USER MANUAL SM-A015M SM-A015M/DS English (LTN). 11/2019. Rev.1.0 www.samsung.
Table of Contents Basics Apps and features 4 6 41 43 43 48 52 55 57 58 65 70 73 73 74 75 77 78 78 80 80 83 84 84 9 13 15 18 20 21 22 23 25 37 39 Read me first Device overheating situations and solutions Device layout and functions Battery SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card) Memory card (microSD card) Turning the device on and off Initial setup Samsung account Transferring data from your previous device (Smart Switch) Understanding the screen Notification panel Entering text 2 Installing or uninstalling
Table of Contents Settings 86 86 94 95 96 98 98 98 100 103 103 104 106 107 109 111 Device care 112 Optimizing your device 112 Battery 113 Storage 113 Memory 113 Security 114 Apps 114 General management 115 Accessibility 116 Software update 116 User manual 117 About phone Introduction Connections 87 Wi-Fi 89 Bluetooth 90 Data saver 91 Mobile data only apps 91 SIM card manager (dual SIM models) 92 Mobile Hotspot and Tethering 93 More connection settings Sounds and vibration 95 Dolby Atmos (surround soun
Basics Read me first Please read this manual before using the device to ensure safe and proper use. • Descriptions are based on the device’s default settings. • Some content may differ from your device depending on the region, service provider, model specifications, or device’s software. • Content (high quality content) that requires high CPU and RAM usage will affect the overall performance of the device.
Basics • Depending on the region or service provider, a screen protector is attached for protection during production and distribution. Damage to the attached screen protector is not covered by the warranty. • You can see the touchscreen clearly even in strong outdoor sunlight by automatically adjusting the contrast range based on the surrounding environment. Due to the nature of the product, displaying fixed graphics for extended periods may result in afterimages (screen burn-in) or ghosting.
Basics Device overheating situations and solutions When the device heats up while charging the battery While charging, the device and the charger may become hot. During wireless charging or fast charging, the device may feel hotter to the touch. This does not affect the device’s lifespan or performance and is in the device’s normal range of operation. If the battery becomes too hot, the charger may stop charging.
Basics • When using apps that require more power or using apps for extended periods – – When playing high-quality games for extended periods – – When recording videos for extended periods – – When streaming videos while using the maximum brightness setting – – When connecting to a TV • While multitasking (or, when running many apps in the background) – – When using Multi window – – When updating or installing apps while recording videos – – When downloading large files during a video call – – When recording
Basics Precautions for device overheating If you begin to feel uncomfortable due to the device overheating, stop using the device. When the device heats up, the features and performance may be limited or the device may turn off to cool down. The feature is only available on supported models. • If the device overheats and reaches a certain temperature, a warning massage will appear to prevent device failure, skin irritations and damages, and battery leakage.
Basics Device layout and functions Package contents Refer to the quick start guide for package contents. • The items supplied with the device and any available accessories may vary depending on the region or service provider. • The supplied items are designed only for this device and may not be compatible with other devices. • Appearances and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. • You can purchase additional accessories from your local Samsung retailer.
Basics Device layout Speaker Microphone Front camera Proximity/Light sensor Volume key SIM card / Memory card tray Power key Touchscreen Multipurpose jack Earphone jack GPS antenna Rear camera (Dual) Flash Speaker Main antenna Microphone 10
Basics • When using the speakers, such as when playing media files or using speakerphone, do not place the device close to your ears. • Be careful not to expose the camera lens to a strong light source, such as direct sunlight. If the camera lens is exposed to a strong light source, such as direct sunlight, the camera image sensor may be damaged. A damaged image sensor is irreparable and will cause dots or spots in pictures.
Basics Hard keys Volume key Power key Key Function Volume key • Press to adjust the device volume. • Press and hold to turn the device on or off. Power key • Press to turn on or lock the screen. Soft buttons Back button Recents button Home button When you turn on the screen, the soft buttons will appear at the bottom of the screen. The soft buttons are set to the Recents button, Home button, and Back button by default. Refer to Navigation bar (soft buttons) for more information.
