What Are Apps and How to Use Them
Apps are what make your smartphone useful beyond just making calls. Think of them as different tools, each designed to help you do something specific.
What is an App?
"App" is short for "application" - it's simply a program that runs on your phone or tablet. Each app does something different, just like different tools in a toolbox.
Think of it This Way
Your phone is like a Swiss Army knife. It comes with some built-in tools (apps), but you can add more tools (download more apps) whenever you need them. Need to check the weather? There's an app. Want to video call family? There's an app for that too.
Apps You Already Have
Your phone came with several useful apps already installed:
Phone
Make and receive calls
Messages
Send text messages
Camera
Take photos and videos
Photos
View your pictures
Settings
Adjust your phone
Browser
Go to websites
Popular Apps Worth Knowing
Communication
- WhatsApp - Free messages and calls, popular with family
- Zoom - Video calls with multiple people
- Facebook - Connect with friends and family
Useful Tools
- Google Maps - Directions and navigation
- Weather - Local forecasts
- Notes - Write reminders and lists
Entertainment
- YouTube - Watch videos on any topic
- Netflix - Movies and TV shows
- Kindle - Read books on your device
How to Download New Apps
On iPhone
- Find the App Store (blue icon with an "A")
- Tap the Search tab at the bottom
- Type the app name you want
- Tap Get next to the app
- Confirm with Face ID, Touch ID, or your password
- The app will appear on your home screen when ready
On Android
- Find the Play Store (colorful triangle icon)
- Tap the search bar at the top
- Type the app name you want
- Tap Install
- Confirm if asked for permission
- The app will appear in your app list when ready
Are Apps Free?
Most popular apps are free to download. If an app costs money, it will show the price instead of "Get" or "Install." You can use your phone without ever paying for an app.
App Safety Tips
Only Download from Official Stores
Always use the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android). Apps from these stores are checked for safety.
Check Reviews and Ratings
Before downloading, look at the star rating and read a few reviews. Popular, well-rated apps are generally safe.
Be Careful with Permissions
Apps may ask to access your camera, location, or contacts. Only allow what makes sense - a photo app needs camera access, but a calculator doesn't.
Delete Apps You Don't Use
If you downloaded an app and don't use it, you can delete it. This frees up space and keeps your phone organized.
How to Delete an App
iPhone
Press and hold the app icon until it wiggles. Tap the minus sign (-) or "Remove App," then "Delete App."
Android
Press and hold the app icon, then drag it to "Uninstall" at the top of the screen. Or go to Settings → Apps, find the app, and tap "Uninstall."
Key Takeaways
- Apps are tools that help your phone do different things
- Your phone came with apps already - explore what's there
- Download from official stores (App Store or Play Store) only
- Most apps are free - you don't need to pay for anything
- You can always delete apps you don't want