Use AI to help someone set up a new phone

AI is great at turning confusing tech steps into short, large-print instructions anyone can follow, even when you can't be there in person.

A new phone is a lovely gift, until the setup questions start. Whether you're setting it up for a parent or you just got one yourself, an AI chat can explain each step in plain words and write simple instructions to keep next to the phone.

Step-by-step setup in plain words

Tell it the phone model and what you want to do, and ask for numbered steps with no tech words.

Example: "My mom, who is 78, just got an iPhone 16. Write simple numbered steps, no tech words, for: answering a call, calling me back, and turning up the volume. Keep each step to one short line."

Set up video calls with family

Ask for steps to make a FaceTime, WhatsApp, or Google Meet call, written for the person who will use them. Print them in large type and tape them inside the phone case or on the fridge.

Make it safer from day one

Ask: "What are the five most important safety settings for an older person's new phone, and how do I turn each one on?" Things like silencing unknown callers and spotting scam texts make a big difference.

When they call you with a question

Have them describe what they see on the screen, then ask AI to explain it simply so you can walk them through it. You can also ask it to rewrite the phone's own instructions in plain words.

Things to know

• Settings move around between phone models and updates. If a step doesn't match, tell AI the exact phone and what's on the screen.
• Never share passwords, PINs, or the phone's passcode in the chat.
• Our scam guides show how to check a suspicious text or a scary call from a "grandchild."