iPhone

The iPhone is a smartphone from Apple that runs the iOS mobile operating system. Between its apps, communication features, the camera, mobile internet access, and other functionalities, the iPhone has quickly become an integral part of many peoples tech lives.

13 hidden iOS 26 features you need to know

Saturday September 27, 2025 5:36 pm EAT by Dave Johnson

There are a ton of changes and new features in iOS 26, including major additions like the Liquid Glass design overhaul. We’ve covered a lot of the more notable updates already, but there are also some hidden iOS 26 features that you might have missed. Here are thirteen iOS 26 hidden features that are a little harder to miss.

Top Hidden Features in iOS 26

Copy Just Part of a Text Message

In iOS 26, you can copy just part of a text message, rather than having to copy the whole thing. It’s useful if someone sends you a web link, an address, or something else where you only need to copy part of what you’re sent.

To use the selective copy, long press on a text message and then tap on Select. From there, you can drag to choose exactly what you want to copy.

Save Recipes and Instructions to Reminders

With the new Apple Intelligence Siri Suggestions feature in the Reminders app, you can save ingredients and instructions for cooking in an easy-to-access list. To use the feature, find a recipe, select the text that you’re aiming for, and tap the Share Sheet.

From there, share it to the Reminders app and Siri Suggestions will parse what’s included and add items to your shopping list or write out a list of instructions that you need to follow for preparation.

It doesn’t work seamlessly with all recipes, but it can be used with recipes that you find on the web, in Apple News, and in other apps.

Choose a Default App for Files

You can change which app opens automatically for different file types like PDFs, documents, images, and more.

To set a default app for opening a file, launch the Files app and long press on a file. Tap on “Get Info” and then select the Always Open With option to choose an app.

If you just want to open a file in a different app one time, you can long press on it and choose the “Open With” option.

Easily Set a Custom Ringtone

Any MP3 or M4A that you have saved in the Files app can be set as a ringtone. Just open up the Files app, long press on the MP3, and then choose the Quick Look option.

From there, tap on the Share Sheet icon, tap More, and choose Use as Ringtone. The ringtone that you selected will be added to your list of Ringtones in the Sounds and Haptics menu.

You can use MP3 or M4A files, but the files have to be under 30 seconds in length. Prior to now, saving a ringtone required exporting it from GarageBand. You can find and save ringtones directly on the iPhone from a wide range of websites.

If you want to delete a ringtone that you added, open up Sound and Haptics in the Settings app, tap on Ringtones, swipe on the ringtone you want to remove, and then tap delete.

See Your Unsent Messages

In the Filters section of the Messages app, Apple added a new “Drafts” option that houses messages you’ve typed but haven’t sent. If you’ve started to write something and then stopped, you’ll see the unsent messages in the Drafts folder.

The Filter section in Messages can be accessed by tapping on the icon with three lines in the upper right corner of the app. You won’t see a Drafts section if you don’t have unsent messages.

Take Better Panoramas

There are under-the-hood improvements to panoramas in iOS 26, so if you’ve ever struggled to take one, the experience should be better now. You can move quicker when taking a panorama without ending up with a blurry mess.

Find Specific Videos

When you search for something specific in the Photos app, you’ll now see video results with a relevant video thumbnail that highlights the specific video frame with what you searched for. If you search for “cat jumping,” for example, you’ll see relevant video thumbnails that contain the specific frame where the cat jumps.

Tapping on the result will take you to that part of the video.

Search results with specific video frames make it easier to find the exact content that you’re after.

Get an Alert When Your iPhone Camera is Dirty

When your rear camera is dirty or smudged, your iPhone can send you an alert letting you know so you can clean it off.

This feature works on the iPhone 15 and later.

Match Your Home Screen Icons to Your iPhone Case

When choosing a tint color for your Home Screen icons, there’s now an option to match the icons to your case color. You’ll need an Apple MagSafe case for this feature to work.

Changing icon tint can be done by long pressing on the Home Screen, selecting Edit, and then tapping on Customize. Choose the Tinted option and then tap on the icon that looks like a phone case to select your case color.

You can also match your icons to your phone color by tapping on the phone icon below the color sliders.

See Event Details in the Photos App

You can see the details of events like concerts right in the Photos app. You’ll be able to see top songs from the artists, browse upcoming events, and more.

To use the feature, find a relevant photo from a concert or sporting event, and then tap on Info. There is indexing that needs to happen first, and it doesn’t work on all images.

Callback Reminders

If you miss a call, you can set a reminder to return it at a convenient time in the future. To do so, open up the Phone app, go to your recent calls, and swipe left across a missed call.

From there, tap on the blue clock icon and choose Remind Me in 1 Hour, Remind Me Tonight, Remind Me Tomorrow, or Remind Me Later. The Remind Me Later option lets you set a custom date and time.

Call reminders that you set up are available in the Reminders app.

Keep Audio in Headphones

iOS 26 has a setting that prevents audio from your AirPods from swapping over to connected devices like car speakers or Bluetooth speakers.

