Settnge > Ane > App Permision).
22
Start a Chat
> Assuming tis sa fresh instal of Whats Ap,
you won't have any conversations listed
‘under the Chats tab. Instead tap the New
{Chat button at the bottom right and choose 8
contact fom thelist that opens. Fora group
chat tap the New Group option atthe top and
Chat Tools
» During a chat you can use several tools
toadd content. The smiley face con inthe
text bo lets you add various emo and the
camera lets you add or take a photo. Tap
‘the paperclip on at the top to attach 2
document, photo, ecorcing, locaton ora
contact toa message. Tapping the phone
starts VOIP call‘Open WhatsApp and go tothe chat
containing the message you wish to delete,
Tap and hold the message and then tap the
Trash can icon on top ofthe chat screen and
select Delete. Optionally you can tap several
‘messages to delete multipe messages a the
You can stop recelving WhatsApp
messages, calls and status updates fom
certain contacts by blocking them. Tap the
Menu Button > Settings > Account > Privacy
> Blocked contacts. Tap the add contact icon
nd then select the contact you wish to block
Using WhatsApp Status
By default any WhateApe user can see
your read receipts, last seen status, about
infe and prfie photo. Your contacts ean also
‘see your status. Te change these settings,
{90 to WhetsApp > Menu Button » Settings
> Account > Prvoey, Ifyou dont share ‘Last
sen” you wont see for your contacts.
\WhatsApp Status allows you to share photos, videos and animated GIFs that disappear after 24 hours. It's abit like
Snapchat Stories but with a WhatsApp twist.
In order ta send anc receive status
Updates to and from your contacts,
both you ae your contacts must
have each other's phone numbers saved. To
ow someone's status updats, tap the Stats
tab and select contact’ statu. To reply
to one of your contact’ status updates tap
Reply atthe bottom ofthe sereen,
> *
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asdfghjk!
Toadd a satus update, goto the
Status screen and tap the status
btton atthe bottom right. You
can take anew photo or record. a new video
thon tap the send button, The camera i ay
base, only allowing you to adda flash or
switch to front camera
However, you can ade a caption
and personalise your status updates
by adding emo, text an freehand
Asmentioned, Android features
lots of ferent security settings
and mere are being added with
every update and new version ofthe OS. All
ofthe sytem security setings are accessed in
Settings > Security Scroll tothe bottom ofthe
Security settings and you willsee Trust Agents
under the advanced heading. This is where
you enable Smart Lock
> Before you can use Smart Lock,
‘you will eed to setup a screen
lock on your deviee. Many of
the editions! security features in android
reajure this. Your choice a seen lock
rust be Pater, PIN or Password to use
‘Smart Lock. Find the setting and follow the
instructions. You can read more about the
screen lock elsewhere inthis magazine
Yu naed to enter your sereen
lock code when you want to
change your Smart Lock settings
It youve tured off smart Lock in the past
turn on now nthe Securty menu under
Advanced, tap Trust Agents and make sure
‘that Smart Lock set fo On. With Smart
Lock now activated, you can begin to set up
‘and use the ater security features.Trusted Devices and Places
Melee crete satel
With Smart Lock turned on, you can now start to add those devices, places or even faces that you trust.
To set up a trusted device o¢
‘rusted place so that your device
will automaticaly unlock, open
your devices Settings menu > Personal>
Security and tap Smart Lock Enter your
pattern, PIN oF password on the next Seen,
> When your devices connected
tothe Bluetooth device, il
automaticaly unlock To remove
‘a trusted Bluetooth device select i from
the list of trusted Smart Lock options inthe
Twsted Deviess menus
% sococosnsnec
3 hee
keep your shone unlocked whenever that
devi is connected. You have to pair your
Bluetooth device before you can make ta
trusted device,
% tons
* be
Cs) To add your home or workplace
Lockman touch Trusted Paces
Move the switch nest to Home or Work to
the On poston. You need to have an ntornet
On your hone or tablet. make
sure tat Bluetooth ie tumad on In
the Smart Lock menu tap Tasted
Devices. ap the Add icon, and then choose
Bluetooth. Touch adevie to select it from
thelist of connected devices, Only paired
vices wil show inthis ist
Oi
70 eat your home or workplace,
‘pen the Google Maps app on your
‘device and sign in Tap the Menu
button, then select Settings > Eat Home or
‘Work Undate the information and tap the ec
ror To remove or edt customised plac,
move the switch tothe Off postion
25Exploring Android
Trusted Faces
‘Although contained in the same menu, Trusted Faces works differently to Trusted Places or Devices.
> You can have your device unlock
when t recognises your face. After
setting a trust fco, everytime
you turn on your device, it wil search for your
face and uniock ft recognises you The data
sed to recognise your face I only stored on
your device
Screen Pinning
rut paces
To set a Trusted Face, open your
device's Settings menu. Open
the Security menu and, under
Screen Security, tap Smart Lock Enter your
Pattern, PIN, or password. Tap Trusted Face,
read the disclaimer message and then tap,
Setit Up.
vo:
> Face Unlock captures an image
fof your face during setup, whichis
thon used as a template to match
townen trying to unlock using Trusted
feature up whist indoors ina wal it room,
Feliow the instructions to complete setup.
Although part of Android 5.0, Screen Pinning might not be available on all devices running the OS.
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> Screen Pining enables you to
lock your deviee on a specific
app 0 screen Ths i seful when
allowing someone to wateh a move, for
example, without allowing them access to
anything else onthe davice. ts perfect for
nen you're sharing your device with ehilren
26
See]
» To enabie Screen Pinning, open
Settings > Security, and lookin
the Advanced section, Tap Seren
Pinning and use the sider to tun the feature
(nf you can find the Screen Pinning option
inthe Security manu, check whether the
feature is avaliable with your deve,
> Now open an app and goto
the screen you want to pin. Tap
the Overview button (you might
know tas the Recent Apps button) on your
‘device Swipe up to reveal the pin icon on the
bottom-right corner of your selected screen,
Tap the pin icon,Use screen pining?
Sszvn pining ots dona sie
If you want the lock sereen to
‘appear after an app is unpined,
‘check the Box next to As for
Unlock Pattern Before Unpinning. Finally, tap
the vies over to someone ele, knowing
that they cant snaop around
>
‘To unpin the seen tap and hold
‘Overview and Back a the same
Sereen wil be urpinned If you requed that
the lock sreen show ater an apps unpinned,
you wil ned to enter your pattern, PIN, or
password to fish,
Little Used Security Tricks
‘Adding a screen lock is a must, as is using Guest accounts if you let someone
borrow your device. But there are several other simple security features which
many users overlook.
‘Automatically lock =
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This setting means that once your phone The Owner Information tion alows you
sersenistumed off the serge lack younave _to-ritea message which wil appear on the
Set up instantly applet canbe set to lock sreen. Tis allows you to give anyone
5,15 ar 30 seconds, but tis wil make your finding your lost device a phone number or
device vunerable if you putt down ater ‘ther contact deta without them needing
turning off the screen ‘the device tobe unlocked,
Verify App
Downloads
{you chose to allow the instalation of
"200s fom unknown sources and tal
from sources oer than Goose Pay, ts
‘more Ihely that these apps could har you
‘your device I you alow the Istalton
‘of aps rom unknown sures, the Very reelerereer tied
‘Apps feature protects you by conus
‘checking your device to make sre that all
{pps are behaving na ate mann
ter thee been downloaded
27[ee
Boosting Android
Performance
Remember when you first used your new Android phone or tablet and it ran quickly
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frame rate and smoothness.
