Today's Reading
"The phone should serve the person — not the other way around."
The
Smartphone Journalism for Adults 60+
Section
The first 48 hours with a new smartphone decide whether a senior keeps using it or quietly puts it in a drawer. Our setup guides assume nothing — not even that you know what tapping vs. pressing means — and walk through every screen with annotated photos.
In-Depth · Setup & Basics
The factory setup wizard skips eight settings that decide whether your parent will actually use the phone. Here is the order I follow for every iPhone I set up.
By Suzy Ahn · 12 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Samsung and Pixel have wildly different setup wizards. This guide covers both — including the four post-setup settings that change everything.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Ah, the joy of a new smartphone! There's nothing quite like unboxing that sleek device, feeling its smooth glass, and anticipating all the ways it will connect you to loved ones and information.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Knowing how to set up emergency contacts on your iPhone is more than just a tech tip; it’s a lifeline. This essential feature ensures that in an emergency, first responders and loved ones can access vital information and be notified quickly. I’ll walk you through each step, making sure your iPhone is always ready to help.
By Suzy Ahn · 9 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
In today's interconnected world, knowing your smartphone can be a lifeline in an emergency brings immense peace of mind. This guide will walk you through setting up emergency contacts and medical information on your Android device, a crucial step for your safety and well-being.
By Suzy Ahn · 8 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Switching to a new smartphone is exciting, but the thought of moving all your precious contacts can feel daunting. Don't worry, I'm here to show you just how simple it can be!
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
A well-organized home screen can transform your smartphone from a confusing gadget into a clear, comforting tool. Join me as we simplify your digital world, one tap at a time.
By Suzy Ahn · 12 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Smartphones are incredible tools, but they rely on a language all their own: gestures. Tapping, swiping, pinching, and long pressing unlock a world of function, and I'm here to demystify them for you.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
For many of my students, the App Store feels like a vast, exciting, but sometimes overwhelming new frontier. There's so much to discover, but also a healthy dose of caution needed. Today, we're going to explore how to navigate it safely and confidently.
By Suzy Ahn · 14 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
If you've recently acquired an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you've likely encountered the term 'Apple ID.' It's a fundamental part of using Apple devices, and understanding it is key to unlocking your device's full potential.
By Suzy Ahn · 12 min read
Quick Guide · Setup & Basics
Setting up your voicemail doesn't have to be daunting. With a few simple steps, you can ensure you never miss an important message again.
By Suzy Ahn · 9 min read
Choosing a Smartphone
Honest, hands-on advice on picking the right phone for older adults — iPhone vs. Android, simplified phones, and what to ignore.
Accessibility & Vision
Larger text, louder ringtones, hearing-aid pairing, screen-reader and tremor-friendly settings on both iPhone and Android.
Safety & Scam Protection
Spot phishing texts, block robocalls, recognize grandparent scams, and lock down a phone after it is lost or stolen.
Apps for Seniors
Hand-picked apps for video calls, medication reminders, large-print news, transportation, and staying in touch with grandchildren.
Troubleshooting
Plain-language fixes for the most common phone problems — 'no sound,' 'frozen screen,' 'storage full,' and battery surprises.