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Emulation Station for Android phones, tablets and mini PCs

Android Emulation Station now available on phones tablets PCs

Android users patiently waiting for the arrival of Emulation Station on Android devices will be pleased to know that the application is now available on Android phones, tablets and mini PCs. Enabling you to transform  your Android device into a time machine that transports you back to the golden era of gaming.  Emulation Station DE is a retro gaming powerhouse, allowing you to play the classics with ease. But before you start your journey down memory lane, make sure your Android is updated to version 11 or higher, as this is a prerequisite for the app to work properly.

For those eager to dive into the world of retro video games, Emulation Station DE is the perfect companion. Priced at $5.39 on the Amazon App Store, this premium interface is your one-stop-shop for managing and playing your favorite game ROMs. It’s important to note that Emulation Station DE is not available on Google Play, which means you’ll need to sideload the Amazon App Store to get your hands on it. Also, remember that the app itself doesn’t come with game ROMs or emulators; you’ll have to find those on your own.

Once you’ve installed Emulation Station DE, you’ll be greeted by a user-friendly interface that makes organizing and launching your game ROMs a breeze. The app shines on high-performance devices such as the S24 Ultra, where it ensures seamless gameplay and an exceptional retro gaming experience. But it’s not just about playing games—the app also helps you manage your digital collection. It automatically creates a ROMs folder and uses a scraper tool to collect game metadata, so you have all the details you need to dive right into the action.

Android Emulation Station

The next step in your setup is choosing and configuring emulators. Emulation Station DE supports a wide array of emulators, including the all-encompassing RetroArch, which caters to various gaming systems, and specialized options like Redream. This flexibility allows you to tailor your gaming experience to your preferences.

Getting started with  Emulator Station on Android

Emulator Station is an application that organizes and runs game emulators, allowing you to play games from various consoles on your Android device. It simplifies the process of setting up emulators and managing game files (ROMs), providing an integrated environment for your gaming needs. Emulator Station, also referred to here as ES-DE for clarity, offers a user-friendly interface to facilitate the configuration and enhancement of your gaming experience on Android devices.

Installation

  1. Download and Install ES-DE: Start by downloading ES-DE from a reliable source, such as the Google Play Store or the official website, and install it on your device.
  2. Launch ES-DE: Open the application. You will be greeted by a welcome screen, part of the ES-DE configurator, which is the onboarding interface designed to guide you through the setup process.

Initial Setup

The configurator is straightforward and guides you through several key setup steps:

  1. Storage Access Permission: ES-DE requires access to your device’s storage to function correctly. Upon prompt, grant the necessary permissions to allow the app to access and manage files.
  2. Define Application Data Directory: Next, specify a directory for storing your settings, scraped media, custom collections, etc. By default, ES-DE creates a directory in the root of your device’s internal storage. This location can be customized if needed.
  3. ROMs Directory: Choose a location for storing your game files. The default “ROMs” directory is also placed in the root of the internal storage. You have the option to relocate this directory to an SD card for additional space. If moved, you’ll need to manually create the “ROMs” directory on the SD card and delete any empty directory created by ES-DE in the internal storage.
  4. Game Systems Directory Structure: Optionally, you can create a directory structure within your ROMs folder for different game systems. This action also generates systeminfo.txt files in each system directory, providing details on supported file extensions and emulators. While not mandatory, this step is recommended for convenience.

Final Steps

  1. Placing Game Files: Ensure you place at least one game file with a supported extension in the ROMs directory. If no supported games are found, ES-DE will display an informational dialog about the absence of games.
  2. Installing Emulators: Note that ES-DE does not come with emulators. You must install these separately. Detailed information on this topic can be found within the application or its documentation.

Re-running the Configurator

If you need to access the configurator again, you can do so by:

  • Revoking storage access permissions from the Android Apps settings screen under Special app access. This action triggers the configurator upon the next app start.
  • Clearing the app’s storage under Storage & cache settings. However, this will delete all themes downloaded via the theme downloader and is not generally recommended.
  • Renaming the ES-DE or ROMs directory, which will also prompt the configurator to run the next time you start ES-DE.

