Samsung Galaxy Tab A User manual

www.samsung.com
USER MANUAL
English (LTN). 08/2019. Rev.1.0
SM-T380
SM-T385M

2
Table of Contents
Basics
4 Read me first
6 Device overheating situations and
solutions
10 Device layout and functions
14 Battery
17 SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card)
(SM-T385M)
18 Memory card (microSD card)
22 Turning the device on and off
23 Initial setup
24 Samsung account
26 Transferring data from your previous
device (Smart Switch)
28 Understanding the screen
37 Notification panel
39 Entering text
Apps and features
41 Installing or uninstalling apps
43 Phone (SM-T385M)
48 Contacts
53 Messages (SM-T385M)
56 Internet
58 Email
59 Camera
69 Gallery
74 Multi window
77 Samsung Members
77 Samsung Notes
78 Calendar
80 Samsung Flow
81 My Files
82 Clock
83 Calculator
84 Bixby Home
86 Reminder
90 Kids Home
92 SmartThings
96 Sharing content
97 Google apps

Table of Contents
3
123 Google
124 Advanced features
125 Digital wellbeing
127 Device care
130 Apps
131 General management
132 Accessibility
132 Software update
133 User manual
133 About tablet
Appendix
134 Troubleshooting
Settings
99 Introduction
99 Connections
100 Wi-Fi
102 Bluetooth
104 Data saver (SM-T385M)
104 Mobile Hotspot and Tethering
(SM-T385M)
105 More connection settings
107 Sounds and vibration / Sound
107 Separate app sound
108 Notifications
108 App icon badges
109 Display
109 Blue light filter
110 Screen saver
110 Wallpaper
111 Lock screen
112 Smart Lock
112 Security
114 Secure Folder
119 Accounts and backup
120 Users
122 Samsung Cloud

4
Basics
Read me first
Please read this manual before using the device to ensure safe and proper use.
•
Descriptions are based on the device’s default settings.
•
Some content may differ from your device depending on the region, service provider,
model specifications, or device’s software.
•
Content (high quality content) that requires high CPU and RAM usage will affect the
overall performance of the device. Apps related to the content may not work properly
depending on the device’s specifications and the environment that it is used in.
•
Samsung is not liable for performance issues caused by apps supplied by providers other
than Samsung.
•
Samsung is not liable for performance issues or incompatibilities caused by edited
registry settings or modified operating system software. Attempting to customize the
operating system may cause the device or apps to work improperly.
•
Software, sound sources, wallpapers, images, and other media provided with this device
are licensed for limited use. Extracting and using these materials for commercial or other
purposes is an infringement of copyright laws. Users are entirely responsible for illegal
use of media.
•
You may incur additional charges for data services, such as messaging, uploading and
downloading, auto-syncing, or using location services depending on your data plan. For
large data transfers, it is recommended to use the Wi-Fi feature. (SM-T385M)
•
Default apps that come with the device are subject to updates and may no longer be
supported without prior notice. If you have questions about an app provided with
the device, contact a Samsung Service Center. For user-installed apps, contact service
providers.

Basics
5
•
Modifying the device’s operating system or installing softwares from unofficial sources
may result in device malfunctions and data corruption or loss. These actions are violations
of your Samsung license agreement and will void your warranty.
•
Depending on the region or service provider, a screen protector is attached for protection
during production and distribution. Damage to the attached screen protector is not
covered by the warranty.
•
You can see the touchscreen clearly even in strong outdoor sunlight by automatically
adjusting the contrast range based on the surrounding environment. Due to the nature
of the product, displaying fixed graphics for extended periods may result in afterimages
(screen burn-in) or ghosting.
–
It is recommended not to use fixed graphics on part or all of the touchscreen for
extended periods and turn off the touchscreen when not using the device.
–
You can set the touchscreen to turn off automatically when you are not using it.
Launch the
Settings app, tap Display
→
Screen timeout , and then select the length
of time you want the device to wait before turning off the touchscreen.
•
Depending on the region or model, some devices are required to receive approval from
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). If your device is approved by the FCC,
you can view the FCC ID of the device. To view the FCC ID, launch the
Settings app and
tap
About tablet
→
Status .
Instructional icons
Warning: situations that could cause injury to yourself or others
Caution: situations that could cause damage to your device or other equipment
Notice: notes, usage tips, or additional information

Basics
6
Device overheating situations and solutions
When the device heats up while charging the battery
While charging, the device and the charger may become hot. During wireless charging or fast
charging, the device may feel hotter to the touch. This does not affect the device’s lifespan or
performance and is in the device’s normal range of operation. If the battery becomes too hot,
the charger may stop charging.
Do the following when the device heats up:
•
Disconnect the charger from the device and close any running apps. Wait for the
device to cool down and then begin charging the device again.
•
If the lower part of the device overheats, it could be because the connected USB
cable is damaged. Replace the damaged USB cable with a new Samsung-approved
one.
•
When using a wireless charger, do not place foreign materials, such as metal objects,
magnets, and magnetic stripe cards, between the device and the wireless charger.
The wireless charging or fast charging feature is only available on supported models.

