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7 Tips to Save Space on Your Mac (Book)

by GeeksModo Staff

Is the disk space of your Mac (Book) full? You can do something about that. If you want to kno whow to save space on your Macbook, no problem. In this article we list 7 tips to free up storage on your Mac.

Free up Mac disk space

Do you have a MacBook and you are about to hit your storage limit? No problem. There are a number of things you can do, even if you prefer not to delete apps or data to save disk space on Macbook.
Here are step-by-step instructions for how to free up space on Macbook Air, or MacBook Pro.

1. Delete large files

First of all, you can delete large files that you don’t use to free up memory on your mac. However, if you have downloaded a lot, you can lose the overview of the files you have. You can scroll through all the folders of the Finder to see what you do and don’t need, but if you have multiple files in the download folder, that’s not possible.

It is therefore more convenient to go to a folder and organize files by size. In Finder, click the gear at the top of the window. Click on “Sort by” and choose “Size. See which large files you all have and see if you still use them. If not, it’s best to move them to the Trash.

2. Restart Mac or apps

Another best way to save space on Macbook it’s by performing a restart. Apps that you have open secretly keep some temporary data in the background. How about Safari or Chrome or apps like Photoshop? The longer you run them, the more files they create and the more disk space they take up.

Restarting your Mac (Book) every now and then will delete the temporary files, which again saves a bit of disc space. Always close apps when you are not using them. Sometimes apps continue to run in the background, and sometimes they also create temporary data. To do this, press cmd + tab. You will then see which applications are still open. Hold cmd and press Q to exit an app. Also, restart your MacBook regularly to clear temporary files.

3. Remove “Other storage”

Whether you want to save space on Macbook Pro, MacBook Air or MacBook mini, you’ll love this tip. A huge amount of data is stored on the Mac, but it is not always clear what kind of files it concerns. In addition to apps, photos and movies, your Mac also accumulates a large amount of data under the “Other” category.

These are often documents, plugins, system data and cache memory that are stored by installed apps. The files are not harmful, but they do take up a lot of disk space. By removing these you quickly free up a lot of memory. Also read How to delete documents and data on iPhone or iPad
To see how much other storage your Mac is using, simply follow these steps:

  1. click the Apple icon in the top left of your screen, then click “About this Mac.”
  2. In the tab “Storage” you can see in which categories your data is divided, and how much disk space each category uses.
  3. Click “Go” in the Finder at the top of the menu bar;
  4. Click on “Go to folder …”
    Type ~ / Library / caches in the text box and press “Go”;
    You will now see the folders with saved data of all installed apps.

Here you can delete folders from apps that you no longer use or have already been deleted. It is of course important to delete only these folders. Deleting folders from apps you are still using can cause problems.

4. Optimized storage

Your MacBook can also help you free up disk space. Through Optimized Storage, your Mac gives you tips and recommendations on how to use up your MacBook’s files and programs as little memory as possible.

You activate this function by clicking on the Apple icon at the top left and then on “About this Mac”.
Under the tab “Storage” choose “Management”.
Your Mac calculates how much space it uses and gives you recommendations to optimize storage space.
Choose one of the ways to minimize the amount of data from apps and files using automated functions. For example, you can have your trash automatically emptied, or automatically remove films and programs that you have watched.

5. Store files in the cloud

If you’re running out of space on the hard drive, you can also store files elsewhere. With services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox you can save your documents and files. Often you get a few GB for free to try out the service and you have to pay a certain amount every month if you want more space.

The price for this differs, but is often not too bad. For the iCloud, for example, you can increase your storage 10 times with 0.99 dollars per month. One benefits of such a cloud service is that you can access it from any device: so you are not limited to one device. You can also access your cloud files from your iPhone, for example.

6. Use micro SD card or external hard drive

If you prefer not to have your files stored in the cloud, you can choose to store them locally on an external hard drive or a micro-SD card. This is especially useful for (large) files that you do not want to throw away, but do not need to have on your Mac as standard.