Choose Widgets Carefully
errr ery
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widget uses small amounts of procesing power (otto
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Use Device Maintenance
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clear out old files left behind by apps clear the cache,
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Developer Options. Go to Settings >
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Keep the OS Updated
Make sure that your Android device is upto ate with
the latest system software releases. Major and minor
eet eee ieee)
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Soa
Sree ter center)
ware Update section. You can manually check for
Updates using the button there, or you ean check the
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Gevice storage (or Privacy) > Factory Data Reset. On
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eee onExploring Android
Manage Multiple
Passwords
Password security has never been more important than it is today. We can manage
everything from our business website to our bank balance online, and to do so we need
passwords. A great bit of password security advice is to avoid using the same password
for multiple accounts, but this also may mean keeping track of anything from five to 25
different passwords. LastPass, one of the best-known password managers around, solves
that problem.
Never Forget Your Log
‘You almost certainly have dormant or inaccessible accounts littering the Internet, all because you have forgotten the
login details.
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Google pay
Dusrmtine
To install open Goodie Play > You wil then need to create a >If you would tke Lastass to
‘Store on your phone or tablet anc ew account Ente your emai be abe ofilin osins in other
earch for LastPaes. Ifyou would acres frst, an then choose your
Anoid aps you should activate
lke to atemot a manual instalation, youcan master password, This the password which the feature now. You willbe taken tothe
‘download the Android app fle (plo from gets you nto LastPass, and controls access Accessiblity setings on your device ane wil
htpsd/lastpassconvipandroid.apkLastPass tal of your other passwords and ferm see anew adation. Tap LastPass and vse
vwllonly work properly for apps on devices information, 2a make sure i trong But the sider to enable the funtion. You can set
running Android 4.1 and ater fou wank to. memorable, Canfm and choose a reminder. this up liter fou wish Tap Back o return
filin forms in Chrome version 43 isrneeded toLastPas
30Manage Multiple Passwords
@ EvERNOTE
Epeintonne
9 a
> Tofllan app, st a9 on 0 » tr nstaing LastPass, you > Lastass for Andi features
laune rm yourhome sree, wave the option to enabe 2 bun browser tat wl
tnd Lactose wl fer ton the theFil Helper Te Fil Peper automata fil your losin
details for you Tofilinchvoma, you wil eat for pages and appr where the information foreach ot your saved
ned tolnunch your Crome browse tTom ADP Fil Window snot alowed to pop-up Lasts sites Once you have installed the
Yournome screen andthennavigateto a” automaticaly Select the options ond apps LatPass Andro apo tap the App icon 0
Stepping onthe Userare or Password you would the Fil Helper to appear on. launch the login page. Tapping the button
fed wil engage te ati fate Youcanlzo change tess settingsiaterin. inthe upper ofthis screen gives you
Settings» Ape acess tthe Vout options sreen
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@ when LastPass detects that you oe once the app is up and running e > Shared Folders are available
‘are entering a password fora site Tes time to check some setings. for both LastPass Premium and
thats not already stored in your Lock LastPass Automatically wil LastPass Enterprise users. You
LastPass Vault, or creating anew login ona allow youtto set when LastPasswilllock can open the Manage Shared Folders
new sit, ill pop-up the Generator icon sf sent to the backaround ori the Feature from the Vault Men. From there
to assist you. Use the slider to change the sereen i turned off. cessing LastPess_you can tap on the Pius Floating Action
password length, and tap the Copy icon again will equ either your master button) to instantly create anew Shaved
tecopy the curent password shown. Tap password ora PIN code. The sub-options Folder. You can also add or remove users
Save to finish ‘low you to seta PIN code and modify the from the Shared Folders,
Reprompt Timer
31Exploring Android
How to Use
Multi-window
The update to Android 7.0 (Nougat) adds support for displaying more than one app
on the screen at the same time. On handheld devices, such as phones or tablets, two
apps can run side-by-side or one above the other in split-screen mode. On Android TV
devices, apps can use picture-in-picture mode to continue video playback while users are
interacting with another app.
Launching Multi-window
It seams that most apps can be viewed in multi-window mode but you may find some force full screen (including many
‘games) so this feature won't work.
o o
3 e
aot °| | a= *| | aT
te eet tee
roe
or
> Open the frst ap you want » Now tap and hole the Recent > You can then selec the sop to
to view on your phone o tablet ‘Apps button, the square icon on {ithe Bottom hal ofthe sereen
‘This wil obviously il the whole Your device, previous known 35 trom recent apes. an app doesnt
screen as usual. In ourcase we have opened the multtasking button IFthe button son support split-screen a message will appear on
Fcabook but almost any nen-game app ‘screen (nota capacitive button), you willsee the thumbral telng yu so. You can change
wil work wth mult-window med in ‘that the it changes to two smal rectangles the rato ofthe split by touching and holding
‘Android Nougat and later. few apps, and and the screen spits. The fst app open will onthe whiteline inthe vier and moving up
resey all games wil force Fullscreen, on ‘ove tothe top and the bottom wil show and down uni the seroen i pita the ratio
ant be viewed in muthwindow mode recent apps to choose trom. you wan to use
32How to Use Multi-window
Multi
Multi-window mode on Samsung devices has been available for some time and works slightly differently to most other
devices, even after updating to Nougat.
i-window on Samsung
Top esters
eoe0
vam tert 2
@ On your Samsung device, tap
‘thumbnails of recently opened
_20ps.On the top bar ofeach app thumibrall is
Ss mul-window icon. Tap this to open the Fst
9p in the top half ofthe sereen. You wil $6e
thatthe bottom haf stil shows Recent Apps.
> You can also open an application
in. pop-up window on some
Somsung devies. To open an
application in 3 pop-up window. open the
apaleation, touch atop comer ofthe screen
and swipe dlagonally towards the centre of
the screen,
ofthe spit touch and hod on the diving
line and rag it up nd own. you dag
‘the divider ll the way up oF down you wil
cop out of mult-windew back nt single
‘window mode.
Touch and drag the blue outline
to resize the pop-up. Teuch and
40g the contro dt tthe top
of the pop-up window to move i around
the Screen, You can tap the arrow contals
atthe top of the box to change back to full
crea or shrink the window down © 0
>If you leave mut-window mode
by pressing the home button, wil
stay ative, A notifeation nthe
status bar wll espay the mult-window icon,
‘nd topping it wil switch back to the spit
Serven view You ean cance the spit sereen
by tapping the Xin the natiteation.
