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Is the new (2020) MacBook Pro worth the investment?

by GeeksModo Staff

Apple has finally said goodbye to the butterfly keyboard forever as new
13-inch Macbook Pro
comes with Apple’s new and improved Magic Keyboard. I am currently writing this on a
2019 13-inch MacBook Pro,
so will I be upgrading to the new one?
Without any further ado, let’s discuss what’s new with the 2020 13-inch Macbook Pro. Before the arrival of this, we saw the release of the new 16-inch MacBook Pro and smaller and lighter MacBook Air with the new Magic Keyboard. Therefore, it was only a matter of time before Apple applied the same treatment to the 13-inch Pro model. There had been rumours for a 14-inch MacBook Pro, but we haven’t seen one…yet.

So, what’s new? Well, not much with the basic ones. The bottom two models of the new 13-inch are pretty much the same as the 2018 Macbook Pro except you get double the amount of storage to start off with.
Now starting at 256gb, this is an excellent Computer for those who don’t really care about performance, but then again, if you are in that group then you may as well get the MacBook Air for a few hundred pounds cheaper?
But the real changes appear in the more impressive 2.0GHz Quad-Core MacBook which starts at £1,799 and this is the one to go for. It now comes with a 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor instead of the 8th gen on the older one. It also comes as standard with 16gb of RAM which is a first for the 13-inch models. Before this, they started at 8gb. This more expensive one also comes with two more USB C ports than the cheaper ones which is always a bonus.

On top of this, you can now opt for up to 4TB of SSD storage which is a massive improvement. My concern, however, is that once you have specced up a top of the line 13-inch MacBook Pro, you are already looking at nearly £4,000 and by that point, you may as well get the 16-inch for £2,399.

Apple’s update is an unusual one, as in this particular case, the level of changes seen depend on whether the customer opts for a lower-end or higher-end configuration. Across the board, the Magic Keyboard and higher storage capacity starting points will be welcomed.

However, while that’s largely the story for the lower-end options, the higher-end arguably gets more of the changes. Shifting from eighth-generation Intel chips to tenth-generation versions will give a considerable performance advantage, while the faster memory and higher memory capacities will further push the 13-inch MacBook Pro as a portable powerhouse.

Even the maximum storage capacity of 4TB is only available to those with deep pockets to go for the higher-end configurations from the start. That price premium would buy a lot of network or Thunderbolt 3 storage.

For those looking to buy a new 13-inch MacBook Pro to replace their existing model, there isn’t really that much to write home about for the lower-end versions. Sure, the Magic Keyboard is a nice addition, but aside from a storage bump, there isn’t much in the way of groundbreaking elements here.

Anyone considering the upper end of the range, however, will see considerably more changes and huge performance boosts. Those with a bigger budget will fare better for their upgrades than people who go for the frugal option this time around.

Tag: MacBook Pro
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Apple gave me a new MacBook Pro for FREE! Here’s why

by GeeksModo Staff

Here’s how you can do it too but only if you qualify…

As you may already know, the first generation of the MacBook Pro with a touch bar suffered from keyboard issues. It came with Apple’s butterfly keyboard which was meant to be thin and streamlined but turned out to be a right pain in the butt for many of those people who used it.
I happened to be one of those people. Now, I actually enjoy using the butterfly keyboard which is a very controversial statement but I like the way it feels but what I don’t like is when it fails on me. The keyboard begun failing on me just as I was really getting into the groove of writing about a year ago.
The problem was with certain keys sticking such as the enter key, backspace, tab, shift and a range of letters spread across the keyboard. This was a real nightmare and lead to many hours of frustration as the keyboard would often put the same letter ten times. I even resorted to an external keyboard for a while which meant typing out and about was a hassle.

So, I conducted some research online and found out that I wasn’t the only one who was facing this issue. And to my excitement, Apple offered a keyboard replacement programme for my MacBook which was very nice
So, I
made a genius bar reservation
and got on the next train to Leeds to get this issue resolved. I arrived and they were very friendly and had obviously had people complain before about these problematic keys. So, I showed them the problem and they were more than happy to get it sent off for me which was perfect.
It took around five days I think in total which was Great and I went back into Leeds to pick it back up. When I got it back I was blown away to find out Apple had pretty much just given me a whole new laptop for free.

The internals were still the same, and it was my MacBook but they had made some changes. They gave me a new display, a new metal case, top and bottom, a new battery, new trackpad and a brand new keyboard which had been updated to the 2019 version. This keyboard works much better than the previous one and even has some changes to the backspace key and option key.
The total for this repair job amounted to $359.83 and I wasn’t charged a penny. This was great news as not only was I low on cash but I had also just bought a Pret lunch which really meant I had no cash to spare.
I am using that keyboard exactly a year on to type this blog post on and it handles it no problem which is Great news.

If you think you qualify for this and are experiencing keyboard issues on your MacBook between 2016 and 2019 then
visit this link
to check out Apple’s repair programme.

Tag: MacBook Pro
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7 amazing tips to Protect Your iPhone and Privacy in 2025

by GeeksModo Staff

Apple has always been committed to privacy and honestly, an iOS device is more privacy oriented than an android device. However, you can tweak a few settings on your iPhone to preserve your personal privacy even more.

Apple prides itself on setting a high standard for user privacy and data security on every device it makes. However, your iPhone might not be as secure as you think.

