BOOT CAMP BASIC TRAINING
It is recommended everyone review the foundation LESSON Introduction to Using an APPLE iPhone. Following the lesson is a "hands-on" Must-Know GUIDE Addendum. Use your iPhone to do the details of the GUIDE.
INTRODUCTION TO USING AN APPLE iPHONE
Including A “Hands-on” training
ADDENDUM
(To learn a solid foundation)
John W. Kolstad
COMPUTER COACH
pcselftrain.com
February, 2026
**TABLE OF CONTENTS**
1. SMART PHONE BACKGROUND - History, OS, APPs
2. FEATURES - Buttons, Touch Screen, Access Internet, Use in car
3. COMMUNICATIONS – WIFI, Cell Tower, Bluetooth
4. USER-IDS AND PASSWORDS - Why used, Where required
5. INTERNET BROWSER - What is it? Safari
6. APP-LICATIONS OR ICONS - What are they? Why have them
7. SOCIAL NETWORKING - Popular Platforms, Invades privacy
8. MANAGING APPS – Arranging, Deleting and Getting a new APP
9. HOW TO SEND/RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES- What is it? How to use
10. HOW TO SEND/RECEIVE EMAILS - What are they? When to use, File folders
11. CLOUD COMPUTING - What is it? Why have it
12. SMART PHONE vs TABLET, LAPTOP, DESKTOP, WATCH, SMART TV
13. STREAMING - What is it? Where is it going
15. HOW TO LEARN AND TROUBLE SHOOT - Technical support
The ADDENDUM FOR iPhone HANDS-ON TRAINING follows this lesson.
Welcome to the information age and a new frontier for our lifetime. The purpose of this lesson is to teach people how to use their Apple iPhone. People learn three ways, seeing, hearing and doing. Doing is the most important.
1. SMART PHONE BACKGROUND The first Smart Phone called “iPhone” arrived in 2007 from Apple’s late Steve Jobs. It was a powerful small computer combining the features of the Apple iPad tablet with a cell phone. It has important Operating System software. For the iPhone, it is called iOS and it is the brain controlling everything in the phone. The iPhone OS and App software are occasionally updated via the Internet. Try to always have the latest OS. New iPhone models continue to arrive, often yearly.
During 2008, Verizon and Google launched their version of a Smart Phone with an OS called Android. Smart phones with the Android OS are made by Samsung, Google. Motorola and others. Google’s Pixel and Samsung’s Galaxy in many ways copy Apple’s iPhone to do the same tasks, but differently. Learning to to use an Android requires learning how to use the manufacturer’s phone model which makes leaning an Android complex.
2. FEATURES
The Apple iPhone makes phone calls, sends/receives text messages, sends/receives emails, look up things, has a camera to take pictures and has many powerful APP-lications. The iPhone is changing how we live. Enter data using the touch screen keyboard or use your voice.
iPhone Buttons – Learn how to use your iPhone buttons like: ON/OFF the iPhone, ON/OFF the screen display, UP/DOWN the volume and ON/OFF the ringer for the phone to vibrate instead of ring. (silencing)
When the iPhone is new, it has many APPs from companies who bought space to be there. Learn what they are and how to manage them including deleting, moving or getting new.
Smart Phone Security -To control access to your phone only by you, set up a unique personal pass-code and use facial recognition of you.
Internet Lookup – Apple’s iPhone has SIRI, an Internet look-up browser built-in. Press the phone side button and speak to enter a question. As the iPhone is listening, a small circle with contents moving will show on the lower part of the screen. Release the button and a response will appear from the Internet. SIRI can often help find solutions to a technical problem. Speak to it with any question about the problem and a solution will often to be displayed.
Car/Truck Dashboard Screens – Vehicle screens are touch screens and display iPhone APPs. The most popular APP to pair is the phone to the vehicle screen for hands free handling of phone calls. APPs can include GPS, Music, Waze, etc. Use the iPhone CarPlay APP.
3. COMMUNICATIONS
WIFI – (wide fidelity) WIFI is a wireless signal broadcast from a router, (a box supplied by the phone/cable carrier or self), usually in a home. The signal has a limited range of about 150 feet indoors, 300 outside. Often free at restaurants, libraries, etc. Smart phones, computers, printers and smart TVs connect to the wireless WIFI signal for Internet access. Once made, they remember the UID/PW to access the router. For an iPhone to access the WIFI, go to the Settings ICON (like gear), and select a nearby UID. Enter the PW for the UID you want.
Cell Tower – Cell towers were first used for wireless phone calling and text messaging. They now access the Internet like a WIFI router does. Carriers charge for cell-towers handling “data” traffic and is in addition to phone calls and text messaging. Depending on your carrier plan, the monthly charge for handling data traffic is either unlimited or measured.
NOTE: The iPhone is always “roaming” to find a cell tower or WIFI router. If it finds a WIFI
connection, it connects to the Internet using it. If not found, it will connect to a cell tower and connect to the Internet that way. Carriers charge for an iPhone roaming for a cell tower in addition to phone calling and texting. The extra cost can be saved by turning off an iPhone’s data roaming for cell towers. Phone access can be set to allow both voice/text and data with a cell tower or onlyphone calls and text messaging. Review your carrier plan for your needs.
Bluetooth – Communicates wireless from an iPhone a short distance, about 30 feet (pairing) like to a car/truck screen, Apple Watch or your ears using Apple Airpods.
Airplane Mode – Turns off phone roaming for a WIFI router or cell tower and leaves other features available. For iPhone, access Settings (gear) and turn on (switch turns green for on).
NOTE: When connecting to the Internet, costs vary using the WIFI, Cell Tower, in an airplane or ship at sea. Understand them. They might be based on time connected or amount of data processed. i.e. KB/MB/GB/TB KiloBytes (1,000 Bytes), MegaBytes (1,000KB), GigaBytes (1,000MB), TeraBytes (1,000GB). Video Games and Digital Pictures are data and large.
4. USER-IDS and PASSWORDS
Managing various UIDs and PWs is critical. Many are required to allow access to WIFI Routers, Web Sites and E-mail Internet Service Providers like Gmail, Outlook, Verizon, Comcast, etc. Web sites include banks, stock market, medical centers patient portals, etc. Using a simple PW will usually not be allowed. There will often be a required PW structure like length, caps, numeric or special characters and there often will be a limit on the number of failed attempts to use a PW before you will be required to apply for a new one.
