How To

If you’re new to Android, the first thing you need to learn is how you can personalise your phones functions by downloading small pieces of software called ‘apps’.

Android phones come with their own app shops built in – most likely, you’ll see a  shopping bag icon with the word ‘Market’ written below. Click on it, and you’ll visit the Android Market.

If you know what you’re looking for, you can simply search for the name of the app you’re after. Many apps are free, but some require payment. You’ll often find paid-for apps have a free ‘lite’ version  of which features advertising or limitations on functionality.

Once you’ve found your app, it’s just a case of hitting install – though it worth checking what services the app has access to  (you can find out more in our How to keep your Android phone secure guide).

If you’re interested in apps you see on Life of Android, there’s an easy way to download them direct to your mobile – by scanning one of our QR barcodes.

In order to do this, you’ll need to download a barcode scanner app from the market. Then click one of our DOWNLOAD buttons that accompany all our reviews and you’ll see a QR code. Simply launch your scanner app and hold your phone in front of the code. You’re then one click away from exactly the right place to download.

NOTE. Browsing and downloading apps can use quite a bit of data, so check your phone contract to ensure you won’t be faced with huge bills. If in doubt, connect your phone to a Wi-Fi hotspot.