To turn the feature on, open up the Settings app, tap into the General section, tap on AirPlay and Continuity, and then toggle on Keep Audio in Headphones.

Swipe Back Gesture

In iOS 26, Apple tweaked the swipe-to-go-back gesture that’s available in most apps. You can now go back to the previous screen by swiping toward the right from anywhere on the display, instead of having to swipe from the edge of the display.

Tag: iOS 26

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Why Are My Messages Sent as SMS Instead of RCS on iPhone?

Sunday January 26, 2025 7:48 pm EAT by Moses Johnson

Messaging on my iPhone has been acting up in the strangest way recently. When chatting with Android users, their messages come through as RCS, complete with the familiar typing indicators. Yet, when I reply, my messages are inexplicably sent as SMS instead of RCS. Oddly, this issue seems to affect only one contact. When she messages me, it’s sent as RCS, but my responses always revert to SMS.

What’s even more baffling is that when I use a Pixel device, messages to the same contact go through as RCS, but her replies from an iPhone are received as Text. This inconsistency makes conversations frustratingly disjointed. To make matters worse, there are moments throughout the day when my messages get stuck in the "sending" phase, with notifications telling me they’ll be delivered when I "come back online." Despite this, I’m still able to send other RCS messages to the same contact without issue during those times. However, I’m usually stuck receiving her replies as plain Text messages.

What is RCS Messaging?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a modern upgrade to traditional SMS messaging, offering enhanced features for users who don’t use iMessage. RCS text messages can be sent to non-Apple devices as well as another iPhone or another Apple device with Text Message Forwarding turned on. With RCS, you can send texts, high resolution photos and videos, links, and more. RCS also supports delivery and read receipts and typing indicators. RCS messages appear in green text bubbles on your device.

Apple’s implementation of RCS is based on the industry’s standard. RCS messages aren’t end-to-end encrypted, which means they’re not protected from a third-party reading them while they’re sent between devices.

RCS is a carrier-provided service. When your device connects to your cellular network, it communicates with your carrier and their partners to set up RCS. User identifiers are exchanged for your carrier and their partners to authenticate your device and provide a connection. These identifiers could include but are not limited to your IMEI, IMSI, current IP address, and phone number. Your current IP address might also be shared with other RCS users.

To use RCS, you need iOS 18 and a text-messaging plan from a carrier that supports RCS on iPhone. To check or modify your RCS settings, go to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging. For more information about compatibility and setup, contact your wireless carrier.

Note: There may be a delay of a few hours in activating RCS.

Potential Fixes for the iPhone RCS Messaging Issue

Toggle RCS Messaging off and on
- Go to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging and toggle OFF RCS messaging.
- Turn your phone off.
- After it’s powered back on, go to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging and toggle RCS back on.
Update to the Latest iOS Version
- Ensure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. Since the Messages app is part of the iOS software, this update will also ensure the app is up to date and functioning properly. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, follow the onscreen instructions to update your iPhone.
Reset Network Settings
- Open the Settings app.
- Select General.
- Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Choose Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Confirm by selecting Reset Network Settings again.

Note: When you reset network settings, all your network-related configurations will be erased. This includes saved Wi-Fi passwords, paired Bluetooth devices, VPN settings, and cellular preferences. Make sure to have this information handy before proceeding.

This problem is a network issue. We also previously explained how you can fix cellular data issues. If this article does not help, check that article for more detailed solutions.

Tags: Messages, RCS

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Does Green “Sent as Text Message” Mean You Are Blocked?

Wednesday May 8, 2024 6:20 pm EAT by Kevin Hollington

If your iPhone says “Sent as Text Message,” it does not necessarily mean you’re blocked. It means they’re being sent as SMS texts rather than iMessages.
You’ll always see green when texting Android users, or when you’re not connected to the internet.
If all of your iPhone messages are green, you should make sure iMessage is turned on in Settings.

iMessages are texts and media sent between Apple devices over an internet connection. A successfully sent iMessage appears as a blue text bubble in your chat conversation.

An iPhone showing an iMessage message — Photo Credit: Apple

However, you’re probably here because you noticed your messages are sent as a green text bubble instead of blue or perhaps saw a "Sent as Text Message" note at the bottom of the bubble.

What does this mean? Have you been blocked? Below, we explain why you’re probably not blocked, why iMessage says sent as a text message, and how to fix it if you think it’s a mistake.

An iPhone showing an SMS/MMS message — Photo Credit: Apple

Does green Sent as text message mean you are blocked?

The answer to the question is maybe. You cannot send an iMessage to someone who blocked you. It will say “Sent as Text Message,” but still, the person will not get the message. However, your iMessages may send as SMS text messages in green bubbles instead of blue bubbles even when you are not blocked.

If you’re used to seeing blue iMessage text bubbles but they are suddenly green, it can be an indication you’ve been blocked – but that’s just one possibility, and isn’t necessarily the most likely.