Many sites being accessed require two factor authentication. During two factor sign-in, you will be sent a numeric code as a text or an email for you to return as a response. After it is returned correctly, you will be able to proceed with sign-in.
Use strong PWs. Keep them in a safe place. Use an APP which stores UID/PW like Bitwarden or iPassword or other. Passwords may sometimes be challenged and require you to answer a personal question you answered when assigned the password.
5. INTERNET BROWSER
The iPhone Internet browser is Safari. Use it by selecting its ICON (blue compass with a red and white needle). When opened, an entry line will appear at the top of screen. Enter or speak wordsyou are searching into the line for or enter a Web Site Address accessing. NOTE: To solve any technical problem, learn to use the browser and ask the Internet for an answer.
Here is an example of asking the Internet browser a technical question: How do I get photos off my iPhone into Windows 11? It responds: To get photos from an iPhone to Windows 11 the easiest way is to connect with a USB cable, unlock the phone, and use built-in Photos AP’s Import feature, selecting your device and choosing the photos to transfer.
6. APP-LICATIONS (or ICONS)
iPhone APP-lications are powerful tools. Each one is used to help us live our daily life. Many APPs (icons) are available on multiple iPhone home screens. To see all of them, swipe the screen right to left. Understand what each APP does and arrange them for easy access.
Many APPs on a new iPhone come preloaded from Apple’s Internet store. Fr a fee, Apple agrees with the APP manufacturer, to allow their App to be there. Popular iPhone APPs include: Phone, Safari Browser, Email, Text Mail, Calendar, Contacts, Photos File, Camera and Flashlight. Learn to use Apple’s APP store and download one to your iPhone. A UID and PW will be required to access the store. Following are descriptions of several popular APPs:
APP for Phone Calls – use touch keypad to enter phone number or select the number from contact file. See recent calls, access voice mail, have a list of favorite numbers to call quickly.
APP for Contacts – contains names, addresses, phone numbers to call, send an email or a text.
APP for Calendar - post event to a day’s date, use GPS feature for location address, use alert.
APP for Text Messaging - send short messages to a smart phone number or email address.
APP for Emailing - Use your Internet Service Provider to manage emails including deleting, responding and filing. Compose and send new emails. See emails on iPhone by synchronizing it to your email account. If you need help, see a technician at Verizon, Apple store or other. Save important emails by having organized file folders to keep them.
APP for Camera – Built-in to take photos, use flash, zoom, make a video and send with text-message or email. Use to deposit E-check to bank. Use to access QR code (Quick Response squiggly square). Use camera to view QR for web address to appear. Then select to open it.
APP for Photos – Shows file of photos taken. They can be deleted, edited, made into an album and sent. For best print quality, use the print services at CVS, Walmart or Walgreens. How to send a picture on an iPhone: 1) Select Photos APP icon, 2) Select picture(s). A check will appear in photo) 3) For iPhone, select square w/ up-arrow in bottom of screen to share photo(s) with a text message, email or use AirDrop to share by sending to another iPhone.
APP for Weather – Weather APPs. Are typically free, but promote other services. See radar.
APP for ZOOM– Virtual meetings with others. Use Personal Meeting ID to attend.
APP for GPS – Global Positioning System. Maps for iPhone with turn-by-turn instructions.
APP for UBER or LYFT – An account to get a ride somewhere.
APP for GasBuddy – Find a gas station with the best price and receive a discount. Activate by setting up debit payment. You will receive a debit card from GasBuddy. Slip is retail cost. Your account is charged the discount price.
APP for Waze – Updated traffic reports and turn-by-turn GPS (Global Positioning System).
APP for Music – Have Play Lists and stream to home speaker, headset, pods or auto.
APP for Face-to-Face Conversations - FaceTime iPhone, Skype Microsoft. CAUTION: The same APP on both types of Smart Phones works best.
APP for YouTube – Popular streaming videos for education, games, how to and shows.
APP for Find My – Free from Apple App Store to locate the iPhone of a Contact.
APP for Find Air – Free from Apple App Store to locate Air Tag (fastened to key or wallet).
Other APPs can include: News, Calculator, Flashlight and many other APPs like bank, credit card, investment accounts, etc. Constantly be learning about APPs you might like. NOTE:Whether you use a home computer or iPhone to access your Bank Account, Credit Card or Investment Account, look at them often to assure there is no illegal activity.
7. SOCIAL NETWORKING
Social Networking Includes using APPs in addition to Texting and E-mailing. They require applying to a .COM web site for account with a personal UID/PW.
Facebook (Meta or “self”) – FB is used by many people for social communication. The number of FB users or “friends” has grown because Facebook designed it to look at the emails FB users send to people they know. FB then prepares and sends “friend” invitations for you to accept looking like it is coming from other FB users, but it is really coming from the FB company. Today, FB traffic to the iPhone APP can be high and time consuming to read like 1) the number of “friends” sending you a FB post, 2) the number of FB posts on subjects they think you would like and 3) FB promoting new friends. Because FB is accessing personal information, the world is not always approving it. Other social networking APPs like Instagram have grown.
Twitter - Post a “tweet” or message to the Twitter bulletin board for others who want to follow someone. Follow “tweets” made by others by accessing their Twitter address.
LinkedIn – Site contains information about yourself, like business background and experience. Often looked at by companies when hiring.
Shutterfly - Post pictures for online viewing and use their printing service to make photo albums.
Instagram – Share photos with a message. (Facebook product).
Snapchat – Share photos with a message. Review deciding to use it vs Instagram
WhatsApp – For messages, images, video, audio. (Facebook product).
TikTok – APP from China to send/receive short (or longer) videos.
WARNING! Be careful using any social networking APP. Be aware what you send may be used for purposes you would not approve of. The U.S. and other world governments are tracking lots of scams and fraud.
8. MANAGING APPs
Managing APPs includes deleting, rearranging and getting a new one. See the ADDENDUM at the end of this lesson for a MUST KNOW “HANDS-ON” GUIDE to use an iPhone. Learn the detailed commands for your iPhone there.
Review the many APPs available for an iPhone and decide which ones you want to use in your life. Here is one example of APPs (by frequency of use to have located on a Home Screen): Phone, Calendar, Text Messages, Email, Weather, Contacts, Camera, Photos, GasBuddy, CNBC, GPS, Facebook, Tides, Computer Coach, Waze, Notes, Calculator, Flashlight, App Store.
