Consumer Cellular Link III

Welcome!

This guide will help you get the most out of your new Consumer Cellular Link III. You'll find instructions to help you begin using your device. If you need more assistance, feel free to contact us by using the contact information listed below. We're always happy to help you!

Need More Information?

Visit our website at ConsumerCellular.com/Help

Call us at (888) 835-6047

Setting Up Your Phone

Installing a microSDHC™ Card

Power off your phone before installing or removing the microSDHC card.

1. Place your finger in the slot at the lower left of the back cover to lift and remove the cover.
2. If the battery is installed, remove it.
3. Hold your microSDHC card with the metal contacts facing down and slide it into the microSDHC card slot.
4. Install the battery.
5. Press the cover gently back into place until you hear a click.

Charging the Battery

You should fully charge the battery as soon as possible. If the battery is low, there will be a pop-up message on the screen. As you charge your phone, the external screen will show the battery level in the status bar.

WARNING! Use only approved chargers and USB Type-C cables. The use of unapproved accessories could damage your phone or cause the battery to explode.

1. Connect the adapter to the charging port.
2. Connect the charger to a standard AC wall outlet. If the phone is on, you'll see a charging icon, such as [charging icon] or [battery full icon], appear in the status bar.
3. Disconnect the charger when the battery is fully charged.

Removing the microSDHC Card

1. With the phone powered off, open the back cover and remove the battery.
2. As shown, press the soft blocks [1] that keep the card in place and slide the microSDHC card [2] out.

WARNING! Do not remove the card with sharp objects. You may damage the card slot and make the phone unable to read the card, or you could hurt yourself.

Getting to Know Your Phone

Phone Components

• Earpiece
• Auxiliary Microphone
• Internal Display
• 4-way Navigation Key
• Left Soft Key
• Send Key
• Camera Key
• Voicemail Key
• Speaker Key
• Main Microphone
• OK Key
• Right Soft Key
• Power/End Key
• Clear Key
• Silent Mode Key
• Fav Key
• Camera
• Charging/USB Type-C Jack
• External Display
• Volume Up Key
• Volume Down Key
• 3.5 mm Headset Jack
• Speaker
• Back Cover

Notifications

The status bar at the top of the home screen provides phone and service status icons, and notification icons. You can also check the phone status and notifications with different icons on the external display.

Internal Display: Phone and Service Status Icons

• [No Signal] No signal
• [Signal Strength] Signal strength
• [No SIM Card] No nano-SIM card installed
• [4G LTE Connected] 4G LTE connected
• [Mute Mode] Mute mode
• [Silent Mode] Silent mode
• [Low Battery] Battery low
• [Battery Full] Battery full
• [Battery Charging] Battery charging
• [Wired Headset Connected] Wired headset connected
• [Airplane Mode] Airplane mode
• [Bluetooth On] Bluetooth on
• [Speaker On] Speaker on
• [Microphone Off] Phone microphone off
• [Alarm Set] Alarm set

Internal Display: Notification Icons

• [New SMS/MMS] New SMS/MMS
• [Missed Call] Missed call
• [Call in Progress] Call in progress
• [Call on Hold] Call on hold
• [Song Playing] Song playing
• [Upcoming Event] Upcoming event

External Display Icons

• [New SMS/MMS] New SMS/MMS
• [Missed Call] Missed call
• [Upcoming Event] Upcoming event
• [Battery Level] Battery level
• [No Signal] No signal
• [Signal Strength] Signal strength
• [4G LTE Connected] 4G LTE connected
• [Airplane Mode] Airplane mode
• [Alarm Set] Alarm set