6 Reasons Why Your iMessage Is Sent as a Text Message

When your iMessage is sent as a text message, it could be due to the following reasons:

1. There is a problem with iMessage on your iPhone

When your iMessage is sent as a text message, it’s worth checking whether the root cause of the issue lies with your iPhone first.

iMessage texts sending in green instead of blue is a common problem when the service stops functioning as it should.

You may experience iMessage issues after switching your SIM card or adding a new device to your Apple ID, so apply various troubleshooting methods to fix iMessage on your iPhone first.

2. The Recipient’s Device Is Not Connected to the Internet

For a text to be successfully sent as an iMessage, the recipient’s Apple device must also be connected to the internet. Otherwise, the iMessage will be sent as a text message to their device, or you might see an "iMessage Not Delivered" error on your iPhone if it’s not sent out.

3. The Recipient Wasn’t Using an Apple Device at the Time

Remember, iMessage only works between Apple devices. So, if your family or friend switches from an iPhone to an Android smartphone, for example, your iMessage will automatically be sent as a text message to them.

Your iPhone does not notify you that they have changed devices, even if your previous chat conversations were held using iMessage.

4. The Recipient’s Device Was Turned Off

Another simple reason is that your contact may have turned off their iPhone, or their device had shut down because it ran out of battery. When this happens, you can still continue to message them. However, your iMessage will be sent as a text message or simply remain pending until the other party turns on their device again.

5. The Recipient Disabled iMessage on Their iPhone

iMessage is a feature that can be enabled and disabled in the iPhone’s Settings app. For whatever reason, your contact may have chosen to turn off iMessage.

If this happens, you’ll be unable to send and receive iMessages from them. However, both of you can still reach each other with SMS text messages.

6. There’s a chance that iMessage is down on Apple’s end

When iMessage is not available for you or the recipient due to outages, the messages will be sent as SMS. Visit Apple’s System Status page and check if iMessage service is having known technical issues.

Turn on iMessages so your messages appear in blue bubbles when able

In order to send and receive the "blue text bubbles" when chatting with other iPhone, iPad, and Mac users, iMessage must be enabled on your iPhone.

If you have recently bought a new iPhone and set it up using your Apple ID already, iMessage will already be enabled and ready to use.

But if iMessage isn’t enabled, here’s how to do it:

First, unlock your iPhone and launch the Settings app from the home screen.
In Settings, scroll down until you find ”Messages” and tap on it.
At the top of the screen, find iMessage.
If the slider on the right is green, iMessage is already enabled. If not, tap the slider to enable iMessage
If iMessage is already turned on, turn iMessage off by swiping the button to the left.
Turn off your iPhone, then turn it on again.
Go back to the Settings app, tap Messages, and turn iMessage back on by swiping the button to the right.

After activation, you will now be able to send and receive the "blue text bubbles" when chatting with other iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.

How to Test if Someone Blocked You From Contacting Them

There are a few ways you could try to check if you’re blocked. First, you could try calling the person. An iPhone user can’t choose to block you on iMessage without blocking you entirely. Therefore, if the call goes through, it confirms that you’re not blocked.

If the call doesn’t go through, you shouldn’t immediately start panicking either. There are a variety of reasons why you’re unable to make phone calls on your iPhone. Poor call signal in an area is one of the biggest culprits.

Therefore, you can also reach out to your recipient via social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Whatsapp. If you’re still connected on those platforms, it’s unlikely that the person has blocked you. If person is set to block you, they would have most likely block you in social media platforms as well. So, the issues of being unable to call them or send them an iMessage were likely minor technical hiccups.

Don’t Panic When Your iMessage Is Sent as a Text Message

Due to the reasons we’ve discussed in this article, it’s totally normal for iMessage to fail and be sent as a text message instead.

If you’ve been worried that you were blocked because your iMessage was sent as a text message, we trust our explanation has helped you understand why it’s probably not the case.

Therefore, don’t panic or jump to conclusions quickly. Contact the person using other channels if you need to communicate to them urgently.

Tags: iMessage, Messages, text message

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Why can’t anyone hear me when I call on my iPhone? Know here

Monday January 22, 2024 1:55 pm EAT by Moses Johnson

If people can’t hear you on your iPhone during phone or FaceTime calls, they are simple steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem.
The first step to fixing the problem is identifying the cause.
Then, you can take steps to troubleshoot.

Why can’t anyone hear me when I call on my iPhone?

poor cell reception

It’s possible you are going through an area with poor cell reception. For example, if people can’t hear you when you call on your iPhone while you are inside your home or office, but can hear you whenever you go outside, there’s a good chance the building is impeding your signal.

It’s also common that crowds such as concerts, music festivals, or even downtown areas with major events in town can create stress on the wireless towers, limiting the cell signal on your iPhone.

Your iPhone microphone is malfunctioning

If people can’t hear you when you call on your iPhone, your iPhone’s microphones may be malfunctioning. For example, if your iPhone’s microphone is covered or dirty, people will have trouble hearing you during phone or FaceTime calls.

How do I fix my iPhone when people can’t hear me when i call?