Tips for a Better Experience

  • Regularly Update: Keep both ES-DE and your emulators up to date to enjoy the latest features and improvements.
  • Customize Controls: Dive into the settings to customize control layouts for different emulators, ensuring the best gaming experience.
  • Explore Themes: ES-DE supports themes, allowing you to personalize the appearance of the interface. Explore and download themes that suit your taste.

Customizing your experience is a cinch with Emulation Station DE. The app offers a variety of themes to make your interface stand out. But the customization options don’t end there. You can also use the built-in PDF viewer to read game manuals and access a feature that cleans up image files, keeping your library neat and tidy. If you ever need assistance, the Emulation Station DE website is a treasure trove of information. It’s packed with documentation and FAQs that will walk you through the setup process and enhance your gaming experience.

Android ES-DE Tips and tricks

Emulation Station DE for Android is a sophisticated platform that caters to the needs of retro gaming enthusiasts. It’s designed to work seamlessly with a range of devices, including the robust S24 Ultra, and it’s equipped with a host of features that will take your gaming sessions to the next level. As you gear up to indulge in the nostalgia of retro games, don’t forget to source your own ROMs and emulators to complete your setup. With Emulation Station DE, the past is never far away—so start your adventure today and rediscover the classics that defined a generation.

Filed Under: Android News, Gaming News, Top News





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AI News round up this week – AI Phones and AGI developments

a roundup of all the AI news this week

In the ever-evolving world of technology, Samsung has once again made headlines with the introduction of its latest smartphone, the Galaxy S24. This new device is not just another step in mobile technology; it’s a leap forward, thanks to its advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features. The Galaxy S24 is equipped with AI capabilities that could change the way we communicate, such as live translation for calls and texts in various languages. This means that language barriers could soon become a thing of the past for users of this smartphone.

The heart of the Galaxy S24’s AI functionality is its Gemini Nano large language model, which powers an AI chip for on-device processing. This not only boosts the phone’s performance but also enhances user privacy. The AI summarization tool for group messages and voice memos is another standout feature, designed to help users manage information more efficiently. Additionally, the phone’s Circle to Search feature and AI-enhanced camera tools are indicative of Samsung’s commitment to innovation. In a move to address growing concerns about the authenticity of digital content, Samsung has also taken the initiative to watermark AI-generated images.

The conversation around AI is not limited to smartphones. OpenAI’s Sam Altman has been vocal about the future of AI, particularly the development of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and its potential effects on employment. While some fear that AGI could lead to job losses, Altman suggests that the impact might not be as drastic as some predict. OpenAI has also made headlines by updating its policies to permit the use of its AI technology for military applications, albeit with certain restrictions.

AI news this week

Microsoft is another major player making strides in AI, having integrated GPT-4 into its Microsoft Co-Pilot service. This integration is aimed at enhancing office tasks and is available through a subscription model. Meanwhile, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg is pushing the boundaries of general intelligence in AI and has announced plans to open-source AI technology. Meta is also building a massive GPU cluster to train sophisticated AI models like Llama 3.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of  artificial intelligence.

The retail giant Amazon has jumped on the AI bandwagon by adding a generative AI tool to its app, which answers shopper questions by analyzing product reviews and listings. In the realm of video editing, Adobe Premiere has introduced AI-driven improvements to audio quality. Runway’s new multi-motion brush feature, which adds independent movement to still images, and Luma AI’s Genie interface, which creates 3D images from text prompts, are expanding the creative possibilities for users.

Academic researchers are not being left behind in the AI race. They have developed an AI capable of mimicking human handwriting, and studies have revealed that AI models can learn to deceive, sparking important ethical debates. In the field of robotics, significant advancements are being made, as evidenced by Elon Musk’s Optimus robot and BMW’s automation partnership with Figure.

The gaming industry is also embracing AI, with Valve allowing games developed using AI to be sold on its Steam platform. Collaborations between companies like Rabbit and Perplexity are bringing AI services to the forefront, and Google DeepMind has developed an AI that can tackle complex geometry problems. Apple’s announcement of the pre-order date for the Apple Vision Pro is a clear sign that AI is becoming an integral part of consumer technology.