>If you search for muitiwindow
inthe setinas on your Samsung
Golan, you wl in that there ae @
few options for the spit screen made. You ean
tum certain features on and of and change
how the made i accessed. There ie aleo a
There are lots of erent system > Once installed, open the app to > Swipe left to see the next graph,
monitors avalable, bth free and set the monitor running. Te nil showing the GPU i apoleabie
screen wll show CPU usage ona fn your dees. In most eases
ro versions, which wil maitor
variety of system functions. We have ‘raph invealtime.fyourdevice is amult-_the GPU should not be using any system
chosen thelite version of System Monitor cor, tis willbe spitinte two orfeur separate resources unless you have something running
by Christian Goinor. This versions free, but _ charts, showin what each of the cores is inthe background, Curent. minimum and
coffers the option to upgrade should you ‘oing. Te the Grid button to view the CPU as maximum speeds re shown atthe bottomUsing a System Monitor
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35Exploring Android
How to Boost
Battery Life
Short battery life has been a drawback of all smartphones and tablets for as long as they
have been around. As device manufacturers improve battery technology and capacity,
more power-hungry processors have become the norm. However, there are several things
users can do to increase the length of time between charges.
Quick Settings
> mony curent Android devices now allow you to auicty ee and
control what services are running: WHF, GPS, ete. Ths i silo to
the Power Contra widget found on some other devices. although the
ick settings don’ actualy save battery pow, thay do allow you to
‘quickly and easily keep battery draining services under contro
Adjust Backlight Brightness
> One ofthe quickest and easiest ways to save some battery juice
Is to turn down the brightness ofthe sereen backlight There are @
couple of different methods to do this, Open Settings > Display >
Brightness and then move the sider down to wherever you think I
acceptable. Less than 50 per cents advised. You can aso access
the brightness control fram the Notifications pane
Power Saving Mode
> Many Android devices now Include a Power Saving festure which
with the lick of a switch, can automatically activate several power:
saving tools. These include limiting the performance ofthe CPU,
reducing the amount of power going to the display and turning off
Haptic Feedback. You probably won't want to activate all of these
tools all of the time but In an emergency It can work wall
- BEG
AE
Change the Wallpaper
> Getting ris of your lovely Live Wallpaper isn’ going to give you
tn extra 24 hours for watching videos but it will make a sight
diference if your devices really struggling to last a day: and it
you're changing to static wallpaper, choose a dark (preferably
back) one, The pixels in AMOLED screens, ound on many Android
evices, are photo emissve. This means that they generate lah.ae =
= |
we a >
= a
EE 0 mm
Decrease Screen Timeout
> This wil not save massive amounts of power but every ite helps!
‘Tren, do you really need your sereen to stay on for ten minutes after
you finish using it? Obviously you can switch off the sereen manually
before you put your devi away, but each tne you gt anotication
fora message and then don't check tor don't hear it, your sean
may stay on for whatever period is set.
GPS and Wireless Networks
> Having GPS turned on wil dain the battery ike slmost nothing lee
It you are using location reliant apps, then of course you may need to
have GPS on. Just remember to turn it off when youre not using
Turn off GPS either withthe Quick Setting buttons or goto Settings >
Location Services. Whilst youre in Location settings, make sue that
Use Wireless Networks ie alo unchecked
Reduce Update Frequency
> Ifyou don't want to disable Alvays-On Mobile Data, you can go into
‘ach app thet updates regularly, Facebook, Twiter, ee. and change
‘heir nc! sttings to undat less regulary Where you wil find
this setting varies between apps, butt will usualy be nthe main
settings menu forthe app, sometimes under Notifications.
How to Boost Battery Life
aay °
Turn Bluetooth Off
» A surprisingly large numberof peopl leave Bluetooth runing all
the time. Quite apart from being @ bt ofa secunty issue, Blutooth
will aso use up a big chunk of your bettery power over the course
‘of a day, even If not actully sending or receiving flee To tun off
Bluetooth go to Settings > Bluetooth You ean alo control Bluetooth
with the Quick Settings
e
Turn Wi-Fi Off (or Have it Always On)
> Following bit ofa theme, tum WI off when you don't need
‘atteratively, if you are usually near arelable Wi-Fi connection, set
it to be Always On. WiF uses less battery than adata connection,
‘and when Wiig on, 3 willbe off, Go ta Settings > Wi-Fi Press the
Menu button and then choose Aevanced. Open the WiFi Sleep Policy
menu and choose Never
Background Apps
quick way to reduce battery drain is to stop some ofthe apps
running in the beckground, From Satings > Apps, spe tothe lot
‘2nd you wll see a Ist of apps that are currently running Tap on each
‘one to see what they'e for, and then you ean stop any apps that you
‘don't need running in the backgraund all ofthe time.
7Doing More with AndroidDOING
ie saa
AV B)3(0) 1B
Our advanced and expert guides will introduce you to
launchers and troubleshooting, show you how to access
advanced developer options, monitor your system for
ele MoCo a LOL tL Colo tLe
Pee R EE eo eM CRUE UM eek: Bat
een Rec CuR TC ROR Cm cca m risUsing Android Pay
You already use your phone for just about everything, so why not use it to pay for stuff
too? Android Pay lets you do just that. Just add your credit, debit, loyalty and gift cards
to Android Pay and start shopping in stores, in apps and online, all using a secure and
convenient system. Android Pay can be used at hundreds of thousands of shops around
the world, wherever contactless payments are accepted.
Setting Up Android Pay
‘Android Pay is @ secure system but as with anything to do with money and payments, it is important to make
sure that you set everything up properly.
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>You wil need to make sure that
youhave your creat or debit
cords close at hand and have
al the details avaiable: account numbers,
tise need to download the Android Pay
app from Google Pay if you dont already
haveit on your phone. Setting up Android
Pay can take alittle time, mainiy due tothe
security questions and settings
40
as},
i] ez) Plo)
> Once installed, tap the ap icon
‘and thon Get Strted and choose.
the Google account to use with
the app Gif you have more than one). If
you already havea creditor debit card
registered to your Google account it wil
be dislayed next, along withthe option to
0 2 diffrent card Ifyou dont already
have a creditcard attached to your Google
account, you can add one later.
Sven 2909
> whichever option you choose
you will have to add information,
Including CVC codes and
‘other security information: we cant
show a sereenshot ofthis process, due
tov security feature that prohibits the
information being captured. Be careful
to.add the exact information required
accept the terms.Peery
‘You havea areen lock, youre good topo.
Ifyou don't aeady have @
screen lock set up on your phone,
‘you will need to set one up now,
{or an adaitional eve of security ontop of
the app security It isa good idea to set the
screen lock delay to zero. In some cases,
the phone i locked
Verify your card
@ Calyourbank
‘The next steps to verity your
phone with your bank. In most
cases, you wil need to calla
‘number specifically for Android Pay
verfications but this can vary between
differant banks and ard issuers. The
Security and Advantages of Android Pay
Turn on NFC to pay in shops
(nce verted the last ting
you need todo to start using
Contactless Ando Pay n stores
that offer the service, isto enable NFC.
INFC, or Near Field Communication, allows
‘Android Pay is not only secure, it also makes shopping easler, whether you are buying a loaf of bread at your local
supermarket or the latest fashions online.