Basics Battery Charging the battery Charge the battery before using it for the first time or when it has been unused for extended periods. Use only Samsung-approved battery, charger, and cable specifically designed for your device. Incompatible battery, charger, and cable can cause serious injuries or damage to your device. Connecting the charger improperly may cause serious damage to the device. Any damage caused by misuse is not covered by the warranty. To save energy, unplug the charger when not in use.
Basics Reducing the battery consumption Your device provides various options that help you conserve battery power. • Optimize the device using the device care feature. • When you are not using the device, turn off the screen by pressing the Power key. • Activate power saving mode. • Close unnecessary apps. • Deactivate the Bluetooth feature when not in use. • Deactivate auto-syncing of apps that need to be synced. • Decrease the backlight time. • Decrease the screen brightness.
Basics SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card) Installing the SIM or USIM card Insert the SIM or USIM card provided by the mobile telephone service provider. For dual SIM models, you can insert two SIM or USIM cards so you can have two phone numbers or service providers for a single device. In some areas, data transfer speeds may be slower if two SIM cards are inserted in the device than when one SIM card is inserted. • Use only a nano-SIM card. • Use caution not to lose or let others use the SIM or USIM card.
Basics ► Dual SIM models: 1 2 3 4 1 5 Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the tray to loosen the tray. Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may be damaged. 2 3 4 Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot. Place the SIM or USIM card on the tray with the gold-colored contacts facing downwards. Gently press the SIM or USIM card into the tray to secure it. If the card is not fixed firmly into the tray, the SIM card may leave or fall out of the tray.
Basics Using dual SIM or USIM cards (dual SIM models) If you insert two SIM or USIM cards, you can have two phone numbers or service providers for a single device. Activating SIM or USIM cards Launch the Settings app and tap Connections → SIM card manager. Select a SIM or USIM card and tap the switch to activate it.
Basics Memory card (microSD card) Installing a memory card Your device’s memory card capacity may vary from other models and some memory cards may not be compatible with your device depending on the memory card manufacturer and type. To view your device’s maximum memory card capacity, refer to the Samsung website. • Some memory cards may not be fully compatible with the device. Using an incompatible card may damage the device or the memory card, or corrupt the data stored in it.
Basics 1 Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the tray to loosen the tray. Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may be damaged. 2 Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot. When you remove the tray from the device, the mobile data connection will be disabled. 3 4 Place a memory card on the tray with the gold-colored contacts facing downwards. Gently press the memory card into the tray to secure it.
Basics Formatting the memory card A memory card formatted on a computer may not be compatible with the device. Format the memory card on the device. Launch the Settings app and tap Device care → Storage → Advanced → SD card → Format. Before formatting the memory card, remember to make backup copies of all important data stored in the memory card. The manufacturer’s warranty does not cover loss of data resulting from user actions.
Basics Emergency mode You can switch the device to emergency mode to reduce battery consumption. Some apps and functions will be restricted. In emergency mode, you can make an emergency call, send your current location information to others, sound an emergency alarm, and more. To activate emergency mode, press and hold the Power key, and then tap Emergency mode. To deactivate emergency mode, tap → Turn off Emergency mode. Alternatively, press and hold the Power key, and then tap Emergency mode.
Basics 3 Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. The Home screen will appear. If you do not connect to a Wi-Fi network, you may not be able to set up some device features during the initial setup. Samsung account Your Samsung account is an integrated account service that allows you to use a variety of Samsung services provided by mobile devices, TVs, and the Samsung website. To check the list of services that can be used with your Samsung account, visit account.samsung.com.
Basics Finding your ID and resetting your password If you forget your Samsung account ID or password, tap Find ID or Reset password on the Samsung account sign-in screen. You can find your ID or reset your password after you enter the required information. Removing your Samsung account When you remove your Samsung account from the device, your data, such as contacts or events, will also be removed. 1 2 3 Launch the Settings app and tap Accounts and backup → Accounts.
Basics 3 4 5 6 7 Place the devices near each other. On the previous device, tap Send data → Wireless. On the previous device, select an item to transfer and tap Send. On your device, tap Receive. Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data from your previous device. After the data is done transferring, you can view a list of the transferred data on your device. Backing up and restoring data using external storage Transfer data using external storage, such as a microSD card.