9. HOW TO SEND / RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES
Select the Text Messaging APP to Read/Respond/Create new messages. Enter text by touch keypad or activate voice input and dictate. When using keypad to enter text, the iPhone is intuitive to suggest the word. Spelling errors are flagged to correct. Messages sent and received are retained. Texting uses contacts from the Contacts File phone number or email address. iPhone pictures can easily be selected from the Photos File and included with text messages. New Text Messages received will be flagged. Use Edit to select messages to delete.
10. HOW TO SEND / RECEIVE EMAILS
Select the Emailing APP to access existing email account like Outlook, Gmail, etc. which has been synchronized to the emails in the same account of your main computer. Emails can be read, responded to, deleted, filed or compose as new. Although a smart phone can be used for a longer message than texting; depending how long the message is, it may be more practical to use a larger screen with a full-sized keyboard of a laptop/tablet/desktop. NOTE: if an email or text looks suspicious (even if from a friend or family member), delete it. There are many fraudulent attempts to use your personal information for money scams. Be careful. Don’t open.
When doing email, learn how to use file folders to organize emails received or sent. By using file folders, past emails can be easily located. To set up file folders, decide what emails you want t organize like the name of your family and friends, clubs, businesses, etc. Then start filing.
NOTE: Just like when daily snail-mail arrive to a U.S. Postal mailbox and the first step is to look for “junk mail” to discard, with email, the same is needed in the email inbox. If an email sender is repeatedly sending an email, use the “unsubscribe” at bottom of email. If the annoying email continues, use the email blocking feature.
To print an email from an iPhone, open email and select back arrow in square at bottom of screen. Scroll down to list of what can be done with a message and select “Print”. WIFI printer model should show. Select printer and select the word “Print” top right of screen.
11. CLOUD COMPUTING
A Cloud Computer is a remote computer accessed by Smart Phones and other computers by using the internet. Software located on the Cloud computers include: web sites, computer back-up, and powerful software like Windows 365 (Office).
Backup or a second copy of important contents of an iPhone or home computer is critical so the only copy of a digital pictures or data files could be recovered. Apple’s cloud computer for backup is called iCloud. Apple provides 5 GB of free backup storage in their iCloud computer per Apple account. After it is full, for a small monthly fee, you can buy more storage. To see what your iCloud account is backing up, tap Settings, your name, iCloud. A screen will show a scale of how much is used and how much is available. NOTE: Using Apple’s iCloud or other for back-up will be required for reloading the contents of your iPhone or other computer when it may fail, become lost or need to be replaced.
12. SMART PHONE VS TABLET, LAPTOP, DESKTOP, WATCH, SMART TV
SMART PHONE – The iPhone is the smallest and most portable personal computer to make phone calls, send text messages or an occasional email. You can have important personal APPs.
TABLET – Portable, accesses Internet, usually only a touch screen keyboard. iPad has keyboard.
LAPTOP – Portable, no cell phone call, full hinged keyboard, larger screen vs smart phone, contains hard drive storage.
DESKTOP – Stationary with large screen, full size keyboard, not portable, most powerful, often networked with other computers. Often used for working-from-home.
WATCH – Apple is leading the way. Water resist to 50m. Pair Apple watch with an iPhone for: Phone Calls, Text Messages, Road GPS, Golf GPS, SIRI Web look up, Health data, etc.
SMART TV – New TVs are called “smart” because they have a streaming computer built-in to access many of the Internet streaming services like: You-Tube, Roku Netflix, Peacock, Apple +, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, Paramount, Pandora (music), etc. Can convert old TV to do streaming.
13. STREAMING
Streaming is a TV viewing service using the Internet as an alternative to Cable to receive a signal. Smart TVs receive the signal from a WIFI router like used by computers and smart phones to reach the Internet. TV access to the Internet for streaming is either from a new TV with streaming capability built in or by an older TV made “smart” by installing a small converter box with a remote. Popular converter boxes are a ROKU or Amazon (Fire Stick) device connected to one of the TV’s HDMI ports and (wirelessly) to the router. Streaming requires having fast internet access. Old routers need to be upgraded. Multiple TVs in a home might require a more powerful router for the internet signal to reach them.
There is a lot of competition among streaming services for customers. It remains to be seen who will survive. Before discontinuing your cable service, research free streaming services vs those with a monthly fee. Learn how to organize the channels you like and how to access them easily.
REMOTE CONTROL – Streaming has its own remote control. Take a look at Roku’s or Amazon’s Fire Stick, etc. for their features and how they work. Compare to Cable’s remote.
STREAMING SERVICE ACCOUNT – Be prepared to have a personal account for each streaming service you enroll in. Make sure you know what is free versus premium and which will be billed monthly automatically. Streaming services often have a test period before billing occurs.
TEST A STREAMING SERVICE – A good way to learn what streaming is and something you want. Try the available free streaming services and learn how to use the streaming remote. Learn how select and open a streaming service and play a show. Learn how to do iPhone screen mirroring to have the iPhone display enlarged on a TV screen. To do, use your streaming remote and find Apple AirPlayunder the settings on your streaming TV. From your iPhone home screen, swipe top right to lower left and select double screen icon.
15. HOW TO LEARN AND TROUBLESHOOT
Here are ways to learn:
1) USE YOUR iPhone SIRI or Safari INTERNET BROWSER – Solve nearly any technical problem by using your iPhone SIRI or Safari Internet browser. Someone has probably solved the problem or will provide information on the subject.
2) ADDENDUM FOR HANDS-ON TRAINING LESSON - Learn to do this “must know” Guide for the iPhone.
3) FREE ONLINE STUDY LESSONS - Access the web site pcelftrain.com. At the home page below 3) MORE FREE SELF-TRAINING LESSONS, select FREE TRAINING
which links to GCFGlobal for many free topics to study (after you decide).
3) Library/Senior Center/Apple Stores - Check them regularly for free training.
5) Create an APP/ICON for pcselftrain.com on your Smart Phone – Have a home screen icon for quick access to the training web site. To create, launch the iPhone Safari Internet browser. Look-uppcselftrain.com. Select square w/ up arrow. Scroll and select “Add to Home Screen”.