Move to a location with a better cell signal

If people can’t hear you when you make a phone call on your iPhone, move to an open area with a better cell signal and then dial again. If you’re in an open area and still can’t get good reception, try moving away from tall buildings, trees, and anything else that could cause interference. If you’re in a rural area, try moving to a higher elevation.

Perform a signal refresh

Typically, your iPhone requires a simple signal refresh when it’s fighting to establish a stable connection from a nearby cell tower. There’s no need to stress; this process is easy. All you need to do is shut down your iPhone entirely and then start it back up. Here’s how:

iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15, : Press and hold the side button and the volume down (or up) button together until the “slide to power off” screen appears. Drag the slider to turn off the iPhone. Wait 30 seconds. Then press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo.
Other iPhone with a Home button models: Press and hold the power button (sleep/wake button, it can be on the top or right side) until the power off slider appears. Move the slider from left to right. Then wait for your iPhone to turn off. And press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.

Check for iOS update

If you are running an older version of iOS, you should update to the latest version. Perhaps, the new updates may include a fix for a bug involving this problem. You can update your iPhone by going to Settings > General > Software Update. This will check for updates. And if there is an update, follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update process.

Disconnect any audio accessories

It’s possible that your iPhone is trying to use the microphone in an accessory like a headphone, earbuds, or portable speaker rather than the mic built into the iPhone, and that’s why people can’t hear you on calls. The easiest way to eliminate this possibility is to make sure that your phone is not connected to a wired or wireless headset.

Unplug any accessory connected to your iPhone.
Swipe down from the top right corner of the screen to bring up the Control Center and then tap the Bluetooth icon to temporarily disable the Bluetooth radio on your iPhone.

Check for coverage issues in your area

Of course, it could be nothing to do with you at all. So before you drive yourself nuts trying all these steps, reach out to your carrier and ask if there are any coverage issues such as a downed tower or one under maintenance in your immediate area. You could also try your carrier’s Twitter account to see if others are experiencing similar issues.

Make sure your microphone isn’t blocked

Ensure that your iPhone’s microphone is not covered or dirty. Here is what you can do:

Try removing the phone case to see if that helps improve call quality.
Clear any debrCs from the openings of your iPhone. Use a compressed air can to blow air carefully into the microphone. This will remove any small debris that may be blocking the sound.
Make sure that your fingers don’t block the microphone when you’re on a call.

Test the microphone

Sometimes, your iPhone microphones can be at fault, so test them to see if they are working properly.

Test the microphone for phone and FaceTime calls: Open the Voice Memos app and record a short memo, talking into the microphone at the bottom. Play it back and see if it sounds clear.

If the audio is unclear, it’s likely you have a hardware problem with your iPhone, so contact Apple’s customer support for additional service.

Test the speakerphone mic. Open the Camera app and record a selfie video while speaking into the mic at the top of the iPhone. Play it back and see if it sounds clear.

If the audio is unclear, it’s likely you have a hardware problem with your iPhone, so contact Apple’s customer support for additional service.

Reset your network settings

If you are still experiencing this problem, try resetting your network settings. Note that by doing so, you’re also resetting Wi-Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN and APN settings, so you’ll have to re-enter any previously stored Wi-Fi passwords.

Open the Settings app and tap General.
Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Reset.
In the pop-up menu, tap Reset Network Settings and then confirm this is what you want to do.

Contact Apple support

If all else fails, contact Apple Support to figure out the problem.

Tag: Calls

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How Much Does It Cost to Repair iPhone 15 Pro Screen? Know here

Monday November 13, 2023 9:52 pm EAT by Kevin Hollington

If you are unfortunate enough to have gotten a cracked screen on your iPhone 15 Pro, the first thing you probably want to know is how much it will cost to fix it. The second thing you probably want to know is what your options are for getting it fixed.

In this article, we will outline the cost (in $US) of repairing an iPhone 15 Pro Screen and the options you have for repair through Apple or an Apple-authorized repair shop. We’ll also discuss AppleCare (the one-year limited warranty) and AppleCare . All costs and warranty information are relevant to U.S. customers.

The costs to fix an iPhone 15 Pro Screen

For some, the cost is going to determine whether they actually want to get the screen repaired at all. Many iPhone users took advantage of the great discounts that many cell carriers in the U.S. were offering and picked up a new iPhone 15 Pro. Those who appreciate a good deal may not want to spend a lot to fix their iPhone 15 Pro; some may have no choice if the screen is too badly damaged.

Apple’s estimated costs to repair iPhone 15 screens

We list here the estimated costs to repair any of the iPhone 15 models.

	Estimated Cost — No AppleCare	Estimated Cost with AppleCare
iPhone 15	$279	$29
iPhone 15 Plus	$329	$29
iPhone 15 Pro	$329	$29
iPhone 15 Pro Max	$379	$29

As you can see in the chart, the cost of repairing a screen increases with a larger screen size and depends on whether the iPhone is a Pro model. The cost with AppleCare is the same for all models because the (upfront) cost of the AppleCare plans are different.

Do I have or can I get AppleCare ?

