Android For Dummies

by Dan Gookin

This book focuses on Android technology for both phones and tablets. The difference between the two is slight, primarily that phones can place and receive phone calls and tablets feature more screen real estate. Beyond that, both devices work identically. Indeed, the existing titles featured a lot of overlap. As with previous titles, this book covers Android technology for a beginner or anyone who uses an Android mobile device and feels that the gizmo is getting the best of them

This book documents all the features of the Android phone and/or tablet, approaching them from the point of view of a smart person who is intimidated by the technology and baffled by the scant documentation and online support. All topics for the Android will be covered, from setup and configuration, to use of the phone features: texting, e-mailing, accessing the Internet, maps, navigation, camera and video, synching with a PC, and expanding the device's potential with new software. As usual, humor is generously sprinkled throughout the text. The accessible and fun writing style provides relief but never gets in the way of the book's important content. The reader will end up keeping this book close, referring to it often as they explore the features of their Android phone or tablet. It covers all the updates to the OS through the latest version release.

Genres: Technology, Reference, Nonfiction, Computers

481 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 29, 2014

Reviews

[Grazyna Nawrocka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book really helpful in comprehending all potential of my new phone.

[H.R. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 I did learn some things, but not much. Mostly just some stuff about the keyboard and a setting my phone didn't have. Probably more helpful with older, as in not the newest, Android phone.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I see why the Dummies series is so popular. This book is clearly laid out, easy to digest, very basic and non-intimidating. Instead of being jammed packed with tech jargon and small print the author uses friendly language, bullets, and images. All without making me feel like [indeed] a dummy.

On the cover it claims "learning made easy" and I have to say it succeeds.

[David Bisset · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some useful hints, but the Dummies humour becomes somewhat trying!

[Anthony Faber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got this to figure my new cellphone out. Helpful.

[Angie Carter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Guess who finally got an android phone? Haha. A good phone overview and reference for the neophytes in the room.

[Martha · Rating 3 out of 5]

many things are not intuitive; helped with some

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

King of Customization

If you're looking to get started with Android, this book is a fantastic resource! The author does an excellent job of breaking down the fundamentals of the Android operating system, making it easy to understand and navigate.

What's great about Android is that it's so open and customizable, giving users endless possibilities for what they can do with their devices (unlike locked-down iOS). And this book is the perfect guide to help you get the most out of your Android experience.

The author covers everything from the basics of setting up your device to more advanced features like app development and customization. And unlike other operating systems, Android isn't locked down, so you can truly make it your own.

While some parts of the book may feel a bit outdated, the core concepts and principles still hold true. And for anyone new to Android, this book is an excellent starting point. Highly recommended for anyone looking to take their Android knowledge to the next level.

Overall, Android for Dummies is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about the operating system. The author's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, and the book covers a wide range of topics, making it a comprehensive guide to Android.

I highly recommend it for anyone looking to get the most out of their Android device.

4.1/5

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a little out of date but as usual an excellent introduction into the topics. I read it cover to cover despite the introduction telling me not to and found some good pointers. Most of the stuff I had figured out myself already through trial and error. However, I remember how I felt when I was confronted with an Android for the first time and this book would have been EXTREMELY helpful then. And don't forget you can go to wambooli.com for updates. (I just went there, first I clicked on the list of titles and then noticed there was a small link at the top which said "click here for updates". Might be a little hard to find but it's there.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book because it starts with no assumptions! In creating a class for new android phone users (usually seniors) -- I often find it difficult to find tech books that start at the beginning and assume no knowledge of prior phones or android tablets. This book does that and provides clear instructions with lots of pictures. Well done!

[Astrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally finished this title. I learned more from here than from the book that is written specifically for the Samsung Galaxy Note. Say what you want, the titles in the Dummies series are always fun to read and instructional.

[Al Maki · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't think this book is a good choice for people with any experience with information processing equipment, i.e. almost anyone. It's far too simple and it seeks to explain ideas that have already permeated the culture. It might have been useful five or six years ago.

[Gerry · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not in sync with my Android Galaxy A50. No step-by-step explanations. Pretty much worthless; go to Rent-a-Kid and get side-by-side instructions; or stick with a home computer/tablet and get a simple fliptop for automobile emergencies.

[Beau · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot from reading this book. Even on topics I was already familiar with I learned a new thing or two. Now I am confident in using my Android phone.

[Fernando Morales · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was basic, but okay, a lot of stuff I found by trail and error before I got to the chapter.

[Deirdre · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would be useful for someone who has just got a new Android phone and were looking for hints and tips, not useful for me.

[Aya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very useful for Android users.
You can find any thing you wanna know about your phone in this book; how to use, what apps should you have, how to save the battery.. etc.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only read selected pages. It may relate more to Samsung Androids than the Motorola Android phone that I was interested in finding out more about.

[Bonnie Mulvany · Rating 5 out of 5]

a clear winner... very patient with my slow learning curve. :)

[Hom Sack · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to Android 5.0 Lollipop smartphones.