6) WARRANTIES and SERVICE - When buying a new iPhone (or computer), make sure understand the warranty and service. Look for extended warranties. Ask about a file transfer service from old to new computer. The service may be free, have charge or not be available.
Keep on learning!
John W. Kolstad graduated from Northeastern University, Boston, MA. Worked a career in IT beginning as a Computer Programmer in 1964, then a Programmer Analyst, Systems Designer, Project Manager, Department Manager and Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve (RET).
Since 1999, he has been the Webmaster of pcselftrain.com, a training and support web site to help people use their computers. All classes and training information in the web site are FREE If it helps you, consider sending a check donation to help support, maintain, improve and promote the site to others. Mail to: Computer Coach, John Welding Kolstad, 19 Standish Road, Duxbury, MA 02332
Published February, 2026. Send suggestions to sardine2@msm.com
HANDS-ON TRAINING ADDENDUM iPhone
Smart phone users should learn how to do the following “hands-on” details of several important iPhone features. App names are in CAPS and underlined followed by touch commands in italics. Also have read the foundation lesson Introduction to Using an Apple iPhone. Here are the important features to learn:
1) HOW TO HAVE THE LATEST iPHONE OS, USE THE INTERNET AND DO BACK-UP
See Your Latest Smart Phone’s Operating System (iOS): Tap Settings App, General, About. Also see your Smart Phone model name there too. To receive automatic iOS updates, tap Settings App, General, Software Update. Assure Automatic Updates is On. Apps will get occasional updates too.
Manage Back-up Settings (iCloud): Tap Settings App, tap your name, tap iCloud to see what and how much is backed up. (5 GB of storage free from Apple) To increase, select Manage Plan. While looking at screen w/ your name, tap Find My App and set up to locate a friend’s or your lost phone.
Manage Web Accessed Tab History: Tap Safari App. Tap lower right 2 stacked pages.
Look up things on the Internet and access web sites: Tap Safari App. Enter search information in entry line or use SIRI voice similar to asking Alexa. Look up anything. Very helpful to find solution to a technical problem.
2) HOW TO MANAGE iPHONE APPs – DELETING, ARRANGING, GET NEW APP
See all iPhone Apps: Swipe screens left to App Library groupings. Tap for an alpha App list with icon/name.
Delete Apps: Touch and hold icon. “Remove App” appears. Continue touching and all icons wiggle with minus sign. Select to delete. Press any blank part of the screen to stop wiggle.
Arrange Apps: Touch and hold icon. Move your finger to move the icon to anywhere on the screen. Move to edge of screen moves App to another screen.
Get a New App: Tap App Store App. Many Apps are free, but some will cost. Search for Apps and select to download. Monitor “circle” to complete download. Tap iTunes Store App for music, movies, TV shows.
To have a folder of like Apps: Tap and hold App and move to be on top of similar App and release.
3) HOW TO TAKE AND MANAGE iPHONE PHOTOS INCLUDING SENDING
Take Photo: Tap Camera App or use your voice to ask SIRI (like Alexa) to “open camera”. Tap camera mode Photo (default), Pano (panoramic). Zoom in and out by pinching fingers on screen. Tap Selfie icon (arrow circle) lower right of screen to reverse camera lens viewing. Tap up arrow for bottom of screen flash and timer.
Manage Photos: Tap Photos App. Organize, select Years, Months, Days or All. View, tap Library, select. To delete or edit, select photo and tap Trash Can or Edit to edit. Use to: Adjust Light and Color, Apply filters, Straighten, Rotate and Flip picture, Crop and Resize, Remove Image Background, Write/Draw on a photo, Copy and Paste edits to multiple pictures. Create Album, select Albums, select +, New Album, Name and select photos
Share Photos: Tap Photos App, select photo(s), select icon lower left to send using email, text or AirDrop.
Print Photo: Tap Photos App, select, select square w/ up arrow bottom of screen, swipe up for print actions
4) HOW TO TEXT MESSAGE AND EMAIL WITH AN iPHONE
Send an iPhone Text Message: Tap Messages App. Tap top right icon of screen for new. Enter phone number or contact name of each recipient. When text entered, tap send arrow. Delete unwanted messages using Edit.
Access Emails from an iPhone: Your email account needs to be synchronized to the iPhone Mail App. Tap Settings, Apps, Mail, Accounts, Add Account, enter your email address/PW. (If needed, get Mail App.)
Manage Emails: Tap Mail App to open Emails. If prompted, select the account inbox (e.g., Gmail™, Yahoo! ®, etc.). Open new Emails to view, delete, respond to or file. Tap “new” to create and send new email.
5) HOW TO USE THE iPHONE FOR PHONE CALLS
Call a Phone Number: Tap Phone App. Tap Keypad at the bottom of the screen to enter the phone number you want to call and tap Call. When the call is finished, tap red End button to hang up.
Call a Contact: Tap Contacts App containing contact name and number which has been pre-entered. Tap the phone number of the contact you want to call. When call finished, tap End to hang up.
Call a Favorite: Add numbers called frequently to a Favorites list. To add an existing contact as a favorite, open the Phone App, select Favorites, then tap the + button. To call a favorite, simply tap the desired favorite.
Use Voicemail: If your voicemail is not already set up, tap the Phone icon on the Home screen. Tap Voicemail, then select Set Up Now. Use the keypad to enter a four-digit voicemail password. (twice to confirm). Choose an outgoing greeting. By default, the Default greeting is selected. To personalize greeting, tap Custom, tap Record to begin recording your greeting. When done, press Stop, then tap Play to preview. Tap Record again to record a new greeting. When you're satisfied with the greeting message, tap Save.
Have a face-to-face phone conversation: Tap FaceTime App and call new FaceTime person or update list.
Adjust phone volume: Use up/down volume button on side of phone.
Silence Ringer: Use toggle switch on side of phone.
Change sounds & Haptics: Tap Settings App, tap Sounds & Haptics to change.
Synchronize an iPhone to a car: Ask the Internet “how to synchronize and iPhone to your car model”.
6) HOW TO HAVE SOCIAL NETWORKING
Start a Social Network App: Do some research to decide which Social Networking App(s) you may want. If the App is not on your iPhone, tap the iPhone App Store App to get it. A User-ID and Password will be required for your new account. Following are today’s popular Apps and their general number of monthly users: Facebook 2.96b, YouTube 2.51b, WhatsApp, 2b, Instagram 2b, WeChat 1.31b, TikTok .05b.
