If
you're like most users, your mobile gadget represents a lifeline to the
rest of the world. You use it to connect to your network of contacts,
keep track of your busy schedule, review your social networks and surf
the Web. It's your gaming console, your tip calculator and your digital
camera. Any device that plays such a massive role in your everyday life
deserves to be customized to reflect your personality.
Personalize the Home Screen
Using
your mobile device's main display options, you can select from a
variety of home screen customizations. Change the theme and color scheme
or select a new font and increase its size. Add one of the built-in
widgets or try out others in the app market and set a personal photo as
wallpaper. To change the default look and feel of the home screen
entirely, install a launcher app. These tools―which don't require root
access―offer alternate home screen designs that override the device's
standard offerings.
Configure Sounds
While
a custom ringtone identifies your mobile device from afar, it also says
a lot about your personality. You're not restricted to a single
ringtone for all incoming calls, so use a variety of your favorite
sounds. Select an audio file―like an MP3 song or a voice recording―for
your work contacts and another for your spouse, friends and parents. Do
the same for notifications so you have an easier time differentiating
between a new email and a new text message. You can also assign sounds
for your alarms, phone keypad and touch-screen gestures.
App It Up
Mobile
devices typically come with standard apps, like an email reader, a Web
browser and an alarm clock. There's a massive catalog of apps available
in the market that make the gadget even more entertaining, effective and
efficient. Sync your to-do lists to the cloud with a note-taking app,
listen to the radio with an AM/FM widget or manage your connections with
a social networking app. Consider every element of your life―your work
life, your hobbies, your community or your television-watching
habits―and then select apps that best help you manage them.
Skins and Cases
A
skin adheres to the gadget like a sticker whereas a case clips on, but
both offer varying degrees of protection and make the gadget easier to
identify. "Skins are about five millimeters thick and protect from minor
scratching," says Melissa Huempfner, an adviser for custom skin and
case manufacturer DecalGirl, "but a case offers more impact protection."
She points to a line of lightweight cases that "are only twice the
thickness of a skin and don't add much more bulk." Stronger models, like
those with rubber bumpers or waterproofing, are also available if
additional protection is needed.
Security Mods
After
everything you've done to modify the system settings, configure apps
and dress up the outside, it's wise to protect your device from unwanted
access or further changes. This type of customization adds protection
instead of personality and is set using the system's security options. A
swipe or wake-up command, for example, prevents accidental pocket
dialing but provides quick touch-screen access when you need it. A
pattern or PIN code takes security a step further, preventing
unauthorized access to your apps, email and other private data.
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