Samsung SM-J250F, SM-J250G, SM-J250Y User Guide

SM-J250F

SM-J250F/DS
SM-J250G
SM-J250Y/DS

SM-J250G/DS

User Manual

English. 04/2018. Rev.1.3

www.samsung.com

Table of Contents

Basics

4 Read me first

6 Device overheating situations and

solutions

9 Device layout and functions

12 Battery

16 SIM or USIM card

20 Memory card (microSD card)

22 Turning the device on and off

23 Initial setup

25 Samsung account

26 Transferring data from your previous

device

30 Understanding the screen

38 Notification panel

40 Entering text

Apps and features

42 Installing or uninstalling apps

44 Phone

49 Contacts

52 Messages

55 Internet

57 Email

58 Camera

68 Gallery

73 Multi window

76 Samsung Members

77 Samsung Notes

78 Calendar

79 Samsung Health

83 Voice Recorder

83 My Files

84 Clock

85 Calculator

86 Radio

87 Sharing content

88 Google apps

2

Table of Contents

Settings

90 Introduction

90 Connections

91 Wi-Fi

93 Bluetooth

95 Mobile Hotspot and Tethering

96 SIM card manager (dual SIM

models)

96 More connection settings

98 Sounds and vibration

98 Notifications

99 Display

100 Blue light filter

100 Changing the screen mode or

adjusting the display colour

Appendix

120 Troubleshooting

102 Screensaver

103 Wallpaper

103 Advanced features

105 Device maintenance

108 Apps

108 Lock screen and security

110 Secure Folder

114 Cloud and accounts

115 Backup and restore

115 Google

116 Accessibility

116 General management

118 Software update

119 User manual

119 About phone

3

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. Apps related to the content may not work properly
depending on the device’s specifications and the environment that it is used in.

•

Samsung is not liable for performance issues caused by apps supplied by providers other
than Samsung.

•

Samsung is not liable for performance issues or incompatibilities caused by edited
registry settings or modified operating system software. Attempting to customise the
operating system may cause the device or apps to work improperly.

•

Software, sound sources, wallpapers, images, and other media provided with this device
are licensed for limited use. Extracting and using these materials for commercial or other
purposes is an infringement of copyright laws. Users are entirely responsible for illegal
use of media.

•

You may incur additional charges for data services, such as messaging, uploading and
downloading, auto-syncing, or using location services depending on your data plan. For
large data transfers, it is recommended to use the Wi-Fi feature.

•

Default apps that come with the device are subject to updates and may no longer be
supported without prior notice. If you have questions about an app provided with
the device, contact a Samsung Service Centre. For user-installed apps, contact service
providers.

•

Modifying the device’s operating system or installing softwares from unofficial sources
may result in device malfunctions and data corruption or loss. These actions are violations
of your Samsung licence agreement and will void your warranty.

4

Basics

•

Be careful not to forget your unlock codes for the screen lock, accounts, and other
security features. If you forget an unlock code, you will not be able to use the device if
you do not reset it. Samsung is not responsible for any data loss or inconvenience caused
by forgotten unlock codes.

•

Depending on the region, you can view the regulatory information on the device. To
view the information, launch the

information

.

Instructional icons

Warning: situations that could cause injury to yourself or others

Caution: situations that could cause damage to your device or other equipment

Notice: notes, usage tips, or additional information

Settings

app and tap

About phone

→

Regulatory

5

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.

Do the following when the device heats up:

•

Disconnect the charger from the device and close any running apps. Wait for the
device to cool down and then begin charging the device again.

•

If the lower part of the device overheats, it could be because the connected USB
cable is damaged. Replace the damaged USB cable with a new Samsung-approved
one.

•

When using a wireless charger, do not place foreign materials, such as metal objects,
magnets, and magnetic stripe cards, between the device and the wireless charger.

The wireless charging or fast charging feature is only available on supported models.

6

Basics

When the device heats up during use

When you use features or apps that require more power or use them for extended periods,
your device may temporarily heat up due to increased battery consumption. Close any
running apps and do not use the device for a while.

