TCL onetouch 4042S

Introduction

Note: This is a user manual for the TCL T312D. There may be some differences between the manual description and the phone's functionality, depending on your phone's software version or specific carrier services.

Help

Refer to the following resources for more common questions, software, and service information.

Go to Frequently Asked Questions

Visit www.tcl.com/global/en/service-support-mobile/faq.html

Find your serial number or IMEI

You can find the serial number or the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) on the packaging material. Or press *#06# on the phone. Or Settings > Regulations and safety > IMEI.

Obtain Warranty Service

First, follow the advice in this guide or visit https://www.tcl.com/global/en/support-mobile/service-center. Then, check the information for direct service hotlines at https://www.tcl.com/global/en/support-mobile/hotline.

For more information on the limited warranty, visit https://www.tcl.com/global/en/warranty.

View Legal Information

On the phone, go to Settings > About > Privacy and terms of use or Settings > Privacy and terms of use.

(1) Depending on the device you purchased.

Your Phone

1.1 Keys and Connectors

Diagram Description: The phone is shown from the front, back, and sides. Numbered callouts point to various buttons and ports.

• 1 Flashlight
• 2 Headphone jack
• 3 USB port
• 4 Camera
• 5 Speaker
• 6 SOS button
• 7 Volume button

Button Functions:

• (1) OK button: Confirm selection (press the center of the button). Press: Access the app list (from the home screen).
• (2) Left programmable button: Confirm selection. Press: Access the app list (from the home screen).
• (3) Call button: Answer/Make a call. Press: Enter the call log (from the Home screen).
• (4) Right programmable button (Back button): Press: Access contacts (from the Home screen).
• (5) End button: Press: End call. Long press: Lock/cancel call/return to the home screen.
• (6) Navigation button: Move up, down, left, or right in the menu. Press (from standby screen): Up: Access Messages. Down: Access Camera. Right: Access Entertainment. Left: Access Tools.
• (7) "5" button: On standby screen: Press: Enter the number "5". Long press: Activate/deactivate the flashlight.
• (8) "*" button: On standby screen: Press: Enter "*". Long press: Lock screen. In edit mode: Press: Enter symbols.
• (9) "#" button: On standby screen: Press: Enter "#". Long press: Activate/deactivate vibration function. In edit mode: Press: Change input method.

1.2 Getting Started

1.2.1 Setup

Removing the back cover and inserting the battery

Diagram Description: Four steps showing how to remove the back cover and insert the battery.

Inserting or removing the SIM/micro SD card

Insert the SIM card with the chip facing down and slide it into the slot. Ensure it is inserted correctly. To remove the card, push it and pull it out. Turn off your phone before inserting or removing the SIM/micro SD card.

Diagram Description: A view of the phone's interior showing slots for SIM1, SIM2, and micro SD card.

Charging the battery

Connect the battery charger to your phone and the power outlet.

• Be careful not to apply pressure when plugging the charger into the outlet.
• Ensure the battery is inserted correctly before connecting the charger.
• The outlet should be near the phone and easily accessible (avoid extension cords).

To reduce energy consumption and waste when the battery is fully charged, unplug your charger from the outlet, turn off Bluetooth or background apps when not in use, reduce backlight time, etc.

1.2.2 Powering on your phone

To power on your phone, press and hold the End button until the phone starts. It will take a few seconds for the screen to light up. Long press/Press (1) the left programmable button to unlock the phone.

Even if a SIM card is not installed, your phone will still be powered on and you can use some of its features.

1.2.3 Powering off your phone

To power off your phone, press and hold the End button.

(1) Depending on the device you purchased.

1.3 Home Screen

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the phone's home screen showing the time, date, network status, and app icons.

1 Status bar: Status/notification indicators.

1.4 App List

Press the left programmable button or the OK button on the Home screen to access the app list.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the phone's app list showing various icons like Messages, Contacts, Camera, Settings, etc.

1.4.1 Status bar (1)

The status bar appears at the top of your home screen. The icons indicate your phone's status, and new notifications appear in the status bar.

1.4.2 Changing the home screen wallpaper

• From the Home screen, press the OK button, select Settings ⚙️, and then press the navigation button to select Display > Wallpaper settings.
• Choose a new image from the options Static wallpaper or More images and press OK. Exit, and the new image will appear on the Home screen.

(1) The icons and images in this guide are provided for informational purposes only.

Call Logs

2.1 Making a call

Dial the number you want and press the Call button to make a call, or press the Right programmable button to select a contact from Contacts. Use the up and down arrows on the navigation buttons to select a contact and press the Call button. If you make a mistake, you can delete the incorrect digits by pressing the Right programmable button. To end the call, press the End button.

Diagram Description: A screenshot showing the dialer interface with a number entered and contact suggestions.