Obviously, if you are looking at the repair costs for your iPhone 15 Pro, you will wish you had AppleCare . You may have one of the following questions about AppleCare:

Does the AppleCare warranty that comes with the iPhone cover the damage?
Do I have AppleCare ? How can I check?
Can I still get AppleCare and get the repair discount?

Does the AppleCare Warranty that comes with the iPhone cover the damage?

Apple offers a one-year limited warranty for new iPhones. The Apple Limited Warranty covers your iPhone and the Apple-branded accessories that come in the box with the iPhone against manufacturing issues. Accidental damage is not covered by the Apple warranty, so it doesn’t help you get your screen repaired.

Do I have AppleCare ? How can I check?

We have previously written about how to check your AppleCare warranty status: How to Check your AppleCare Warranty Status & How to Buy.

Can I still get AppleCare and get the repair discount?

It is only possible to purchase AppleCare within 60 days of your iPhone purchase. If you are still within this time period, you have a few ways that you can purchase AppleCare :

On your iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About and tap on AppleCare Coverage Available. If you don’t see it, you aren’t eligible.
Online: You will need to verify your serial number and run a remote diagnostic.
At an Apple Store: They will inspect your phone and require proof of purchase.
By calling 800-275-2273: You will need to provide proof of purchase and run a remote diagnostic.

The good news is that if you purchase AppleCare , you can transfer it to a new owner if you sell your iPhone (or give it to a family member).

How to get your iPhone 15 Pro screen repaired

There are three options for getting your iPhone 15 Pro screen repaired:

Schedule a visit at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
Send your iPhone in for repair. Apple will send you a box, and you will mail your device to Apple. It is estimated to take 5-9 days.
Schedule an onsite service. An authorized repair person will come to your home or office.

You can arrange for any of the above options from Apple’s iPhone screen replacement page. You can also talk to Apple Support if you have more questions or have Apple Support call you.

Tag: Screen

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Apple ID Sign Out is Not Available due to Restrictions? Here’s the fix

Wednesday October 4, 2023 11:37 pm EAT by Kevin Hollington

Are you getting the error "Sign out is not available due to restrictions?" If you can’t log out of your Apple ID or iCloud, your account is restricted by the Screen Time feature. In this article, we’ll tell you how you can disable these restrictions so you can sign out on iPhone or iPad.

QUICK ANSWER

To fix Sign out Not Available due to Restrictions Issue, you need to disable Screen Time on iPhone before you can sign out of your Apple ID or iCloud.

Why is Sign out Not Available due to Restrictions?

This is because You have Screen Time enabled on your iPhone or iPad and set to restrict you from signing out of Apple ID or iCloud.

How to fix Sign out Not Available due to Restrictions Issue

In order to fix Sign out not available due to restrictions issue, you will first need to disable Screen Time restrictions. Doing so will enable you to sign out of Apple ID or iCloud on your iPhone or iPad.

How to disable the Screen Time restrictions on iPhone

You can disable the Screen Time restrictions in two ways. You can either change the Screen Time settings to allow you to make changes or turn off Screen Time restrictions completely. For both methods, you will need to know the Screen Time passcode.

Change the Screen Time settings

Step 1: First, open the Settings app, which is signaled by a gear icon. Then, click on the Screen Time option from the menu.

Step 2: Select the Content & Privacy Restrictions option from the menu.

Step 3: Make sure the switch next to Content & Privacy Restrictions is toggled on.

Step 4: Now, select the Account Changes button.

Step 5: Type in your Screen Time passcode and then tap on Allow.

Now navigate to Settings > [your name] and check if Sign Out is available.

If the above didn’t work, you might try the following:

Step 1: In Settings > Screen Time, turn off Share Across Devices.

Step 2: Go back to Content & Privacy Restrictions and tap on Account Changes.
3. Choose Don’t Allow, then choose** Allow**again.

Finally, if the above suggestions didn’t work, and you are still seeing the "Sign out is not available due to restrictions"message, go ahead and turn off Screen Time completely.

How to disable Screen Time

To disable screen time completely, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: Select Screen Time.

Step 3: Tap Turn Off Screen Time.

Step 4: Type in the Screen Time password, then tap on Turn Off Screen Time again.

Successfully fixed Sign out Not Available due to Restrictions Issue

We hope this article has helped you solve "sign out not available due to restrictions" issue on your iPhone or iPad. If you have any other questions about your iPhone, drop a comment and let us know.

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro unboxing: What’s inside the box?

Tuesday September 19, 2023 5:55 am EAT by Kevin Hollington

The all-new iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are finally available for purchase globally. The latest models come with various upgrades, including the new Action Button, A17 Pro Bionic chip, upgraded cameras, and more. If you’re thinking of picking up one of the new ‘Pro’ models and are wondering what accessories you’ll get with the phone, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about the iPhone 15 Pro unboxing experience and all the goodies you get with the device.

iPhone 15 Pro in black titanium, white titanium, blue titanium, and natural titanium finishes.

QUICK ANSWER

What is in the iPhone 15 Pro box?

