If you're a brand new Android owner, the phone's operating system is likely Jelly Bean or Ice Cream Sandwich. You shouldn't have to upgrade anything, but there might be newer versions of built-in apps. (We'll get to that later.)
You'll have to set up a Google account, which should be fairly easy if you already use Gmail. If you're completely new to Google, consider a couple things before even setting up your phone.
Switching from an older Android requires a bit more prep, but it's not impossible. Once you have a Google account, simply log in and sync accounts to receive your email and contacts. Some of your data, like photos and apps, will not transfer as easily, but there are a few ways to get around that.
The easiest way is to purchase the MyBackup Pro app. It'll cost you $4, but the app backs up data and restores it to a new device.
If you'd rather start with a clean slate, without losing old photos, store all of your data in the cloud. Apps like Dropbox will back up data, but you can manually restore specific items to the new device.
Apps will need to be re-downloaded manually on a new device. Any apps purchased on a former Android will not need to be purchased again, but you will have to download those again, too.
Get Connected
The first thing to do before playing around with your new phone is to set up a Wi-Fi connection.
Hit the Menu button, and choose Settings. Then select Wireless & Networks and connect to the proper Wi-Fi as you would anywhere with a computer.
You'll also have the option to connect to mobile networks -- those settings can be found in the same menu. Your phone runs on 3G or 4G mobile networks when there is not a Wi-Fi connection.
It's important to connect your phone to Wi-Fi when it's available, because running on mobile networks uses data. Each download will cost data, which can quickly run over when you first get a new phone and want to try new apps. Running over on data can be very expensive.
Apps on Apps on Apps
Now that you're up and running, it's time to dive into the Google Play Store and get the apps that will make your life easier and more efficient.
There are so many apps for every aspect of your life. It depends on whether you want something entertaining, educational, fun, informative, creative or navigational. Sifting through apps can feel overwhelming -- trial and error is the best way to approach the task. You can always uninstall an app if you don't want it.
If you plan on purchasing anything, you'll need a credit card. Your information will be stored securely, so you'll only need to enter this once. But that doesn't mean you have to spend money -- there are plenty of free apps that will help you just as effectively.
Your phone will already have built-in apps, which differ with every manufacturer. These are likely due for an update before you even log into the new device. You can update them all at once by opening the Play Store, tapping the Menu button and selecting "My Apps."
The Google Play Store can be accessed and adjusted from your phone or a desktop when logged into your Google account. You can install, update or remove any app from your phone via the store.
Google's native apps should already be built in the device. If you can't function without these tools -- which is likely why you went with Android -- you won't be disappointed with the mobile versions.
If you juggle more than one email address, Gmail will access multiple accounts in one device.
Google Maps is a seamless GPS system, plus the updated app gives offline maps, indoor navigation and recommendations for nearby places.
What to Do With Your New Android