It’s true that iPhones are more difficult to hack than their Android competitors, as they are produced by one manufacturer dedicated to keeping them secure. Tons of companies manufacture Android devices, which means greater risk of vulnerabilities.

However, malicious attackers have found creative ways to steal your sensitive data from the iPhone apps collecting it on a daily basis. They could grab your browsing history, personal images, current location, and even passwords without your knowledge.

What’s more, Apple has no control over where your information travels once it’s collected by apps. Some app providers harvest and sell your data, which means that iPhone privacy concerns go well beyond the risk of hacking.

The good news is that, there are many steps you can take to minimize your risks, and they are all FREE. Below, we’ll detail the best ways to protect your privacy on your iPhone, so that none of your sensitive information ends up in the wrong hands.

Why It’s Important to Keep Your iPhone Private

The possibility of someone watching you or sharing pictures and videos of you without your knowledge is disturbing at the least, and dangerous at worst. Unfortunately, it can happen, and it’s just one of many ways your iPhone can put your privacy at risk.

Hacking and Malware Risks

Security researcher
Felix Krause
found out that hackers can spy on you through your iPhone camera, thanks to apps they create by abusing iOS permission settings.

When you download an app from the App Store, it asks your permission to access different features of your iPhone – your camera, photos, location settings, and much more. Once you give permission to the app, it can access those features each time the app runs.

That means an app compromised by hackers can silently snap photos and record videos of you, or even run facial recognition software in an attempt to steal your identity.

Besides making you vulnerable to spying, compromised apps could infect your iPhone with malware.
“Jailbreaking”
your iPhone to download third-party apps not offered by the Apple Store greatly increases the risk of a hacking or malware attack.

With that in mind, the first step toward securing your data and device is quite easy, since all you have to do is nothing: Do not jailbreak your iPhone.
See also:
Can an iPhone Get a Virus? Know Here

Device Theft

We’ve all had those moments of distraction, not realizing we left our Smart phones at the coffee shop or grocery store until hours later. Then panic sets in. Passcodes and a fingerprint touch ID should prevent anyone who finds your iPhone from accessing your data, but will they, really?

In spite of these security measures, there is a chance a dishonest person who finds your iPhone could get into everything – your contact lists, your messages, and so much more.
See also:
Found a Lost or Stolen iPhone? Do These Things!

Data Harvesting and Other Privacy Concerns

Although your iPhone’s security features do their job and no one ever accesses your phone without your Consent, your privacy is still at risk any time you use an app. App providers and your ISP continuously collect your data, often selling it to third-party data brokers.

At a minimum, the sale of your data means you’ll be dealing with the annoyance of targeted marketing – and remember, these advertisers know your phone number. But the effects of data harvesting could be far worse than that.

Much of the data collected about you makes its way to agencies that run background checks. So whether the information is accurate or not, your data can be used against you when you make critical life decisions, such as buying a home or finding a new job.

Some sites suggest that the best way to protect your privacy is to delete all your iPhone apps, but doing that basically turns your $800 device into a flip phone. Here are some more practical tips to secure your iPhone and your data.

The Seven Best Ways to Keep Your iPhone Protected

So the hard truth is that although we’d like to imagine iPhone security risks as far-fetched scenarios, iPhones have very real vulnerabilities. The good news is that, there’s no reason to panic.

These seven simple tips will give your iPhone the boost of protection it needs to combat almost any security threat.

#1. Set a strong passphrase

It may sound obvious, but the first step is to defend your privacy from those who have direct access to our iPhone. Our smartphones holds sensitive information, personal photos, work emails and much more. Yet, I bet many of you have your date of birth as your phone’s unlock code. Bad idea!
Instead, create a robust and unpredictable password to protect your iPhone from the curious snoopers or malicious thieves.
Also, be sure to activate
Face ID or Touch ID,
so you don’t have to type in the long password every time and greatly improve the usability of your iPhone.
Here’s how to do it: Head over to Settings -> Face ID/Touch ID and set an alphanumeric password. Also be sure to carefully select what you want to be available from the lock screen. For instants, you may need to disable the Notification Center or Wallet, or maybe shut Siri down, which is sometimes a little too indiscreet. Lastly, if you use your iPhone for work and have really important Data, you can have all your data deleted after 10 failed passcode attempts, to make sure your data doesn’t go into the wrong hands.
Setting a password for your iPhone has another benefit, the data stored inside it is encrypted, making impossible to access it without unlocking the Device. Even if you connect it to a computer or take it apart, you can’t access the information inside it.

#2. Check your Find My settings

Find My
is a Super useful feature that allows you to locate your iPhone in case it gets lost all stolen. Make sure you have enabled this feature to have the possibility to delete the contents of your iPhone in case of loss, preserving your privacy.
Also make sure you don’t activate the sharing of your location with your friends, unless you want to do it on purpose.
To manage these settings: head over to Settings -> Apple Account Management -> Find My -> Find My iPhone.
See also:
How To Track a Lost iPhone, iPad, or Mac With Find My

#3. Check your location settings for Apps

Our location is arguably the most sensitive information inside our iPhone. So be sure to give each application permission to access your location only when necessary.
Of course we have to give permission to navigation apps, otherwise we won’t get directions, but maybe we can revoke permission to access our location to a video game or bank app.
To do this: head over to Settings -> Privacy -> Location Services to find the list of installed apps. For each of them you can select whether to allow access to the location, and eventually let the application use GPS in the background as well.