The following are examples of situations in which the device may overheat. Depending on
the functions and apps you use, these examples may not apply to your model.

•

During the initial setup after purchase or when restoring data

•

When downloading large files

•

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 videos while using a navigation app

•

When using large amount of data for syncing with the cloud, email, or other accounts

•

When using a navigation app in a car while the device is placed in direct sunlight

•

When using the mobile hotspot and tethering feature

•

When using the device in areas with weak signals or no reception

•

When charging the battery with a damaged USB cable

•

When the device’s multipurpose jack is damaged or exposed to foreign materials, such as
liquid, dust, metal powder, and pencil lead

•

When you are roaming

7

Basics

Do the following when the device heats up:

•

Keep the device updated with the latest software.

•

Conflicts between running apps may cause the device to heat up. Restart the device.

•

Deactivate the Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth features when not using them.

•

Close apps that increase battery consumption or that run in the background when
not in use.

•

Delete unnecessary files or unused apps.

•

Decrease the screen brightness.

•

If the device overheats or feels hot for a prolonged period, do not use it for a while. If
the device continues to overheat, contact a Samsung Service Centre.

Device limitations when the device overheats

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 becomes hotter than usual, a device overheating message will appear. To
lower the device’s temperature, the screen brightness and the performance speed will be
limited and battery charging will stop. Running apps will be closed and you will only be
able to make emergency calls until the device cools down.

•

If the device overheats or feels hot for a prolonged period, a power off message will
appear. Turn off the device, and wait until it cools down.

8

Basics

Precautions for operating environment

Your device may heat up due to the environment in the following conditions. Use caution to
avoid shortening the battery’s lifespan, damaging the device, or causing a fire.

•

Do not store your device in very cold or very hot temperatures.

•

Do not expose your device to direct sunlight for extended periods.

•

Do not use or store your device for extended periods in very hot areas, such as inside a
car in the summertime.

•

Do not place the device in any areas that may overheat, such as on an electric heating
mat.

•

Do not store your device near or in heaters, microwaves, hot cooking equipment, or high
pressure containers.

•

Never use a damaged charger or battery.

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. Make
sure they are compatible with the device before purchase.

•

Use only Samsung-approved accessories. Using unapproved accessories may cause
the performance problems and malfunctions that are not covered by the warranty.

•

Availability of all accessories is subject to change depending entirely on
manufacturing companies. For more information about available accessories, refer
to the Samsung website.

9

Basics

Speaker

Headset jack

Device layout

Flash

Touchscreen

Home key

Recents key

Front camera

Proximity sensor

Power key

Back key

Microphone

Multipurpose jack

GPS antenna

Flash

Speaker

Back cover

Rear camera

Volume key

Main antenna

10

Basics

•

Connectivity problems and battery drain may occur in the following situations:

–

If you attach metallic stickers on the antenna area of the device

–

If you attach a device cover made with metallic material to the device

–

If you cover the device’s antenna area with your hands or other objects while
using certain features, such as calls or the mobile data connection

•

Using a Samsung-approved screen protector is recommended. Unapproved screen
protectors may cause the sensors to malfunction.

•

Do not cover the proximity sensor area with screen accessories, such as a screen
protector or stickers. Doing so may cause the sensor to malfunction.

•

Do not allow water to contact the touchscreen. The touchscreen may malfunction
in humid conditions or when exposed to water.

Keys

Key Function

•

Press and hold to turn the device on or off.

Power

•

Press to turn on or lock the screen.

Recents

Home

Back

Volume

•

Tap to open the list of recent apps.

•

Press to turn on the screen while the screen is locked.

•

Press to return to the Home screen.

•

Press and hold to launch

•

Tap to return to the previous screen.

•

Tap and hold to access additional options for the current screen.

•

Press to adjust the device volume.

Google

.

11

Basics

Battery

Installing the battery

Remove the back cover.

1

Be careful not to damage your fingernails when you remove the back cover.

Do not bend or twist the back cover excessively. Doing so may damage the cover.