The Galaxy S24 is a prime example of how AI is being woven into the fabric of our daily lives. It’s a glimpse into a future where AI is not just a tool we use but a ubiquitous presence that enhances our interactions with technology. As AI continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications that push the boundaries of what we consider possible. The integration of AI into various industries and aspects of our lives is a testament to the transformative power of this technology. It’s an exciting time to witness the growth of AI, as it promises to redefine our experiences and capabilities in the years to come.

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How to turn off Automatic Updates on Android Phones

Automatic Updates on Android Phones

This guide is designed to walk you through the process of disabling automatic updates for both the operating system (OS) and individual apps on your Android phone. It’s a well-known fact that Android devices routinely receive automatic updates. These updates are integral for maintaining the security and stability of both your phone’s operating system and the apps you use daily.

They ensure that you have the latest features and that any known bugs or vulnerabilities are promptly addressed. However, there are instances when having total control over these updates is necessary. You might prefer to manage updates manually to avoid unexpected data usage, to maintain a stable version of an app you rely on, or simply to have a better handle on what changes are being made to your device. Whatever your reason, understanding how to take charge of these updates can be a crucial aspect of managing your Android device effectively.

Disabling Android OS Updates:

  1. Open Settings: Locate and tap the gear icon on your home screen or app drawer.
  2. Navigate to Software Update: The location might vary slightly depending on your phone model. Look for options like “System,” “About Phone,” or “Software Update.”
  3. Access Advanced Settings: Tap the three dots or a cog icon usually located in the top right corner.
  4. Turn Off Auto Downloads: Select “Auto Download & Install” and choose “Do Not Allow.” This prevents automatic downloads and installations of OS updates.
  5. Optional: Disable Wi-Fi Downloading: To further control updates, uncheck “Download over Wi-Fi only” if present. This ensures updates won’t automatically download even when connected to Wi-Fi.

Disabling App Updates in Google Play Store:

  1. Launch Google Play Store: Open the Play Store app.
  2. Tap your Profile Picture: Look for the icon representing your account in the top right corner.
  3. Open Settings: Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
  4. Choose Auto-update Apps: Locate and tap this option under “General.”
  5. Select Update Preference: Choose “Don’t auto-update apps” to disable automatic updates for all apps.
  6. Optional: Manage Individual App Updates: For more granular control, tap “Manage apps & device” in Settings. Select “Manage,” then choose the app you want to control. Tap the three dots in the top right corner and uncheck “Enable auto-update.”

Important Considerations:

  • Disabling automatic updates for the OS can leave your phone vulnerable to security exploits and bugs. It’s recommended to update manually at regular intervals.
  • Individual app updates might be crucial for bug fixes and improved functionality. Consider manually updating important apps regularly.
  • Some phone manufacturers or carriers might have slightly different settings menus. Refer to your device manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

Bonus Tips:

  • You can schedule Wi-Fi updates for the OS by tapping “Advanced Settings” in Software Update and choosing “Schedule system update.
  • Monitoring data usage during app updates can be helpful. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile data, and track data usage by individual apps.
  • Be cautious when downloading and installing APKs from third-party sources. Stick to the official Google Play Store for secure app updates.

By following this guide and understanding the considerations, by doing so, you are taking a proactive step towards maintaining complete control over your device’s software environment. It’s important to recognize that responsible management of these updates is a balancing act. On one hand, it’s about ensuring the security of your device – keeping it safeguarded against potential threats that are often addressed in these updates. On the other hand, it’s about tailoring your user experience to suit your personal or professional needs, which might mean delaying or selectively choosing when to update.

This process involves more than just flipping a switch. It requires a thoughtful approach where you weigh the benefits of immediate updates against the need for stability or consistency in your device’s performance. It’s about understanding the implications of each update, whether it’s a minor tweak in an app or a significant overhaul of the operating system. By mastering this control, you not only enhance your device’s functionality but also deepen your connection and understanding of the technology in your hands.

So, as you follow through with the steps laid out in this guide, keep in mind that you are not just adjusting settings, but are also crafting a customized, secure, and stable mobile experience that aligns with your individual needs and usage patterns.