Basics 4 On the computer, follow the on-screen instructions to back up data from the device. Then, disconnect your previous device from the computer. 5 6 Connect your device to the computer using the USB cable. On the computer, follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data to your device. Understanding the screen Controlling the touchscreen • Do not allow the touchscreen to come into contact with other electrical devices. Electrostatic discharges can cause the touchscreen to malfunction.
Basics Tapping and holding Tap and hold the screen for approximately 2 seconds. Dragging Tap and hold an item and drag it to the target position. Double-tapping Double-tap the screen. Swiping Swipe upwards, downwards, to the left, or to the right.
Basics Spreading and pinching Spread two fingers apart or pinch on the screen. Navigation bar (soft buttons) When you turn on the screen, the soft buttons will appear on the navigation bar at the bottom of the screen. The soft buttons are set to the Recents button, Home button, and Back button by default. The functions of the buttons can change according to the app currently being used or usage environment. Button Function Recents Home Back • Tap to open the list of recent apps.
Basics Hiding the navigation bar View files or use apps on a wider screen by hiding the navigation bar. Launch the Settings app, tap Display → Navigation bar, and then tap Full screen gestures under Navigation type. The navigation bar will be hidden and the gesture hints will appear. Tap More options and select an option you want. • Swipe from bottom: The gesture hints will appear where the soft buttons are located. To use the soft buttons, drag the gesture hint of the desired button upwards.
Basics Home screen and Apps screen The Home screen is the starting point for accessing all of the device’s features. It displays widgets, shortcuts to apps, and more. The Apps screen displays icons for all apps, including newly installed apps. The screen may appear differently depending on the region or service provider.
Basics Switching between Home and Apps screens On the Home screen, swipe upwards or downwards to open the Apps screen. To return to the Home screen, swipe upwards or downwards on the Apps screen. Alternatively, tap the Home button or the Back button. Home screen Apps screen If you add the Apps button on the Home screen, you can open the Apps screen by tapping the button. On the Home screen, tap and hold an empty area, tap Home screen settings, and then tap the Apps button switch to activate it.
Basics Displaying the screen in landscape mode On the Home screen, tap and hold an empty area, tap Home screen settings, and then tap the Rotate to landscape mode switch to activate it. Rotate the device until it is horizontal to view the screen in landscape mode. Moving items Tap and hold an item, and then drag it to a new location. To move the item to another panel, drag it to the side of the screen.
Basics Creating folders Create folders and gather similar apps to quickly access and launch apps. On the Home screen or the Apps screen, tap and hold an app, and then drag it over another app. A new folder containing the selected apps will be created. Tap Folder name and enter a folder name. • Adding more apps Tap on the folder. Tick the apps to add and tap Done. You can also add an app by dragging it to the folder. • Moving apps from a folder Tap and hold an app to drag it to a new location.
Basics • Wallpapers: Change the wallpaper settings for the Home screen and the locked screen. • Themes: Change the device’s theme. Visual elements of interface, such as colors, icons, and wallpapers, will change depending on the selected theme. • Widgets: Widgets are small apps that launch specific app functions to provide information and convenient access on your Home screen. Tap and hold a widget, and then drag it to the Home screen. The widget will be added on the Home screen.
Basics Indicator icons Indicator icons appear on the status bar at the top of the screen. The icons listed in the table below are most common. • The status bar may not appear at the top of the screen in some apps. To display the status bar, drag down from the top of the screen. • Some indicator icons appear only when you open the notification panel. • The indicator icons may appear differently depending on the service provider or model.
Basics Icon Meaning Flight mode activated Error occurred or caution required Battery charging Battery power level Lock screen Pressing the Power key turns off the screen and locks it. Also, the screen turns off and automatically locks if the device is not used for a specified period. To unlock the screen, swipe in any direction when the screen turns on. If the screen is off, press the Power key to turn on the screen. Alternatively, double-tap the screen.
Basics Changing the screen lock method To change the screen lock method, launch the Settings app, tap Lock screen → Screen lock type, and then select a method. When you set a pattern, PIN, password, or your biometric data for the screen lock method, you can protect your personal information by preventing others from accessing your device. After setting the screen lock method, the device will require an unlock code whenever unlocking it. • Swipe: Swipe in any direction on the screen to unlock it.
