Samsung SM-T290, SM-T297 User Guide
USER MANUAL
SM-T290
SM-T295
SM-T297
English. 06/2019. Rev.1.0
www.samsung.com
Table of Contents
Basics
4 Read me first
6 Device overheating situations and
solutions
10 Device layout and functions
13 Battery
15 SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card)
(SM-T295, SM-T297)
17 Memory card (microSD card)
19 Turning the device on and off
20 Initial setup
21 Samsung account
22 Transferring data from your previous
device (Smart Switch)
24 Understanding the screen
34 Notification panel
36 Entering text
Apps and features
38 Installing or uninstalling apps
40 Phone (SM-T295)
45 Contacts
49 Messages (SM-T295, SM-T297)
51 Internet
53 Email
54 Camera
61 Gallery
67 Multi window
69 Samsung Members
70 Samsung Notes
71 Calendar
72 My Files
72 Clock
74 Calculator
75 Kids Home
76 Sharing content
77 Google apps
2
Table of Contents
Settings
79 Introduction
79 Connections
80 Wi-Fi
82 Bluetooth
84 Data saver (SM-T295, SM-T297)
84 Mobile data only apps (SM-T295,
SM-T297)
85 Mobile Hotspot and Tethering
(SM-T295, SM-T297)
86 More connection settings
88 Sounds and vibration
88 Dolby Atmos (surround sound)
89 Notifications
89 Display
105 Apps
105 General management
106 Accessibility
107 Software update
107 User manual
108 About tablet
Appendix
109 Troubleshooting
115 Removing the battery
90 Night mode
91 Screensaver
91 Wallpaper
91 Lock screen
92 Smart Lock
93 Security
94 Accounts and backup
94 Users
97 Samsung Cloud
98 Google
99 Advanced features
99 Motions and gestures
100 Digital wellbeing
102 Device care
102 Optimising your device
103 Battery
104 Storage
104 Memory
105 Security
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. (SM-T295, SM-T297)
•
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.
4
Basics
•
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.
•
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.
–
It is recommended not to use fixed graphics on part or all of the touchscreen for
extended periods and turn off the touchscreen when not using the device.
–
You can set the touchscreen to turn off automatically when you are not using it.
Launch the
of time you want the device to wait before turning off the touchscreen.
–
To set the touchscreen to automatically adjust its brightness based on the
surrounding environment, launch the
Adaptive brightness
•
Depending on the region or model, some devices are required to receive approval from
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). If your device is approved by the FCC,
you can view the FCC ID of the device. To view the FCC ID, launch the
About tablet
tap
•
Depending on the region, you can view the regulatory information on the device. To
view the information, launch the
information
Settings
→
.
app, tap
switch to activate it.
Status
Display
.
Settings
→
Screen timeout
Settings
app and tap
app, tap
, and then select the length
Display
About tablet
, and then tap the
Settings
→
Regulatory
app and
5
Basics
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
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.
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. 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 all calling and other
features will be limited, except for emergency calls, until the device cools down.
•
If the second message appears due to a further increase of the device’s temperature, the
device will turn off. Do not use the device until the device’s temperature drops below the
specified level. If the second warning message appears during an emergency call, the call
will not be disconnected by a forced shut 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.
9
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. 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.
10
Basics
Speaker (SM-T295)
GPS antenna
Device layout
Front camera
SM-T295, SM-T297:
SIM card / Memory
card tray
SM-T290: Memory
card tray
Touchscreen
Multipurpose jack
Earphone jack
Light sensor
Power key
Volume key
Microphone
Rear camera
Speaker
Main antenna
(SM-T295, SM-T297)
Speaker
11
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.
•
If you use the device with its glass or acrylic body broken, there may be a risk of
injury. Use the device only after it has been repaired at a Samsung Service Centre.
•
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 a Samsung-approved screen protector is recommended. Unapproved screen
protectors may cause the sensors to malfunction.
•
Do not cover the light 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.
Hard keys
using certain features, such as calls or the mobile data connection (SM-T295,
SM-T297)
Power key
Volume key
Key Function
•
Press and hold to turn the device on or off.
Power
•
Press to turn on or lock the screen.
Volume
•
Press to adjust the device volume.
12
Basics
Home button
Soft buttons
Recents 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.
Back button
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 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
13
Basics
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.
Reducing the battery consumption
Your device provides various options that help you conserve battery power.
•
Optimise 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.
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.
14
Basics
•
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 this occurs during wireless charging, disconnect the device
from the charger to let it cool down, then charge the device again later.
•
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.
SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card) (SM-T295, SM-T297)
Installing the SIM or USIM card
Insert the SIM or USIM card provided by the mobile telephone service provider.
•
Use only a nano-SIM 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 services that require a network connection may not be available depending on
the service provider.
1
2 3
54
15
Basics
Insert the ejection pin into the hole next to the tray to loosen the tray.
1
Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may
be damaged.
Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot.
2
Place the SIM or USIM card on the tray with the gold-coloured contacts facing
3
downwards.
Gently press the SIM or USIM card into the tray to secure it.
4
If the card is not fixed firmly into the tray, the SIM card may leave or fall out of the tray.
Insert the tray back into the tray slot.
5
•
If you insert the tray into your device while the tray is wet, your device may be
damaged. Always make sure the tray is dry.
•
Fully insert the tray into the tray slot to prevent liquid from entering your device.
Correct card installation
Nano-SIM card
microSD card
16
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
►
SM-T295, SM-T297:
1
My Files
→
SD card
folder.
32
54
17
Basics
►
SM-T290:
1
54
Insert the ejection pin into the hole next to the tray to loosen the tray.
1
Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may
be damaged.
32
Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot.