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How to Optimize Your Android Phone’s Performance

optimize android phone

Optimizing an Android phone’s performance is a key concern for many users who want to ensure their device runs at its maximum speed. Whether you’re experiencing slow app loading times, laggy transitions, or unresponsive touchscreens, a laggy phone can hinder your productivity and overall enjoyment of your device. While newer Android phones generally offer better performance, even the most powerful devices can succumb to slowdown over time.

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can employ to optimize your Android phone’s performance and restore its speed and responsiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into a range of practical tips and techniques to keep your Android phone running smoothly.

Background Processes and Memory Usage

  • Android phones run numerous processes in the background. These can consume memory and processing power, impacting overall speed.
  • Clearing out unnecessary background processes can free up resources.

Software Updates

  • Manufacturers often release updates that improve performance and fix bugs.
  • Keeping your device updated ensures you benefit from these optimizations.

Step-by-Step Optimization

1. Update Your Device

  • Check for system updates in your device’s settings.
  • Install any available updates to benefit from improved performance and security enhancements.

2. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps

  • Remove apps you no longer use. Each app, even when not in use, can take up space and potentially run background processes.
  • To uninstall, go to Settings > Apps and notifications > See all apps. Select the app you want to uninstall and tap ‘Uninstall’.

3. Clear App Cache and Data

  • Over time, apps accumulate cache and data which can slow down the device.
  • To clear, go to Settings > Apps and notifications > See all apps. Select an app, then tap ‘Storage & cache’ and clear both cache and data.

4. Disable or Remove Bloatware

  • Bloatware refers to pre-installed apps that are often unnecessary.
  • Some bloatware can be uninstalled, while others can only be disabled. Disabling prevents them from running and using resources.

5. Optimize Battery Settings

  • Some devices have a battery optimization feature that can extend battery life and improve performance.
  • Navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.

6. Reduce Animations

  • Animations, while visually pleasing, can slow down your phone.

  • Reduce or turn off animations via Developer options. To enable Developer options, go to Settings > About phone and tap ‘Build number’ seven times.

7. Use Lite Versions of Apps

  • Many popular apps like Facebook and Twitter have ‘Lite’ versions. These consume less resources and are ideal for slower phones.

8. Use Static Wallpapers

  • Live wallpapers consume more resources. Opt for static wallpapers for better performance.

9. Perform Regular Restarts

  • Restarting your device can clear temporary files and free up memory.

10. Factory Reset (Last Resort)

  • If performance is still not improved, consider a factory reset. Back up your data first as this will erase everything on the device.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Updates

  • Regularly check and install app and system updates.

Monitor App Behavior

  • Pay attention to any app that significantly drains battery or slows down the device, and consider alternatives.

Use Performance Monitoring Apps

  • There are apps available that help monitor and optimize your device’s performance.

Avoid Overheating

  • Keep your device cool as overheating can degrade performance and battery health.

Conclusion

Optimizing an Android phone to achieve its highest speed potential is a multifaceted process that encompasses several crucial aspects. Firstly, regular maintenance plays a pivotal role. This includes routinely checking for and installing updates, clearing caches, and managing apps. Timely updates not only bring new features but also include performance improvements and security enhancements. Regularly clearing app caches prevents the accumulation of residual files that can slow down the system.

Secondly, adjusting various settings on the device contributes significantly to its performance. This includes managing background processes, reducing or disabling animations, and tweaking battery optimization settings. These adjustments help in ensuring that the phone uses its resources more efficiently, leading to faster operation and a smoother user experience.

Lastly, being mindful of the apps you install and use is equally important. Some apps are resource-intensive and can bog down your device’s performance. Opting for lighter versions of apps, when available, and being judicious about the number of apps running simultaneously can have a positive impact on the phone’s speed.

By meticulously following these steps and integrating them into your regular phone usage habits, users can markedly enhance their device’s efficiency. This not only improves the overall performance but also elevates the user experience, making interactions with the device more seamless and enjoyable. The combined effect of maintenance, settings optimization, and careful app management ensures that the phone operates at its peak capability, providing swift responses and a more satisfying user experience.