It is recommended everyone review the foundation LESSON Introduction to Using an APPLE iPhone. Following the lesson is a "hands-on" Must-Know GUIDE Addendum. Use your iPhone to do the details of the GUIDE.
INTRODUCTION TO USING AN APPLE iPHONE
Including A “Hands-on” training
ADDENDUM
(To learn a solid foundation)
John W. Kolstad
COMPUTER COACH
pcselftrain.com
February, 2026
**TABLE OF CONTENTS**
1. SMART PHONE BACKGROUND - History, OS, APPs
2. FEATURES - Buttons, Touch Screen, Access Internet, Use in car
3. COMMUNICATIONS – WIFI, Cell Tower, Bluetooth
4. USER-IDS AND PASSWORDS - Why used, Where required
5. INTERNET BROWSER - What is it? Safari
6. APP-LICATIONS OR ICONS - What are they? Why have them
7. SOCIAL NETWORKING - Popular Platforms, Invades privacy
8. MANAGING APPS – Arranging, Deleting and Getting a new APP
9. HOW TO SEND/RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES- What is it? How to use
10. HOW TO SEND/RECEIVE EMAILS - What are they? When to use, File folders
11. CLOUD COMPUTING - What is it? Why have it
12. SMART PHONE vs TABLET, LAPTOP, DESKTOP, WATCH, SMART TV
13. STREAMING - What is it? Where is it going
15. HOW TO LEARN AND TROUBLE SHOOT - Technical support
The ADDENDUM FOR iPhone HANDS-ON TRAINING follows this lesson.
Welcome to the information age and a new frontier for our lifetime. The purpose of this lesson is to teach people how to use their Apple iPhone. People learn three ways, seeing, hearing and doing. Doing is the most important.
1. SMART PHONE BACKGROUND The first Smart Phone called “iPhone” arrived in 2007 from Apple’s late Steve Jobs. It was a powerful small computer combining the features of the Apple iPad tablet with a cell phone. It has important Operating System software. For the iPhone, it is called iOS and it is the brain controlling everything in the phone. The iPhone OS and App software are occasionally updated via the Internet. Try to always have the latest OS. New iPhone models continue to arrive, often yearly.
During 2008, Verizon and Google launched their version of a Smart Phone with an OS called Android. Smart phones with the Android OS are made by Samsung, Google. Motorola and others. Google’s Pixel and Samsung’s Galaxy in many ways copy Apple’s iPhone to do the same tasks, but differently. Learning to to use an Android requires learning how to use the manufacturer’s phone model which makes leaning an Android complex.
2. FEATURES
The Apple iPhone makes phone calls, sends/receives text messages, sends/receives emails, look up things, has a camera to take pictures and has many powerful APP-lications. The iPhone is changing how we live. Enter data using the touch screen keyboard or use your voice.
iPhone Buttons – Learn how to use your iPhone buttons like: ON/OFF the iPhone, ON/OFF the screen display, UP/DOWN the volume and ON/OFF the ringer for the phone to vibrate instead of ring. (silencing)
When the iPhone is new, it has many APPs from companies who bought space to be there. Learn what they are and how to manage them including deleting, moving or getting new.
Smart Phone Security -To control access to your phone only by you, set up a unique personal pass-code and use facial recognition of you.
Internet Lookup – Apple’s iPhone has SIRI, an Internet look-up browser built-in. Press the phone side button and speak to enter a question. As the iPhone is listening, a small circle with contents moving will show on the lower part of the screen. Release the button and a response will appear from the Internet. SIRI can often help find solutions to a technical problem. Speak to it with any question about the problem and a solution will often to be displayed.
Car/Truck Dashboard Screens – Vehicle screens are touch screens and display iPhone APPs. The most popular APP to pair is the phone to the vehicle screen for hands free handling of phone calls. APPs can include GPS, Music, Waze, etc. Use the iPhone CarPlay APP.
3. COMMUNICATIONS
WIFI – (wide fidelity) WIFI is a wireless signal broadcast from a router, (a box supplied by the phone/cable carrier or self), usually in a home. The signal has a limited range of about 150 feet indoors, 300 outside. Often free at restaurants, libraries, etc. Smart phones, computers, printers and smart TVs connect to the wireless WIFI signal for Internet access. Once made, they remember the UID/PW to access the router. For an iPhone to access the WIFI, go to the Settings ICON (like gear), and select a nearby UID. Enter the PW for the UID you want.
Cell Tower – Cell towers were first used for wireless phone calling and text messaging. They now access the Internet like a WIFI router does. Carriers charge for cell-towers handling “data” traffic and is in addition to phone calls and text messaging. Depending on your carrier plan, the monthly charge for handling data traffic is either unlimited or measured.
NOTE: The iPhone is always “roaming” to find a cell tower or WIFI router. If it finds a WIFI
connection, it connects to the Internet using it. If not found, it will connect to a cell tower and connect to the Internet that way. Carriers charge for an iPhone roaming for a cell tower in addition to phone calling and texting. The extra cost can be saved by turning off an iPhone’s data roaming for cell towers. Phone access can be set to allow both voice/text and data with a cell tower or onlyphone calls and text messaging. Review your carrier plan for your needs.
Bluetooth – Communicates wireless from an iPhone a short distance, about 30 feet (pairing) like to a car/truck screen, Apple Watch or your ears using Apple Airpods.
Airplane Mode – Turns off phone roaming for a WIFI router or cell tower and leaves other features available. For iPhone, access Settings (gear) and turn on (switch turns green for on).
NOTE: When connecting to the Internet, costs vary using the WIFI, Cell Tower, in an airplane or ship at sea. Understand them. They might be based on time connected or amount of data processed. i.e. KB/MB/GB/TB KiloBytes (1,000 Bytes), MegaBytes (1,000KB), GigaBytes (1,000MB), TeraBytes (1,000GB). Video Games and Digital Pictures are data and large.
4. USER-IDS and PASSWORDS
Managing various UIDs and PWs is critical. Many are required to allow access to WIFI Routers, Web Sites and E-mail Internet Service Providers like Gmail, Outlook, Verizon, Comcast, etc. Web sites include banks, stock market, medical centers patient portals, etc. Using a simple PW will usually not be allowed. There will often be a required PW structure like length, caps, numeric or special characters and there often will be a limit on the number of failed attempts to use a PW before you will be required to apply for a new one.