#4. Check your location settings for System Services

Most iPhone users do not know that iOS itself uses the position very often. Thanks to the location our iPhone can give us personalized suggestions. For instants, it can send a notification with traffic information, calibrate the compass or provide targeted advertising.
By heading over to Settings -> Privacy -> Location Services -> System Services we have the option to disable some entries, so that we can limit the amount of data collected by our iPhone operating system for the various suggestions.

Disable the access to your location for the System Services you don’t need
From the same screen you can also disable location data that is otherwise used to improve Apple products.

#5. Check your privacy settings for Apps

What most threatens our privacy are the applications. When we download an app from the App Store we are often asked to give access to a series of permissions, and most of the time we allow permission without paying too much attention, perhaps because we are in a hurry to use the app just downloaded.
In this case it’s good to apply a golden rule: give an app only the permissions strictly necessary for its operation.
By heading to Settings -> Privacy we can choose which applications to allow access to our contacts, our reminders, our calendar, our photos and much more. As we did for the localization, it’s a good idea to ask ourselves: “is it really necessary to authorize this app to access these data of mine?
Always use common sense: it’s obvious that an app that manipulates photos should be able to access our gallery, but it shouldn’t have access to our microphone. It’s obvious that a messaging app needs access to our contacts, but you probably don’t need to allow it to access our health data.

#6. Uninstall useless Apps

As I pointed out, applications are what most endanger our privacy. Applications represent a point of access to our iPhone, a way in which developers, often unknown, can gather a range of information about us.
Some applications may also have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers to attack our iPhones and steal our Data.
So, try to only install the apps you really need, keep them updated, and delete them when you no longer need them. This way, we limit the possibility of our data being exposed to malicious attackers.

#7. Hide notification previews on lock screen

The last tip is to deactivate the notification preview when the screen is locked. This prevents other people from being able to see your messages and other potentially sensitive information.
If you are the owner of the iPhone and you have Face ID, you just need to look at your Device to see the previews. Otherwise, you will only have to place your finger and use Touch ID.
To disable the Notificationpreviews: head over to Settings -> Notifications -> Show Previews.
See also:
14 Tips To Protect The Private Information On Your iPhone ..

Tag: iPhone Tips
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Can an iPad Pro Replace Your Laptop? Here’s the Truth!

by GeeksModo Staff

The most common question I get from people is “Can an iPad Pro replace a laptop?” Short answer: in most cases it can, and it’s not as scary as you think.

After using the
iPad Pro
for sometimes now, I wanted to share some of the reasons I think it could replace a computer and some of the reasons iPad Pro can’t replace a computer at least for me.

Before we dive into it, it is important to note here that to consider an iPad Pro as a replacement for a computer or laptop, you need to get the Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio or any other iPad Pro keyboard accessory. I bought the
Smart keyboard Folio
for my 12.9-inch iPad Pro with Wi-Fi + Cellular.
See also:
Why I Choose the Smart keyboard Folio for the iPad Pro!
Ever since Apple announced their new line of iPad Pros, I kept wondering if I could get rid of my MacBook and only rely on an iPad and a keyboard cover.

iPad Pro appeared like the perfect device for me: it’s very portable, it has a stunning display, and the touch interface just makes it enjoyable to use.
The iPad Pro also seemed to be higher than macOS in Apple’s priorities. Apple seemed firmly convinced that the iPad could replace a laptop, and a lot of effort was put into software and updates to make this a reality.
That’s exciting, given that macOS lags far much behind in terms of innovations and integrations.

While switching to the iPad Pro was a bold move a couple of years ago, it’s now easier than ever to make the switch considering all the improvements Apple has made to iOS now iPadOS.
Having said that, switching entirely to the iPad from a laptop or even a desktop computer can be a tricky decision to make. So here are a couple of things you may want to know before deciding whether or not the
iPad Pro
would be a appropriate computing device for you.

The iPad Pro is Powerful Enough

I’m not going to quote Apple on this, stating the iPad is more powerful than 90% of the laptops on the market. I not sure if it’s true, and I don’t think it matters.
I have never been able to push my 12.9 inch iPad Pro to its limits. Maybe I don’t have the most intensive workflow of all, but I’m sure I use my iPad pretty thoroughly. I browse the internet, I write a lot, I manage social media, I edit pictures on Lightroom, I edit 4K videos on Lumafusion, I create designs on Canva and Photoshop etc.
Sure, some people push it further, but the question is, will you need to?

My iPad can perform some of these tasks better than my 2019 MacBook Pro. For instance, the video editing experience is much smoother on the iPad than on my MacBook. In addition, I don’t have to deal with the noise the fan of my Mac would make, which worries me since it gives me the impression than I am slowly killing my laptop.

File Management on the iPad Pro

Managing files and storage on the iPad Pro is better than ever. Files has always been a lighter version of Finder, but we now have a more capable interface, and that looks a lot better than it used to be. Moving, copying, and pasting files is very similar to using Finder on Mac. I still find the process a bit more extensive than on a laptop, but the iPad is quite capable of managing files.
The harddrive support works quite well. Again, managing files isn’t as practical as on a Mac, but it’s enough, and with a bit of practice, you won’t feel any difference at all.