International call

To make an international call, press the * button twice to enter the "+" symbol, then enter the international country prefix followed by the phone number and press the Call button.

Emergency call

If your phone has network coverage, dial the emergency number and press the Call button to make an urgent call. Depending on your network and country, this may work even without a SIM card and without entering the SIM card PIN.

2.2 Answering or rejecting a call

When receiving a call:

• Press the Left programmable button or the Call button to answer.
• Press the Right programmable button or the End button to reject the call.

Diagram Description: A screenshot showing an incoming call screen with options to Answer or Reject.

2.3 Accessing voicemail (1)

• Press and hold the 1 button to call the voicemail.
• Follow the instructions to set up your voicemail account.

(1) Check if this service is provided by your network operator.

Messages

Use the messaging function to send and receive text messages (SMS/MMS).

3.1 Composing a message

• From the Home screen, press the OK button and select Messages > Compose message.
• Type the recipient's phone number in the To field or press the OK button to add recipients from contacts.
• Press the navigation button down to enter the text in the message field.
• When finished, press the OK button or the left programmable button to select Options > Send to send your message.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the compose message screen.

3.2 Sending a multimedia message

MMS allows you to send video clips, images, photos, contacts, and sounds. From the messages screen, select Options > Add and choose the attachment.

An SMS message is automatically converted to an MMS message when multimedia files (image, video, sound, etc.) are attached.

3.3 How to type a message

When in edit mode, you can press the keyboard to change the input method to access numbers 1,2,3... or long-press the corresponding key to get the desired number. You can enter text using predictive text input or press # to set the desired text input.

• For normal text input, press a number key, from 2 to 9, repeatedly until the desired character appears. If the next letter you want is on the same key as the current one, press the key repeatedly until the next cursor appears.
• Press the # key to select Abc/abc/ABC/123 modes or writing language.
• To enter punctuation or a special character, press the * key.
• If you want to delete already typed letters or symbols, press the Right programmable button to delete them one by one.

Settings

• SIM1/SIM2 Message center: You can view the message center number here.
• Message validity period: You can set the validity period for your message to 1, 6, 24, 72 hours, 1 week, or maximum.
• Status report: You can choose to enable or disable status reports.
• Reply path: Select the checkbox to enable the reply path.
• Coding management: You can set the character code to GSM-7 digit encoding, UCS2 encoding, or Automatic.
• Save sent messages: You can choose to save or not save sent messages.

Contacts

4.1 Accessing your contacts

Your Contacts offer easy and quick access to the contact you want to communicate with.

You can access this menu in one of the following ways:

• Press the OK button from the Home screen and select Contacts.
• Press the Right programmable button on the Home screen.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the contacts list showing contacts like 'Henry' and a search bar.

• Press the left programmable button to access more options.

4.2 Adding a contact

On your contact list screen, select Options > New to add new contacts with detailed information.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the 'New contact' screen with fields for Name, Mobile, Home, etc.

When finished, press the left programmable button to save.

4.3 Editing contacts

Select a contact, press the OK button to access Details, select Options > Edit, and press OK to edit.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the 'Edit contact' screen.

4.4 Deleting a contact

On the contact list screen, press the left programmable button to access Options, select Delete, and press the OK button to delete.

4.5 Available options

From the contact list, you can access the following options:

• New: Create a new contact on your phone or SIM card.
• Compose message: Send an SMS to a contact selected from Contacts.
• Call: Make a call to the selected contact.
• Delete: Delete the selected contact.
• Delete multiple: Delete one or more contacts at a time.
• Import/Export:
  • Import contacts: Import contacts to your phone.
  • Export contacts: Export contacts from the phone or SIM card.
• Send vCard: Send a contact via SMS/MMS/Bluetooth, depending on the device you purchased.
• Other:
  • Speed dial: Set up one or more speed dial contacts.
  • Memory status: Check the memory status of the phone and SIM card.
  • My number: Set your own name and mobile number.

SOS

From the Home screen, press the OK button and select SOS. To set the contacts to be called in SOS, press the up/down navigation button and select Contact list. To edit the predefined message, press the up/down navigation button and select Message.

The SOS function is enabled by default. To ensure it is enabled, press the up/down navigation button and select Enable, then press the OK button to mark the checkbox.

In case of sudden illness or other emergencies, press and hold the SOS button to activate an alarm, automatically send help messages, and call the predefined emergency contact numbers.

Gallery

The Gallery functions as a media player for viewing photos and playing videos. Additionally, a set of further functions for images and videos is available as an option. To access this function, press the OK button from the Home screen and select Gallery.

Camera

Your mobile phone is equipped with a camera for taking photos and recording videos.

7.1 Camera

To access this function, press the OK button from the Home screen and select Camera.

To take a picture

The screen acts as a viewfinder. Position the subject or landscape in the viewfinder and press the OK button to take photos, then press the left programmable button to save.