Navigation Keys

• Power/End Key: Press and hold to power on or power off. Press to end or reject a call or go to the home screen.
• Left Soft Key: Press to select the option at the bottom left corner of the display, which changes depending on the application/function in use.
• Right Soft Key: Press to select the option at the bottom right corner of the display, which changes depending on the application/function in use.
• 4-way Navigation Key: Press up, down, left, or right to navigate to and highlight options on the display, or to move the cursor when entering text or numbers.
• OK Key: Press to select the option at the bottom center of the display (which changes depending on the application/function in use) or the highlighted option in a list.
• Send Key: Press to answer or place a call, or view call history from the home screen.
• Speaker Key: Press to silence or restore the incoming call ringtone. During a phone call, press to turn on or off speakerphone.
• Volume Up/Down Key: Press to turn the volume up or down. Turn down to volume 0 to enable silent mode.
• Camera Key: Press to launch the Camera application from the home screen or the apps menu. When the Camera app is opened, press the key to take a picture or record a video.
• Clear Key: Press to delete text or numbers before the cursor.
• Voicemail Key: Press and hold in the home screen to check your voicemail.
• Silent Mode Key: Press and hold in the home screen to turn silent mode on or off. While entering text, press and hold to change the input mode.
• Fav Key: Press to view favorite contacts.

Opening Applications & Personalizing

Opening Applications

1. Press the Power/End Key if the current screen is not the home screen.
2. Select Menu by pressing the OK Key.
3. Use the 4-way Navigation Key to highlight an application and then press the OK Key to open it.

Personalizing

You can change the ringtones or the font size.

• From the home screen, select Menu > Sound & notifications > Phone ringtone / Default notification ringtone / Default alarm ringtone and select a sound.
• From the home screen, select Menu > Display > Font size and select an option.

Calling and Voicemail

Making a Call

1. From the home screen, use the keypad to enter the phone number. Use the Clear Key to delete incorrect entry.
2. Press the Send Key to place the call.
3. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, select Options > Switch to RTT call during the call to send and read Real-Time Text.

Note: To call a contact, press the Left Soft Key in the home screen, highlight a contact, and press the Send Key.

Checking Voicemail

1. From the home screen, press and hold the Voicemail Key. If prompted, enter your voicemail password.
2. Follow the voice prompts to listen to and manage your voicemail messages.

Note: For detailed information, please contact Customer Service.

Using Real-Time Text (RTT)

Switch between normal voice call and RTT call, whichever makes a live conversation easier.

• During a voice call, select Options > Switch to RTT call to exchange Real-Time Text. The voice conversation will not be affected.
• Select Options > Switch to voice call to return to normal voice call.

Note: You can set RTT call as the default call mode for outgoing and incoming calls or select the call mode each time before placing a call. From the home screen, select Menu > Call settings > RTT settings.

Address Book

Creating a New Contact

1. From the home screen, press the Left Soft Key.
2. Select Options > New contact.
3. Enter the contact name, phone number, and other information, as shown.
4. Select Save to save the contact.

Importing Contacts in Batches

1. From the home screen, press the Left Soft Key.
2. Select Options > Import/Export > Import from storage.
3. If prompted, choose to import one, multiple, or all vCard files.

Adding Contacts to Favorites

You can add contacts to favorites to make them one key-press away with the Fav Key.

1. From the home screen, press the Left Soft Key.
2. Press up or down on the 4-way Navigation Key to highlight a contact.
3. Press the OK Key.
4. Select Options > Add to favorites.

Note: Open a favorite contacts and select Options > Remove from favorites to remove the contact from favorites.

Text Messaging

1. From the home screen, press the Right Soft Key.
2. Select Options > New message.
3. Enter the recipient(s) and message text. Select Options > Insert quick reply to insert common replies. If you want to send an MMS, select Options > Add attachments to add a picture, a video, an audio clip, or a vCard contact file to the message.
4. Press the OK Key to send the message.

Please don't text and drive.

Customizing the Home Screen

Applying New Wallpapers

1. From the home screen, select Menu > Display > Wallpaper.
2. Select Gallery or Wallpapers.
3. Select the image you need.

For Wallpapers images, use the 4-way Navigation Key to select and preview the image. For Gallery images, use the 4-way Navigation Key and the OK Key to select an image. You can select the area you want to use by panning (using the 4-way Navigation Key) or zooming (using the Left Soft Key to zoom out and the Right Soft Key to zoom in).