‘once you've made a purchase, you"
yu exactly where a given transaction
happened, along with the merchant's name
and number, making it easy to spet any
Seno cate)
or iost
When you use your hon to ay in stores,
‘Android Pay doesn't send your actual eredt
‘or debit card number with your payment
represent your account info, so your card
details tay safe and secure
erento
tes er
Androld Pay makes it easy to check out
In apps and online. There i no need to
enter your card details every time you buy
something. When you're shopping in your
favourite app just choose Android Pay (it
avaiable) at checkout and save yourself
4Doing More with Android
Erase and Reset an
Android Device
You can remove data from your Android phone or tablet by resetting it to factory
settings. Resetting this way is also called ‘formatting’ or a ‘hard reset’. A factory reset is
useful if you're trying to fix some persistent issues or are planning to sell or give away an
old device and want to make sure that everything of yours has been removed.
Preparing to Reset
Before you reset and wipe your device you need to make sure that you understand and are prepared for what
you need to get back up and running afterwards.
< coocte
Cy twssware@gmai com
+) russware76@gmeiicom
‘entor tho information, you won't be abo to
{you will nee to know the Google account
Information that ie curenty being used on
the device.
42
“ Backup. Turn
fon Back up to Google Drive
87 M15 2
= o
*— a
source and keep it lugged in until the
reset completes; ensure you connect your
device to Wi-F oF mobile network, When the
tosign nto your Google accountrase and Reset an Android Device
Factory Reset Your Device
< aa << acroRY ATA RESET RESTORE
vest ta abe erased om your sheng, Restoring te sled data may pac oe
‘ees your ofthe dt on your pone, Make are that your
Reset settings oe Dahan gta t ate
Reset network settings =e
et thc enor ete tig ove Galonys8-¥
Factory data eset ter sardta ene wa
ere ears The ecyption ey fortes en the SD crt © select at
> Open your device's Settinas Top Factory data roset > Reset > Ifyou ae resetting the device
‘app and tap System > Reset phone or Reset tablet. In some to sell or give away, you
Ifyou have one setup, you ‘eases, this is where you will need finished. not, ou need to set
may need to enter you PIN, pattern or to-enter your PIN, pattern or password, To up and restore your backed-up data as
‘password at this point. to tall Android that erase all data from your device's internal witha new device. Ifyou cant open your
itis you trying to reset the device. On some storage, tap Erase everything. When your device's Settings app you can try factory
vices, factory reset may be found under device has finished erasing, pick the option resetting your Android device by holding
the Backup & reset heading torestart Its power and volume buttons
Erasing Specific Data
Ifyou don't want to factory reset your device but do want to permanently remove sensitive d
the device, Shreddit - Data Eraser Is a usoful tool to have installed.
ee “my 2m120112.165157Ipg
rg 108 i = i
i Oe oe aera
Ineal Storage (52.91 68) [Ey 2 1c0r 20515600
& ‘sorgefemiae i corme sapvrate
Bre os co By 22120112.125240}00
—e Bp zre0r 250010
(20) sovsorr2 157,
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» SHREDOIT i data eraser which > when aunche fst te the » Open theelevant folder coc
securely deletes les teoving them shveder wl as for prmsion forcarere images ete) end
recoverable. This oo erases your {cess ptotos mela ad fle on Select the tems you wont to
data complete and protectsifitfalsinta | your device. Tmefist screen ere mounts erase, When you nave selected them, tap
rrakcourhandh dave ick sbrecing | yourintraandertera sicrage wh thet | the ved Sed bution tthe botton of the
{loos that ered huge data volumes mount pints path and tor toa capacy screen, Shedding may taka, so Bo
PERMANENTLY ina mater of seconds, oraz ntl trages where you wil patent and wa forthe process to fsh
fic ap cata before closing the app.
43Doing More with Android
5 Things That Can Affect
Your Phone Signal
There are several things that can affect how good your cell phone signal is, things that
Me anes clue ae aaa sem UR greg
dreaded no bars. If you know and understand the types of things that can affect signal
Dream RRC Dette een ne enn et gee erect
Your mobile phone communicates using simple ado
‘waves and these travel in straight ines from your phone to
the nearest visible cal tower Anything that gets inthe way
‘can cause loss of anal strenath or ven signa aur. For
‘examole,f your nearest cel tower was a mie vay, but hidden
behind ail and the nest vibe tower was five o ten miles
‘anay, your phone would be forced to connect to that one
rather than the much closer tower. In this casa, distance would
‘aso begin to have an effect on signal strenath Ifyou lived in.
‘2 valoy and al ofthe call toners were outside te valley, you
would ofectiely be ina Dead Zone,
‘Yu might think that living in ity would be like being in an
unoatural valley all the tie but thee ae usually sr
‘towers or antennas placed al over cites, so the:
hast travel far Rado signals can also bounce off builings
‘and round corner, so you might not even need lne-of-s'aht
with 2 tower to get a signa. gain, in this instance, signa
strength would be lost
~ Distance
The astance they need to waves always a factor with
any radio waves and your phone signals no diferent. The
atmosphere is full of particles and even in perfect conditions,
ano dust, ain o sous, the furthest cstance tothe nearest
tower wll ed to be ls than 25 mils if you expect any sort
Cf signal. Theoretical 2 acho wave from a mobile phone
could travel 4S mles but depending onthe network cari,
‘components used and the receiving equipment the relwerld
stance could be as ow as 20 mies
‘The more powerulthe transmit, the further the aco
‘waves wil ravel But thro i a lim 0 how powerful a
‘smartphone rao canbe. In act, stance s arly a problem
but the great outdoors, or even justin rural towns, hiss
probably going tobe the bist ng the quay of
your mobil signal.
RE
i ad< Weather
be sent tothe nearest mat: you dont even get
ral booster won't help.
Movement Speed
Tomato a cal your phone needs tobe able to send anUsing the
Developer Options
Every Android smartphone and tablet contains a secret set of options - the Android
Developer Options. As the name suggests, these are intended principally for developers
of apps, used for debugging or simulating certain conditions. There are, however,
several options within this menu which more adventurous Android users can utilise to
good effect.
Enable Developer Options
If you choose to do so, before you can start to use the developer options, you will need to unlock and activate
them in the settings.
—
Baseband version
ene verion
BEEP LEE eras
Build number
SE for Android status
Security software version
KNOX version
e Open the maln setings app and
locate the About Device menu
(esually found a the bottom of
the settings fist). This menu gives you access
telets of information about your phone oF
tablet. rol down unt you se the Bud
Number section.
Marae ae) sze
Baseband version
Ker vein
creat et
Bull number
‘SE for Android status
‘Security software version
None ceo made has area been
ble
Tap onthe Sil Number heading
ten times quicky. As you do so, you
willsee a message appear counting
‘down an then saying "Yu are now 3
Tap Back and ook forthe new
heading Developer Options inthe
main settings, Once you open the
developer options menu, you will ned to
Use the slider atthe top ofthe screen to
fenable access to them and allow them to
bbe modifiedWeihua
Useful Developer Option
Not all of the developer options are worth changing, or indeed should be changed unless you really know what you
are doing,
Limit background processes
®
Frere poner oa bckops Enable OpenGl traces
‘Standard limit
No background processes, O) Pope
‘Atmast process =O. Do not keep activities fe
[At most 2 processes
Limit background processes
°
Atmost 3 processes =
°
‘Amat processes ShowalaNAS dg
1- Limit Background 2 - Desktop Backup 3- Don't Keep Activities
Processes Password open
> Scrolright down tothe bottom ofthe st The Andre Developer Options alow You > aknough you need to be abt careful about
and you wl see Lint Background Processes. to backup ad restore to your PC things Using tis setting ean be etl your
‘This opton ets you set how many processes such as apps and ther associated data. This phone struggles after henry cat Ths option
‘anrunin the backround on your device et option eauires a password forsuch bachus. _fovecclores every applention a soon ae
ary one time Be aware that too small alimt Youll need to ensure that yourdevie can enrages eam Use eae hs othe
‘might be counterproductve. connect to your computer succestly Lint Processes option not both
oe
Debug GPU overdraw
‘Allow USB debuggi
‘Show non-rectangular clips ae
“ USB debugging is intended for
development purposes ony.
