I like the convenience of downloading iOS apps, but where do I go if I need help or tech support with a program for iPhone or iPad
Some apps include basic help guides and support information under its settings or tools menu. Apple has links to online manuals for its own iWork for iOS software in the Help option under the Tools menu. Tapping the toolbar question-mark icon in the company’s iMovie, iPhoto or GarageBand software activates the built-in help guides for those apps; the company also has an iOS Apps Support page online .
Not every iOS app has such extensive documentation, but in many cases, you can find technical support and help guides on the app developer’s own Web site. On either the iTunes desktop version or the iOS app for Apple’s recently redesigned App Store, search for the program you need help with.
On the app’s information page, click the Ratings and Reviews tab. Under the Customer Reviews section, you shoud see an App Support button. Click or tap App Support to go to the developer’s Web site, where you can find more information and hopefully get help. The quality of the technical support may vary based on the developer.
For those using Google’s Android software, checking an app’s page in the Google Play Store is also one place to look for help. Check the Overview tab on the app’s page for links to the developer’s Web site and a tech-support e-mail address. Google has a general help guide for using the Google Play store here.
A version of this article appeared in print on 01/17/2013, on page B8 of the NewYork edition with the headline: Finding Help With Apps.