Basics Notification panel When you receive new notifications, such as messages or missed calls, indicator icons appear on the status bar. To see more information about the icons, open the notification panel and view the details. To open the notification panel, drag the status bar downwards. To close the notification panel, swipe upwards on the screen. You can use the following functions on the notification panel. Search for content or apps stored on your device. Quick setting buttons Launch Settings.
Basics Using quick setting buttons Tap quick setting buttons to activate certain features. Swipe downwards on the notification panel to view more buttons. To change feature settings, tap the text under each button. To view more detailed settings, tap and hold a button. To rearrange buttons, tap → Button order, tap and hold a button, and then drag it to another location.
Basics Entering text Keyboard layout A keyboard appears automatically when you enter text to send messages, create notes, and more. Text entry is not supported in some languages. To enter text, you must change the input language to one of the supported languages. Additional keyboard functions View more keyboard functions. Enter uppercase. For all caps, tap it twice. Delete a preceding character. Enter symbols. Break to the next line. Enter a space.
Basics Additional keyboard functions Some features may not be available depending on the region or service provider. • : Enter emoticons. • : Enter stickers. • : Change the keyboard mode or size. • : Enter text by voice. • : Change the keyboard settings. • → : Open the text editing panel. Copying and pasting 1 2 3 4 Tap and hold over text. Drag or to select the desired text, or tap Select all to select all text. Tap Copy or Cut. Tap and hold where the text is to be inserted and tap Paste.
Apps and features Installing or uninstalling apps Galaxy Store Purchase and download apps. You can download apps that are specialized for Samsung Galaxy devices. Launch the Galaxy Store app. This app may not be available depending on the region or service provider. Installing apps Browse apps by category or tap to search for a keyword. Select an app to view information about it. To download free apps, tap Install.
Apps and features Managing apps Uninstalling or disabling apps Tap and hold an app and select an option. • Uninstall: Uninstall downloaded apps. • Disable: Disable selected default apps that cannot be uninstalled from the device. Some apps may not support this feature. Enabling apps Launch the Settings app, tap Apps → → Disabled, select an app, and then tap Enable. Setting app permissions For some apps to operate properly, they may need permission to access or use information on your device.
Apps and features Finder Search for content on the device quickly. 1 On the Apps screen, tap Search. Alternatively, open the notification panel and tap 2 Enter a keyword. Apps and content on your device will be searched. If you tap on the keyboard, you can search for more content. Phone Introduction Make or answer voice and video calls. Making calls 1 2 Launch the Phone app and tap Keypad. Enter a phone number. 43 .
Apps and features 3 Tap to make a voice call, or tap to make a video call. Access additional options. Add the number to the contacts list. Preview the phone number. Delete a preceding character. Making calls from call logs or contacts list Launch the Phone app, tap Recents or Contacts, and then swipe to the right on a contact or a phone number to make a call.
Apps and features Making calls from the locked screen On the locked screen, drag outside the circle. Making an international call 1 2 3 Launch the Phone app and tap Keypad. Tap and hold 0 until the + sign appears. Enter the country code, area code, and phone number, and then tap . Receiving calls Answering a call When a call comes in, drag outside the large circle. Rejecting a call When a call comes in, drag outside the large circle.
Apps and features Blocking phone numbers Block calls from specific numbers added to your block list. 1 2 Launch the Phone app and tap → Settings → Block numbers. Tap Recents or Contacts, select contacts or phone numbers, and then tap Done. To manually enter a number, tap Add phone number, enter a phone number, and then tap . When blocked numbers try to contact you, you will not receive notifications. The calls will be logged in the call log.
Apps and features During a video call Tap the screen to use the following options: • : Access additional options. • Camera: Turn off the camera so that the other party cannot see you. • Switch: Switch between the front and rear cameras. • : End the current call. • Mute: Turn off the microphone so that the other party cannot hear you. • Speaker: Activate or deactivate the speakerphone. When using the speakerphone, keep the device away from your ears.
