First Few Things to Do on a New Android Phone
First Few Things to Do on Your Android Phone: Add Owner Info, Enable Device Manager, Set Up Google Account & USB Debugging
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| First Few Things to Do on a New Android Phone |
In this guide, we’ll cover the first few things you must do on your Android phone right after setup:
1. Add Owner Information
2. Enable Device Manager (Find My Device)
3. Set Up Your Google Account
4. Enable USB Debugging
These steps are crucial for security, convenience, and long-term usability. Let’s go step by step.
Add Owner Information
Adding your Owner Info might look like a small step, but it can save your phone if it ever gets lost. With this feature, anyone who finds your phone can see your contact information on the lock screen without unlocking it.
Why Add Owner Info?
- Helps a kind stranger return your lost phone.
- Displays your emergency contact information.
- Works even if your phone is locked.
How to Add Owner Info
1. Open Settings on your Android phone.
2. Go to Security (sometimes under Lock Screen or Privacy, depending on your phone brand).
3. Tap on Owner Info or Lock Screen Message.
4. Enter your details such as:
- Name
- Alternate contact number
- Email ID
Example:
“Lost Phone? Please call +91-98XXXXXXX or email me at myname@gmail.com”
Now, if you misplace your phone, anyone can read this on the lock screen and contact you.
Pro Tip: Avoid putting your home address. Stick to phone number or email for safety.
- Related Guide: How to Add Owner Information on Android
Enable Device Manager (Find My Device)
Imagine losing your expensive smartphone in a café, train, or park. Without tracking enabled, recovery is nearly impossible. That’s where Google’s Find My Device (Android Device Manager) comes in.
What is Android Device Manager?
It’s a built-in Google service that allows you to:
- Locate your phone on a map.
- Make it ring even if it’s on silent.
- Lock your phone remotely.
- Erase all data in case it’s stolen.
How to Enable Device Manager
1. Open Settings on your Android.
2. Tap on Security & Location (may vary depending on brand).
3. Select Find My Device.
4. Toggle it ON.
5. Ensure Location Services are enabled.
Now, you can track your phone anytime by visiting Google Find My Device.
If your phone ever goes missing, just log in with your Google account from any browser and locate it instantly.
- Related Guide: Track Your Android Using Secret Codes
Set Up Your Google Account
Many people skip this step, thinking they can set it up later. But without a Google account, your Android is incomplete.
Why is Google Account Setup Important?
- Required for downloading apps from the Google Play Store.
- Syncs your contacts, emails, calendar, and photos automatically.
- Enables Google Drive backup for safety.
- Essential for using Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps, and Google Docs.
How to Set Up a Google Account
1. Open Settings → Accounts → Add Account.
2. Choose Google.
3. Enter your Gmail ID and password.
4. Accept the terms and sync your data.
Pro Tip: Always use a strong password and enable 2-step verification for better security.
Without a Google account, you cannot download apps from the Play Store, so don’t skip this!
- Learn more: Set Up a Google Account in Android
- Related Guide: Google Play Store Secret Codes
Enable USB Debugging
This step is slightly advanced but extremely useful. If you ever forget your pattern lock or password, USB Debugging allows you to connect your phone to a computer and unlock/reset it.
What is USB Debugging?
USB Debugging is part of Android’s Developer Options. It allows your phone to communicate with a PC via the Android Debug Bridge (ADB).
Benefits of USB Debugging
- Unlock forgotten pattern or password using a PC.
- Mirror your phone screen to a PC.
- Transfer files between PC and Android.
- Install custom ROMs and recover a bricked phone.
How to Enable USB Debugging
1. Go to Settings → About Phone.
2. Tap Build Number 7 times to unlock Developer Options.
3. Now go back to Settings → Developer Options.
4. Scroll down and toggle USB Debugging ON.
5. Confirm when prompted.
Pro Tip: Keep USB Debugging disabled when not in use to avoid security risks. Enable only when needed.
- Learn more: How to Enable USB Debugging
- Related Guide: Forgot Android Pattern Lock? Try This
Why These 4 Steps Matter
Most people rush into downloading apps and customizing themes, but security and setup come first. If you skip these steps:
- You may never get your phone back if lost.
- You may be locked out without a recovery option.
- You won’t be able to download apps.
- You’ll miss essential Google sync and backup features.
Doing these 4 things ensures your phone is ready, safe, and reliable.
External Resources (for deeper knowledge)
Here are some useful official links for you to explore:
1. Google Find My Device – Track lost Android phones.
2. Google Account Setup – Official account setup help.
3. Android Device Manager Help – Full guide to using Find My Device.
4. Google Play Store Help – Troubleshoot downloads and payments.
5. Android Developers – USB Debugging – Technical USB Debugging guide.
6. Google Account Recovery – Recover a lost Gmail account.
7. Gmail 2-Step Verification – Strengthen your account security.
8. Android Security Tips – Learn how to keep your Android safe.
Conclusion
Your Android phone is not just a gadget – it’s your digital life in your pocket. Before filling it with apps, photos, and games, take a few minutes to secure and prepare it properly.
- Add Owner Info – So people can return your phone if lost.
- Enable Device Manager – To track and control your device remotely.
- Set up a Google Account – To unlock the full Android ecosystem.
- Enable USB Debugging – To recover and connect your phone easily.
By following these steps, you’re not just setting up your Android – you’re protecting your data, privacy, and peace of mind.
Also Read: Android Tricks: Recover Files, Improve Battery & WiFi Hotspot
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