Insert the battery with the battery’s gold-coloured contacts properly aligned with the

2

device’s contacts.

12

Basics

Replace the back cover.

3

Removing the battery

Remove the back cover.

1

Pull out the battery.

2

13

Basics

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 chargers, batteries, and cables. Unapproved chargers or
cables can cause the battery to explode or damage the 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. The charger does not have a
power switch, so you must unplug the charger from the electric socket when not in
use to avoid wasting power. The charger should remain close to the electric socket
and easily accessible while charging.

Connect the USB cable to the USB power adaptor.

1

Plug the USB cable into the device’s multipurpose jack.

2

Plug the USB power adaptor into an electric socket.

3

After fully charging, disconnect the charger from the device. Then, unplug the charger

4

from the electric socket.

Do not remove the battery before removing the charger. This may damage the
device.

14

Basics

Reducing the battery consumption

Your device provides various options that help you conserve battery power.

•

Optimise the device using the device maintenance 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 the Wi-Fi feature when not in use.

•

Deactivate auto-syncing of apps that need to be synced, such as emails.

•

Decrease the backlight time.

•

Decrease the screen brightness.

Battery charging tips and precautions

•

When the battery power is low, the battery icon appears empty.

•

If the battery is completely discharged, the device cannot be turned on immediately
when the charger is connected. Allow a depleted battery to charge for a few minutes
before turning on the device.

•

If you use multiple apps at once, network apps, or apps that need a connection to
another device, the battery will drain quickly. To avoid losing power during a data
transfer, always use these apps after fully charging the battery.

•

Using a power source other than the charger, such as a computer, may result in a slower
charging speed due to a lower electric current.

•

The device can be used while it is charging, but it may take longer to fully charge the
battery.

•

If the device receives an unstable power supply while charging, the touchscreen may not
function. If this happens, unplug the charger from the device.

•

While charging, the device and the charger may heat up. This is normal and should not
affect the device’s lifespan or performance. If the battery gets hotter than usual, the
charger may stop charging.

•

If you charge the device while the multipurpose jack is wet, the device may be damaged.
Thoroughly dry the multipurpose jack before charging the device.

•

If the device is not charging properly, take the device and the charger to a Samsung
Service Centre.

15

Basics

SIM or USIM 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 microSIM card.

•

Use caution not to lose or let others use the SIM or USIM card. Samsung is not
responsible for any damages or inconveniences caused by lost or stolen cards.

Some LTE services may not be available depending on the service provider. For more
information about service availability, contact your service provider.

Remove the back cover and battery.

1

►

2

Single SIM models: Insert the SIM or USIM card with the gold-coloured contacts

facing downwards.

16

Basics

►

downwards.

Dual SIM models: Insert the SIM or USIM card with the gold-coloured contacts facing

Insert the primary SIM or USIM card into SIM card slot 1 (
USIM card into SIM card slot 2 (

Do not insert a memory card into the SIM card slot. If a memory card happens to be
lodged in the SIM card slot, take the device to a Samsung Service Centre to remove
the memory card.

2 ).

1 ) and the secondary SIM or

2

1

Replace the battery and back cover.

3

17

Basics

Removing the SIM or USIM card

Remove the back cover and battery.

1

Pull out the SIM or USIM card.

2

►

Single SIM models:

►

Dual SIM models:

18

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
card and tap the switch to activate it.

Settings

app and tap

Connections

→

SIM card manager

. Select a SIM or USIM

Customising SIM or USIM cards

Launch the
USIM card to access the following options:

•

Icon

•

Name

•

Network mode

Settings

: Change the icon of the SIM or USIM card.

: Change the display name of the SIM or USIM card.

app, tap

: Select a network type to use with the SIM or USIM card.

Connections

→

SIM card manager

, and then select a SIM or

Setting preferred SIM or USIM cards

When two cards are activated, you can assign voice calls, messaging, and data services to
specific cards.

Launch the
preferences for your cards in

Settings

app, tap

Connections

PREFERRED SIM CARD

→

SIM card manager

, and then set the feature

.

19

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.