1. Select Save or Set.

Camera and Video

Taking a Photo

1. From the home screen, press the Camera Key or select Menu > Camera.
2. Aim the camera at the subject and press the Right Soft Key to adjust camera settings. Press up or down on the 4-way Navigation Key to zoom in or out.
3. Press the OK Key or the Camera Key to take a picture.

Recording a Video

1. From the home screen, press the Camera Key or select Menu > Camera.
2. Press right on the 4-way Navigation Key to switch to the video recorder.
3. Aim the camera at the subject and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Press the OK Key or the Camera Key to start and stop recording.

Playing Music

1. From the home screen, select Menu > Music.
2. Press left or right on the 4-way Navigation Key to view songs, playlists, artists, albums, genres, folders, and favorites.
3. Highlight a song and press the OK Key to play it.

Playback Controls:

• OK Key: pause/resume
• 4-way Navigation Key left: press to skip to the previous song; press and hold to rewind
• 4-way Navigation Key right: press to skip to the next song; press and hold to fast forward

Connectivity

Connecting with a Bluetooth® Headset

Turn on the Bluetooth headset and switch it to pairing mode. Refer to the headset's user guide for more information.

1. From the home screen, select Menu > Wireless & networks > Bluetooth.
2. Press the Left Soft Key if Bluetooth is off. When Bluetooth is on, the [Bluetooth Icon] appears in the status bar.
3. Note: Your phone automatically scans for and displays the IDs of all available Bluetooth devices in range.
4. Highlight the device you want to pair with and press the OK Key. Enter a passcode if prompted.
5. If necessary, highlight the ID of the paired headset and press the OK Key to connect with it.

Tip: Highlight the ID of the connected headset and press the OK Key to end the connection.

For Your Safety

FCC RF Exposure Information (SAR)

This phone is designed to comply with radio frequency (RF) energy emission limits set by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). During testing, the device transmitted at its highest certified power level. Actual SAR levels may be lower as the phone operates at multiple power levels. The FCC SAR limit is 1.6 W/kg. This device complies with SAR for general population/uncontrolled exposure limits. For body-worn operation, maintain a separation of 0.4 inches (10 mm) from your body. Use belt clips or holsters without metallic components.

FCC Regulations

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it must not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with limits for a Class B digital device, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try measures like reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, or connecting to a different circuit. Contact Customer Service at (888) 835-6047 for assistance. Unauthorized modifications may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC)

This phone is compliant with FCC HAC regulations (ANSI C63.19-2011). Digital phones may sometimes cause interference with hearing devices due to RF energy. The phone is rated M4/T4, indicating good compatibility. Consult your hearing device manufacturer or professional for more information and to test compatibility.

For more information, visit fcc.gov/general/disability-rights-office.

Distractions

Driving: Full attention is required for driving. Using a phone while driving can cause distraction and accidents. Comply with local laws regarding wireless device use while driving.

Operating Machinery: Full attention is required for operating machinery to prevent accidents.

Product Handling

Handle your phone and accessories with care. Keep them clean. Clean with a soft cloth; avoid alcohol or corrosive substances. Do not expose to flames, liquids, or high humidity. Do not drop, throw, or bend. Do not use harsh chemicals or aerosols. Do not paint. Do not attempt to disassemble; only authorized personnel should service the phone. Do not place near heating equipment or high-pressure containers. Dispose of electronic products according to local regulations. Avoid carrying the phone in a back pocket.

Battery Safety

WARNING: Using unapproved batteries, chargers, or adapters can damage the device, shorten its lifespan, or cause fire/explosion.

Recommended temperatures: 32°F to 95°F (0°C to 35°C) for operation; -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C) for storage. Extreme temperatures can damage the device and battery. Keep the device and battery away from heat and direct sunlight. Disconnect the charger when fully charged to preserve battery life. Do not short-circuit the battery.

Do not throw batteries into fire. Do not disassemble, squeeze, or puncture batteries. If a battery is damaged or swelling, stop use and contact Customer Service. Return used batteries to a designated recycle place. Risk of explosion if the wrong battery model is replaced. If the battery is broken, avoid contact with contents; rinse skin immediately with water and seek medical help.

