Why can't I download apps on my android phone?

My Dad has a problem with Android Apps?

• i mean whats the point of having an android if you cant download any apps also he thinks a phone is ment to call people and maybe take pictures that's it. I've tried to reason with him saying how this is the future. And everything I mean whats the point of the Android then? so how can i convince him to work with me on this btw hes 61 and im 15

• Answer:

  First, is he keeping you from downloading ANY app, or just the paid apps? You might want to clarify that with him. If it's the paid apps he is concerned about, then I would have to agree with him for the most part. If it's the free apps, you'll be missing out on a lot of cool program such as Google Sky Map, extra navigation programs, ebook reader (aldiko has hundreds, if not thousands of "public domain" books you can download in their entirety and read, Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn, Moby Dick, etc. the list goes on and on and on... all free (there are paid books also) You can not install a paid application from the Android Market without first creating a Google Checkout account that is associated with your Gmail account. During that process you would have to give a credit card number to be put "on file". If you don't do that, there is no way to accidentally download an app that costs money from the Market. It is not like a phone that you might be used to where you go to the carrier's web site and the programs are automatically charged to your phone bill. I would check with him and clarify his stance on paid vs. free apps. (Also, it is simply not possible, without rooting your phone (and voiding the warranty) to remove the Android Market application from your phone. ;) He may just be concerned that he will be getting a "surprise!" on your next phone bill. Knowing that you can not order an app without setting up a separate account first may alleviate his fears. Also, once he knows this, he may even be OK with you using a prepaid "Visa gift card" at some point as the "credit card" on Google Checkout if you want to earn money yourself to download a specific app that is not free. Doing that will prevent you from ever spending more than what is on that gift card, so if you want to earn $25 (Ok, probably more like $27.50) to get a $25 gift card to add to the Google Checkout. It might do a good job teaching you some responsibility on how to make wise purchases, checking reviews, deciding if that game you will end up playing for 2 days was worth the $3 it cost you. $25 will go quite a ways on the Android Market, most apps tend to be $1 to $2, although be ware that sometimes prices are in Euro's or pounds Sterling. so something that is 1 Euro, might cost you $1.30 or something. That would be another good experience learning about currency conversion, and the fluctuating value of international money. :) See, there are lots of angles to go to him with. My suggestion, however, is that if he simply says "NO", do NOT, what EVER you do get mad, throw a tantrum, be spiteful. I have a 16 year old daughter, I know how you "whipper snappers" can be LOL Believe me when I say be nice, accept the NO, and start doing some extra chores around the house for a week or two, THEN when he asks "Why are you being so helpful", kindly ask about the Market place ;) Good luck, I'm sure you're gonna enjoy your new Android phone immensely!