How to download and install BIG Launcher / BIG Phone / BIG SMS

The BIG Apps Suite offers a user-friendly interface for seniors and individuals with vision problems. To enjoy its full benefits, you'll need to install three core applications: BIG Launcher, BIG Phone for Seniors, and BIG SMS for Seniors. These apps are designed to work together seamlessly.

Note: The screens shown in the original video tutorial may reflect an older version of Android or the BIG Apps interface. While the core steps remain relevant, some visual elements might differ slightly on current devices.

Step 1: Install and Configure BIG Launcher

Downloading BIG Launcher

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for “BIG Launcher”.
3. Tap “Install” and wait for the app to download and install.
4. Once installed, tap “Open” to launch the app.

Initial Setup Wizard

Upon opening BIG Launcher for the first time, a setup wizard will guide you through basic configuration:

• Language Selection: A language will be automatically selected based on your phone's settings. You can choose a different language manually if needed.
• Text Size: You can choose the size of the text within BIG Launcher. The “Default” setting is recommended for most users. Larger fonts are available for those with significant vision challenges.
• Color Theme: Select one of three color themes. The Dark theme is designed to be easy on the eyes, and the Blue theme is also suitable for users with color blindness.
• Privacy Options: On the final screen, you can easily enable or disable the deletion of call history items, SMS messages, and contacts. Note: All these settings can be adjusted later in BIG Launcher’s Preferences.

Step 2: Install BIG Phone for Seniors

Downloading BIG Phone

From the BIG Launcher home screen:

1. Tap the phone button (typically a large icon representing a phone).
2. Select “Download and install the phone app”. This will direct you to the Google Play Store page for “BIG Phone for Seniors”.
3. Tap “Install” and wait for the app to complete its installation.
4. Once installed, tap “Open” to run the app.

Granting Permissions

BIG Phone for Seniors will require certain permissions to function correctly:

• When prompted, tap “Allow” to grant the app access to your call logs, contacts, and phone features. Without these permissions, the app may not work properly.

Step 3: Install BIG SMS for Seniors

Downloading BIG SMS

From the BIG Launcher home screen:

1. Tap the messages button (typically a large icon representing a message bubble).
2. Choose “Download and install the messages app”. This will take you to the Google Play Store page for “BIG SMS for Seniors”.
3. Tap “Install” and wait for the app to complete its installation.
4. Once installed, tap “Open” to run the app.

Setting as Default SMS App

You will be asked to set “BIG SMS for Seniors” as your default SMS app. Tap “Yes” to confirm.

Step 4: Set BIG Launcher as Your Default Home App

After installing all three applications, it's important to set BIG Launcher as your default home screen (launcher) for a consistent experience.

• Automatic Prompt: When you tap your device’s Home button, you should be prompted to select BIG Launcher as the default Home app. You can choose to save this selection so you won't be asked again.
• Manual Configuration: If the automatic prompt doesn't appear or doesn't work, you may need to set BIG Launcher as default manually through your device's system settings. The exact steps vary by Android version and device manufacturer.

For more detailed instructions on setting BIG Launcher as your default home screen, you may refer to the video “How to set BIG Launcher as a default home screen / launcher”.