Included in the box is the iPhone 15 Pro, a USB‑C Charge Cable, SIM ejector tool (non-U.S. models only) and documentation.
, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max do not include a power adapter or EarPods.

Although the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature significant upgrades over the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, Apple hasn’t made any drastic changes to their retail packaging. The phones arrive in a rather slim box with an illustration of the iPhone 15 Pro’s display on the top, iPhone text on the left and right sides, and the Apple logo on the top and bottom.

Unboxing the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max is as seamless as ever, and you don’t need any tools to open the packaging. Simply pull the labeled tabs to open the seal, and you’re in. On the inside, you’ll find the iPhone lying face down with a peel over its display.

Underneath it, you’ll find a couple of accessories, including the new USB‑C Charge Cable, some documentation, and an Apple sticker. In case you purchased your iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max outside the U.S., you’ll also find a SIM ejector tool in the box.

What’s inside the box:

iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max
USB‑C Charge Cable
Documentation
1x Apple sticker
SIM ejector tool (non-U.S. models only)

Sadly, Apple does not ship a power brick with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. If you don’t have a charging brick with a USB Type-C port lying around, you can purchase one from Apple.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro

The new iPhone 15 Pro brings several improvements to the table, including the Dynamic Island, A16 Bionic chip, better cameras, and more.

Unlike some Chinese Android OEMs, , iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max do not include a phone case, power adapter or EarPods. Included in the box is a USB‑C Charge Cable that supports fast charging and is compatible with USB‑C power adapters and computer ports.

Tag: iPhone 15 Pro

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Apple iPhone 15 unboxing: What’s inside the box?

Tuesday September 19, 2023 5:47 am EAT by Kevin Hollington

Apple’s new iPhone 15 series is now available for purchase worldwide. While not as exciting and feature-packed as the Pro models, the iPhone 15 is still a fantastic option for anyone coming from iPhone 11 or older. If you’re planning to buy it, you might wonder what accessories you get with the new phone. In this article, we’ll walk you through the unboxing experience and find out what’s included in the box and what’s not.

QUICK ANSWER

What is in the iPhone 15 box?

Included in the box is the iPhone 15, a USB‑C Charge Cable, SIM ejector tool (non-U.S. models only) and some documentation.
, iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not include a power adapter or EarPods.

The retail box of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus is pretty identical to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13. The box is pretty small and has a minimal design. It has a picture of the iPhone 15 on the front, the text that says “iPhone” on the left and right sides, and the Apple logo on the top and bottom. Once you remove the seal and open the box, you’re greeted by the iPhone 15 lying face down. Lifting up the phone reveals the inside contents, which are not much. There’s a USB-C cable, documentation, a SIM ejector (if you have a non-US model), and an Apple sticker.

What’s inside the box:

iPhone 15 or 15 Plus
USB-C cable
Documentation
1x Apple sticker
SIM ejector (only with non-US models)

You’ll not find a power adapter inside the box; Apple has stopped including that since 2020. Your existing charger with the USB-C connector will work just fine. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one from Apple. You also won’t find headphones or a USB-C to headphone jack connector.

Apple iPhone 15

The iPhone 15 offers a 6.1-inch OLED display, A16 Bionic chipset, and improved cameras.

The new iPhone 15 isn’t a huge leap from the iPhone 14. Perhaps the biggest design change to the whole iPhone 15 lineup is that the Dynamic Island, once unique to the iPhone 14 Pros, is now present on every model of iPhone 15.

Most exciting of all is the new main 48MP camera, which should mean much better image quality both in taking stills and video. There is also the new A16 Bionic chipset that debuted with the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max but was missing from the less expensive models last year. Other improvements include faster RAM, as well as adopting the Pro model’s design.

Make sure to immediately put a case on your shiny new iPhone 15 to protect it from scratches, dust, fingerprints, and other potential harm.

Tag: iPhone 15

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Is the iPhone 15 Waterproof? Here’s The Truth!

Wednesday September 13, 2023 11:04 pm EAT by Kevin Hollington

The Apple iPhone 15 lineup comes with exciting features such as USB-C port, Dynamic Island, Action Button and more. The iPhone 15 starts at $799 and only goes up in price from there depending on the desired specs. Because of how costly it is to stay current with Apple tech, those looking to buy in want to make sure that the iPhone 15 is able to withstand at least some degree of wear and tear — including potential waterproofing. Here’s what you need to know about whether the iPhone 15 is waterproof and if you should be bringing it poolside.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The iPhone 15 has a water resistance rating but is not waterproof.
The iPhone 15’s water resistance is limited to fresh water and will not protect against damage in salt water or chemically treated pools.
Water damage is not covered under warranty, so if you damage your iPhone 15 by submerging it without a case, you will have to pay for repairs.

How Waterproof Is the iPhone 15?

The iPhone 15 isn’t completely waterproof. However, all iPhone 15 models, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, are water resistant with an IP68 rating.

IP, or ingress protection, ratings fall under the International Electrotechnical Commission(IEC) 60529 standard, which rates how well devices hold up to dust and moisture. IP grades are the industry standard for electronics. You’ll find IP ratings on headphones, smartwatches, and various other personal gadgets.