Basics
7
When the device heats up during use
When you use features or apps that require more power or use them for extended periods,
your device may temporarily heat up due to increased battery consumption. Close any
running apps and do not use the device for a while.
The following are examples of situations in which the device may overheat. Depending on
the functions and apps you use, these examples may not apply to your model.
•
During the initial setup after purchase or when restoring data
•
When downloading large files
•
When using apps that require more power or using apps for extended periods
–
When playing high-quality games for extended periods
–
When recording videos for extended periods
–
When streaming videos while using the maximum brightness setting
–
When connecting to a TV
•
While multitasking (or, when running many apps in the background)
–
When using Multi window
–
When updating or installing apps while recording videos
–
When downloading large files during a video call
–
When recording videos while using a navigation app
•
When using large amount of data for syncing with the cloud, email, or other accounts
•
When using a navigation app in a car while the device is placed in direct sunlight
•
When using the mobile hotspot and tethering feature
•
When using the device in areas with weak signals or no reception
•
When charging the battery with a damaged USB cable
•
When the device’s multipurpose jack is damaged or exposed to foreign materials, such as
liquid, dust, metal powder, and pencil lead
•
When you are roaming

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8
Do the following when the device heats up:
•
Keep the device updated with the latest software.
•
Conflicts between running apps may cause the device to heat up. Restart the device.
•
Deactivate the Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth features when not using them.
•
Close apps that increase battery consumption or that run in the background when
not in use.
•
Delete unnecessary files or unused apps.
•
Decrease the screen brightness.
•
If the device overheats or feels hot for a prolonged period, do not use it for a while. If
the device continues to overheat, contact a Samsung Service Center.
Device limitations when the device overheats
When the device heats up, the features and performance may be limited or the device may
turn off to cool down. The feature is only available on supported models.
•
If the device becomes hotter than usual, a device overheating message will appear. To
lower the device’s temperature, the screen brightness and the performance speed will be
limited and battery charging will stop. Running apps will be closed and you will only be
able to make emergency calls until the device cools down.
•
If the device overheats or feels hot for a prolonged period, a power off message will
appear. Turn off the device, and wait until it cools down.

Basics
9
Precautions for operating environment
Your device may heat up due to the environment in the following conditions. Use caution to
avoid shortening the battery’s lifespan, damaging the device, or causing a fire.
•
Do not store your device in very cold or very hot temperatures.
•
Do not expose your device to direct sunlight for extended periods.
•
Do not use or store your device for extended periods in very hot areas, such as inside a
car in the summertime.
•
Do not place the device in any areas that may overheat, such as on an electric heating
mat.
•
Do not store your device near or in heaters, microwaves, hot cooking equipment, or high
pressure containers.
•
Do not use a cable whose covering is peeled off or damaged, and do not use any charger
or battery that is damaged or malfunctioning.

Basics
10
Device layout and functions
Package contents
Check the product box for the following items:
•
Device
•
USB cable
•
Ejection pin
•
USB power adaptor
•
Quick start guide
•
The items supplied with the device and any available accessories may vary
depending on the region or service provider.
•
The supplied items are designed only for this device and may not be compatible
with other devices.
•
Appearances and specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
•
You can purchase additional accessories from your local Samsung retailer. Make
sure they are compatible with the device before purchase.
•
Use only Samsung-approved accessories. Using unapproved accessories may cause
the performance problems and malfunctions that are not covered by the warranty.
•
Availability of all accessories is subject to change depending entirely on
manufacturing companies. For more information about available accessories, refer
to the Samsung website.

Basics
11
Device layout
Front camera
Speaker (SM-T385M)
Power key
Volume key
Back key
Touchscreen
Home key
Recents key
Multipurpose jack (USB
Type-C)
►SM-T385M: SIM card /
Memory card tray
►SM-T380: Memory card
tray
Earphone jackRear camera
Main antenna
Flash
Main antenna (SM-T385M) Microphone
GPS antenna
Microphone
Speaker

Basics
12
•
When using the speakers, such as when playing media files or using speakerphone,
do not place the device close to your ears.
•
Be careful not to expose the camera lens to a strong light source, such as direct
sunlight. If the camera lens is exposed to a strong light source, such as direct
sunlight, the camera image sensor may be damaged. A damaged image sensor is
irreparable and will cause dots or spots in pictures.
•
If you use the device with its glass or acrylic body broken, there may be a risk of
injury. Use the device only after it has been repaired at a Samsung Service Center.
•
Connectivity problems and battery drain may occur in the following situations:
–
If you attach metallic stickers on the antenna area of the device
–
If you attach a device cover made with metallic material to the device
–
If you cover the device’s antenna area with your hands or other objects while
using certain features, such as calls or the mobile data connection (SM-T385M)
•
Using a Samsung-approved screen protector is recommended. Unapproved screen
protectors may cause the sensors to malfunction.
•
Do not allow water to contact the touchscreen. The touchscreen may malfunction
in humid conditions or when exposed to water.