Apps and features Adding a tag to a phone number You can add tags to numbers without saving them to Contacts. This allows you to view the caller’s information when they call without having them listed in Contacts. 1 2 3 Launch the Phone app and tap Recents. Tap a phone number → . Tap Add note, enter a tag, and then tap Add. When a call comes from that number, the tag will show under the number. Contacts Introduction Create new contacts or manage contacts on the device.
Apps and features 3 Enter contact information. Add an image. Enter contact information. Open more information fields. Depending on the selected storage location, the types of information you can save may vary. 4 Tap Save. Importing contacts Add contacts by importing them from other storages to your device. → Manage contacts → Import or export contacts 1 Launch the Contacts app and tap → Import. 2 3 4 Select a storage location to import contacts from.
Apps and features Syncing contacts with your web accounts Sync your device contacts with online contacts saved in your web accounts, such as your Samsung account. 1 Launch the Settings app, tap Accounts and backup → Accounts and select the account to sync with. 2 Tap Sync account and tap the Contacts switch to activate it. For the Samsung account, tap → Sync settings and tap the Contacts switch to activate it. Searching for contacts Launch the Contacts app.
Apps and features Saving and sharing profile Save and share your profile information, such as your photo and status message, with others using the profile sharing feature. • To use this feature, you must sign in to your Samsung account. • The profile sharing feature may not be available depending on the region or service provider. • The profile sharing feature is only available for contacts who have activated the profile sharing feature on their device.
Apps and features Merging duplicate contacts When you import contacts from other storages, or sync contacts with other accounts, your contacts list may include duplicate contacts. Merge duplicate contacts into one to streamline your contacts list. 1 2 Launch the Contacts app and tap → Manage contacts → Merge contacts. Tick contacts and tap Merge. Deleting contacts 1 2 Launch the Contacts app and tap → Delete. Select contacts and tap Delete.
Apps and features 2 Add recipients and enter a message. To record and send a voice message, tap and hold , say your message, and then release your finger. The recording icon appears only while the message input field is empty. Recipient Enter recipients. Attach files. Send the message. Enter a message. 3 Tap to send the message. Viewing messages Messages are grouped into message threads by contact. You may incur additional charges for receiving messages when you are roaming.
Apps and features Blocking unwanted messages Block messages from specific numbers added to your block list. 1 Launch the Messages app and tap → Settings → Block numbers and messages → Block numbers. 2 Tap Conversations and select a contact or a phone number. Or, tap Contacts, select contacts, and then tap Done. To manually enter a number, enter a phone number under Enter number and tap . Setting the message notification You can change notification sound, display options, and more.
Apps and features Internet Introduction Browse the Internet to search for information and bookmark your favorite webpages to access them conveniently. Browsing webpages 1 2 3 Launch the Internet app. Tap the address field. Enter the web address or a keyword, and then tap Go. To view the toolbars, drag your finger downwards slightly on the screen. To switch between tabs quickly, swipe to the left or right on the address field. Bookmark the current webpage. Refresh the current webpage.
Apps and features Using secret mode In secret mode, you can separately manage open tabs, bookmarks, and saved pages. You can lock secret mode using a password. Activating secret mode In the toolbar at the bottom of the screen, tap → Turn on Secret mode. If you are using this feature for the first time, set whether to use a password for secret mode. In secret mode, the device will change the color of the toolbars. In secret mode, you cannot use some features, such as screen capture.
Apps and features Email Setting up email accounts Set up an email account when opening Email for the first time. 1 2 3 Launch the Email app. On the list, select an email service or tap Other. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. To set up another email account, tap → → Add account. If you have more than one email account, you can set one as the default account. Tap → → Set default account. → Sending emails 1 2 3 Tap to compose an email.
Apps and features Camera Introduction Take photos and record videos using various modes and settings. Camera etiquette • Do not take photos or record videos of other people without their permission. • Do not take photos or record videos where legally prohibited. • Do not take photos or record videos in places where you may violate other people’s privacy. Launching Camera Use the following methods to launch Camera: • Launch the Camera app. • Press the Power key twice quickly.