7.2 Video

To record a video

• Press the Left programmable button, select More options > DV mode.
• Press OK to record a video.
• When finished, press the Left programmable button. It will be saved automatically. You can view the file by pressing Gallery in the app list.

Tools

8.1 Alarm

Your phone has a built-in alarm clock with a snooze function. You can set up to three alarms with different wake-up times.

8.2 Clock

The clock displays the time based on your location when you insert the SIM card. You can select other cities to display their respective time zones.

8.3 Flashlight

With the OK button, you can turn the phone's flashlight on and off, providing a reliable light source whenever you need it.

8.4 Calculator

Press the up, down, left, right, and central programmable buttons to select the characters +, -, ×, ÷, and = respectively.

8.5 Calendar

Use the Calendar application to keep track of important meetings, appointments, etc.

To create a new event, select the date by pressing the navigation button and then press the OK button, fill in all the required information for this new event, and press the left programmable button to save.

8.6 Recorder

Use this function to record audio files. When completed, the file will be saved automatically.

8.7 My files

The My files option manages all files stored on the phone, including the external microSD™ card and internal storage.

8.8 Converter

The Converter supports the conversion of weight and length units.

Entertainment

This menu offers a variety of entertainment options, such as Music, FM radio, Facebook, Games, and Opera Mini, depending on the device you purchased.

To access this menu, press the OK button from the Home screen and select Entertainment.

Settings

To access this function, press OK from the Home screen and select Settings ⚙️.

10.1 Profiles

Profiles provide a range of settings to customize for different situations. You can set the sound to Normal, Silent, Meeting, Indoor, or Outdoor.

10.2 Bluetooth

You can exchange data, such as videos, images, and audio, with other Bluetooth-enabled devices within a limited range after pairing.

10.3 Phone settings

• Time and date: Allows you to change date and time settings, including 12/24 hour format and date format (Year-Month-Day/Month-Day-Year/Day-Month-Year). You can also choose automatic time display updates by selecting Settings > Phone settings > Time settings > Automatic time update.
• Language settings: You can customize various language-related options, such as display language and input language. Please note that the availability of certain languages and features may vary depending on your device model and software version.
• Shortcut settings: The Shortcut settings menu allows you to customize shortcuts for quick access to various features and functions of your device, such as contacts, messages, camera, etc.
• Auto power on/off: In this menu, you can set the desired time and days for the auto power on and off functions.
• Power management: In this menu, you can view the battery level.

10.4 Display

In this menu, you can set screen effects, wallpaper, auto-lock, etc. These features and settings contribute to improving the viewing experience, allowing you to personalize and optimize your device to suit your preferences and needs.

(1) Depending on the device you purchased.

10.5 View mode

There are two display modes: Super icon mode and 3*3 mode. In Super icon mode, each option is presented with large, distinct icons, while in 3*3 mode, menu options are arranged in a classic grid layout with smaller icons and accompanying text descriptions.

10.6 Security

You can protect your phone by enabling and changing the PIN and password. The default password is 1234 or 0000, depending on your provider. If problems persist, contact your provider.

This function also allows you to lock your phone by enabling PIN2 for fixed dialing.

• PIN: You must enter the SIM card's protection code each time you turn on the phone.
• Change PIN2: A protection code is required for certain SIM card functions (FDN) if you try to access the card. This option allows updating with a new code (4 to 8 digits).
• Phone lock: The unlock code is requested each time the phone is powered on.
• Change phone password: Change the phone's password (the default is 1234).
• Privacy: This allows locking applications. Enter the password (default is 1234) and select the checkbox to enable locking for Call logs, Messages, Camera, Contacts, My files, Calendar, etc.
• Screen lock with end button: Once this function is enabled, pressing the End button will immediately lock the screen. This function allows you to quickly secure your device with a simple press of the End button.
• Fixed dialing: Allows "locking" the phone so it only calls specific numbers, or numbers with specific prefixes. The PIN2 code is required to enable this function.

10.7 Call settings

• Dual-SIM: With the Dual SIM function, you have the flexibility to manage two phone numbers on one device.
• Call forwarding: You can enable, cancel, or check the status of call forwarding to voicemail or a specific number.
• Call waiting: Enable/disable the notification of a second call with a beep. You can also check the status of calls on hold.
• Call barring: This function allows you to restrict certain types of calls on your device. By enabling call barring, you can control incoming and outgoing calls, ensuring privacy, security, and avoiding unwanted disturbances.
• Hide ID: With Hide ID, you can selectively hide or mask your identity when communicating with others, ensuring your anonymity and protecting your sensitive data.
• Other: The Other menu provides convenient functions such as Call time reminder, Automatic redial, Vibration on connection, and Reply via SMS after rejection.

