New Device for the Holiday? Here's What To Do

Did Santa bring you a new smart phone, tablet or computer? No matter how old we are, it’s always fun to open a gift box filled with a new toy or gadget. But, we know it can be overwhelming and intimidating to find a new device which needs to be set up and which you have no idea how to use. Now, more than ever, we are relying on technology to keep us safer, healthier and more connected to family, friends and work.

Here are some tips to help make using your new “toy” fun and easy to use:

1) Sync with an existing device: Do you already have another device that you want to sync with? If you have a computer, smart phone or tablet already, chances are you have email, photos or saved documents that you want to access on your new device. If you use all Apple products, it’s easy to save things to iCloud and sync things directly. If you use Gmail and/or Google Drive, you can also set things up easily on another device.

2) Back-up: Make sure you have a way to back up and save those precious photos and files on your new device. It’s easier than ever to create a plan to back up files. You can sync them to the “cloud” (do you want to learn more about what that means?) or save them to an external hard drive. Either way, it’s a good idea to have an automatic back up and do a manual backup at least once a month.

3) Set up your new apps: Now that you have a new device, it’s time to figure out what to do with it. It’s definitely more than just a toy or “nice to have sometimes”. Think about all your interests, activities and commitments. Your new device can help you access them no matter where you are. Do you want to connect to your healthcare professional or research health information? Do you want to use it for entertainment? You can play music, games (either alone or with friends) or watch movies. Do you want to connect to your local community or senior center to take online classes or socialize with your peers? Do you want to join family video calls? Do you want to write your memoirs or research or family genealogy?

4) Learn how to use it: Now it’s time to learn how to use it. Don’t be shy. Remember when you learned something tricky like riding a bike, speaking a new language or learning to cook. Start with something basic like how to turn the device off and on. Then, move on to getting your email set up, texting and opening up a “browser” which gives you access to the Internet. From there, you can learn new apps.

5) Password Manager: Now that you are downloading all those apps and setting up new accounts, you are going to have to remember your passwords. A Password Manager is a great way to stay organized and give a loved one or caregiver access to your passwords as a backup in case of emergency.

If you need help setting up and learning to use your new device, Candoo Tech is here for you and your family. Try a one hour remote lesson or become a member for unlimited support whenever you need help!