Apps and features 2 Tap to take a photo. Sticker Camera settings Options for current shooting mode Current mode Shooting modes Switch between the front and rear cameras. Preview thumbnail Take a photo. • The preview screen may vary depending on the shooting mode and which camera is being used. • The camera automatically shuts off when unused. • Make sure that the lens is not damaged or contaminated. Otherwise, the device may not work properly in some modes that require high resolutions.
Apps and features Using shooting modes To change the shooting mode, drag the shooting modes list to the left or right, or swipe to the left or right on the preview screen. Select a shooting mode you want. Shooting modes list Photo mode The camera adjusts the shooting options automatically depending on the surroundings to capture photos easily. On the shooting modes list, tap Photo and tap to take a photo. Taking selfies You can take self-portraits with the front camera.
Apps and features Applying filter and beauty effects You can select a filter effect and modify facial features, such as your skin tone or face shape, before taking a photo. 1 2 On the preview screen, tap . Select a filter effect or beauty effects and take a photo. Video mode The camera adjusts the shooting options automatically depending on the surroundings to record videos easily. 1 2 On the shooting modes list, tap Video. Tap to record a video.
Apps and features 1 2 3 On the shooting modes list, tap Live focus. Drag the background blur adjustment bar to the left or right to adjust the blur level. Tap to take a photo. Background blur adjustment bar Pro mode Capture photos while manually adjusting various shooting options, such as exposure value and ISO value. On the shooting modes list, tap Pro. Select options and customize the settings, and then tap to take a photo. Available options • : Select an ISO value.
Apps and features Panorama mode Using panorama mode, take a series of photos and then stitch them together to create a wide scene. To get the best shots using panorama mode, follow these tips: • Move the camera slowly in one direction. • Keep the image within the frame on the camera’s viewfinder. If the preview image is out of the guide frame or you do not move the device, the device will automatically stop taking photos.
Apps and features Camera settings On the preview screen, tap shooting mode. . Some options may not be available depending on the Pictures • Hold Shutter button to: Select an action to perform when you tap and hold the camera button. • HDR (rich tone): Take photos with rich colors and reproduce details even in bright and dark areas. Videos • Rear video size: Select a resolution for videos you want to take with the rear camera.
Apps and features • Shutter sound: Enable or disable the shutter sound. • Reset settings: Reset the camera settings. • Contact us: Ask questions or view frequently asked questions. • About Camera: View the Camera app version and legal information. Gallery Introduction View images and videos stored in your device. You can also manage images and videos by album or create stories. Viewing images 1 2 Launch the Gallery app and tap Pictures. Select an image. Access additional options. Modify the image.
Apps and features Searching for images Launch the Gallery app and tap locations. to view images sorted by category, such as types or To search for images by entering keywords, tap the search field. Viewing videos 1 2 3 Launch the Gallery app and tap Pictures. Select a video to play. Tap Play video to play the video. Access additional options. Capture the current screen. Create an animated GIF. Switch to the pop-up video player. Change the screen ratio. Lock the playback screen. Rotate the screen.
Apps and features Viewing the details of images and videos While viewing an image or on the video preview screen, drag upwards on the screen. File details will appear. You can also view related content by tapping information on the screen. File details Location information Viewing photos or videos by category You can view photos and videos by category. Launch the Gallery app, tap Pictures or Albums, and then select a category. • Videos: View the videos saved in your device.
Apps and features Viewing albums You can view your images and videos sorted by folders or albums. Launch the Gallery app, tap Albums, and then select an album. Hiding albums You can hide albums. You cannot hide albums created by default, such as the Camera and Screenshots albums. 1 2 3 Launch the Gallery app and tap Albums. Tap → Hide or unhide albums. Tap an album switch to hide.
Apps and features To add images or videos to a story, select a story and tap → Add. To remove images or videos from a story, select a story, tap → Edit, tick images or videos to remove, and then tap Remove from story. Deleting stories 1 2 Launch the Gallery app and tap Stories. Tap and hold a story to delete, and tap Delete. Syncing images and videos When you sync your Gallery app with Samsung Cloud, photos and videos you take will also be saved in Samsung Cloud.
Apps and features Multi window Introduction Multi window lets you run two apps at the same time in the split screen view. You can also run multiple apps at the same time in the pop-up view. Some apps may not support this feature.