Enable x MSA a canbe Used to copy data
between your computer and
‘your device, install
applications on your device
without aotifeation, and read
log data,
Eble MAA Oper
Disable hardware overlays oO
‘Simulate color space
anes cance, 0K
4- Force 4x MSAA 5 - Profile GPU Rendering 6 - USB Debugging
Pit younave a powerful phone or tablet and This zetting draws a views rendering ofhow > Allows your Androla device to
play alot of games, tis setting, which forces hardthe GPU is working vera periadof ime. communicate via USS to your computer via
‘mult:sample anti-aliasing (MSAA).canbe You caneither view onscreen orsavetoafie. the Android Debug Bridge (ADB). You can
Useful essentially makes things ook beter This canbe useful if you are tryingto work also revoke USB debugaing authorisations.
{ard not ust aomes), ut puts more strain on out what aps or features ae causing battery This setting will need to be enabled if you
the CPU/RAM, dan or la, plan to fish custom ROMS during rooting48
Speed Up Android
Animations
You may already know about the hidden developer menu available on all Android devices
running version 4.0 or later of the OS. Within this initially confusing list of settings, you
can find some really useful tools for making your device run faster and more smoothly, as
well as a few simple tweaks to get the most from your phone or tablet. Here we will look
at using animation settings to improve overall performance.
Modify Animation Settings
You can now begin to modify development settings, including the animation settings. It is a good idea to back
up your device before continuing
‘Ao development stings?
‘cepa ane en They cn caie yout
==
>
sien day ds ee: eM O|
Wrist it may be tempting to For ths guide, we are looking Before we go further you
play around withthe settings ‘at animation options which can should understand what is mean
here, we suggest leave everything 'be found in the "Drawing? section by animations on Andro.
lone until you know what the possible about halfway down te list of stings. ‘without animations, switching home
effects could be. Andif you de decide You wil se three animation settings screen panes, opening apps or seroling
change developer options change them Window animation scale, Transition woul appear to be an instant site from
fone at atime and test the changes before animation scale and Animator duration fone sereen to another Animations provide
Bltering anything else, Otherwise it can be scale, Each ofthese options willbe set the sliding effect of home panels or the
hare to know what eaused any problems tox" This means animations running at grow efect when opening @ new ape.
that occur normal speedWindow srimation sale
Ossian!
@ hninaon vee
(O pnimatn ste
(Opneaton see
(O pnmatn sate
(Odin se
(O Animation seat 10e
‘Your device has to process these
‘2nimations every time you switeh
Screens or open an app. But by
redicing the animation speed to"5x", you
‘can speed up all vansition effects and not
‘only improve how fast your device runs,
‘180 make the device seem smoother
Aimstr dation este
(O animation sae
(© pnenstion seat
(© pnenston sae Se
(© pneatn sate
(Onto sent
(© Animation seat 10
Ifyou want to go further
you ean change the animation
scales 0 Off You will speed up
transitions and window animations to
their fastest but you wil lose some of
the smoothness of the operating systom,
Choosing 5x @ good compromise
between speed and how your dviee looks
when used
Monitoring Performance
It you find thatthe changes
are causing problems, or if you
{are seeing no improvement in
animation spaed, try restarting your device.
If this stil doesn't help, 90 back into the
settings > Developer Options and reset all
fof the changes to their orginal state (or
simply turn Developer options off,
There are also several options in the Developer settings that allow you to monitor the performance of your device. This
Is useful if animation settings cause problems.
© Developer options
Enabling this option inthe Monitoring
section of the Developer settings wil cause
the sereento flash when apps perform
long. potentially heavy data use operations
‘This allows you to see whether app
animations are causing system strain.
This option puts an averay onthe screen
that shows CPU cthe main device processor)
sage at all times, Ths will spay as 2
‘ed and green bar atthe top rant ofthe
screen. allows you to see which actions are
causing the most CPU strain.
Show autacevoes
‘This option i nthe Input section and
enables sereen touch feedback. By viewing
where the screen registers your touches,
you can monitor whether the system i
working accurately I touches are out
‘of place, you can sometimes fx this by
restarting your device.
49Doing More with Android
Cut Blue Light
with Twilight
Blue light, the type of light given out by almost all LED screens, has been shown to
hinder our sleep patterns. This means that using a phone or tablet late at night can
actually effect your overall health. Luckily, some clever app developers have created
a solution. Twilight, just like Night Shift on the iPhone, will shift the colours in the
device display to the warmer end of the spectrum, making it easier on your eyes and
producing less of the blue light.
Screen Shift App
‘Thore are actually a few Android apps that will allow you to add a low blue light mode. For this guide we have chosen
wilight, as it offers more features than most.
2200
> Seateh for, download and Tight is designed to be a“set > if you want to read more about
install the Twillant app from the and forget” app. This means that the science behind Tulight and
you shouldnt really have to mess cther night shift apps, tap the
Gooale Play store. The app is
free, although some of the more advanced about with settings once the intial set up__ “How t works" option at the top of the
features wil require an update tothe Pro Is complete, The ist screen that appears screen. Ths explains the theory bebing
version, The app Is compatible with almost after tapping the app icon contains every the app. as well as directing you to places
all Android devices (phones and tablets) option you need to get set up correctly. _where you can read more about hue light,
currently avalable, cereadian trythms and more
50Color temperature
The next optionis Colour
‘Temperature, which is initially set
{8 1500k (olaxing). You can use
the sider to attr the colour temp to sult
your ov preference. You can even set
the colour temp to over 350k, whichis
classed as Energising rather than Relaxing
Tap the Proview Button to test
leis now time to decide when
‘you want the Twit iter to
‘sutomatiealy start and fish
‘Te default is Sun, meaning hati will
turn on and off accordingly. You will need
te enable Location Services forthe app to
use this option
‘The intensity slider controls how
‘x bacteally turing It off, whilst
100% wall normaly be way to intense,
making your screen vey red. The defaut
(of 40% is a goad place to start but we
found that reducing that to about 50% can
ewe -
son so | som EE
°° <
Ifyou prefer not to allow
‘automatic location detection, you
‘Tap the Custom button and use the slider
to change the timeframe when the feature
so Just close the settings by pressing the
Home button.