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How to scan QR Codea on Samsung Galaxy Phones

Scan QR Code Samsung

This guide will show you how you can scan a QR Code with Samsung Galaxy Phones. In today’s technology-driven world, QR codes, or Quick Response codes, have become ubiquitous. These square-shaped barcodes, filled with a matrix of black and white dots, encode a wealth of information, from website URLs to product details to Wi-Fi passwords. Scanning QR codes has become an integral part of our daily lives, allowing us to access information quickly and conveniently.

Samsung Galaxy phones, with their advanced cameras and user-friendly interfaces, make scanning QR codes a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned smartphone user or a tech novice, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of scanning QR codes on your Samsung Galaxy phone.

Method 1: Using the Built-in QR Scanner

Samsung Galaxy phones, running Android 9.0 (Pie) and above, feature a built-in QR scanner, eliminating the need for additional third-party apps. Here’s how to use this convenient feature:

  1. Access Quick Settings: Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings panel.
  2. Locate QR Scanner: Look for the QR Scanner icon, usually represented by a square with four smaller squares inside it.
  3. Tap QR Scanner: Tap on the QR Scanner icon to launch the QR scanning mode.
  4. Position and Focus: Align the QR code within the camera frame. Once the QR code is in focus, a notification will appear at the bottom of the screen.
  5. Tap Notification: Tap on the notification to open the corresponding link or perform the specified action.

Method 2: Using Bixby Vision

Bixby Vision is a powerful image recognition feature integrated into Samsung Galaxy phones. It can not only scan QR codes but also identify objects, translate languages, and provide additional information about products or landmarks.

  1. Launch Camera App: Open the Camera app on your Samsung Galaxy phone.
  2. Capture QR Code: Point your camera at the QR code and capture a clear image.
  3. Access Bixby Vision: Tap on the Bixby Vision icon, usually represented by an eye-shaped icon at the bottom of the screen.
  4. Select Lens: In the Bixby Vision menu, choose the Lens option.
  5. Identify QR Code: Bixby Vision will automatically identify the QR code in the image and display the associated information or action.

Method 3: Using Third-party QR Scanner Apps

While Samsung Galaxy phones have built-in QR scanning capabilities, there are also numerous third-party QR scanner apps available on the Google Play Store. These apps often offer additional features, such as scanning QR codes from saved images or creating your own QR codes.

  1. Download QR Scanner App: Choose a reputable QR scanner app from the Google Play Store. Popular options include Google Lens, QR Code Reader, and QR Scanner by Kaspersky Lab.
  2. Install and Open App: Install the chosen QR scanner app on your Samsung Galaxy phone and open it.
  3. Grant Permissions: If prompted, grant the app necessary permissions to access your camera and storage.
  4. Scan QR Code: Point your phone’s camera at the QR code and follow the app’s instructions to scan it.

Additional Tips for Scanning QR Codes

  • Ensure Adequate Lighting: Good lighting conditions are crucial for successful QR scanning. Avoid scanning QR codes in dim or poorly lit environments.
  • Maintain Proper Distance: Hold your phone at an appropriate distance from the QR code. Too close or too far away may hinder the scanning process.
  • Clean QR Code Surface: If the QR code appears dirty or damaged, try cleaning it gently to improve scanning accuracy.
  • Update Camera App: Keep your Camera app updated to ensure it has the latest QR scanning capabilities and bug fixes.
  • Consult Device Manual: If you encounter any difficulties scanning QR codes, refer to your Samsung Galaxy phone’s user manual or official support website for further assistance.

Summary

Scanning QR codes with a Samsung Galaxy phone is a simple and straightforward process. By utilizing the built-in QR scanner, Bixby Vision, or third-party QR scanner apps, you can seamlessly access a wide range of information and services. Remember to follow the tips provided to ensure successful QR scanning every time.

Image Credit: Daniel Romero

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10 Tips to Improve Your Android Phone’s Battery Life

Android battery life

This guide covers a raneg of tips to improve your Android Phone’s battery life. In today’s fast-paced world, our smartphones have become indispensable tools for communication, entertainment, and productivity. However, with constant usage, battery drain has become a common concern for Android users. Thankfully, there are several simple yet effective strategies to extend your Android phone’s battery life and keep it running smoothly throughout the day.

