For many people, making phone calls and sending messages are the most important reasons for owning a smartphone. If you are new to Android or recently switched from a basic phone, these simple tasks may feel unfamiliar at first. Android phones are designed to make communication easy, but understanding where to tap and what each option does can make a big difference. This beginner-friendly guide explains step by step how to make phone calls and send messages on Android, helping you communicate confidently and without confusion.
Understanding the Phone and Messages Apps on Android
Every Android phone comes with two essential apps already installed: the Phone app and the Messages app. The Phone app is used to make and receive calls, while the Messages app is used for sending and receiving text messages (SMS) and multimedia messages (MMS).
You’ll usually find these apps on the home screen or in the app drawer. The Phone app icon looks like a handset, and the Messages app usually looks like a speech bubble. These apps work together to manage all your communication in one place.
How to Make a Phone Call Using the Keypad
Making a call using the keypad is the most basic method and works just like a traditional phone.
- Open the Phone app
- Tap the Keypad option
- Enter the phone number you want to call
- Tap the Call button (usually a green phone icon)
Once the call connects, you can speak normally. During a call, you’ll see options like speaker, mute, keypad, and end call. To finish the call, tap the red End Call button.
This method is ideal when calling new numbers that are not saved in your contacts.
How to Call Someone from Your Contacts
Calling saved contacts is even easier and helps avoid dialing mistakes.
- Open the Phone app
- Tap Contacts or Recents
- Scroll or search for the contact name
- Tap the contact and press the Call icon
Your phone will automatically dial the saved number. This is the safest and fastest way to make calls, especially for frequently contacted people like family and friends.
Answering and Rejecting Incoming Calls
When someone calls you, your phone screen will light up with the caller’s name or number.
- To answer, swipe the green call icon
- To reject, swipe the red decline icon
If you cannot answer, the call will go to voicemail (if enabled). You can later check missed calls in the Phone app under the Recents section.
Using Speaker, Mute, and Other Call Options
During a call, Android provides useful features to improve convenience:
- Speaker: Enables hands-free calling
- Mute: Turns off your microphone
- Keypad: Useful for entering numbers during automated calls
- Add Call: Allows conference calls
- Bluetooth: Connects to wireless headsets
These features are especially helpful when multitasking or calling customer support services.
How to Send a Text Message (SMS) on Android
Sending a text message is simple and works even without internet access.
- Open the Messages app
- Tap Start Chat or New Message
- Enter the phone number or select a contact
- Type your message in the text box
- Tap the Send button
Your message will be delivered instantly if the recipient’s phone is available. Text messages are ideal for quick communication when calls are not convenient.
Sending Multimedia Messages (Photos and Videos)
Android also allows you to send pictures, videos, and audio files through messages.
- Open a conversation in the Messages app
- Tap the Attach or Plus (+) icon
- Select photo, video, or file
- Add optional text
- Tap Send
These are called MMS messages and may use mobile data. Make sure you have enough balance or an active data plan.
Reading and Replying to Messages
When you receive a message, a notification appears on your screen. Tap the notification to open the conversation.
To reply:
- Tap inside the text box
- Type your message
- Tap Send
Messages are saved automatically, allowing you to scroll through past conversations anytime.
Using Messaging Features Like Emojis and Voice Messages
Android messaging apps include features that make conversations more expressive.
- Emojis: Tap the emoji icon to add emotions
- Voice Messages: Hold the microphone icon to record and send audio
- Message Reactions: Some phones allow reacting to messages
These features enhance communication without requiring advanced skills.
Managing Call History and Messages
Your Android phone stores all call and message history.
- Call History: Open the Phone app and tap Recents
- Message History: Open the Messages app to view all chats
You can delete individual calls or entire message threads by long-pressing them and selecting delete. This helps keep your phone organized and private.
Adjusting Call and Message Settings
Android allows customization to improve your experience.
You can:
- Block unwanted numbers
- Set default ringtone and message tone
- Enable vibration
- Turn on voicemail
- Activate spam protection
These options are available in the settings menu of the Phone and Messages apps.
Common Problems and Easy Fixes
Beginners sometimes face small issues when calling or texting.
- Calls not connecting: Check signal strength or airplane mode
- Messages not sending: Ensure mobile network is active
- No sound during calls: Check volume and speaker settings
- Unknown numbers calling: Use block or spam filter options
Most issues can be fixed by restarting the phone or checking settings.
FAQ: Android Calls and Messages
Q1: Do I need internet to make phone calls?
No, regular phone calls work using your mobile network, not the internet.
Q2: Can I send messages without mobile data?
Yes, SMS messages work without internet access.
Q3: What’s the difference between SMS and chat messages?
SMS uses the mobile network, while chat messages use the internet.
Q4: How do I block spam calls?
Open the Phone app, tap the number, and select “Block.”
Q5: Are calls and messages saved automatically?
Yes, Android stores call logs and messages unless you delete them manually.
Conclusion
Making phone calls and sending messages on Android is simple once you understand the basics. With easy-to-use apps, clear icons, and helpful features, Android phones make communication accessible for everyone, including beginners. By learning how to dial numbers, manage contacts, send texts, and use messaging features, you can stay connected with confidence. Take your time to practice, explore settings, and soon these everyday tasks will feel completely natural.