Ifyou want to set the sereen
to dim whenever the night shit
mode kicks in. use the next slider
to.contrl how much it dims by. Again
you ean test your settings by tapping the
Preview button, & sight cimming ofthe
‘screen is thought to be good forthe eyes,Doing More with Android
Hidden Android
Test Menus
Hidden within every Android device is a collection of different test menus, that allows
users to check allsorts, including how well the touchscreen is responding and whether
the notification LEDs are working. You don't need any special apps or additional software
to access these test menus, you just need to know which code to enter into the dialler
screen. Let's take a look at some of the most useful test menus and what they allow you
to do,
Testing Menu Code
Whichever carrier or manufacturer is involved, these test codes should work for the majority of Android devices. If they
do not, try searching online for specitic codes for your particular device.
jue | iad oe
EE ee
Open the phone dialer > You can gain access to alot of > it your device has a removable
screen on your phone and type ‘general information about your battery: you can find lots of
“#RAGEGRR, As soon 25 you
‘hone by going into the Phone etalled information about the
type the last, the test menu will appear information menus You wil also be able battery inthe Battery info screen. As
lon screen. This contains four main sections: toruna PING test that checks the speed well as showing the charge percentage
Phone information, Battery Information, of connection to your eurent phone remaining, will veal fhe battery health
Usage Statistics and Wi-Fi Information. Tap mast 8 careful when running tests oF ' Good, letting you decide whether buying
any heading to see more info changing configurations ‘2 replacement is worth considering,
52PHS HH a
4 6 4
re)
A & &
* 0 #
Hidden Android Test Menus
Useful Android Test Codes
» Horo aro some more Android test menu codes to try out. These may not work for every
vice, but should work for mest Android phones.
‘Camera Information -"8'#349715590"H" -
‘To tee detaled information about the camera hardware and software in your phone.
Service Test Mode -“##197328640H"#"
‘This Android secret menu lets you access service mode where you can run various test.
LCD Test Code -“#+HO"#
‘This lets you test the LCD display on your devie, to see i there are any display errors.
RAM Details Menu - #¥32648"H"
‘his Android secret code can be used to find out your phone's RAM version.
‘ouch Screen Test - #r#26648-H
| you want to test your phone's touch screen than use the code shown here.
Phone IMEI Number = "OSH
‘One of the most popular and useful hidden menu codes for Android, showing you the
IMEI number of your device.
Samsung Service Test Mode
If you are using a Samsung device, such as the $6, you can access a unique menu that gives you access to all sorts of tests.
+ Add to Contacts
x#OX e
2h es
2
5 6
8
N
0 #
= @
*
‘Accelerometer Sensor
Sige" yange ta zane
of
Proximity Sensor
‘Pome 90 ADE 9606)
Ights Sensor
Ug anor 18 3551014712989 RAN)
Gyroscope Sensor
‘Magne Sensor
MAGNET 194-277. 38S
As with the previous codes,
‘yu will need to enter tis one
Into the dialer sereon on your
‘Samsung phone. Enter the code "#0"H. AS
soon as you enter the code, the test menu
will appear. Tis code may not work on
‘very old Samsung Galany phones but it
should on most
The sere should now be filed
with buttons giving access to
the tests shown on eae Within
‘each test there may be adaitional options
for requirements. The Touch screen test, for
‘example, requires you to use your finger to
highlight al ofthe elements on the screen
before it will complate
> You can leave any of the tests,
jither when they are complet
cor by tapping the Back button on
‘your phone. Once you have completed alot
the tests you want to perform, you can leave
the test menu by tapping the Back button
‘on your shone twice in quick suecession,
53Doing More with Android
54
Save Web
Pages Offline
Your smartphone browser makes it easy to bookmark web pages which you might
want to read or refer to at a later date. But what about those occasions when you
know you will need to read something online, but also know that you won't have
access to a Wi-Fi or Mobile Data connection? Sure, you could spend a load of time
cutting and pasting copy from a page to a text document, but why bother when there
is a much more elegant solution?
Save Web Pages as PDF
‘There are a few different options available to you when you want to save a web page for offline reading. The first we
will look at is saving as @ POF file.
ous Pat
> This frst technique should require no additional apps
to be installed instead taking advantage ofthe bult-n
suppert for PDF's which is part of the printing options on
‘Android, However, if you are using an older device, with an older
version of Android. you may need to install the Cloud Print app.
The Print Preview screen wil appear. showing you what
would be printed (should you choose to do that) In most
cases, you can use the check mark buttons on each of
the dsplayed preview pages to select and deselect those you don't
want, Wit the content you want selected, tap the printer name,
> Open the web page you want to save to ead offing
later In this example, we ae using the Chrome browser,
‘but the same features are available in almost al third-
party browsers as well In Chrome, tap the Menu button in the top>
Fight comer, an rom the menu, tap the Print option.
a ee
> This will splay any printers available to send the page
‘0 for printing, It wil also include the option to “Save as
8 POF”. Tap this option and the “Print” button will change
toa “PDF” button. Tap this and a “Save to" menu wll open. You can,
then choose to save to Google Drive or Downloads.e > Saving to Google Drive is 3 good Idea as this means the
‘le will be avaiable on any devices wich are linked to
‘your rive. After afew seconds, the fle is saved. The final
thing you need to dois open Google Drive, tap the! button on the
file and use the slider to make it "Available Olin’
Save Web Pages to Pocket
eee
> You can, of course, choose to save to Downloads. This
saves the PDF onto your device straight away (but only the
evice you download it on). The great thing about saving
web pages ke thsi that everyting is kept intact inthe document,
from text links to images and ciagrams.
Pocket allows you to Save directly from your browser or from apps like Twitter, Flipboard, Pulse and Zite. You can
download Pocket from the Play Stor
pocket
> The first thing you will need to dois set up a Pocket
‘ccaunt. Open the app and tap the Sign Up button.
Choose a username and password, and enter an email
‘sdaress if you prefer you can set up your Pocket account on your
‘computer Head over to getpocket.com and look fer “Sign Us".
> Top any item inthe list to view it. You can change the
spay style, including sereen brightness and font size,
sing the buttons at the top of the page, Once you have
tinned reading the article, you can archive t by tapping the Tick
‘button Alternatively, tap the Menu button and delete te article,
2a: : mz
o o
uM &® «@ &
» To save a webpage to Pocket, open your browser and
navigate to the page. Tap the Menu button and select
Share > Save to Pocket. Open Pocket and view your st.
Here you will see any saved pages, including a thumbnail image i
the page had any the main image wil be shown).
ary Pater cats aplon Googe Eth
> Pocket wil save pages in stripped down form, which
Usually means that images won't display when reading
oifine inthe 2p. I you preter, and if you have a internet
connection, you can tap the menu button in Pocket and select
‘Switch to Web View" to se the original full version
55Doing More with Android
SMS Messages
on a Wi-Fi Tablet
Not all Android tablets are created equal and if you have a tablet with no SIM card slot,
you are slightly limited in your communication options if you don’t want to use VOIP
services or Online chat; or rather, you were slightly limited before now. Thanks to apps
such as Mightytext, you can set up your non-3G/4G tablet to receive SMS messages from
your Android phone, using the same number.
Mightytext
Alternative
> trinstead of wanting to receive
‘messages on your tablet, you want to
receive them on your PC or Mac, the
best option isthe superb AirDroid.
