Page 22 - May June 2019 TPA Journal

TPA articles on technology -

Fundamentals of cellular phones, or things you

may not know you can do - 2019/03/25

by Joel Aud

There is not a single piece of equipment you wear that has more versatility than your cell phone,
but because of the commonality of cell phones, it is easy to ignore its capabilities. To leverage the
tool, you need to become skilled in the use of the phone for law enforcement. Some of these
features you may already use, but like any tool, there is always something to learn. As a simple
exercise, select at least one of the items discussed here and master it.

Capability
This is an outline of the capabilities of most phones, and you should be a least familiar with some of the major
ones. As an agency or department issuing phones, there should be a policy and doctrine for the use of the capa-
bilities. The capabilities are usually easy to learn, but if you hit a snag, you can either Google a how-to, or check
with the phone service provider.

Communications – at the core, this is the function of the phone, but it is more than voice, and you should
explore the varieties and types of communication available.

Voice calls – these are the standard calls you make, but you are only scratching the surface.
Multi-party calls – initiate a call, then add a number, and merge the calls. This is an instant cure to the
“let me check with them and get back to you…,” and it is simple to do.

Voice over IP (VOIP) calls – VOIP allows you to make calls via WiFi, and in places where the cell signal
is marginal, it may be the only way available. It is an available option on most phones and with most
carriers. Skype is a variety of VOIP that includes voice and video calling, instant messaging, etc. Skype
also allows PC/tablet to phone, and multi-member calls. Be aware most functions are free, but for some,
fees may apply.

Video calls – video calls are getting simpler and more common. Beyond what is possible with Skype,
there is a variety of video call options. Google’s Duo had the advantage of working across Android and
iOS and with iPad and Android tablets. Facebook also has a robust video smartphone app with the
capability of multi-person video calls.
Text messages – not to be done while driving, but the app includes the power to leave messages, attach
media, maps, etc., and you can establish groups in text messaging to simultaneously share communica-
tions.

Secure text messaging and more – if your work requires secure communications there are multiple
encrypted messaging. One of the most popular is Signal, and it is available for iOS, Android, and desk-
tops. It has end-to-end encryption and you can set a lifespan for messages.

18 www.texaspoliceassociation.com • 866-997-8282 Texas Police Journal