Many sites being accessed require two factor authentication. During two factor sign-in, you will be sent a numeric code as a text or an email for you to return as a response. After it is returned correctly, you will be able to proceed with sign-in.
Use strong PWs. Keep them in a safe place. Use an APP which stores UID/PW like Bitwarden or iPassword or other. Passwords may sometimes be challenged and require you to answer a personal question you answered when assigned the password.
5. INTERNET BROWSER
The iPhone Internet browser is Safari. Use it by selecting its ICON (blue compass with a red and white needle). When opened, an entry line will appear at the top of screen. Enter or speak wordsyou are searching into the line for or enter a Web Site Address accessing. NOTE: To solve any technical problem, learn to use the browser and ask the Internet for an answer.
Here is an example of asking the Internet browser a technical question: How do I get photos off my iPhone into Windows 11? It responds: To get photos from an iPhone to Windows 11 the easiest way is to connect with a USB cable, unlock the phone, and use built-in Photos AP’s Import feature, selecting your device and choosing the photos to transfer.
6. APP-LICATIONS (or ICONS)
iPhone APP-lications are powerful tools. Each one is used to help us live our daily life. Many APPs (icons) are available on multiple iPhone home screens. To see all of them, swipe the screen right to left. Understand what each APP does and arrange them for easy access.
Many APPs on a new iPhone come preloaded from Apple’s Internet store. Fr a fee, Apple agrees with the APP manufacturer, to allow their App to be there. Popular iPhone APPs include: Phone, Safari Browser, Email, Text Mail, Calendar, Contacts, Photos File, Camera and Flashlight. Learn to use Apple’s APP store and download one to your iPhone. A UID and PW will be required to access the store. Following are descriptions of several popular APPs:
APP for Phone Calls – use touch keypad to enter phone number or select the number from contact file. See recent calls, access voice mail, have a list of favorite numbers to call quickly.
APP for Contacts – contains names, addresses, phone numbers to call, send an email or a text.
APP for Calendar - post event to a day’s date, use GPS feature for location address, use alert.
APP for Text Messaging - send short messages to a smart phone number or email address.
APP for Emailing - Use your Internet Service Provider to manage emails including deleting, responding and filing. Compose and send new emails. See emails on iPhone by synchronizing it to your email account. If you need help, see a technician at Verizon, Apple store or other. Save important emails by having organized file folders to keep them.
APP for Camera – Built-in to take photos, use flash, zoom, make a video and send with text-message or email. Use to deposit E-check to bank. Use to access QR code (Quick Response squiggly square). Use camera to view QR for web address to appear. Then select to open it.
APP for Photos – Shows file of photos taken. They can be deleted, edited, made into an album and sent. For best print quality, use the print services at CVS, Walmart or Walgreens. How to send a picture on an iPhone: 1) Select Photos APP icon, 2) Select picture(s). A check will appear in photo) 3) For iPhone, select square w/ up-arrow in bottom of screen to share photo(s) with a text message, email or use AirDrop to share by sending to another iPhone.
APP for Weather – Weather APPs. Are typically free, but promote other services. See radar.
APP for ZOOM– Virtual meetings with others. Use Personal Meeting ID to attend.
APP for GPS – Global Positioning System. Maps for iPhone with turn-by-turn instructions.
APP for UBER or LYFT – An account to get a ride somewhere.
APP for GasBuddy – Find a gas station with the best price and receive a discount. Activate by setting up debit payment. You will receive a debit card from GasBuddy. Slip is retail cost. Your account is charged the discount price.
APP for Waze – Updated traffic reports and turn-by-turn GPS (Global Positioning System).
APP for Music – Have Play Lists and stream to home speaker, headset, pods or auto.
APP for Face-to-Face Conversations - FaceTime iPhone, Skype Microsoft. CAUTION: The same APP on both types of Smart Phones works best.
APP for YouTube – Popular streaming videos for education, games, how to and shows.
APP for Find My – Free from Apple App Store to locate the iPhone of a Contact.
APP for Find Air – Free from Apple App Store to locate Air Tag (fastened to key or wallet).
Other APPs can include: News, Calculator, Flashlight and many other APPs like bank, credit card, investment accounts, etc. Constantly be learning about APPs you might like. NOTE:Whether you use a home computer or iPhone to access your Bank Account, Credit Card or Investment Account, look at them often to assure there is no illegal activity.
7. SOCIAL NETWORKING
Social Networking Includes using APPs in addition to Texting and E-mailing. They require applying to a .COM web site for account with a personal UID/PW.
Facebook (Meta or “self”) – FB is used by many people for social communication. The number of FB users or “friends” has grown because Facebook designed it to look at the emails FB users send to people they know. FB then prepares and sends “friend” invitations for you to accept looking like it is coming from other FB users, but it is really coming from the FB company. Today, FB traffic to the iPhone APP can be high and time consuming to read like 1) the number of “friends” sending you a FB post, 2) the number of FB posts on subjects they think you would like and 3) FB promoting new friends. Because FB is accessing personal information, the world is not always approving it. Other social networking APPs like Instagram have grown.
Twitter - Post a “tweet” or message to the Twitter bulletin board for others who want to follow someone. Follow “tweets” made by others by accessing their Twitter address.
LinkedIn – Site contains information about yourself, like business background and experience. Often looked at by companies when hiring.
Shutterfly - Post pictures for online viewing and use their printing service to make photo albums.
Instagram – Share photos with a message. (Facebook product).
Snapchat – Share photos with a message. Review deciding to use it vs Instagram
WhatsApp – For messages, images, video, audio. (Facebook product).
TikTok – APP from China to send/receive short (or longer) videos.
WARNING! Be careful using any social networking APP. Be aware what you send may be used for purposes you would not approve of. The U.S. and other world governments are tracking lots of scams and fraud.
8. MANAGING APPs
Managing APPs includes deleting, rearranging and getting a new one. See the ADDENDUM at the end of this lesson for a MUST KNOW “HANDS-ON” GUIDE to use an iPhone. Learn the detailed commands for your iPhone there.
Review the many APPs available for an iPhone and decide which ones you want to use in your life. Here is one example of APPs (by frequency of use to have located on a Home Screen): Phone, Calendar, Text Messages, Email, Weather, Contacts, Camera, Photos, GasBuddy, CNBC, GPS, Facebook, Tides, Computer Coach, Waze, Notes, Calculator, Flashlight, App Store.
