Technology should be straightforward, right? Most of us just want to use our phones for staying connected and informed. The challenge is that many devices use terms that seem complex but are often quite simple. A little understanding of these common phrases can really boost your confidence when using your phone.
Here are five key phone terms you might encounter and what they actually mean.
1) Background permissions
This term describes what an app is allowed to do when you’re not actively using it. Some apps can keep running in the background, tracking your location or checking for updates even after you’ve closed them.
Why it matters: If an app has background permissions, it could drain your battery, use more data, or track your location without you knowing.
Examples include:
- A weather app that checks your location every hour.
- A fitness app that counts your steps even when not in use.
- A shopping app that accesses data unnecessarily.
How to check this on your phone:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy and Security.
- Select Location Services, Microphone, or Camera.
- Review app access and set them to App in use or turn permissions off for apps that don’t need it.
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Select Security and Privacy.
- Tap Permission Manager.
- Choose a category like Location or Camera.
2) Automatically join the network
Your phone remembers Wi-Fi networks you’ve connected to, like those at stores or coffee shops, and will reconnect when you’re nearby. However, scammers can create similar networks to trick your phone into connecting.
Why it matters: While this feature can save time and data, it might also expose you to risks from untrustworthy networks.
Examples include:
- Your device auto-reconnecting to “Airport Wi-Fi” months later.
- Your phone stays connected to a café network when you pass by.
- A fake “Starbucks Wi-Fi” tricking devices into connecting automatically.
How to manage auto-join:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Wi-Fi.
- Tap the info icon next to a network.
- Switch off Auto Join for less frequently used networks.
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network and Internet.
- Go to the Wi-Fi settings.
- Turn off Automatic Connections.
3) Push notifications
These are the alerts that pop up from an app, even when it’s not open. They can range from useful reminders to annoying ads.
Why it matters: While push notifications keep you updated, they can also be distracting and drain your battery.
Examples include:
- Fraud alerts from your bank.
- Weather alerts in severe conditions.
- Sale notifications from shopping apps.
How to manage push notifications:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Notifications.
- Review each app and turn off Allow Notifications where needed.
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Notifications.
- Look for app notifications and turn off alerts for apps you don’t want.
4) Security updates
These updates fix vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. They don’t add new features but ensure your device stays secure.
Why it matters: Delaying these updates can leave your device open to attacks, so it’s essential to install them promptly.
Examples:
- Patches fixing browser issues.
- Updates that block malware attacks.
- Protection against new phishing techniques.
Where to find security updates:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Security and Privacy.
- Look for Security Updates and install as needed.
5) App refresh (or background app refresh)
This term refers to apps that update content in the background, syncing data, or fetching notifications even when you’re not using them.
Why it matters: While this keeps apps current, it can also sap your battery and data.
Examples include:
- A news app updating headlines every few minutes.
- Email apps syncing continuously.
- Social media apps refreshing new posts in the background.
How to manage app updates:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Background App Refresh.
- Turn off the setting completely or for specific apps.
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network and Internet.
- Enable Data Saver to limit background activity.
Wrapping up
Technical terms don’t have to be overwhelming. Understanding background permissions, auto-join networks, push notifications, security updates, and app refreshes can enhance your phone experience. This knowledge not only keeps your device secure but also makes it easier to use. What other terms leave you puzzled? Feel free to reach out with your questions.
