Is there any way to make the screen come on when I simply touch or slide it without having to push the power button on the side? It seems like it ought to automatically come on at least when I slide it.
yes just tap the screen or turn on the power button on the right side. if you are new to this phone you may have the phone set to go to sleep. if thats the case you should go into the settings and choose not to let the phone go to sleep. look in the manual for more quick start info...