9. HOW TO SEND / RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES
Select the Text Messaging APP to Read/Respond/Create new messages. Enter text by touch keypad or activate voice input and dictate. When using keypad to enter text, the iPhone is intuitive to suggest the word. Spelling errors are flagged to correct. Messages sent and received are retained. Texting uses contacts from the Contacts File phone number or email address. iPhone pictures can easily be selected from the Photos File and included with text messages. New Text Messages received will be flagged. Use Edit to select messages to delete.
10. HOW TO SEND / RECEIVE EMAILS
Select the Emailing APP to access existing email account like Outlook, Gmail, etc. which has been synchronized to the emails in the same account of your main computer. Emails can be read, responded to, deleted, filed or compose as new. Although a smart phone can be used for a longer message than texting; depending how long the message is, it may be more practical to use a larger screen with a full-sized keyboard of a laptop/tablet/desktop. NOTE: if an email or text looks suspicious (even if from a friend or family member), delete it. There are many fraudulent attempts to use your personal information for money scams. Be careful. Don’t open.
When doing email, learn how to use file folders to organize emails received or sent. By using file folders, past emails can be easily located. To set up file folders, decide what emails you want t organize like the name of your family and friends, clubs, businesses, etc. Then start filing.
NOTE: Just like when daily snail-mail arrive to a U.S. Postal mailbox and the first step is to look for “junk mail” to discard, with email, the same is needed in the email inbox. If an email sender is repeatedly sending an email, use the “unsubscribe” at bottom of email. If the annoying email continues, use the email blocking feature.
To print an email from an iPhone, open email and select back arrow in square at bottom of screen. Scroll down to list of what can be done with a message and select “Print”. WIFI printer model should show. Select printer and select the word “Print” top right of screen.
11. CLOUD COMPUTING
A Cloud Computer is a remote computer accessed by Smart Phones and other computers by using the internet. Software located on the Cloud computers include: web sites, computer back-up, and powerful software like Windows 365 (Office).
Backup or a second copy of important contents of an iPhone or home computer is critical so the only copy of a digital pictures or data files could be recovered. Apple’s cloud computer for backup is called iCloud. Apple provides 5 GB of free backup storage in their iCloud computer per Apple account. After it is full, for a small monthly fee, you can buy more storage. To see what your iCloud account is backing up, tap Settings, your name, iCloud. A screen will show a scale of how much is used and how much is available. NOTE: Using Apple’s iCloud or other for back-up will be required for reloading the contents of your iPhone or other computer when it may fail, become lost or need to be replaced.
12. SMART PHONE VS TABLET, LAPTOP, DESKTOP, WATCH, SMART TV
SMART PHONE – The iPhone is the smallest and most portable personal computer to make phone calls, send text messages or an occasional email. You can have important personal APPs.
TABLET – Portable, accesses Internet, usually only a touch screen keyboard. iPad has keyboard.
LAPTOP – Portable, no cell phone call, full hinged keyboard, larger screen vs smart phone, contains hard drive storage.
DESKTOP – Stationary with large screen, full size keyboard, not portable, most powerful, often networked with other computers. Often used for working-from-home.
WATCH – Apple is leading the way. Water resist to 50m. Pair Apple watch with an iPhone for: Phone Calls, Text Messages, Road GPS, Golf GPS, SIRI Web look up, Health data, etc.
SMART TV – New TVs are called “smart” because they have a streaming computer built-in to access many of the Internet streaming services like: You-Tube, Roku Netflix, Peacock, Apple +, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, Paramount, Pandora (music), etc. Can convert old TV to do streaming.
13. STREAMING
Streaming is a TV viewing service using the Internet as an alternative to Cable to receive a signal. Smart TVs receive the signal from a WIFI router like used by computers and smart phones to reach the Internet. TV access to the Internet for streaming is either from a new TV with streaming capability built in or by an older TV made “smart” by installing a small converter box with a remote. Popular converter boxes are a ROKU or Amazon (Fire Stick) device connected to one of the TV’s HDMI ports and (wirelessly) to the router. Streaming requires having fast internet access. Old routers need to be upgraded. Multiple TVs in a home might require a more powerful router for the internet signal to reach them.
There is a lot of competition among streaming services for customers. It remains to be seen who will survive. Before discontinuing your cable service, research free streaming services vs those with a monthly fee. Learn how to organize the channels you like and how to access them easily.
REMOTE CONTROL – Streaming has its own remote control. Take a look at Roku’s or Amazon’s Fire Stick, etc. for their features and how they work. Compare to Cable’s remote.
STREAMING SERVICE ACCOUNT – Be prepared to have a personal account for each streaming service you enroll in. Make sure you know what is free versus premium and which will be billed monthly automatically. Streaming services often have a test period before billing occurs.
TEST A STREAMING SERVICE – A good way to learn what streaming is and something you want. Try the available free streaming services and learn how to use the streaming remote. Learn how select and open a streaming service and play a show. Learn how to do iPhone screen mirroring to have the iPhone display enlarged on a TV screen. To do, use your streaming remote and find Apple AirPlayunder the settings on your streaming TV. From your iPhone home screen, swipe top right to lower left and select double screen icon.
15. HOW TO LEARN AND TROUBLESHOOT
Here are ways to learn:
1) USE YOUR iPhone SIRI or Safari INTERNET BROWSER – Solve nearly any technical problem by using your iPhone SIRI or Safari Internet browser. Someone has probably solved the problem or will provide information on the subject.
2) ADDENDUM FOR HANDS-ON TRAINING LESSON - Learn to do this “must know” Guide for the iPhone.
3) FREE ONLINE STUDY LESSONS - Access the web site pcelftrain.com. At the home page below 3) MORE FREE SELF-TRAINING LESSONS, select FREE TRAINING
which links to GCFGlobal for many free topics to study (after you decide).
3) Library/Senior Center/Apple Stores - Check them regularly for free training.
5) Create an APP/ICON for pcselftrain.com on your Smart Phone – Have a home screen icon for quick access to the training web site. To create, launch the iPhone Safari Internet browser. Look-uppcselftrain.com. Select square w/ up arrow. Scroll and select “Add to Home Screen”.
6) WARRANTIES and SERVICE - When buying a new iPhone (or computer), make sure understand the warranty and service. Look for extended warranties. Ask about a file transfer service from old to new computer. The service may be free, have charge or not be available.