1. Optimize Screen Brightness:

The display is one of the biggest battery drains on your Android device. Reducing the screen brightness to a comfortable level can significantly improve battery life. Most Android phones have an auto-brightness feature that adjusts the screen brightness based on ambient light conditions. While this feature is convenient, it can sometimes keep the brightness higher than necessary. Disabling auto-brightness and manually adjusting the brightness to a comfortable level can further conserve battery life.

2. Shorten Screen Turn-Off Time:

The longer your phone’s screen stays on, the more battery power it consumes. Setting a shorter screen timeout will ensure that the screen turns off sooner when not in use, saving precious battery life. Most Android phones allow you to customize the screen timeout duration in the Display settings.

3. Utilize Adaptive Battery:

Android introduces the Adaptive Battery feature, which intelligently learns your usage patterns and restricts battery-intensive background activity for apps you don’t use frequently. This feature helps prioritize battery power for the apps you use most, ensuring that your phone remains functional for essential tasks throughout the day.

4. Identify and Manage Battery-Draining Apps:

Not all apps are created equal when it comes to battery consumption. Some apps, particularly those with high background activity or frequent location usage, can drain your battery significantly. Identifying these battery-draining apps and taking appropriate measures can significantly extend your phone’s battery life.

5. Disable Unnecessary Background Processes:

Many apps continue to run in the background even when you’re not actively using them. While some background activity is necessary for notifications and updates, excessive background processes can sap your battery power unnecessarily. Review your app permissions and disable background activity for apps that don’t require it.

6. Limit Location Services:

Location services are essential for apps like Google Maps and navigation, but they can also be a major battery drain. If you don’t need constant location tracking, consider disabling location services for non-essential apps. You can also switch to battery-saving mode for location services, which limits location updates to when the app is in active use.

7. Turn Off Vibrations and Haptic Feedback:

While vibrations and haptic feedback provide tactile feedback, they also consume battery power. Disabling these features can help conserve battery life, especially if you don’t rely heavily on them.

8. Utilize Wi-Fi Whenever Possible:

Mobile data usage can be a significant battery drain. Whenever available, connect to Wi-Fi networks to reduce data usage and conserve battery power. Wi-Fi connections are generally more energy efficient than mobile data connections.

9. Disable Background App Refresh:

Background App Refresh allows apps to refresh their content in the background, ensuring you have the latest information whenever you open them. However, this feature can drain battery power as apps continue to run in the background. Disable Background App Refresh for non-essential apps to conserve battery life.

10. Keep Your Phone Updated:

Software updates often include battery optimizations and bug fixes that can improve your phone’s battery life. Regularly check for and install software updates to ensure your phone is running the latest and most efficient software.

Additional Tips for Extending Android Phone Battery Life:

  • Use a dark theme whenever possible, as dark colors consume less power than light colors.
  • Avoid using your phone in extreme temperatures, as extreme heat or cold can damage the battery and reduce its lifespan.
  • Consider using a battery-saving mode when your battery is running low. This mode will automatically disable some non-essential features to extend battery life.
  • Invest in a high-quality power bank to keep your phone charged on the go.

By following these simple tips and adopting battery-friendly practices, you can significantly extend your Android phone’s battery life and keep it running smoothly throughout the day. Remember, every little bit counts when it comes to conserving battery power.

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How to find your Android phone’s serial number

Android Serial Number

Your Android phone’s serial number is a unique identifier that can be used to track your phone if it is lost or stolen. It can also be used to register your phone with your carrier or manufacturer, to get support for your device, or to sell or trade in your phone.

There are a few different ways to find your Android phone’s serial number:

Through the Settings app:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap About phone.
  3. Scroll down to find the Serial number field.

Through the Phone app:

  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Dial *#06#.
  3. Your phone’s serial number will be displayed on the screen.

On the phone itself:

Some Android phones have the serial number printed on the back of the device, or underneath the battery. If your phone has a removable battery, carefully remove the back cover and the battery to find the serial number.

