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Tech Talk: Easy Phone Tips to Make Life Easier

Smartphones are amazing tools — but they can also be overwhelming, especially if you simply want a quick weather check. Most people I know have a smartphone but don’t know how to use the features. Let's fix that!


Between constant updates, new apps appearing everyday and dozens of tiny icons, it’s easy to feel left behind. But here at Windy City Seniors, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident using technology regardless of their experience level. You just need the right set of tips and we’re here to help.


This Tech Talk is all about making smartphones a little less frustrating and much more useful — no tech jargon, just easy, helpful ideas you can try right now.


🗣️ 1. Talk to Your Phone

Yes, you can actually talk to your phone and have it respond! Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, you can say things like:

  • “Set timer for 15 minutes”

  • “What’s the weather today?”

  • “Remind me to take my medicine at 8 PM”


➡️ For iPhone Users, use Siri

First: Turn Siri On

  1. Go to Settings

  2. Tap Siri & Search

  3. Turn ON:

    • “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’”

    • “Press Side Button for Siri” (or Home Button on older phones)

Then, try:

  • Say: “Hey Siri, what’s the weather?”

  • Or: Hold the Side (or Home) button and ask your question

👉 Learn more: Set up Siri on iPhone

  

➡️ On Android phones, use Google Assistant.

 NOTE:  Your Google Assistant must be enabled. 

  1. Open the Google app

  2. Tap your profile picture (top right) → Settings

  3. Tap Google Assistant

  4. Choose “Hey Google & Voice Match”

  5. Turn ON:

    • “Hey Google”

    • (Optional) “Unlock with Voice Match”

Then, try:

  • Say: “Hey Google, what’s the weather?”

  • Or: Hold the Home button and ask

  • Or: Swipe up from a bottom corner (on newer phones)


👉 Learn more: Use Google Assistant

Remember, you have to start each request with, “Hey Google”, then ask your question.


Voice commands can help with calling, texting, setting reminders, playing music, and even “ answering questions like, “What’s 20% of $85?” What will you use it for?


🔍 2. Make Text Easier to Read


On iPhone:

  • Go to Settings → Display & Brightness → Text Size

  • Use the slider to make text larger

  • You can also enable “Bold Text” under Accessibility

On Android:

  • Go to Settings → Accessibility → Font Size

  • Slide to adjust

🔗 Change display size or text size on Android

 

📲 3. Add Your Favorite Apps to the Home Screen

Do you love checking the weather, taking photos, or playing Wordle? Don’t dig through screens to find them! Find your favorite app quickly and easy.   Press and hold the app icon, then drag it onto your main home screen. This works for apps like:

  • 📷 Camera

  • ☀️ Weather

  • 📖 Facebook

  • 🎵 YouTube

  • 💬 Text Messages

Having one-tap access makes a big difference.




💡 Final Tip: Practice Makes Progress

You don’t need to master everything at once. Just learning one or two small things can make your day smoother and help you stay more connected — with friends, family, your doctor, and even fun hobbies online.

💬 Want to suggest a Tech Talk topic?We’d love to hear from you.📧 Email us at: windycityruth@gmail.com


🧠 Keep learning with us and come back anytime


Don't forget our Cyber Safety Seminar for Seniors on July 23rd. RSVP to save a seat!



 
 
 

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