The iPad Apps

There is an app for pretty much everything on the iPad, and chances are, most of the tools you use on a daily basis have an iPad version on the AppStore.
For anything web-based, the iPad should work just fine, as it now displays the desktop version of websites by default. So even if the iPad app is limited, you can still take advantage of the web version of the tools you use, and you should be fine this way.
The only task that I absolutely couldn’t get my iPad to do with either the iPad app or the website version of it was Squarespace. I can entirely edit my WordPress websites using Safari, but for some reason, I’m unable to edit some parts of my Squarespace website on either the app or Safari.

The Limitations of the iPad Pro

Although the iPad Pro appears like a perfect device, it has a few downsides.
Besides the limitations I pointed out above, most pro apps don’t have an iPad version. So Logic, Final Cut, Adobe Premiere aren’t compatible with the iPad at all.
There are some alternatives, but they aren’t as great and flexible as the original pro apps.
These alternatives are just enough for most people. But it also means that you have to learn an entirely new program to perform these tasks that you were so used to do before. Learning how to use Lumafusion properly, for instance, took me a few hours and made me scratch my head a bit. It’s a fantastic piece of software, and I’d say that you can get quite striking results with it. But it’s a lot more limited than Final Cut, and you may get discouraged not being able to edit your videos as freely as on a more professional tool.

So can an iPad Pro replace a MacBook?

I belief the iPad Pro can be a laptop replacement for many users, but at the same time, it can’t for some. It really depends on your use cases. The iPad is a perfect choice for people who are looking for a simple machine that they can bring with them wherever. If you are a real pro, and need a device that can handle powerful tasks such as thousands of RAW images and complex file management system, then the iPad Pro might not be the right choice. But if you are a creative that needs something flexible, capable, and enjoyable to use, the iPad is a lot better than a Mac, in my opinion.

If you are on the fence and looking to make a decision on whether you want to buy an iPad Pro as a computer replacement then please don’t hesitate to drop me a line in the comments if you have any questions and I’ll answer them

Tags: iPad Pro, Productivity
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Why I Choose the Smart keyboard Folio for the iPad Pro!

by GeeksModo Staff

in this article, I’ll tell you exactly why I chose the Smart Keyboard Folio instead of the Magic Keyboard And whether I regret it.
I had thought about buying the Smart Keyboard Folio for my 2018 12.9 ” iPad Pro for a while but at $179, I could never make a leap. When the Magic Keyboard was launched, like many other people, was drooling. The design was outstanding and the capabilities it added to the iPad Pro was thrilling. Not only did it finally give the iPad Pro a “real keyboard” it also gave it something brand new, a trackpad. The Magic Keyboard seemed ready to finally answer the question “Can an iPad Replace a Laptop?”
I was certain I would get the Magic Keyboard. Until I didn’t. Instead, I bought the Smart Keyboard Folio. This is why:

Cost

If I were to buy the Magic Keyboard for my 12.9 ” iPad Pro, it would set me back $299. That’s a lot of money. It’s a lot of money by itself but even more when you consider I already paid $999 for the iPad. It’s a huge investment to make my iPad Pro work more like my MacBook Pro.
If I already own a MacBook Pro, do I need to spend $299 to make my iPad Pro function more like MacBook Pro? Although yes, the Magic Keyboard adds a trackpad as well as a keyboard but does what I do on my iPad support the need for both of those?
This was the issue I started pondering the more I considered parting with the considerable amount of money.
Now, compare that $299 price tag to $179 for the Smart Keyboard Folio. Like I pointed out, I already had a difficult time convincing myself the Smart Keyboard Folio was worth buying. Let the internal fight begin.
Yes, the Magic Keyboard is gorgeous.
And yes, it has a “real keyboard” with real keycaps and actual key travel. Gone are the woven-fabric keys of the Smart Keyboard Folio.
And yes, it has an additional USB-C port for charging, so you can free up the one on the iPad for accessories.
And yes, it comes with a trackpad for a whole new way of interacting with the iPad Pro.
But for $299, I had to make sure the things I did on my iPad Pro versus my MacBook Pro justified that price tag.

Uses

The
Magic Keyboard
is an absolute solution for a very specific category of iPad users. If you are someone who is deeply entrenched into the iPad and iPadOS and has long desired to replace your traditional laptop with it, the Magic Keyboard makes that a very real possibility.
If the things you care about are web browsing, word processing, email, and media consumption then the Magic Keyboard now lets you get the best of most worlds.
You get a great typing experience with backlit keys, more viewing angles, and an extra USB-C port. And you get a trackpad that gives you more control of your apps.
However, if you are like me and you want your iPad to be the best device you can get, one that lets you surf the internet, watch movies and TV shows, and play some games from time to time, one that doesn’t replace your laptop but complements it, you should reconsider the
Smart Keyboard Folio
as I did.

Besides wanting the best tablet, I also want to be able to sit down and easily reply to an email, type a new blog post, or take some notes.
When I need something with more power and capabilities, I take my MacBook Pro with me. When I need something more portable and handy, I take my iPad Pro with me.

Weight and Portability

Unfortunately, Due to the pandemic, I didn’t get a chance to try the Magic Keyboard myself. I was, however, watching all the unboxing and review videos I could find. A commone theme came up in every video, the weight.
My 12.9 ” iPad Pro, with no case, weighs 631.00 grams. The Smart Keyboard Folio weighs 297 grams compared to the Magic Keyboard at 601 grams. The Magic Keyboard by itself weighs almost the same as my iPad Pro. I needed something that would offer me a more comfortable typing experience without sacrificing portability.

Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio is the best option if you truly value portability. It’s a slim case that attaches magnetically to the back of the iPad and flips around like a laptop, with two angles that you can snap the screen into. The fabric-covered keys have very shallow travel but actually offers a pretty comfortable typing experience. I prefer them to Apple’s current MacBook keyboards, and they’re certainly less likely to break.

One thing that separates the Smart Keyboard Folio from the park though, is its convenience. It’s the only iPad Pro keyboard to make use of the Smart Connector on the back of the tablet, which handles pairing and power automatically. You never have to charge the keyboard or dive into Bluetooth settings. It’s also really easy to remove whenever you just want to use the iPad as a tablet by itself, and it’s by far the thinnest and lightest keyboard option out there. Actually, it’s arguably the only keyboard that really makes sense as a basic protective case at times when you’re unsure whether you’ll be doing any typing.

While the combined weight of my iPad Pro and the Magic Keyboard, at 1232 grams or just about 2.8 pounds, would still be less than my 13 inch ” MacBook Pro at 3.02 pounds, it was getting close. To me, the Magic Keyboard would actually add a lot of weight to my iPad and affect one of it’s best features, it’s portability.

Final Thoughts

I was waiting for the Cupertino based company to announce the “next-gen Smart Keyboard Folio” just as much as the next person. I had long wanted to get the Smart Keyboard Folio and was excited to see what Apple would do to eventually get me to buy it. As it turned out, they announced a brand new keyboard instead.

Like I said, the Magic Keyboard is one of the best keyboard for the iPad pro out there. It certainly offers the best typing experience you can have with an iPad and I think the trackpad will surely be a game-changer for the iPad Pro.
But at the moment, for the stuff I do with my iPad on a daily basis, I couldn’t justify spending the cash on it.

I purchased the Smart Keyboard Folio because it lets me get an fantastic typing experience on my iPad Pro without sacrificing weight, comfort, or portability. I can still take notes using my Apple Pencil without having to take off the folio. The Smart Keyboard Folio hasn’t forced me to change the way I use my iPad Pro whatsoever, it has just made one part of what I do with it, typing, a much better experience.

If I needed to replace my laptop with my iPad or didn’t have a laptop and wanted my iPad to be able to do more things a traditional laptop can do, then I would have considered getting myself a Magic Keyboard.

I think the iPad Pro together with the Magic Keyboard is a fantastic set-up for a student or writer but even though, if you purchase the cheapest iPad Pro at $799 and the Magic Keyboard for $299, you’re looking at almost $1,100, which is more than the base MacBook Air. It’s a tough decision to make and one that requires some thoughts about what you plan to use it for.
Definitely, the Magic Keyboard made my decision to purchase the Smart Keyboard Folio easier. It compelled me to consider what I use my iPad for and how each keyboard would fit into that. The Smart Keyboard Folio is a perfect fit for what I use both iPad Pro and MacBook Pro for. I have enjoyed using the Smart Keyboard Folio and it has made me grab my iPad Pro over my MacBook Pro more times than I might have in the past. I don’t regret my purchase and recommend anyone considering the two options to take a closer look at what you do with your iPad Pro and what you want out of it. Keep in mind, there is no single best iPad Pro keyboard for everyone.
See also:
A few reasons the iPad Pro can’t replace the MacBook, even with the Magic Keyboard

Tag: iPad Pro
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Can You Use an iPad as your Main Computer? Know Here

by GeeksModo Staff

The iPad Pro is more powerful than many of the entry-level laptops lining the shelves at Best Buy. It earns that “Pro” name with a processor that’s on par with a mid-level PC and a screen resolution that exceeds many of those same laptops, and the graphics power of an Xbox 360. And when you combine these specs with an operating system that supports slide-over and split-screen multitasking and a virtual touchpad, it’s about time to reevaluate the iPad as a laptop killer.

You can use an iPad as your main computer if …

The most common tasks people perform on their laptop or desktop PC are the very same tasks in which the iPad excels: exploring the web, checking email, finding out what friends and family are up to on Facebook, playing games, balancing the checkbook, writing a letter or a paper for school, etc.

YOU USE MICROSOFT OFFICE

Productivity has also become increasingly easy on the iPad. The virtual touchpad makes manipulating text easier; the iPad supports Microsoft Office and includes a free version of Apple’s iWork; and if you need to do a lot of typing you can connect a Bluetooth keyboard.

YOU FILM AND EDIT VIDEOS

Perhaps just as importantly, the iPad can do some tasks even better than a laptop. It has a back-facing camera, so you can film your own home movie. And with the 9.7-inch iPad Pro’s 12 MP camera, the movie will look fantastic. You can also edit the video right on your iPad. Need to get online while on the go? You don’t need to look for a coffee shop with Wi-Fi. If you buy the 4G LTE version of the iPad, you can connect anywhere you can connect with your smartphone.

YOU PLAY PORTABLE GAMES

The iPad has increasingly become a portable gaming machine as well. It won’t compete with a high-end PC, a PlayStation 4 or an Xbox One in terms of hardcore gaming, but it’s more than enough for most of us. The graphics are nearly on par with the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and with its touch controls and motion sensors, the iPad can deliver unique ways to play some very good games.

You can’t use an iPad as your main computer if …

The number one reason why you can’t use an iPad as a primary computer is if you’re tied to a proprietary piece of software that’s not available for the iPad. While businesses are increasingly leaning toward cloud-based solutions—which is a fancy way of saying they’re building software on the web—many of them still use software that requires Microsoft Windows.

