Learn How To Talk About Smartphones In English

Summary

In this lesson, Bob, the Canadian, explains various terms and features related to smartphones. He covers common names for the device like mobile phone, cell phone, and smartphone, as well as essential functions such as unlocking the phone, using the fingerprint scanner or PIN, and managing volume settings. Bob also introduces key features like the front and rear cameras, the SIM card slot, and the headphone jack. He touches on Bluetooth earbuds, taking selfies, and using apps. The lesson serves as a quick guide to understanding and using smartphones, a device central to modern life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Smartphones are commonly referred to as 'phones' nowadays, as most people no longer have traditional landline phones.
• 😀 To use a smartphone, you need a data plan or service plan from a service provider (cell phone provider).
• 😀 Phones can be unlocked using methods such as fingerprint scanners or PIN numbers.
• 😀 Smartphones typically have physical buttons for power and volume control, as well as a screen that displays icons for apps.
• 😀 There are two main types of cameras on modern smartphones: front-facing (selfie) and rear-facing (regular).
• 😀 The phone’s ringer can be turned off, and it can also be set to vibrate or muted for quiet notifications.
• 😀 Many people use a protective case or cover to safeguard their smartphones from damage.
• 😀 SIM cards are used for cell phone service, and they can be swapped out if traveling to other countries for temporary service.
• 😀 Smartphones have ports (like charging ports) and jacks (such as headphone jacks) for additional accessories.
• 😀 Apps are accessed through icons on the phone’s home screen, and pressing an icon opens the respective app.
• 😀 Bluetooth earbuds or headphones allow wireless listening to music and are often used during activities like exercising.

Q & A

What are the different terms used to refer to a smartphone in English?

In English, a smartphone can be referred to as a mobile phone, cell phone, or simply a phone. 'Phone' has become the most common term as people no longer use traditional landlines.

What is a data plan or service plan for a smartphone?

A data plan or service plan is a subscription you get from a cell phone provider to access mobile services like calls, texts, and internet. You pay a monthly fee for the service.

What are the different methods to unlock a smartphone?

A smartphone can be unlocked using a fingerprint scanner or by entering a PIN number. The fingerprint scanner is a quick method, while the PIN number provides an alternative for unlocking.

What are the functions of the buttons on a smartphone?

A smartphone typically has several buttons: a power button to turn the phone on/off, a volume up and down button to control the sound, and other buttons for specific features depending on the model.

What is the difference between a front-facing and a rear-facing camera?

A front-facing camera, also called a selfie camera, is used for taking pictures or videos of yourself, often for video calls. A rear-facing camera is used for taking pictures or videos of the surrounding environment.

What does it mean when a phone is set to vibrate or muted?

When a phone is set to vibrate, it will not make sound but instead vibrate to alert the user. If the phone is muted, all sounds, including notifications and ringtones, are turned off completely.

Why would someone use a protective case or cover for their smartphone?

A protective case or cover is used to safeguard the smartphone from physical damage like drops or scratches. It also helps protect the phone from dust and dirt.

What is a SIM card and why is it important?

A SIM card is a small card that stores information about your cell phone plan, allowing your phone to connect to a service provider's network. It is essential for using mobile services and can be replaced or swapped when traveling internationally.

What are Bluetooth headphones and why are they convenient?

Bluetooth headphones are wireless headphones that connect to your phone using Bluetooth technology. They are convenient because they allow you to listen to music or take calls without the hassle of cables.

What is the difference between portrait mode and landscape mode when taking selfies?

Portrait mode is when you take a selfie holding the phone upright, while landscape mode is when you take a selfie with the phone held sideways. The orientation affects the composition and appearance of the photo.