Keep on learning!
John W. Kolstad graduated from Northeastern University, Boston, MA. Worked a career in IT beginning as a Computer Programmer in 1964, then a Programmer Analyst, Systems Designer, Project Manager, Department Manager and Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve (RET).
Since 1999, he has been the Webmaster of pcselftrain.com, a training and support web site to help people use their computers. All classes and training information in the web site are FREE If it helps you, consider sending a check donation to help support, maintain, improve and promote the site to others. Mail to: Computer Coach, John Welding Kolstad, 19 Standish Road, Duxbury, MA 02332
Published February, 2026. Send suggestions to sardine2@msm.com
HANDS-ON TRAINING ADDENDUM iPhone
Smart phone users should learn how to do the following “hands-on” details of several important iPhone features. App names are in CAPS and underlined followed by touch commands in italics. Also have read the foundation lesson Introduction to Using an Apple iPhone. Here are the important features to learn:
1) HOW TO HAVE THE LATEST iPHONE OS, USE THE INTERNET AND DO BACK-UP
See Your Latest Smart Phone’s Operating System (iOS): Tap Settings App, General, About. Also see your Smart Phone model name there too. To receive automatic iOS updates, tap Settings App, General, Software Update. Assure Automatic Updates is On. Apps will get occasional updates too.
Manage Back-up Settings (iCloud): Tap Settings App, tap your name, tap iCloud to see what and how much is backed up. (5 GB of storage free from Apple) To increase, select Manage Plan. While looking at screen w/ your name, tap Find My App and set up to locate a friend’s or your lost phone.
Manage Web Accessed Tab History: Tap Safari App. Tap lower right 2 stacked pages.
Look up things on the Internet and access web sites: Tap Safari App. Enter search information in entry line or use SIRI voice similar to asking Alexa. Look up anything. Very helpful to find solution to a technical problem.
2) HOW TO MANAGE iPHONE APPs – DELETING, ARRANGING, GET NEW APP
See all iPhone Apps: Swipe screens left to App Library groupings. Tap for an alpha App list with icon/name.
Delete Apps: Touch and hold icon. “Remove App” appears. Continue touching and all icons wiggle with minus sign. Select to delete. Press any blank part of the screen to stop wiggle.
Arrange Apps: Touch and hold icon. Move your finger to move the icon to anywhere on the screen. Move to edge of screen moves App to another screen.
Get a New App: Tap App Store App. Many Apps are free, but some will cost. Search for Apps and select to download. Monitor “circle” to complete download. Tap iTunes Store App for music, movies, TV shows.
To have a folder of like Apps: Tap and hold App and move to be on top of similar App and release.
3) HOW TO TAKE AND MANAGE iPHONE PHOTOS INCLUDING SENDING
Take Photo: Tap Camera App or use your voice to ask SIRI (like Alexa) to “open camera”. Tap camera mode Photo (default), Pano (panoramic). Zoom in and out by pinching fingers on screen. Tap Selfie icon (arrow circle) lower right of screen to reverse camera lens viewing. Tap up arrow for bottom of screen flash and timer.
Manage Photos: Tap Photos App. Organize, select Years, Months, Days or All. View, tap Library, select. To delete or edit, select photo and tap Trash Can or Edit to edit. Use to: Adjust Light and Color, Apply filters, Straighten, Rotate and Flip picture, Crop and Resize, Remove Image Background, Write/Draw on a photo, Copy and Paste edits to multiple pictures. Create Album, select Albums, select +, New Album, Name and select photos
Share Photos: Tap Photos App, select photo(s), select icon lower left to send using email, text or AirDrop.
Print Photo: Tap Photos App, select, select square w/ up arrow bottom of screen, swipe up for print actions
4) HOW TO TEXT MESSAGE AND EMAIL WITH AN iPHONE
Send an iPhone Text Message: Tap Messages App. Tap top right icon of screen for new. Enter phone number or contact name of each recipient. When text entered, tap send arrow. Delete unwanted messages using Edit.
Access Emails from an iPhone: Your email account needs to be synchronized to the iPhone Mail App. Tap Settings, Apps, Mail, Accounts, Add Account, enter your email address/PW. (If needed, get Mail App.)
Manage Emails: Tap Mail App to open Emails. If prompted, select the account inbox (e.g., Gmail™, Yahoo! ®, etc.). Open new Emails to view, delete, respond to or file. Tap “new” to create and send new email.
5) HOW TO USE THE iPHONE FOR PHONE CALLS
Call a Phone Number: Tap Phone App. Tap Keypad at the bottom of the screen to enter the phone number you want to call and tap Call. When the call is finished, tap red End button to hang up.
Call a Contact: Tap Contacts App containing contact name and number which has been pre-entered. Tap the phone number of the contact you want to call. When call finished, tap End to hang up.
Call a Favorite: Add numbers called frequently to a Favorites list. To add an existing contact as a favorite, open the Phone App, select Favorites, then tap the + button. To call a favorite, simply tap the desired favorite.
Use Voicemail: If your voicemail is not already set up, tap the Phone icon on the Home screen. Tap Voicemail, then select Set Up Now. Use the keypad to enter a four-digit voicemail password. (twice to confirm). Choose an outgoing greeting. By default, the Default greeting is selected. To personalize greeting, tap Custom, tap Record to begin recording your greeting. When done, press Stop, then tap Play to preview. Tap Record again to record a new greeting. When you're satisfied with the greeting message, tap Save.
Have a face-to-face phone conversation: Tap FaceTime App and call new FaceTime person or update list.
Adjust phone volume: Use up/down volume button on side of phone.
Silence Ringer: Use toggle switch on side of phone.
Change sounds & Haptics: Tap Settings App, tap Sounds & Haptics to change.
Synchronize an iPhone to a car: Ask the Internet “how to synchronize and iPhone to your car model”.
6) HOW TO HAVE SOCIAL NETWORKING
Start a Social Network App: Do some research to decide which Social Networking App(s) you may want. If the App is not on your iPhone, tap the iPhone App Store App to get it. A User-ID and Password will be required for your new account. Following are today’s popular Apps and their general number of monthly users: Facebook 2.96b, YouTube 2.51b, WhatsApp, 2b, Instagram 2b, WeChat 1.31b, TikTok .05b.