On the original packaging:

Your phone’s serial number may also be printed on the original packaging.

Through Google Find My Device:

  1. Go to the Google Find My Device: https://www.google.com/android/find website.
  2. Sign in with your Google account.
  3. Click on your phone’s name.
  4. Your phone’s serial number will be displayed under the Device information section.

Once you have found your Android phone’s serial number, you can write it down or store it in a safe place. You may need it in the future for various purposes, such as:

  • Registering your phone with your carrier or manufacturer: Many carriers and manufacturers require you to register your phone before you can use certain features, such as visual voicemail or device protection.
  • Getting support for your device: If you have any problems with your phone, you may need to contact your carrier or manufacturer for support. They will often ask for your phone’s serial number so that they can look up your device information.
  • Reporting your phone lost or stolen: If your phone is lost or stolen, you can report it to your carrier and the police. They will often need to know your phone’s serial number in order to track it down or block it from being used.
  • Selling or trading in your phone: If you are selling or trading in your phone, you may need to provide the buyer or retailer with your phone’s serial number. This will help them to verify the authenticity of your device.

Please note: Do not share your phone’s serial number with anyone you do not trust. Your serial number is a unique identifier for your device, and it can be used to track your phone or access your personal information.

Here are some additional tips for finding and storing your Android phone’s serial number:

  1. Write it down: Once you have found your phone’s serial number, write it down and store it in a safe place, such as a password manager or a fireproof safe. This will ensure that you have your phone’s serial number handy if you need it in the future.
  2. Store it digitally: You can also store your phone’s serial number digitally. One way to do this is to create a note in your phone’s notepad app and save it to your cloud storage account. Another way is to create a spreadsheet with your phone’s serial number and other important information, such as your account number and IMEI number.
  3. Share it with a trusted friend or family member: It may also be a good idea to share your phone’s serial number with a trusted friend or family member. This way, if you lose your phone or are unable to access it, they can provide the serial number to the authorities or your carrier.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you know how to find and store your Android phone’s serial number. This important information can be used to protect your device and your personal information. If you have any tips, questions, or comments, please let us know in the comments section below.

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What to do when you Android phones storage is full

Android storage full

This guide is designed to show you what to do when. your Android phone’s storage is full, there are a number of different things that you can do to free up storage on your Android device. When your Android phone’s storage is full, you may start to see error messages, your phone may run slowly, or it may not be able to install new apps or download updates. If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s time to free up some space.

1. Uninstall unused apps.

One of the easiest ways to free up space is to uninstall apps that you don’t use anymore. To do this, go to Settings > Apps & notifications. Tap on the app you want to uninstall and then tap Uninstall.

2. Clear app caches and data.

Apps store temporary data in their caches, which can take up space over time. To clear an app’s cache and data, go to Settings > Apps & notifications. Tap on the app you want to clear and then tap Storage & cache. Tap Clear cache and then Clear storage.

3. Move files to an SD card.

If you have an SD card in your phone, you can move some of your files to it to free up space on your internal storage. To do this, go to Settings > Storage. Tap on the Internal storage section and then tap the three dots in the top right corner. Tap Move files to SD card and select the files you want to move.

4. Back up your photos and videos to the cloud.

Photos and videos can take up a lot of space on your phone, so backing them up to the cloud is a great way to free up space. There are many different cloud storage services available, such as Google Photos, iCloud, and Dropbox.

5. Delete old messages and attachments.

If you have a lot of old messages and attachments on your phone, deleting them can free up some space. To do this, open your messaging app and delete any old messages or attachments that you don’t need anymore.

6. Use a file manager app.

A file manager app can help you to find and delete large files on your phone. There are many different file manager apps available, such as Files by Google and Solid Explorer.

7. Disable unused features.

Some Android phones have features that you may not use, such as bloatware apps and pre-installed services. You can disable these features to free up some space. To do this, go to Settings > Apps & notifications. Tap on the app or service you want to disable and then toggle the switch off.

8. Upgrade to a phone with more storage.

If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your phone’s storage is still full, you may need to upgrade to a phone with more storage.