AirDroid allows you to access and
‘manage your Android phone or tablet
from Windows, Mac or the web,
Wwirolssiy, for free,
AlrDroid lets you focus on your PC, tye
With a full physial keyboard and control
With a mouse, and transfer things faster
Without looking for a cable. AlrDroid
‘also makes it easy to transfer fles
between your phone and computer.
Running Mightytext
Mightytext will only work if you have a compatible smartphone to run the
parent app. This is the software which sends the SMS messages to your tablet.
Ceuta
Saeed
ST ea
SMS Text Messaging Text
evs
» Bofore you start satina up > Once Ws installed on your
Mightytext on your tablet, you wil Android device, pen Mightytoxt
eed to install and set it up on the ‘and sleet the Google account
Android phone you willbe using. Search you want to use from the drop-down,
forthe app on your phone, and the phone menus You wil need to use the same
version should automaticaly be displayed. account on both the phone and the tablet
for the service to workGoogle
“@
‘alow access to the Google APP
Engine when this s requested, I
the setup i successful, “Connected” will
be shown on the next screen. I you want
10 text from your computer visit https//
imightytextnet/app,
When you reply to a message
via the tablet interface, a smal
below it on sereen, This ats you know that
the message was Sent via the connected
hone. Lose your Wi-Fi connection and
Cm Sorento’
SMS from your tablet
entire
rn
‘yu want to receive the SMS
messages on. Make sure thatthe
same Gooate account i selected on the
setup. you see an eror message, run the
setup again.
‘Yu can also use Mightytext to
syne photos and videos between
yur Phone and tablet. When
‘connected as mentioned, tap the Photos
tab and then tap the Ty it Now button
This wil sync the seven latest photos taken
Launch the mightytext tablet
‘a. Ifthe connection is working,
‘you will 9@ your SMS messages
‘and conversations from your phone on
{your tablet. The corwersation lst won't
show all messages, ust the newer ones.
receiving messages on your tablet
simply by disconnecting the Wi-
Fon either devies. you want t unin
the two devices completely, tap the Menu
button and select the Unlnk Tablet option.
5758
Dealing with Viruses
on Android
In some ways, when it comes to viruses, malware and other tech nasties, Android is a victim
of both its own success and of its open nature. If you read any of the tech news, or even
mainstream news sometimes, it can seem like virus threats on Android are increasing by
the week. Exactly how much of a problem is this then and what is Google doing to make
sure your device isn’t affected? Read on to learn more about viruses on Android,
Sa
Antivirus Software
Just lke on your computer there are lots
of aiferent Anti-virus tools available on
“Android: and just ke on aPC, they all do
broadly similar things and offer similar
features, You wil aso have a choice of
‘pp. One of the best tree apps is AVG
for Android phones and tablets yout
receive effective, easy-to-use virus and
Understanding Virus Threats
You really don’t need to panic over the threat of viruses on your device, but it
‘makes sense to know more about them.
eee)
You are infected with
Due ht
Prather ey
will use /system/bin/profle to
Pee
SCC
Pe eee)
‘There are thankful stil few known viruses The distinction between viruses and
which affect the Android operating system, malware on Android i something ofa
(One ofthe most well-known Is Tojan-SMS. grey area, Viruses get called malware and
AndroidOS-FakePlayera. This was the frst malware get called viruses. tis safe to soy
Trojan-SMS virus identified on Android, and however, that you really don't want either
was thought to have infected hundreds of to infect your device. One of the best,
thousands of devices. The virus was capable known malware attacks was DroidDream
of sending SMS messages to premium (leo known as Android Rootcager) which
rate numbers without the user having ary _ affected around 60 apps on the Android
Indication tnt something was wrong. ther Market (Google Play stor) in 201, The
weknown viruses include Gingermaster, malware added infectea devices toa
which was capable of stealing user botnet, installed additional software and
information from the infected device (user stole data. is thought that hundreds of
1D, SIM IMEL ete) and DroidkungFu, which thousands of devices were infected, even
allowed back door access to the davice and though Goowle was quick to release a fix
files ta be removed, for the probiamPTT iae TAM AUER Ma Uale Colle}
fs 3 Virus and
Malware
4 @ @ fa Safety Tips
No operating system is
completely safe, but it can be
made safer by following a
fow simple steps. These
tips will help to reduce the
possibility of your Android
device being infected.
> instal reputable ant
vlus app on your device.
one Although the way Androids
built means that anti-virus apps cannot
be perfect, having one installed will at
least catch some infections.
What is Google Doing?
» Avoid insaling apps from
third-party app stores fat
Although it hasn't always been super quick to remove infected or suspicious iste cael
apps from the Play Store, Google is now taking the threat of malicious eect spedlinnc the ac iSe
software seriously. It is getting quicker at removing dodgy apps, and in 2012 found on unofficial websites) can bea
the company introduced Bouncer. Bouncer provides automated scanning of source of virus infection
the Android Market for potentially malicious software without disrupting the
user experience of the Android Market or requiring developers to go through
an application approval process. Android also features several things that
Pe epee os 6
Store can remotely emove
infected applications
reduce the threat of malware and viruses.
Sandboxing
> The Android platorm uses a technique
called “sancboxina” to put virtual walls
between applications and other software on
application it cant access data on other
part of your phone and its potential harm
is crasically limited
Permissions
> Androia provides a permission system
tohela you understand the capabilties of
the appe you instal, and manage your own
preferences, That way, f you see a game
SMS, for example, you dont want to install it
Malware removal
‘rom mositying the platform or hiding rom
‘you, 20 8 can be easiy removed #f your
vice is affected. Android Market also has
the eapailty of cemotely emouing malware
from your phone or tablet, requied
from your phone. If you receive 3
notification to tell you a suspect app
has boon removed, make sue that you
> Weis highly advisable to
keep installation of apps
{rom Unknown Sources
sat to Off inthe device's settings
This wil help ensure that nothing
centers the system except through
official channels
» check permissions
carefully. When you Install
any app from the Ply Store,
you are shown which permissions the
pp requires to work you dont Ike
the sound of any ofthe permissions,Doing More with Android
Disable Android
Bloatware
No matter which brand of Android device you choose, from Acer to ZTE, most are all
guilty of containing at least a few examples of bloatware. Bloatware means apps or
services added by the manufacturer or carrier which take up memory and processing
power on a device. Unless you want to root your device, removing bloatware is not
possible. Disabling it however is possible.
Application Settings
‘The exact location of the app settings will vary between devices. You should however, always be looking for
‘Applications, App Management or App Settings.
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when disabling bloatware, ‘The best way to put a stop to > To actualy begin asabiing
dont be fooled into thinking bloatware safely to sable bloatware on your Andovd deviee,
that just because you don't fone app ata time. Once you ‘open the main settings app on
use a particular app or service that is have disabled an app, check that your {and look for Application Manager. This may
not essential to your device, Removing ‘vice is stil working ast should before ‘be inthe main settings list under Apps or,
feesential aps or services may cau 4you @0 ahead and remove the next bit ‘on some older devices, under the More
problems with Row your device works. Its of bloatware. This makes the task of tab at the top of the main settings screen.
therefore important that you understand removing beatware more labourious, but The application manager i @ great tool for
exactly what you ae disabling before you reduces the risk of eisabing something viewing exactly what apps are running at
aisableit important by mistake any siven time.
