Chapter 6: Apps and Software—The Tools Inside Your Devices
Your phone, tablet, and computer are like empty houses when you first buy them.
They become useful because of software and apps, which are the tools that live inside the device.
This chapter explains what software is, what apps are, and how to think about them simply and safely.
1. What Is Software?
Software is the set of instructions that tells a device what to do.
If your device is a car, software is the engine and controls that make it run.
If your device is a house, software is the plumbing and electricity that make it livable.
Some software comes built into the device. Other software is added later.
You do not need to understand how software is made. You only need to know that software is what makes your device useful.
2. What Is an App?
An app (short for application) is a small piece of software designed for a specific purpose.
Think of apps like appliances in a kitchen. Each one does a particular job.
For example, there are apps for:
Email
Messages and texting
Photos
Maps and directions
Weather
Banking
Healthcare portals
Television and music
You open an app, do a task, and close it—just like using a toaster or a microwave.
3. Built-In Apps vs. Downloaded Apps
Most devices come with basic apps already installed, such as phone, messages, photos, and a web browser.
You can also download new apps from an app store. This is similar to buying a new appliance for your home.
For seniors, it is best to:
Keep the number of apps small
Only install apps you understand and trust
Focus on apps that solve a real problem or bring enjoyment
More apps do not mean a better experience.
4. Programs on Computers
On computers, apps are often called programs.
Examples include:
Word processing (for writing letters)
Email programs
Web browsers
Financial and tax software
The idea is the same: programs are tools for specific tasks, but they often have more features and complexity than phone apps.
5. Why Apps and Software Change So Often
You may notice apps update frequently or look different over time.
This happens because:
Companies add features
Security is improved
Devices become more powerful
Designers try to make things simpler
This does not mean you must relearn everything. Most changes are small, and the basic purpose of the app remains the same.
6. A Healthy Way to Think About Apps
It is easy to feel pressure to use many apps because others talk about them.
A better approach is to think of apps as tools you choose, not obligations.
Ask yourself:
Does this app make my life easier?
Does it help me communicate, stay organized, or enjoy myself?
Or is it something I feel pressured to use?
It is perfectly acceptable to use only a few apps.
7. Safety and Trust
Not all apps are trustworthy. Some are scams or poorly designed.
Basic safety rules:
Download apps only from official app stores
Avoid apps that promise unrealistic benefits
Ask a trusted person before installing financial or health-related apps
Remove apps you do not use
We will cover online safety in detail in a later chapter.
8. A Simple Mental Model
Device = the tool (phone, tablet, computer)
Software = the system that makes it run
Apps = the specific tools you choose to use
You are not required to use every tool in the toolbox.
What’s Next
Chapter 7: Communication—Email, Texting, and Video Calls
We’ll explain the main ways people communicate digitally today, how they differ, and how to choose what feels comfortable for you.