Resources to help you use your smartphone and tablet with confidence: whether you are new to mobile devices or building your skills, this guide will help you locate support articles and contacts from your device manufacturer, in addition to free online tutorials and articles and buying guides from UA Library journals and databases.  

In addition to the resources we have compiled below, the Media Services Department offers one-on-one assistance for individuals who would like assistance with downloading e-resources or with basic device orientation.

Book a Librarian by contacting the Media Services Department at (614) 486-9621, or by clicking here.

Websites

Device Support Websites

Apple

• Apple Support
• Apple Support Contact
• Apple product manuals by device  

Android

• Android Support from Google
• Android User Guides
• Links to Android device manufacturer help sites:
  • Samsung support contact
  • Pixel support

Instructions for Common Device Applications

Apple

• Connect to Wi-Fi 
• Download apps  
• Send messages
• Set up email account  
• Transfer photos
• Cloud storage with iCloud  

Android

• Settings menu  
• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Download apps   
• Send messages   
• Set up email account and contacts   
• Use Google Photos  
• Back up and restore data to Google account  

Recommended Websites for Online Device Training

GCFLearnFree: GCFLearnFree offers thousands of up-to-date lessons covering more than 200 topics, including tutorials on basic computer skills, email, social media, and online safety. Examples of tutorials include:

• Buying Tablets
• Android Basics
• iPad Basics
• iPhone Basics

Dummies: Step-by-step instructions and tip sheets, from the company that publishes the popular for Dummies series. Find helpful guides for mobile device settings and special features.

• Smartphones
  • iPhone
• Tablets 
  • iPad

TechBoomers: An educational website that offers free tutorials on using websites, social media, apps, and mobile technology. It focuses on older adults and those who are new Internet users. 

• Android courses
• iPhone and iPad courses

DigitalLearn.org: An online learning hub of self-directed tutorials aimed at digital literacy, from the Public Library Association. Printable handouts for each tutorial are available.

• Using a Mobile Device (Android)
• Accounts and Passwords
• Cloud Storage

Review and Resource Websites

The following websites are recommended by Media Services staff as reliable sources for product reviews and for articles about the everyday use of mobile devices and apps. 

• CNET
• PCMag  
• SeniorPlanet
• Tom’s Guide  
• The Wirecutter

Reference / Resources

These resources can be accessed with your UA Library card number and PIN:

Consumer Reports: Find ratings, reviews, and buying guides for mobile devices, plus recent news and articles on popular apps and security and privacy measures 

LinkedIn Learning: online tutorials and courses that teach business, software, technology, creative skills and more. Includes tutorials for iPads and Androids. 

• Android Phone and Tablet Essential Training
• iPad Training and Tutorials 

Niche Academy: Step-by-step instructions on how to download and use e-book and streaming apps from the UA Library, as well as instructions for using social media apps like Instagram and Twitter.

Journals / Magazines

Read these magazines on your mobile device using the Libby app’s digital magazine collection. Libby is available for Apple and Android phones and tablets and from your computer web browser: 

• Macworld
• PCWorld
• Wired

Libby is available to use with your Upper Arlington Public Library card. Use these guides to get started with the app:

• Libby instructional guide from UAPL
• Libby video tutorial on Niche Academy