IP numbers come in two parts:

Dust protection: The first number measures dust protection on a scale from no protection (zero) to wholly sealed off (six).
Moisture resistance: The second number goes from no seal (zero) to complete protection against water pressure from multiple angles–and hot water too (nine).

The IP68 rating on iPhone 15 indicates these phones are well protected against dust and are also water-resistant but not fully waterproof.

What does that mean in real life? Whether you accidentally drop your phone in a pool or intentionally take your phone with you in water, your iPhone 15 should be okay.

Apple states all four iPhone 15 models can be submerged and protected in water up to 6 meters deep for up to 30 minutes.

Is the iPhone 15 resistant to salt water?

While the IP68 rating for the iPhone 15 family says that they’re all good for exposure to fresh water, it’s a little ambiguous about other kinds of liquids. Questions regarding how well devices hold up in salt water are frequently asked as a result. Fresh water is harmless to the iPhone 15 in the ways specified above, but salt water can have devastating effects on it. It’s a good idea, then, to pay special attention to keeping your phone dry when swimming in a salt water pool or when heading to the ocean.

Is There Any iPhone That Is Waterproof?

No iPhone is entirely waterproof, but many models after iPhone 7 come with water resistance. Several of the newer iPhone generations share or come close to iPhone 15’s water protection.

Models with the same IP68 resistance to splashing, dust, and immersion in up to 6 meters of water for a maximum of 30 minutes include:

iPhone 14
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max

If your iPhone is exposed to or dunked in water, Apple recommends drying the device by gently tapping it against your hand with the lightning connector facing downward. You’ll also want to avoid charging or using the Lightning port on your iPhone until it’s dry.

Some iPhones also hold the IP68 rating but can’t be immersed as deeply in water. These models come with IP68 protection in up to 4-meter depths for 30 minutes:

iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max

Other iPhones can withstand only 2-meter depths for 30 minutes maximum. This list includes:

iPhone 11
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max

Several older iPhones cut back the water resistance further with an IP67 rating. This rating offers dust protection and tolerance to submersion in 1-meter depths for 30 minutes.

iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone XR
iPhone X
iPhone 8
iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone 7
iPhone 7 Plus

The above iPhones can also withstand everyday spills from beverages such as coffee, tea, and juice. If you need to clean your phone, Apple recommends avoiding soaps or detergents.

Tags: Features, iPhone 14

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Emoji Showdown: Comparing iPhone and Android Emoji Designs

Thursday September 7, 2023 11:47 pm EAT by Moses Johnson

Emojis have become integral to digital communication over messaging apps and social media platforms. Over 10 billion emojis are being sent each and every day, with 95% of internet users having sent an emoji at some point in time. While both Apple and Android offer a wide range of emojis, there are significant differences in the way they are designed and presented. In this article, we will take a closer look at how different emojis are on iPhone and Android.

What are emojis?

Emojis are those small icons—smiley faces, winking eyes, hearts of all shapes, sizes and colors—that we use in text messages, emails and social media. They are everywhere these days because they increase the precision and nuance of our often super-brief and open-to-misunderstanding communications.

According to ExpressVPN’s research, over 96% of people in France, Germany, Spain, and the U.S. use emojis regularly when communicating. These small, expressive icons have the power to convey emotions, reactions, and even complex ideas with just a single tap.

Unicode, the organization that approves new emojis, has been creating new emoji on an annual basis recently. While both iOS and Android are improving the range of emojis available to users, what we’re still lacking are cross-platform pictures that look the same on any device.

The basic emoji symbols are actually the same on iOS and Android, but Apple, Google and Samsung designers create different looks for each icon. Confusingly, the companies also add emoji support at different times.

The Evolution of Emoji Design: A Brief History

Emoji first originated in Japan in the late 1990s, and by the early 2000s, they had become a popular form of communication in the country. However, it wasn’t until the release of iPhone in 2007 that emojis started to gain global popularity. Apple’s decision to include an emoji keyboard on its devices was a game-changer, and soon, other smartphone manufacturers followed suit.

Over the years, emoji design has evolved significantly. In the early days, emojis were simple, pixelated designs that had limited color options. However, with advancements in technology, emoji design has become more complex, with more realistic and detailed designs. Today, emojis are available in a range of skin tones, and while different smartphone manufacturers have distinct emoji styles, emoji can translate across platforms, thanks to Unicode. This is why an iPhone user is able to receive the smiling pile of poo emoji from someone using a Samsung Galaxy.

Why are emojis different on iOS and android?

The reason behind the differences in iPhone and Android emojis lies in their design philosophy. Apple designs its emojis to have a consistent look and feel, with a focus on simplicity and clarity. On the other hand, Android emojis are designed to be more expressive and playful, with a greater emphasis on customization and personalization.

One factor that contributes to the differences is the software used to render the emojis. Apple uses a proprietary font called ”Apple Color Emoji” to render its emojis. This font is designed to work seamlessly across all Apple devices, ensuring a consistent experience for users. Android, on the other hand, uses the ”Roboto” font for its emojis, which is a standard font used across the Android platform.

