iPhone, Android, Windows Phone, Blackberry, or feature phones.
Mobile Phones
Can I roll back an Android update?
Episode 1589
Jerry fromJerry has an Android mobile phone and after an update, he lost the use of both his cameras. Can he roll it back? Leo says that the upgrade probably didn't go well and failed, so try upgrading it again. You don't really want to go backwards because of security. Leo recommends doing a factory reset to wipe the phone and reinstall the OS. Be warned though that this will wipe the phone of all data apps and photos, so back it up to Google. But in most cases, that fixes the problem. If that doesn't work, the only way to go backwards is to root the phone.
Why can't I put my phone to sleep?
Episode 1589
Sam fromSam has a Pixel 3 mobile phone that constantly keeps the screen on when he puts it in its holster. How can he stop that? Leo says that you can configure the Pixel in the settings to mitigate. You can create a lock gesture, for instance, or press the on/off button briefly to put it to sleep. Scooter X in the chatroom points to this forum post - https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/help/fingerprint-to-sleep-android-9-t3838160
Why is my Phone Screen Dimming Intermittently?
Episode 1588
Jason fromJason called last week about his phone's screen freaking out. Leo thought it was the proximity sensor causing the problem. Jason did a factory reset and that solved the problem. Leo says that may have indicated a failed update. The first thing he should do when something weird happens out of nowhere is to do a factory reset.
Is 5G Safe?
Episode 1588
Mike fromMike has heard that 5G is going to be bad for our health, as it "assaults" our internal organs. Is 5G safe? Leo says that you would have to have a lot of exposure to that energy and be very close for a long time to do damage. As the energy dissipates, it does very rapidly when the distance expands to just a few feet. Waves coming off a 5G tower just aren't that risky. It was the same hysteria that came with cell phones in the first place. Also, most people don't have 5G capable phones and won't for at least a year.
Samsung Delays Galaxy Fold Launch
Episode 1586
The Samsung Galaxy Fold got delayed earlier this week due to concerns with the phone and its design after some review units were damaged due to design issues of the phone. Leo was relieved to hear about the phone being delayed after the issues got reported weeks ago. However, he's is upset that Samsung sent a decease and desist letter to the iFixit, the repair guide website, to take down their breakdown of the Galaxy Fold.
How can I move data to my phone's SD card?
Episode 1587
Mark fromMark is trying to move hid download folder to his SD card on his Moto e5 mobile device. Leo says that SD cards on Android are a challenge. Generally, the app has to support storing the data to your SD card. Some apps are smart enough, some aren't. Downloaded apps are the same way. If the app doesn't know to check, you're stuck where it puts it. You can move media into the SD card through the storage settings in your phone though.
Why doesn't my new Phone work with Straight Talk?
Episode 1587
Douglas fromDoug has a mobile device through Straight Talk. But his internet access is terrible with his iPhone 5. He was told by Straight Talk that the iPhone 5 is being phased out and he'll have to get a new phone. Leo says that Apple has stopped supporting the iPhone 5 and it's likely Straight Talk is doing the same thing. So you should be able to take the SIM out and put it in the new one. If it doesn't work, then you can just get a new SIM card from Straight Talk.
What's a good first smartphone?
Episode 1587
Irwin fromIrwin has been using a flip phone for most of his life, but now he is starting to text and texting is a royal hassle on a flip phone. Leo says yes it is! What is the simplest option for him? He doesn't need the latest and greatest. A few apps. Maybe the occasional photo. Leo says that the iPhone is a great first smartphone. Android phones tend to be cheaper, but you want to get a phone that is constantly updated, so you want to be sure your carrier will update regularly. For Android, the Motorola Moto G6 or G7 is a great affordable option. $200-400.
Can the iPhone Show Me where I am?
Episode 1587
Mark fromMark needs to prove where he was to someone. Leo says that you can see where you've been by going to google.com/dashboard. Click on maps, then more, then timeline. If it's enabled in the application settings, you will see a history of where your phone has checked in within the network. It should go as far back as 18 months at least. If that isn't good enough, you could contact your carrier as they will have that information available. But that information is only available to law enforcement as they can get access to that information without a warrant. So using Google is your best bet.
Apple Cracks Down on Apps that Fight Phone Addiction
Episode 1587
Relying on a policy that no app can duplicate a function that Apple offers, Apple has removed 11 of 17 screentime and parental control apps. Some app makers have been shut down. OurPact, with 3 million downloads, was pulled, eliminating 80% of the developer's income. Kids Locks and Custodio have filed a complaint with the EU as a result. But Apple claims it's a privacy issue as the apps take too much personal information. Or are they just protecting their bread and butter? Leo says it depends on how you feel about it.