•

Use caution to insert the memory card right-side up.

•

The device supports the FAT and the exFAT file systems for memory cards. When
inserting a card formatted in a different file system, the device will ask to reformat
the card or will not recognise the card. To use the memory card, you must format it.
If your device cannot format or recognise the memory card, contact the memory
card manufacturer or a Samsung Service Centre.

•

Frequent writing and erasing of data shortens the lifespan of memory cards.

•

When inserting a memory card into the device, the memory card’s file directory
appears in the

Remove the back cover and battery.

1

Insert a memory card with the gold-coloured contacts facing downwards.

2

My Files

→

SD card

folder.

Replace the battery and back cover.

3

20

Basics

Removing the memory card

Before removing the memory card, first unmount it for safe removal.

Launch the

→

SD card

Remove the back cover and battery.

1

Pull out the memory card.

2

Replace the battery and back cover.

3

Settings

→

UNMOUNT

Do not remove external storage, such as a memory card or USB storage, while the
device is transferring or accessing information, or right after transferring data. Doing
so can cause data to be corrupted or lost or cause damage to the external storage or
device. Samsung is not responsible for losses, including loss of data, resulting from
the misuse of external storage devices.

app and tap

.

Device maintenance

Formatting the memory card

→

Storage

→ →

Storage settings

A memory card formatted on a computer may not be compatible with the device. Format the
memory card on the device.

Launch the

→

SD card

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.

Settings

→

Format

app and tap

→

FORMAT

Device maintenance

.

→

Storage

→

→

Storage settings

21

Basics

Turning the device on and off

Press and hold the Power key for a few seconds to turn on the device.

When you turn on your device for the first time or after performing a data reset, follow the on­screen instructions to set up your device.

To turn off the device, press and hold the Power key, and then tap

•

If your device is frozen and unresponsive, press and hold the Power key and the
Volume Down key simultaneously for more than 7 seconds to restart it.

•

Follow all posted warnings and directions from authorised personnel in areas
where the use of wireless devices is restricted, such as aeroplanes and hospitals.

Power off

.

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.

Activating emergency mode

To activate emergency mode, press and hold the Power key, and then tap

The usage time left shows the time remaining before the battery power runs
out. Usage time left may vary depending on your device settings and operating

Emergency mode

.

conditions.

Deactivating emergency mode

To deactivate emergency mode, tap →
hold the Power key, and then tap

Emergency mode

Disable Emergency mode

.

. Alternatively, press and

22

Basics

Initial setup

When you turn on your device for the first time or after performing a data reset, follow the
on-screen instructions to set up your device.

The initial setup procedures may vary depending on the device’s software and your
region.

Turn on the device.

1

Select your preferred device language.

2

Select a language.

Select a Wi-Fi network and connect to it.

3

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.

Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed the initial setup.

4

Set a screen lock method to protect your device. You can protect your personal

5

information by preventing others from accessing your device. To set the screen lock
method later, tap

Not now

.

23

Basics

Sign in to your Samsung account. You can enjoy Samsung services and keep your data

6

up to date and secure across all of your devices. Refer to Samsung account for more
information.

Select features you want to use and complete the initial setup.

7

The Home screen will appear.

24

Basics

Samsung account

Introduction

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. Once your
Samsung account has been registered, you can keep your data up to date and secure across
your Samsung devices with Samsung Cloud, track and control your lost or stolen device, see
tips and tricks from Samsung Members, and more.

Create your Samsung account with your email address.

To check the list of services that can be used with your Samsung account, visit

account.samsung.com. For more information on Samsung accounts, launch the

and tap

Cloud and accounts

→

Accounts

→

Samsung account

→

Help

.

Registering your Samsung account

Registering a new Samsung account

If you do not have a Samsung account, you should create one.

Launch the

1

Tap

2
3

Samsung account

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete creating your account.

Registering an existing Samsung account

Settings

app and tap

→

CREATE ACCOUNT

Cloud and accounts

.

→

Accounts

→

Add account

Settings

app

.

If you already have a Samsung account, register it to the device.