Another factor is the cultural differences between the two companies. Apple is an American company, while Android is an open-source platform developed by Google, a multinational company with a global reach. This might explain why some emojis on an iPhone have a more Western-centric design, while on an Android device, they might have a more global appeal.

The last but not least reason why there’s an emoji gap between iPhone users and Android users is because Apple is great at getting its users to upgrade to the latest version of its software.

Android vendors, like Samsung or LG, aren’t as quick as Apple is to upgrade to the latest version of Android.

There are Android phones that get regular updates, most notably, Google’s own Pixel, which will get the latest Android update as soon as possible for at least a few years. But right now, most of the more popular Android phones, such as Samsung’s, don’t have that same promise.

Comparing Emoji Styles: iPhone vs Android

Apple has its own style for emoji on iOS and iPadOS, Google has its own style for Pixel phones, Samsung has its style for Galaxy phones, and so on. These companies want the emoji to blend in nicely with the overall look of their respective operating systems.

For example, a green-colored Pea Pod is among the newest emojis on iOS and Android. It illustrates a pea pod split open to reveal the peas inside. People use the Pea Pod emoji in a straightforward way, to refer to the vegetable, or as a statement of friendship. It can be used to explain recipes, and to express popular idioms like ‘two peas in a pod.

A tiny yet fun detail, which most people miss, is that the Pea Pod emoji has three peas on Android and five on iOS.

How Do iPhone and Android Handle Facial Expressions in Emojis?

Facial expressions are a crucial aspect of emojis, as they allow us to convey emotions through our messages. When it comes to facial expressions, there are significant differences between iPhone and Android emojis.

Let’s look at some examples.

First, the single-most used emoji on all platforms: Face with Tears of Joy. On iPhones and Pixel phones, the looks have closed eyes, a fully wide smile, and big tears that extend out of the face, while the Galaxy phones, the tears are much smaller.

Next, let’s look at “Nerd Face” from the same three vendors. On iPhones and Galaxy phones, the emoji has a small smirk with glasses, while the same emoji on Pixel phones could be seen as laughing or smiling very big.

Another expression emoji is “Person Frowning.” On iPhones and Pixel phones, the emoji definitely appear to be sad, while the same emoji on Galaxy phones actually looks angrier than sad.

These are just a few examples of how emoji are different on iPhone and Android phone. iOS and Android skins look very different, so it makes sense they’d want to emoji to fit in. Thankfully, you can easily check what every emoji looks like on other platforms. Emojipedia shows what emoji look like from Apple, Google, Samsung, Microsoft, and a bunch of others.

We think it’s good for everyone to understand these things aren’t standardized, but we’re not expecting everyone to check what an emoji looks like on other platforms every time they send a message. That’s not realistic, and you shouldn’t have to do it.

Exploring Cultural Differences in Emoji Design on iPhone and Android

Emojis are a universal form of communication, but their design is not always universal. Different cultures have different ways of interpreting emojis, and this can lead to differences in design.

For example, the folded hands emoji, which is used to represent prayer or thanks, looks very different on iPhone and Android. On the iPhone, the hands are closer together, while on Android, the hands are further apart. This difference in design is due to the cultural differences in the way people pray in different parts of the world.

Similarly, the Maracas emoji looks different on iPhone and Android. A maraca is a percussion instrument. Per the emoji’s proposal submitted to Unicode, it can "symbolize a celebration or specific cultural holidays," particularly as a reference to Latin American culture. It’s meant to convey a feeling of joy and the music that’s an integral part of celebration. The Maracas emojis have a slightly different appearance on Android and iOS. While the former shows two Maracas instruments side by side with motion lines (red top), the latter shows static maracas, one over another.

The Impact of Updates: What to Expect from Future Emoji Designs on iOS and Android

The Unicode Consortium is continually approving and adding new graphics for use on Android, iOS, and other platforms. Both Apple and Android regularly update their emojis, adding new designs and features to keep up with the latest trends. In recent years, there has been a push for more inclusive emojis, with the introduction of emojis that represent people with disabilities and different skin tones.

In the future, we can expect to see even more diverse and inclusive emojis on both platforms. As technology continues to advance, we may even see the introduction of more interactive and animated emojis that allow us to express ourselves in even more creative ways.

Conclusion: Which Platform Has the Upper Hand in Emoji Design?

When it comes to emoji design, both iPhone and Android have their strengths and weaknesses. Apple focuses on simplicity and consistency, while Android focuses on personalization and customization. However, both platforms are constantly updating their emojis and adding new features, which means that the design differences are likely to become less pronounced over time.

Ultimately, the choice between iPhone and Android emojis comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the simpler and streamlined design of Apple’s emojis, while others may prefer the more realistic and detailed design of Android’s emojis. Regardless of which platform you choose, one thing is certain: emojis are here to stay, and they will continue to play an important role in our daily communication.

Tag: Emoji

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