Connecting with friends and family is a primary benefit of using technology devices. Our devices allow us to instantly call, message, and video our family and friends daily. This blog is the first installment in a series designed for iPhone users, providing step-by-step guides on some helpful technology basics.
Your cellular device is a great way to communicate with your loved ones. You can do this quickest by sending a text or making a Facetime call.
Step 1.
Open the Messages app
*This icon (picture) may be in a different location on your screen. As long as the icon is the same, it doesn’t matter where it appears.
Step 2.
Start a new message by clicking on the square pencil icon in the right corner of the screen.
Step 3.
Type in the contact name of the person you want to send a message to, then tap on the person. You can also type in a new phone number.
Step 4.
Click on the text box and compose the message you would like to send. Press the arrow to the right of the text box to deliver your message. messages are blue when sent via iMessage, Apple’s data-based service used between Apple devices. Green messages are SMS/MMS texts sent through the cellular network, typically when communicating with non-Apple devices, or Android devices.
Step 3a (optional) Sending a picture
Tap on the “+” to the left of the text box. Click on photos and select the images you want to send.
How to Make a Facetime Call
If you prefer to see your loved ones, this is how you can make a Facetime call in your Messages App.
Step 1.
Facetime your loved ones by tapping the camera icon in the upper right corner. This will prompt two options: Facetime Audio and Facetime Video. Facetime video lets you chat using the camera function of your device and allowing your contact to see your face, while Facetime Audio is like a regular phone call.
Now that you’ve mastered sending texts, images and making FaceTime calls, give it a try with your family and friends! And enjoy the ease of staying connected through technology. Stay tuned for our next blog series: “Staying Safe Online: How to Recognize and Avoid Scams.”