Launch the

1

Tap

2

Samsung account

Settings

app and tap

→

SIGN IN

Cloud and accounts

.

25

→

Accounts

→

Add account

.

Basics

Enter your email address and password, and then tap

3

If you forget your account information, tap
your account information when you enter the required information and security code
displayed that is on the screen.

Tap

4

DONE

to finish registering your Samsung account.

Forgotten your ID or password?

SIGN IN

.

You can find

Removing your Samsung account

When you remove your registered Samsung account from the device, your data, such as
contacts or events, will also be removed.

Launch the

1

Tap

2
3

Samsung account

Tap OK, enter your Samsung account password, and then tap

Settings

app and tap

→ →

Remove account

Cloud and accounts

.

→

Accounts

.

REMOVE ACCOUNT

.

Transferring data from your previous device

You can transfer content, such as images, contacts, and messages, from your previous device
via Smart Switch or from a backup of your data via Samsung Cloud.

•

This feature may not be supported on some devices or computers.

•

Limitations apply. Visit www.samsung.com/smartswitch for details. Samsung
takes copyright seriously. Only transfer content that you own or have the right to
transfer.

26

Basics

Smart Switch

Transfer data between mobile devices via Smart Switch. If you do not have the app, download
it from

Galaxy Apps

or

Play Store

.

Transferring data wirelessly via Wi-Fi Direct

Transfer data from your previous device to your device wirelessly via Wi-Fi Direct.

On both devices, download and install Smart Switch from

1

Galaxy Apps

or

Play Store

.

Place the devices near each other.

2

Launch

3

On the previous device, tap

4

On your device, tap

5

Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data from your previous device.

6

Smart Switch

WIRELESS

on both devices.

WIRELESS

→

RECEIVE

→

SEND

→

CONNECT

and select the previous device type.

.

27

Basics

Transferring backup data from a computer

Transfer data between your device and a computer. You must download the Smart Switch
computer version app from www.samsung.com/smartswitch. Back up data from your
previous device to a computer and import the data to your device.

On the computer, visit www.samsung.com/smartswitch to download Smart Switch.

1

On the computer, launch Smart Switch.

2

If your previous device is not a Samsung device, back up data to a computer using a
program provided by the device’s manufacturer. Then, skip to the fifth step.

Connect your previous device to the computer using the device’s USB cable.

3

On the computer, follow the on-screen instructions to back up data from the device.

4

Then, disconnect your previous device from the computer.

Connect your device to the computer using the USB cable.

5

On the computer, follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data to your device.

6

28

Basics

Samsung Cloud

Back up data from your previous device to Samsung Cloud and restore the data to your new
device. You must register and sign in to your Samsung account to use Samsung Cloud. Refer
to Samsung account for more information.

Backing up data

On your previous device, sign in to your Samsung account.

1

Launch the

2

•

•

•

Settings

If your device supports Samsung Cloud, launch the

accounts

The data backup method may vary depending on your model.

Some data will not be backed up. To check which data will be backed up, launch

Settings

the

settings

.

app, select the backup option, and back up your data.

→

Samsung Cloud

app, tap

Cloud and accounts

→

Backup settings

→

Restoring data

On your new device, launch the

1

→

Cloud

Tap and select the previous device from the devices list.

2

Restore

.

Settings

app and tap

Settings

, and then back up your data.

Samsung Cloud

Cloud and accounts

app, tap

→

Backup

Cloud and

→

Samsung

Tick the data types you want to restore and tap

3

29

RESTORE NOW

.

Basics

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.

•

To avoid damaging the touchscreen, do not tap it with anything sharp or apply
excessive pressure to it with your fingertips.

•

Leaving the touchscreen idle for extended periods may result in afterimages
(screen burn-in) or ghosting. Turn off the touchscreen when you do not use the
device.

•

The device may not recognise touch inputs close to the edges of the screen, which
are outside of the touch input area.

•

It is recommended to use fingers when you use the touchscreen.

Tapping

Tap the screen.

Tapping and holding

Tap and hold the screen for approximately
2 seconds.

30