Skip to main content

Set up Sidephone for the first time

A step-by-step guide that outlines which tasks to complete in order to get Sidephone up-and-running.

Updated this week

Summary

To set up Sidephone for the first time, insert a keypad, power on the device, and complete the on-screen Setup Wizard using the touchscreen. After setup, configure your keypad for use, and optionally install apps or add a mobile plan.

If you have a Compact QWERTY keypad, install JakeType as an application from the Input App Pack and enable it as a software keyboard. JakeType is the predictive text software keyboard that allows the keypad to function.

Steps

  1. Insert a compatible Sidephone keypad into the device until it magnetically seats.

  2. Hold the power button on the right side for 3 seconds and then release the button to turn on Sidephone.

    1. Note: It is normal for the phone's first boot to take longer than others.

  3. Tap Start on the touchscreen to begin the Setup Wizard. Complete the Setup Wizard using the touchscreen. Keypads will be configured for use in steps 4 & 5.

    1. Select English (United States) as the language.

    2. Tap Next on the SIM card screen (insert SIM later).

    3. Set the date and time.

    4. Connect to a Wi-Fi network or skip this step.

    5. Add a PIN or password, or skip device protection.

    6. Tap Start to finish the Setup Wizard.

  4. Open Settings -> Key Mapping to configure your keypad buttons.

    1. Example: Set the primary '●' button to return to home

  5. (Optional) Use the App Library and App Pack QR codes to install input keyboards or additional apps.

  6. (Optional) Insert and activate a SIM card to add a mobile plan.

Tip: LocalSend is an AirDrop-like utility that makes file transfer between your Sidephone and other devices on the same Wi-Fi network instant. It can be downloaded from the Essentials+ App Pack.

Considerations

  • Battery low or device does not power on: Charge the device for 10–15 minutes, then retry.

  • No keypad inserted: Setup cannot proceed; a keypad must be inserted before powering on or else inserted keypads may not be responsive until the device is restarted with the keypad added during initial boot.

  • SIM card missing: Setup can continue without a SIM; manual date/time entry is required.

  • Language support: Only English (United States) is fully supported at this time; other languages are beta.

  • Keypad not detected during mapping: Remove the keypad, blow on the contacts gently to clear any possible debris, and reinsert the keypad into the device. If this does not work, restart the device with a keypad inserted the entire time.

When to Contact Support

Create a support ticket if Sidephone cannot complete the Setup Wizard after charging, restarting, and reinserting a keypad, if the device fails to power on entirely, or if keypads fail to respond after following the above instructions.

What to Collect for Support

  • Whether the device powers on and shows the Sidephone logo

  • Battery level and charging method used

  • Keypad type and whether it is detected

  • Setup Wizard step where the issue occurs

  • Whether a SIM card is inserted and carrier name

  • Any error messages shown on screen

Related Articles
Setting up Sidephone as a first phone (eg. for kids)
Upgrading to Sidephone from an existing dumbphone, feature phone or flip phone
Complete the Sidephone Setup Wizard
Before setting up Sidephone
Set up and enable Sidephone's Compact QWERTY keypad
Did this answer your question?