2
When you remove the tray from the device, the mobile data connection will be
disabled. (SM-T295, SM-T297)
Place a memory card on the tray with the gold-coloured contacts facing downwards.
3
Gently press the memory card into the tray to secure it.
4
If the card is not fixed firmly into the tray, the memory card may leave or fall out of the
tray.
Insert the tray back into the tray slot.
5
•
If you insert the tray into your device while the tray is wet, your device may be
damaged. Always make sure the tray is dry.
•
Fully insert the tray into the tray slot to prevent liquid from entering your device.
18
Basics
Removing the memory card
Before removing the memory card, first unmount it for safe removal.
Launch the
→
card
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 care
→
Storage
→ →
Storage settings
→
SD
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
→
card
Settings
Format
Before formatting the memory card, remember to make backup copies of all
app and tap
.
Device care
→
Storage
→ →
Storage settings
→
SD
important data stored in the memory card. The manufacturer’s warranty does not
cover loss of data resulting from user actions.
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
on-screen instructions to set up your device.
To turn off the device, press and hold the Power key, and then tap
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
.
19
Basics
Restarting the device
To restart 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.
Power key
Volume Down key
Restart
.
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.
Turn on the device.
1
Select your preferred device language and select
2
Select a language.
.
20
Basics
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
3
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
Help
Settings
.
account.samsung.com. For more information on Samsung accounts, launch the
and tap
Accounts and backup
→
Accounts
→
Samsung account
→ →
Creating a Samsung account
If you do not have a Samsung account, you should create one. You can create a Samsung
account using your email address.
Launch the
1
Samsung account
Alternatively, launch the
Tap
2
3
Create account
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete creating your account.
Settings
.
app and tap
Settings
.
Accounts and backup
app and tap .
→
Accounts
→
Add account
Signing in to your Samsung account
app
→
If you already have a Samsung account, sign in to your Samsung account.
Launch the
1
Samsung account
Alternatively, launch the
Settings
.
app and tap
Settings
Accounts and backup
app and tap .
21
→
Accounts
→
Add account
→
Basics
Enter your Samsung account ID and password and tap
2
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete signing in to your Samsung account.
3
Sign in
.
Finding your ID and resetting your password
If you forget your Samsung account ID or password, tap
Samsung account sign-in screen. You can find your ID or reset your password after you enter
the required information.
Find ID
or
Reset password
on the
Removing your Samsung account
When you remove your Samsung account from the device, your data, such as contacts or
events, will also be removed.
Launch the
1
Tap
2
Samsung account
Settings
app and tap
→ →
Remove account
Accounts and backup
.
→
Accounts
.
Tap
3
Remove
, enter your Samsung account password, and then tap OK.
Transferring data from your previous device (Smart Switch)
You can use Smart Switch to transfer data from your previous device to your new device.
Launch the
Settings
•
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.
app and tap
Accounts and backup
→
Smart Switch
.
22
Basics
Transferring data wirelessly
Transfer data from your previous device to your device wirelessly via Wi-Fi Direct.
On the previous device, launch
1
If you do not have the app, download it from
On your device, launch the
2
Switch
Place the devices near each other.
3
On the previous device, tap
4
On the previous device, select an item to transfer and tap
5
On your device, tap
6
Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data from your previous device.
7
After the data is done transferring, you can view a list of the transferred data on your
.
Receive
Smart Switch
Settings
Send data
.
app and tap
→
Wireless
.
Galaxy Store
Accounts and backup
.
or
Play Store
Send
.
.
→
Smart
device.
Backing up and restoring data using external storage
Transfer data using external storage, such as a microSD card.
Back up data from your previous device to external storage.
1
Insert or connect the external storage device to your device.
2
On your device, launch the
3
→
→
Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data from external storage.
4
Restore
.
Settings
app and tap
Accounts and backup
→
Smart Switch
23
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.
•
It is recommended not to use fixed graphics on part or all of the touchscreen for
extended periods. Doing so may result in afterimages (screen burn-in) or ghosting.
•
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.
24
Basics
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.
Spreading and pinching
Spread two fingers apart or pinch on the
screen.
25
Basics
Home button
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.
Recents button
Button Function
Recents
Home
Back
•
Tap to open the list of recent apps.
•
Tap to return to the Home screen.
•
Tap and hold to launch the
•
Tap to return to the previous screen.
Back button
Google Assistant
app.
Hiding the navigation bar
View files or use apps on a wider screen by hiding the navigation bar.
Launch the
under
where the soft buttons are located. To use the soft buttons, drag the gesture hint of the
Settings
Navigation type
app, tap
Display
. The navigation bar will be hidden and the gesture hints will appear
→
Navigation bar
, and then tap
Full screen gestures
desired button upwards.
If you want to hide the gesture hints at the bottom of the screen, tap the
switch to deactivate it.
Gesture hints
26
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.
A widget
Favourite apps
Navigation bar (soft buttons)
Screen indicator
27
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
then tap the
Apps button
switch to activate it. The Apps button will be added at the bottom
Home screen settings
, and
of the Home screen.
Apps button
28
Basics
Display the screen in landscape mode
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.
To add a shortcut to an app on the Home screen, tap and hold an item on the Apps screen,
and then tap
You can also move frequently used apps to the shortcuts area at the bottom of the Home
screen.
Add to Home
. A shortcut to the app will be added on the Home screen.
29
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.
•
Adding more apps
Tap
Add apps
by dragging it to the folder.
on the folder. Tick the apps to add and tap
Enter folder name
Add
. You can also add an app
and enter a
•
Moving apps from a folder
Tap and hold an app to drag it to a new location.
•
Deleting a folder
Tap and hold a folder, and then tap
folder’s apps will be relocated to the Apps screen.
Delete folder
. Only the folder will be deleted. The
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