Think of films, photos from old holidays or other documents. When you buy a hard drive, you may need to format it for aMac for the first time. Then you can always plug it in.

7. Empty the trash

It might sound obvious, but don’t forget to empty the trash. If you clicked a file and pressed delete, the file is not completely gone. It has actually been moved to the trash but still retrievable. For example, if you have thrown out the cache of deleted apps, they will still take up disk space in the trash.

To permanently remove it, right-click on the Trash in the Dock. Choose “Empty trash”. Your files are now permanently deleted.

How do i free up disk space on my Mac? Now you know

We trust this guide has helped you free up space on your Mac.
And that covers everything about how to free up space on Macbook Air, MacBook Pro or MacBook mini. We also have plenty of other articles that I suggest you check right now.

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Touch ID vs Face ID: what are the differences and similarities?

by GeeksModo Staff

Touch ID vs Face ID: what are the differences and similarities?
AND WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS?

Which is better, an iPhone with Touch ID or Face ID? What are the differences and benefits of facial recognition vs. a fingerprint scanner? In this article, we compare Touch ID and Face ID and look at the differences and similarities between
Touch ID and Face ID
Now that theiPhone SE 2020 has been released, you may doubt whether you should still invest in an iPhone with Touch ID.

Touch ID will continue to exist on the iPhones and iPads in the coming years and may even come back as an extra option under the screen. It is mainly about what you like yourself!
Apple uses two different methods to unlock your Apple device:Touch ID orFace ID . Touch ID is Apple’s name for the fingerprint scanner, while the face recognition is called Face ID. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Explanation
Differences and similarities
Pros and cons
Face recognition with Face ID can be found on recent devices since the iPhone X and iPad Pro 2018 while on other devices you can find Touch ID. Even now, devices with Touch ID are still being made, such as the latest iPads and theiPhone SE 2020 .

What are Touch ID and Face ID?

Touch ID and Face ID are both biometric authentication methods that provide access to your Apple product. In the case of Touch ID, it scans your fingerprint: if you put your registered finger on the home button of your iPhone or iPad, you will have access to all functions and data.

Face ID makes a scan of your face before you can unlock the iPhone or iPad . Both methods replace the passcode you set to lock your device. Touch ID and Face ID ensure that all your data is stored securely, so that other people cannot access your device and view your photos, contacts and other data.

Touch ID is the fingerprint scanner found in the iPhone, iPad and some MacBooks. It is used to unlock your device and authorize purchases and the like. Here’s how it works.
Apple’s facial recognition on iPhone
The iPhone has been equipped with Face ID, Apple’s own face recognition, since the iPhone X. In this article you will find the complete Face ID explanation: how it works, whether it also works with apps and whether it is safe.

The purpose of both methods is therefore the same. That does not alter the fact that there are a number of differences and similarities between Touch ID and Face ID.

Touch ID and Face ID differences

These are the differences in brief:

  • Touch ID works with your finger, Face ID with your face.
  • Face ID only works in portrait mode ( iPad Pro 2018 excluded).
  • Face ID works with two faces (via an alternative appearance), Touch ID with five fingers.
  • Face ID is more secure than Touch ID.

The most obvious difference is the method of identification. With Touch ID you place a registered finger on the home button. The advantage of this is that it doesn’t matter how you hold your device: vertically, horizontally or at an angle. As long as you have properly registered your finger, you can place it on the home button in many ways. The only condition is that your skin must be in contact with the button itself. Touch ID also works when your device is flat on the table or with the screen away from you.

With Face ID, you always have to keep your device in portrait mode. Face ID will not work if your iPhone is in landscape position, unless you tilt your head ninety degrees. In addition, your face must always be in front of the TrueDepth camera . You cannot use Face ID if your iPhone is flat on the table, unless you hang your face above the screen.

Another significant difference is that Face ID works with up to two faces. You use the Alternative appearance option to scan your partner’s face, for example. It is not possible to register more people.