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Bu
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‘Top Application Manager and
swipe across the serean to the
left. This wl revel the cltferent
application categories (Downloaded,
(On SD Card, Running and Al). To find
bloatware, 90 tothe Al tab.
Disable but app?
Click Disable onthe bit of
bloatware you want to stop. A
‘warning will appear to tll you
that comoeting this action may eause
a Disabled apps wil not appear inthe
ea By
‘wen you find an app or
Service that you think you would
Ile to esse, tap onthe name
If the app cr service isnot bloatware, you
‘wills9e an Uninstall button next to the
Force Stop button (you might aso see
instal updates)
A
co aa
comaniredshoretsonotckp
or service that should nat be
{ised will have an Android
icon next to the name in the Application
Manager If you disable something by
mistake, a restart of your device will often
fic the error,
Ca
cr service, the Uninstall button
wil say Disable instead, Some
essential system services (such as the
‘camera app or the Android system) will
hhave the Disable button greyed out soit
‘when you finish sisabling the
bloatware you ne longer want
tehave running, you may need
app drawer. It's best to perform a hard
reset fora full reboot.
6Doing More with Android
Sideloading
Android APKs
There are hundreds of thousands of apps available on the Google Play Store, from Angry
Birds to Twitter to Groupon. Occasionally, there might be an app you want which isn’t,
for several possible reasons, available through the offi
ial download method. Although
there are risks involved, it is possible to install apps using other methods. This is known
as Sideloading.
Note poner ie e
ese ss =
> Selectina this option willow
6 Goodie Play Store. Depending
fon your device, you can also choose to be
warned before instaling harmful apps by
selecting Verity Apps.
Sideload with Confidence
Sideloading is inherently more risky than installing .apks from the Google Play
store but as long as you take care, your device should be safe,
Settings app, tap the More tab and scroll down to Security. Under the Device
» On your device (or any device running Android 40 or higher), tap the Main
Administration heading, select Unknown sources
ook °
e > The nent stop will be finding an
‘Android package fle, aso known
[Android apps are packaged, distributed and
installed. PKs can be found quite easly
with a Google simple searchSideloading
Explained
Sideloading is aterm used in
Internet culture, similar to “upload”
‘and “download”, but in reference
to the process of transferring data
between two local devices, in
particular between a computer and
‘2 mobile device such as a mobile,
phone, smartphone, PDA, tablet,
portable mecla player or reader.
Sidoloading typically refers to medio
fle transfor to a mobile device via
USB, Bluetooth, Wi-FI or by waiting
to.a memory card for insertion into
the mobile device. When ret
‘Android apps sideloading” typically
means instaling an application
package in APK format onto an
‘You should never use The easiest way to download aul ini
sideloading asa way to and install an APK fle is on caually Sonesta eee scatter
pirate applications. This is an ‘your device. Use Chrome or the Sina thar GS ET Galena,
almost sure-fire way of your Android stock Android browser to navigate to the St apps is only possible ithe user
device getting a virus, You should download page for the APK. You can also as alowed “Unknown Sources” in
only download APK fies from trusted download on a PC and transfer the file thelr Securlty Settings.
developers and companies
ee
) Keyboard Layout
Selection
60 to your app drawer and You will need to connect your
click Downloads: here you wil [Android device toa PC in US
you downloaded the APK fle on your Using a file manager such as Astro, you can
Computer, the process's sightly different. locate the file on your device and instal.
63Doing More with Android
Smart Home on
a Budget
If you have deep pockets, it is now possible to completely transform your house into a
Smart Home, with a single portable control system for everything from lights and music,
to heating and security. These bespoke systems cost several thousand, and take a lot of
work to install. However, if you are clever, and do some creating thinking, it is possible to
create a smart home on a budget.
Smart Home Essentials
If you want to add Smart Home features to your home, you will need to ensure a few essentials are in place first, aside
from the Smart gadgets we will look at in a moment.
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and gadgets wil need to connect to @ Wi
devices share information and how they are
remotely controled, This means you need 2
Isjust not possible,
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2- Controls
The Smert Home gadgets we willbe
looking at here all require 2 companion
tablet. Thi can be inconvenient to have on
your current phone, so ideally use an old
the phone or tablet doesn't need to be
very powerful, but remove anything not
needed forthe Smart Home conte.
‘Smart Home Plan
DD smart
1 wets sto adaptr on i
1 axeran pis pada}
nec @ ¢
3-APlan
Tere are limitations with this Budget
smart Home setup, ae you might expect.
that you will be
able to replace every lightbulb witha smar
ightoula and control all of them fram 3
lamps, not the main light fitings.Suri a alee Bele (ee (a8
Smart Home Gadgets
Lot's take a look at some of the many Smart Home gadgets available, to hopefully give you ideas for your own budget
‘Smart Home.
Transmitter & Receiver
rc
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Awox SmartLED 7w Bulb D-Link Smart Plug Avantree Saturn
Price: From £19.99 $16.49 €19.99, Price: From £24.99 $29.99 €29.99 Price: From £39.99 $43.49 €44.99
wnwimobilefun couk/-com wrmaumobilefun couk/-com wmebilefun co.uk/-com
> Perhaps the most simple Smert Home tech, > The D-Link Home Smert Plug ats you _> The Avantree Saturn is both a Bluetooth
these smart bulbs ae affordable ralable and turn electronic devices on or af from receiver and transmitter allowing you
‘can be setup to be controled individually anywhere inside or outside your home. The to.connect Bluetooth misc devices to
fras.a group froma single easy-to-use app. smart mains adapter controls your devices nom-Bluetooth speakers or vice-versa. This
You can contro both the brightness and the through an internet connection to provide means you can use your old-school CD
colour ofthe bulb wireless Wireless control for your TVs, heaters and) player with your latest Bluetooth speakers
much more. ‘and because Avantroe have used the latest
‘apt decoder the music ts HO quality
Perfect Bake Smart Baking Spigen Pan & Tilt HD Camera Samsung SmartThings
Price: From £44.99 $48.49 €49.99 Price: From £75.00 $8099 €7999, Price: From £199.99 $199.99 €199.09,
\wuwimobiefun couk/-com wuwmebilefun couk/-com ‘urs mabllefun.couk/.com
> Perfect Bake includes everything you > Monitor your home fram anywhere with >The Smart Things Startr Kit lets you
need to achieve this, cresting delicious the Wi-Fi enablag HD Camera from Spigen. monitor, cantral and secure your home
cookies, muffins and allkinds of tantalising Featuring two-way audio, night vision, pan fram anywhere. Including in the Starter Kit
snacks and treats that will make your ‘and tit controls, you-can be assured of area number of devices from the Samsung
‘mouth water Perfect Bake doos al the seeing the whole picture no matter what SmarThings range including the Hub,
measuring for your taking any ofthe the time of day. 720° HD video monitoring Motion Sensor, Multi Sensor,
complication away and helping you with iR-Cut provides a crystal clear picture
become a master chet
65Perea eau cel)
10 Android
Security Tips
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setup, lt alone used effectively.
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