Happy holidays to everyone! At this time of year gifts are given and gifts are received, and that includes smartphones, tablets and all manner of other techy products. If you were lucky enough to be gifted a new Windows Phone, then we're here to help you get the best out of it. If it's your first, then welcome!
But whether you're new to the platform or returning with a newer device, here's everything you need to know to get up and running with the best experience on your new Windows Phone.
The basics
Everyone needs to know the basics. If you've never held a Windows Phone before then you're potentially going to need a few pointers to get up and running. Check out the links below to see how to take care of some basics on getting your new Windows Phone working for you.
- How to take a screenshot in Windows Phone 8.1
- How to get your iTunes music onto your Windows Phone
- How to add Google contacts and calendars to your Windows Phone
- How to speed dial on Windows Phone 8.1
- How to create Live Folders on Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1
- How to move apps or games to an SD card in Windows Phone 8.1
- Setting up your Windows Phone Driving Mode
- MetroMail - A Gmail app for Windows Phone
Those are just but a few of the things you might want to know, but they'll help many get up and running. If you want to go digging for more, and even explore some more advanced tutorials, be sure to stop by our How-To hub.
- Help & How-To from Windows Central
Cortana
Worthy of breaking out separately, if you're in a supported region then you'll be able to use Windows Phone's very own voice assistant, Cortana. And just like her Halo namesake, Cortana can do a whole lot for you. From setting reminders to singing Christmas carols and a whole lot in between, check out our dedicated Cortana page at the link below for everything you'll ever need to know.
- All about Cortana
Download the best apps for your Windows Phone
The Windows Phone Store is full of great apps to suit all needs, but, finding them can still be a task. Fortunately we're here to help you wade through and separate the wheat from the chaff. We've rounded up all kinds of different best apps for different situations, and you'll find them all available to browse at your leisure at the link below.
- The best Windows Phone apps
Download the Windows Central app, of course!
You knew that was coming, right? But seriously, the Windows Central app (created by the amazing Jay Bennett) is something you should absolutely download. We'd love you to, but besides that it's a great way to keep up to date with everything happening in the world of Windows Phone (as well as Microsoft in general, Windows and Xbox) on the go. We've got a live tile, a lock screen, forums access, it's all there. We're immensely proud of it, so we hope you like it, too!
Join in the discussions in the Windows Central forums
The Windows Central forums are a buzzing, vibrant community filled with enthusiasts from across the globe. There's a wealth of knowledge, dedication and enthusiasm in there and any new members will be made to feel most welcome. Want to shoot the breeze about the latest, rumored devices? Got a question that you can't find the answer to anywhere? Just want to chat with some like minded folks? Jump in, there's something for everyone.
Hopefully that little lot will help you on your merry way. Here's to enjoying your new Windows Phone!