Basics
13
Keys
Key Function
Power
•
Press and hold to turn the device on or off.
•
Press to turn on or lock the screen.
Recents
•
Tap to open the list of recent apps.
Home
•
Press to turn on the screen while the screen is locked.
•
Press to return to the Home screen.
•
Press and hold to launch Google Assistant .
Back
•
Tap to return to the previous screen.
•
Tap and hold to access additional options for the current
screen.
Volume
•
Press to adjust the device volume.

Basics
14
Battery
Charging the battery
Charge the battery before using it for the first time or when it has been unused for extended
periods.
Use only Samsung-approved chargers, batteries, and cables. Unapproved chargers or
cables can cause the battery to explode or damage the device.
•
Connecting the charger improperly may cause serious damage to the device. Any
damage caused by misuse is not covered by the warranty.
•
Use only USB Type-C cable supplied with the device. The device may be damaged
if you use Micro USB cable.
To save energy, unplug the charger when not in use. The charger does not have a
power switch, so you must unplug the charger from the electric socket when not in
use to avoid wasting power. The charger should remain close to the electric socket
and easily accessible while charging.
1 Connect the USB cable to the USB power adaptor.
2 Plug the USB cable into the device’s multipurpose jack.

Basics
15
3 Plug the USB power adaptor into an electric socket.
4 After fully charging, disconnect the charger from the device. Then, unplug the charger
from the electric socket.
Reducing the battery consumption
Your device provides various options that help you conserve battery power.
•
Optimize the device using the device care feature.
•
When you are not using the device, turn off the screen by pressing the Power key.
•
Activate power saving mode.
•
Close unnecessary apps.
•
Deactivate the Bluetooth feature when not in use.
•
Deactivate auto-syncing of apps that need to be synced.
•
Decrease the backlight time.
•
Decrease the screen brightness.

Basics
16
Battery charging tips and precautions
•
When the battery power is low, the battery icon appears empty.
•
If the battery is completely discharged, the device cannot be turned on immediately
when the charger is connected. Allow a depleted battery to charge for a few minutes
before turning on the device.
•
If you use multiple apps at once, network apps, or apps that need a connection to
another device, the battery will drain quickly. To avoid losing power during a data
transfer, always use these apps after fully charging the battery.
•
Using a power source other than the charger, such as a computer, may result in a slower
charging speed due to a lower electric current.
•
The device can be used while it is charging, but it may take longer to fully charge the
battery.
•
If the device receives an unstable power supply while charging, the touchscreen may not
function. If this happens, unplug the charger from the device.
•
While charging, the device and the charger may heat up. This is normal and should not
affect the device’s lifespan or performance. If the battery gets hotter than usual, the
charger may stop charging.
•
If you charge the device while the multipurpose jack is wet, the device may be damaged.
Thoroughly dry the multipurpose jack before charging the device.
•
If the device is not charging properly, take the device and the charger to a Samsung
Service Center.

Basics
17
SIM or USIM card (nano-SIM card) (SM-T385M)
Installing the SIM or USIM card
Insert the SIM or USIM card provided by the mobile telephone service provider.
•
Use only a nano-SIM card.
•
Use caution not to lose or let others use the SIM or USIM card. Samsung is not
responsible for any damages or inconveniences caused by lost or stolen cards.
Some services that require a network connection may not be available depending on
the service provider.
4 5
123

Basics
18
1 Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the tray to loosen the tray.
Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may
be damaged.
2 Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot.
3 Place the SIM or USIM card on the tray with the gold-colored contacts facing downwards.
4 Gently press the SIM or USIM card into the tray to secure it.
If the card is not fixed firmly into the tray, the SIM card may leave or fall out of the tray.
5 Insert the tray back into the tray slot.
•
If you insert the tray into your device while the tray is wet, your device may be
damaged. Always make sure the tray is dry.
•
Fully insert the tray into the tray slot to prevent liquid from entering your device.
Memory card (microSD card)
Installing a memory card
Your device’s memory card capacity may vary from other models and some memory cards
may not be compatible with your device depending on the memory card manufacturer and
type. To view your device’s maximum memory card capacity, refer to the Samsung website.
•
Some memory cards may not be fully compatible with the device. Using an
incompatible card may damage the device or the memory card, or corrupt the data
stored in it.
•
Use caution to insert the memory card right-side up.

Basics
19
•
The device supports the FAT and the exFAT file systems for memory cards. When
inserting a card formatted in a different file system, the device will ask to reformat
the card or will not recognize the card. To use the memory card, you must format it.
If your device cannot format or recognize the memory card, contact the memory
card manufacturer or a Samsung Service Center.
•
Frequent writing and erasing of data shortens the lifespan of memory cards.
•
When inserting a memory card into the device, the memory card’s file directory
appears in the
My Files
→
SD card folder.
►
SM-T385M:
4 5
123

Basics
20
►
SM-T380:
4 5
123
1 Insert the ejection pin into the hole on the tray to loosen the tray.
Ensure that the ejection pin is perpendicular to the hole. Otherwise, the device may
be damaged.
2 Pull out the tray gently from the tray slot.
When you remove the tray from the device, the mobile data connection will be
disabled. (SM-T385M)