YOU USE PROPRIETARY SOFTWARE

And proprietary software isn’t found just in the workplace. Any application you run on your Windows PC or Mac would need a replacement for your iPad. This substitution is easy for email and web browsing, but can be more difficult for other types of software. The iPad has become increasingly competent for photo and video editing, and you certainly won’t miss iMovie on your Mac when you have a very capable iMovie on the iPad. But if you need professional video-editing software like Final Cut Pro, the iPad isn’t quite there yet. The iPad Pro may have the power to do it, but Apple still needs to make a version for its newest heavyweight tablet.

YOU NEED A LOT OF STORAGE SPACE

Another challenge with the iPad is storage space. While the internal storage of an iPad can range up to 256 GB with the latest models, this space still doesn’t compete with the storage offered by many laptops. The offset of this is that the iPad doesn’t require as much storage. For example, simply running Windows 10 will cost you around 16 GB of space. The iPad’s operating system takes up less than 2 GB of space. The same is true for software, with Microsoft Office taking around 3 GB of space to install on a PC and less than half that on an iPad.

The portability of an iPad makes it great for videos, photos, and music—all of which consume storage space.

The best solution for the iPad is cloud storage, like iCloud, which also provides a great backup for this data in case anything happens to your iPad, but it may cost a monthly subscription fee to get enough storage to support your photo collection.

YOU’RE A HARDCORE GAMER

Hardcore gaming is another area where the iPad won’t be able to compete with a PC. For Xbox and PlayStation gamers, this limitation might not be a big issue, but if your idea of fun involves cutting back the demonic hordes in World of Warcraft, farming for the best loot in Star Wars: The Old Republic, or throwing some beat-down in League of Legends, you simply won’t find the same experience on the iPad. There are some really good games there, but nothing that will rival a game like Skyrim.

Tags: iPad Pro, Productivity
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Why is the iPad So Successful? Here’s the Truth

by GeeksModo Staff

As you may already know, the Apple iPad is that one tablet people look stupid taking mirror selfies with. Well, it’s way more than that. Surprisingly.
The Cupertino based brand released the
first generation iPad
in April of 2010. Initially, people treated it as a gimmick and it was seen as more of a cash grab on Apple’s side. People generally used it to consume media and maybe, just maybe, do some light web browsing.
Since then, Apple has made a variety of iPads that ranges from 7.9 inches to 12.9 inches display.
So, why is the iPad so successful?
Now that iPads have become more reliable and attractive in terms of design, people seem to have gotten the memo and bought into Apple’s strategy of making this a widely used piece of technology. Not only has the iPad transitioned from being perceived as just a bigger iPod but it’s become a staple in a lot of people’s lives, ranging from students in a university to veterans using it to connect with their loved ones.
The biggest game-changer in the evolution of Apple’s iPad was the introduction of the Apple Pencil back in 2015.

– [ ] This introduction was revolutionary since people finally had the chance to use this tablet in a manner that is familiar to everyone. People finally used it to write their to-do lists, take notes, sign documents, highlight important text, etc. It was the first time a product allowed people to go completely paperless.
Not only did it become a common device among the working population, it became something young adolescents saved up money for months, sometimes years for. As someone who interacts with students every now and then, I can confirm that a lot of today’s college youth is perceiving this Apple device to be an essential in College, and even in High School.
Note-taking apps such as “Goodnotes” and “Notability” have become very popular among note-takers. “Procreate” is an app all new age artists have heard about, and the list continues.
In addition to the young adolescent’s perceived essentials, people have started and maintained entire businesses on this tablet. Doctors use it to reinforce anatomy information. Even kids are a huge fan of this tablet.
So should you invest in one?
Today, you can get the premium iPad experience not paying any more than 329$.
– [ ] The Apple iPad is designed to be fast, slick, and usable. It even offers multitasking if you need to have multiple apps open at a time. It’s the ultimate personal data consuming device. If you read, watch or listen to stuff, the iPad gives you the best experience due to its larger screen size and improved battery life compared to a smartphone.
– [ ] Second, tablets are getting better at creating content. With an attachable external keyboard you can have the same experience as a laptop, sometimes even better. The apps are optimized for touch, which makes interfaces more user-friendly. Many people find that the iOS versions of these apps work more efficiently than the Mac OS or Microsoft versions.
– [ ] You can also choose an iPad screen size that best suits your routine, and it’s still lighter to carry around than the average laptop (a decent laptop is twice as expensive).

An iPad is said to be more of a consumption device – video, music, email, web, etc., but those are the the very things we spent most of the time on a PC anyway. However, if one wants, an iPad can double as a creation device as well – word processing, spreadsheets, slide shows, email composition, etc. Of course, processor rich tasks like design, programming, etc. would still need a powerful Computer, although since most of us don’t do that stuff. So computers, like trucks – in Steve Jobs’ parlance, are becoming a niche product.

See also:
If It Weren’t For This Feature, The iPhone Wouldn’t Exist
All in all, it depends on your preference, if you find all of the aforementioned things attractive and think a smaller tablet might improve your efficiency, I say go for it!