Here are some additional tips to help you keep your Android phone’s storage free:

  • Be selective about the apps you install. Only install apps that you really need and use.
  • Regularly review your installed apps and uninstall any that you don’t use anymore.
  • Clear app caches and data regularly.
  • Back up your photos and videos to the cloud regularly.
  • Avoid downloading large files to your phone. If you need to download a large file, save it to your SD card or to a cloud storage service.
  • Use a file manager app to find and delete large files on your phone.
  • Disable unused features on your phone.

By following these tips, you can keep your Android phone’s storage free and running smoothly. If you have tried all of the above tips and your Android storage is still full, you may need to consider upgrading to a device with more storage space. We hope that you find our guide on what to do when you Android phone’s storage is full, if you have any tips or questions, please leave a comment below and let us know.

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Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Mobile Phone News





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How to block messages on Android phones

 

block messages android

There are countless moments in our digital lives when we may find it necessary to block text messages on our Android devices. Living in an era where communication happens primarily through smart devices, we are continually exposed to various forms of digital messaging – some of which can be both unnecessary and intrusive. Regrettably, many of us frequently receive these undesired marketing text messages, as well as scam text messages, on our Android devices.

Such unwarranted communications not only serve as a source of irritation but also consume valuable storage space on our devices. Moreover, they can present genuine security threats, exposing us to risks such as identity theft and financial loss. These issues are not isolated incidents but rather pervasive challenges that many of us face as an unintended consequence of our digitally saturated lifestyles. From relentless advertising campaigns to sophisticated phishing schemes, these spam messages have become an enduring irritant for a large swath of Android users.

This guide will serve as an essential tool in navigating this issue. We will walk you through the process of blocking those unwanted text messages on your Android devices. Whether you are weary of junk mail or concerned about scam text messages, this guide aims to assist you in curtailing the influx of spam text messages on your smartphone. By following the detailed instructions, you can regain control over your messaging environment, effectively reducing the volume of unsolicited communication and enhancing your overall smartphone experience.

How do I block a text message on my Android Phone?

The methods for blocking text messages on your Android phone can differ subtly based on the specific make and model of your device. However, there are generally two straightforward approaches to achieve this, both of which are designed to prevent not just text messages but also phone calls and other types of messages from the blocked numbers.

The first approach involves using the built-in Messages app on your Android device. To initiate the blocking process, you’ll need to launch the Messages app. Once it’s open, navigate to the main menu by tapping on the Settings option, usually represented by a gear icon. From there, you’ll see an option labeled ‘Block Numbers and Messages.’ Upon selecting this, you’ll be directed to another menu where you can choose ‘Block Number.’ Here, you can manually input the telephone number you wish to block. Once you’ve added the number, confirm your choice, and this will effectively block all incoming calls, text messages, and other forms of communication from that specific telephone number.

The second method is particularly useful when you’ve just received an unsolicited message and want to block the sender immediately. To do this, open the Messages app on your Android device and locate the offending message. At the top-right corner of the screen, you’ll find three vertical dots, which is the menu button for additional options. Tap on these dots and a dropdown menu will appear. From this menu, select the ‘Block Contact’ option. Doing so will instantly block the telephone number from which you received the spam message. As a result, you’ll cease to receive any further telephone calls, text messages, or other types of messages from that number.

Both of these methods offer a convenient way to regain control over your digital communications, allowing you to filter out unwanted contacts and thereby enhance your overall user experience with your Android device.

How do I unblock a number on my Android Phone?

If you have blocked a number of someone that you would now like to receive messages from then you can unblock this number on your Android device.

To do this open the Messages app on your device and select Blocked Contacts, you will then see a list of telephone numbers you have blocked on your handset. Click the X next to that number and that telephone number will then be removed from your blocked contacts. You will now be able to receive telephone calls and messages from that telephone number again.

This guide is designed to help you cut down on unwanted and spam text messages on your Android phone. The exact method that you may need to use will vary slightly by manufacturer and also by smartphone. You may need to consult your user guide to find out how this can be done on your device. We hope that you find this guide useful, if you have any questions, please leave a comment below. You can find out more information over at Google’s website.

Image Credit: Daniel Romero

Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Mobile Phone News





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