Small Children

Keep phones and accessories out of reach of children to prevent injury or accidental damage. The phone contains small parts that could be a choking hazard.

Demagnetization

Keep electronic devices or magnetic media away from the phone to avoid demagnetization.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Do not touch the metallic connectors of the nano-SIM card and microSDHC card.

Antenna

Do not touch the antenna unnecessarily.

Normal Use Position

Hold the phone to your ear for calls, with the bottom toward your mouth.

Airbags

Do not place the phone in or near airbag deployment areas. Place the phone in a safe, secure area before driving.

Seizures/Blackouts

The phone's bright or flashing light may affect a small percentage of people, potentially causing seizures or blackouts. If you have a history of such occurrences, consult a physician. Use the phone in a well-lit room and take frequent breaks.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

To minimize RSI risk when texting or gaming: do not grip too tightly, press buttons lightly, use special features (e.g., Message Templates, Predictive Text), and take frequent breaks.

Emergency Calls

This phone relies on radio signals and cannot guarantee connection in all conditions. Do not rely solely on this phone for emergency communications.

Loud Noise

The phone can produce loud noises that may damage hearing. Turn down the volume before using headphones or audio devices.

Phone Heating

The phone may become warm during charging and normal use.

Electrical Safety

Use only approved accessories. Do not connect incompatible products. Avoid touching the device to metallic objects or allowing them to contact charging port/battery terminals. Never puncture the phone with sharp objects.

Connection to Vehicles: Seek professional advice for connecting phone interfaces to vehicle electrical systems.

Faulty and Damaged Products: Do not attempt to disassemble. Only qualified personnel should service. If submerged, punctured, or severely dropped, have it checked by an authorized service center before use.

CTIA Requirements

Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, or shred the battery. Do not modify, remanufacture, insert foreign objects, immerse in liquids, expose to fire, or other hazards.

Radio Frequency Interference

General: Be cautious using the phone near personal medical devices (pacemakers, hearing aids). Consult doctors and manufacturers regarding potential interference.

Pacemakers: Maintain at least 15 cm (6 inches) separation. Use the phone on the opposite ear to your pacemaker and do not carry it in a breast pocket.

Hearing Aids: Users may experience interference. Increasing separation may reduce it. Consult your hearing aid manufacturer.

Medical Equipment: Turn off the device in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities when requested to prevent interference with sensitive equipment.

Aircraft

Turn off the device when instructed by airline staff. Enable airplane mode when boarding.

Interference in Vehicles

Some vehicle manufacturers prohibit mobile phone use unless a hands-free kit with an external antenna is installed, due to potential interference with vehicle electronics.

Explosive Environments

Gas Stations/Explosive Atmospheres: Obey signs to turn off wireless devices in fueling areas, near fuel transfer facilities, or where air contains chemicals or particles (grain, dust, metal powders).

Blasting Caps/Areas: Power off the phone in blasting areas or where signs instruct to power off "two-way radios" or "electronic devices" to avoid interfering with blasting operations.

Support

For assistance, please contact:

Website: ConsumerCellular.com/Help

Telephone: (888) 835-6047

Need to test your cellphone?

You can place a FREE test call by dialing (888) 460-8781 from your cellular phone. If the call is completed correctly, you will hear a recorded message confirming your cellphone is working.

Check your minutes or change your plan.

With Consumer Cellular, you are in control. To check your usage and change your plan, go to My Account at ConsumerCellular.com or call (888) 835-6047 anytime. The call is free.

Warranty

This product is guaranteed for 12 months from the date of purchase. For service or support, please contact the place of purchase. Proof of purchase is required.

This guarantee does not apply to faults caused by accident, damage, liquid ingress, negligence, abnormal usage, non-maintenance, thunderstorms, or voltage fluctuations. As a precaution, disconnect the charger during thunderstorms. Batteries are consumables and are not included in the guarantee. Using batteries other than Consumer Cellular original batteries voids this guarantee.