Tag: iPad Pro
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If It Weren’t For This Feature, The iPhone Wouldn’t Exist

by GeeksModo Staff

Steve Jobs first announced the original iPhone at the Macworld convention in January 2007, the rest as they say, is history.
He famously said at the Keynote;
“We wanna reinvent the phone.
So, what’s the killer app?
The killer app is making calls!”
However, there was a very certain irony to the fact that this one feature (calling) that every phone prior to the iPhone had managed quite easily almost lead to the downfall of this revolutionary product. It wasn’t the phones ability to make calls that was the issue, more it was the fact that because of the new and revolutionary ‘all glass’ touchscreen design of the iPhone, this presented an issue that had not previously existed… how to stop a customer’s cheek from inadvertently activating the touchscreen, and potentially even ending a call.
Most phones before the iPhone featured a small (none touch) screen at the top and a plastic keyboard at the bottom (Jobs was known to not be a fan of this design and this inspired him in the design of the iPhone).
Just months before the iPhone was due to go on sale to the general public the iPhone was fraught with problems that ranged from buggy software, faulty antennas and a battery that couldn’t hold charge — these problems could all be addressed, but it was said that the issue of a customer’s cheek ending phone calls that could be the real deal breaker.
The iPhone was well into development stage before the
proximity sensor
was conceptualised but it was nowhere near ready for release, all the other bugs could be (relatively) easy resolved, but there was still no solution to the problem, a problem, if not fixed, would have caused a delay, or even cancellation of the iPhone!

How does the proximity sensor work on iPhone

The proximity sensor in the original iPhone works in fundamentally the same way that all modern iPhones do; they detect when the phone is lifted to your ear and turns off the display, and the other way around when done with a call. It works via the emission of infrared radiation — if the radiation hits an object (i.e. your cheek) and bounces back, it is detected by a receiver. There is however more to it than that — if the small burst of radiation reflects off an object nearby then it will be more intense than an object much further away. It was therefore necessary that the sensitivity be set just right in order ensure it worked correctly.
It was a tricky issue to fix as there were so many variables: skin colour, hair length and hair colour and it had to work faultlessly for them all. The reflection of radiation is influenced by the colour and appearance of the surface — light, shiny surfaces bounce back far more light than darker colours, which absorb light. Shiny objects on clothing for instance could cause the proximity sensor to inadvertently turn off the display, even when a user wasn’t on a call.
As the iPhone’s release deadline drew nearer, Apple engineers had to work day and night to find a solution, it was even said that an Apple engineer with ‘extremely dark hair’ was asked to donate some of his hair so that it could be put into a device to test and calibrate the sensor to ensure that it worked as expected.
None the less, the Apple engineers and design team worked around the clock and got the iPhone Proximity Sensor to work and function in much the same way that it does now — the display goes off when at your ear and comes back on when you’re done with your call.
The iPhone proximity sensor was such a huge feature at the time, it was listed as a major feature on the product page on Apple’s website.
The technology has stuck ever since, it was of course not without a few issues, most notably the iPhone 4 received numerous reports and criticism that its proximity sensor didn’t function.
None the less the technology has lived on ever since, were it not for the engineers at Apple coming up with a solution to a newly made problem, then the iPhone may never have been.

Tag: iOS
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Top 4 Amazing Piano Apps

by GeeksModo Staff

Learning how to play the piano can be a very difficult task. You’ll need to learn the correct hand placements and figure out what order to play the notes is. While you could pay for piano tutorials, there is a more modern solution to this problem. You could use a smartphone app. This is often one of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to improve your piano skills. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best apps available for you to try.
Piano

Perfect Piano

One of the keys to learning how to play the piano is practicing as often as possible. However, it’s usually not practical to carry around a full-sized piano with you. Because of this, you might want to download the Perfect Piano app. This will allow you to simulate the experience of playing the piano on your iPhone.
This app comes with several features that make it a great piano simulation option. First, you can touch the screen at multiple places
when playing. This will help you replicate the experience of playing multiple keys at once. It will also let you adjust the keyboard to better suit your smart device. This will make it easier for you to judge where the keys will be. Finally, you can also have a lot of fun with this app, with multiple built-in sound effects. For example, you’ll be able to use a grand piano or pipe organ.

Note Rush

Another excellent app to use while learning how to play the piano is note rush. In this case, it will use your iPhone’s microphone to determine which note you’ve just played. When it does this, it’ll match it up with the note shown on the note on the screen. This is one of the best ways for you to improve your note reading ability while having fun. The more often you do this, the easier it will be for you to understand sheet music.
There are a few other features available on this app. First, it will be able to detect which octave you’re using, making sure that you’re using the right one. It’s also been designed to wait for as long as it takes for you to find and play the right note. This will stop you from getting lost when playing. There are also different themes, and you can design your own levels. This will ensure that you are always able to test yourself and improve your skills.

Flowkey

If you’re learning how to play the piano, you can’t overlook the Flowkey app. This is designed to be as user friendly as possible. First, it will help you assess your current level of proficiency. Then, the app will recommend lessons, based on your skill levels. This app is suitable for both complete beginners and those who have a few more hours of experience.
Each of these lessons has been designed to be as easy to follow as possible, stepping you through everything you need to know. Also, when you are learning a new song, you can replay difficult sections, until you’ve mastered them. As you grow your skill level, you’ll also start to learn a little more about the theory behind the music that you’re learning. This will help you develop your overall understanding of the piano.