10.8 Connections

In this menu, you can configure the Network Account, Data Roaming, Network Selection, etc.

10.9 STK

The STK (SIM Toolkit) menu provides convenient SIM card management functions, such as SIM card services and SIM applications.

10.10 SOS

For detailed information, refer to the "5 SOS" section.

10.11 Call filter

Take control of your calls with Call Filter, block unwanted calls, and create custom blacklists.

10.12 Regulations and safety

View information about your phone, such as product model, manufacturer name, IMEI, CU report, etc.

10.13 About

You can view the Privacy and terms of use in this menu.

Troubleshooting

Before contacting the service center, we recommend following these instructions:

• For the best possible phone performance, we recommend fully charging the battery.
• Avoid storing large amounts of data on your phone as this may affect its performance.

And perform the following checks:

My phone won't turn off or is frozen

• Check the battery contacts, remove and reinsert the battery, then turn on your phone.
• Check the battery level and charge for at least 20 minutes.

My phone is unresponsive for a few minutes

• Restart your phone by pressing and holding the End call button.

My phone turns off by itself

• Check if your phone is locked when not in use and ensure you are not accidentally turning off your phone by pressing the End button.
• Check the battery charge level.

My phone cannot be charged correctly

• Ensure you are using a TCL battery and the charger from the box.
• Ensure your battery is inserted correctly. It must be inserted before connecting the charger.
• Ensure your battery is not completely discharged; if the battery has been empty for a while, it may take about 20 minutes for the charging indicator to appear on the screen.
• Ensure charging is performed under normal conditions (0°C to +40°C).
• When abroad, ensure the voltage input is compatible.

My phone cannot connect to a network or displays "No service"

• Try connecting in a different location.
• Check if there is network coverage from your phone carrier.
• Ask your phone carrier if your SIM card is still valid.
• Try selecting the available network manually.
• Try connecting later if the network is overloaded.

My phone cannot connect to the Internet

• Ensure the Internet access service for your SIM card is available.
• Check your phone's Internet connection settings.
• Ensure you are in a location with network coverage.
• Try connecting later or from another location.

Invalid SIM card

• Ensure the SIM card is inserted correctly.
• Ensure the SIM card chip is not damaged or scratched.

Unable to make outgoing calls

• Ensure you have dialed a valid number and pressed the Call option.
• For international calls, check country and area codes.
• Ensure your phone is connected to a network and the network is not overloaded or unavailable.
• Ask your phone carrier about your subscription status (units, SIM card validity, etc.).
• Ensure you have not selected outgoing call barring.
• Ensure your phone is not in flight mode.

Unable to receive incoming calls

• Ensure your phone is powered on and connected to a network (check if the network is overloaded or unavailable).
• Ask your phone carrier about your subscription status (units, SIM card validity, etc.).
• Ensure you have not forwarded incoming calls.
• Ensure you have not selected call barring for certain calls.
• Ensure your phone is not in flight mode.

The caller's name/number is not displayed when receiving a call

• Ask your phone carrier if you have subscribed to this service.
• The caller is not displaying their name or number.

I cannot find my contacts

• Ensure the SIM card is not broken.
• Ensure the SIM card is inserted correctly.
• Import all contacts stored on the SIM card into the phone.

Call quality is poor

• You can adjust the volume during a call by pressing the Volume Up/Down button.
• Check the network signal strength ?.
• Ensure the receiver, port, and phone's earpiece are clean.

I cannot use the features described in the user manual

• Ask your phone carrier about whether your subscription includes the specific service.
• Ensure this feature does not require TCL accessories.

When I select a number from my contacts, I cannot call it

• Ensure the number is correctly entered in your record.
• Ensure you have selected the country prefix when calling a country abroad.

I cannot add a contact to my contacts

• Ensure your SIM card contacts are not full; delete some entries or save them to phone contacts.

Callers cannot leave me a voicemail

• Check if this service is provided by your network operator.

I cannot access my voicemail

• Ensure your voicemail number is entered correctly.
• If the network is busy, try again later.

SIM card PIN is blocked

• Contact your network carrier to obtain the PUK code (Personal Unblocking Key).

The phone is not detected by others via Bluetooth

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and your phone is visible to other users.
• Ensure both phones are within Bluetooth detection range.

How can I transfer data between my phone and my computer?

• If you want to transfer data between a memory card/SD card and your computer, connect your phone to the computer via the user data cable and select "SD Card" on your phone. Then, you can transfer data between the two sources.

Specifications

Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Accessories

Basic accessories

• Battery
• Charger
• Quick start guide
• Protective screen film

• Accessories vary by country. • Use only TCL batteries, chargers, and accessories included with your device.

Licenses

The word mark and logos Bluetooth belong to Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of these marks by TCL Communication Ltd. and its subsidiaries is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

TCL T312D Bluetooth Declaration ID D049911