Musicnotes Sheet Music Player

Finally, you might want to consider downloading the Musicnotes Sheet Music Player. When you are playing the piano, you need to make sure that you have plenty of sheet music. This app gives you access to over 300,000 pieces of sheet music, from your favorite artists. It also has features that let you organize your songs into lists, which can help professional musicians create an exciting set.
There is a range of other useful features that you might want to explore. For example, you might be able to change the tempo of your songs, making it easy to put your spin on the material. It also comes with a pen function, so you can make notes as you’re playing, making it easier for you to create engaging arrangements. Finally, if you’re learning piano, you’ll be able to get a simpler version of the sheet music.

Conclusion

Apps can play a big role in helping you learn how to play the piano. Thanks to technology, you’ll now be able to practice your skills anywhere in the world. However, nothing compares to sitting down at a real set of keys. When you do this, you’ll really be able to start putting your skills to test, making music for real.
So, find a keyboard and put the skills you’ve learned from piano playing apps into practice.

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I Ditched the Mac for the iPad – Here’s how it Went

by GeeksModo Staff

I bought the 2020 iPad pro and sold it in one week.
Try to not repeat my mistake.
The thought of having a new iPad has been toying with my mind for a while since I gave my old iPad to my mom in 2016. I used to have the old iPad and the oldie classic MacBook air. Each one of them had a separate function back in the day; I used the iPad for listening to music and watch movies while the Macbook air mainly for my job. It was easy to switch between them given that each of them was made for a specific purpose.

Fast forward, Apple released the 2020 iPad pro and I knew I would find a way to convince myself to fork a $1000 to buy one.
A little about me, I am a full-time doctor. What I can consider as productivity in my field is mainly writing and reviewing medical articles, finishing presentations for different meetings and working on multiple excel spreadsheets. And aside from the casual internet browsing, that is basically it. I currently own a 2019
MacBook pro
which has been serving me well. I opted for the 12.9-inch
iPad Pro
and once I opened it — like a 13 year old kid looking at his new toy — the first thing that enthralled me as you can probably guess was the display. The colour reproduction on the iPad was nowhere near my MacBook pro. Don’t get me wrong the MacBook display is great, but something about the iPad screen just made the colours pop.

After setting it up in the first day, I woke up the next morning, got ready for work and decided to take the iPad with me. On my first afternoon staff meeting I took the iPad out and started taking notes, and thats when I felt I was missing something, yup! A keyboard. Don’t get me wrong, I am not new to touch screens but typing on the 12.9 screen made the experience a bit… awkward — If that is the term, but I decided to ignore that feeling for now.
Things started to take a different direction at that point.
With the iPad learning curve, it did not take me a lot really to master the task switching and multitasking interface — something which I acclaim Apple on. I mainly use Spark for my emails instead of the built-in Mail app and that went on just fine. The new support for the file system made attaching documents and working through my OneDrive cloud space super doable — again with a bit of learning curve. I was quite astounded that the new Office app is not supported on the iPad, but the separate Microsoft Excel and Word apps worked pretty well.

The following day, I went on thinking, should I purchase the new Magic Keyboard? I think It will improve my iPad experience and will solve the one problem I have with it, I told myself. Well, thats another $300 to fork out!

Around the middle of the week, I got into that point where I was subconsciously making comparison between the MacBook and the iPad Pro.

From a portability viewpoint: both of them are relatively very similar, even If I decided to purchase the Magic Keyboard. I do not think anyone would say that one is more portable than the other one.

From a battery viewpoint: I would say the iPad has almost the same battery life as my MacBook Pro. Basically, both of them can get me through the day without me thinking I would lose power at any point.

I figured out that I don’t need both devices really, one of them can do everything an average person — like me — would want from a Computing device.
Then What’s really the difference between these two powerful devices? Why is Apple selling both?
Well, I drew a conclusion that both of these devices will enable you to do everything you want,
BUT…
…in a different way.
With the MacBook pro, I feel more comfortable, It is a screen and a keyboard. You open the lid and you start typing your notes, browsing or watching. My hands know where to rest and my viewing angle is not something I need to think about.
With the iPad Pro, I felt I am using a pumped-up version of my iPhone. Do I want to look cool and use a pen on the screen? I can. A keyboard? I can buy one and attach it. Maybe mouse instead of touching the interface? That is supported too. I have to admit that it is a very versatile device and I can understand why anyone would be intrigued to buy it.
I think at the time of writing this, Apple has made two equally powerful breed of machines, MacBooks and iPads, both will get you anything you throw at them done equally effective yet, in a different way. And it all depends on which interface you like better.
Apple is really smart in a way that It looks like it is eating Its own market share rather than waiting for someone else to eat it.

I did not keep the iPad Pro, despite its great features, I figured out that I don’t need both devices really, one of them can do everything an average person — like me — would want from a Computing device.

My conclusion is, Try both; I personally feel that If you are coming from a MacBook, you’ll stick with a MacBook. while If you are holding an iPhone and you are looking for a replacement for your Windows PC, You will love the iPad Pro. So, with whatever you choose you will not be disappointed…
but just buy one of them!

Obviously it’s different for everyone, so I would recommend heading over to an Apple store and try them out. Don’t worry, they sanitise them after each person
is done with them.

Alternatively, you can buy them, and try them for fourteen days, as long as you return them within this period, Apple’s return policy allows you to give them back.

I hope this article has helped and answered your questions, if not, leave a comment below and I’ll surely respond.

Please do share your experience as well. I would be very interested to hear them.

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