This is possible with Touch ID. You can register up to five different fingers of different people. For example, some people register a finger of their partner so that they always have quick access in case of emergency and do not have to remember a passcode.

The last key difference is that Face ID is a lot safer, according to Apple. The chances of unlocking someone else’s device with Face ID are 1 in 1 million. With Touch ID, that chance is 20 times greater, namely 1 in 50,000. Using Face ID is therefore secure than Touch ID, although you are well secured with both methods. The chance that someone can unlock your iPhone with his finger is still very small.

Moreover, with Face ID you are slightly better protected against certain situations, for example during a robbery. For Face ID to unlock your device, you look at the screen with your eyes open thanks to the attention function . This is more difficult to force than grabbing someone’s finger and pressing the home button. On the other hand, Face ID can be used in a more sneaky way with someone other than Touch ID, because the latter requires an action.

Touch ID can be found on the iPhone models from 2013. The iPad models from 2014 are also equipped with Touch ID. You can also find the fingerprint scanner on the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar and the MacBook Air 2018 and newer. Face ID is only available on iPhone X and newer and iPad Pro 2018 and newer.

Touch ID and Face ID similarities

These are the similarities in brief:

  • Secure and unlock your device without entering a passcode.
  • Identifying and logging into apps (e.g. banking apps).
  • Data is stored securely
  • Use for payments with Apple Pay.

The similarities between the two methods mainly focus on one goal: to secure your device and protect your personal data. If your face or finger is not recognized, you will fall back on entering your passcode. In addition, apps can work together with both Touch ID and Face ID. In most cases, Face ID works automatically if an app is also adapted for Touch ID. A developer must add this biometric login method himself. Most banking apps let you log in and send payments with Touch ID or Face ID. This also applies to many password manager apps .

In addition, you use Face ID and Touch ID to approve payments via Apple Pay . This makes you the only one who can pay with your iPhone or iPad (or your partner that you also registered in the Touch ID or Face ID settings). As an alternative to Face ID and Touch ID you can also use the passcode.

The data of registering your fingers and face are both stored in a separate secure part in the chip of your Apple device, called the Secure Enclave. Other parts of the system cannot access this data, so your fingerprint or face does not just end up on the street. However, there is a difference: Touch ID does not store images of your fingerprint, but Face ID does (although they are made unrecognizable). Apple does this to ensure that Face ID works even if your face changes slightly. It is therefore not necessary to rescan your face.

What are the pros and cons of Touch ID and Face ID?

From the list of similarities and differences, you could already see that both techniques have their advantages and disadvantages. In short, these are the pros and cons of Touch ID and Face ID:

Touch ID benefits

  • Register multiple fingers (can also be done by other people)
  • It doesn’t matter how you hold your device, as long as your finger comes in contact with the home button

Touch ID disadvantages

  • Does not work with gloves
  • Often does not work if fingers are dirty or wet
  • With Touch ID you can lock your iPhone, iPad and Mac with your own fingerprint.

Face ID benefits

  • Often works hands-free (unlocking requires swiping)
  • It is safer
  • Works with two faces (from iOS 12 )

Face ID disadvantages

  • Does not work with certain sunglasses ( most sunglasses work )
  • Does not work if the sun shines brightly behind you.

and that covers everything about differences between Face ID in touch ID on iPhone and iPad.
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Sleep tracking with the Apple Watch – how it works

by GeeksModo Staff

The Apple Watch is Apple’s most personal computer. The smartwatch is always on your wrist in everyday life. As a fitness tracker, as an EKG and as a fall detector and even as a meditation aid, the smart watch aims to sustainably improve the health of its users. This is achieved above all with its many sensors – such as the pulse monitor.

But the Apple Watch can do more than just monitor and monitor the active phases of everyday life. With the right apps and worn at night, the smart gadget can also improve your sleep. The whole thing is called “sleep tracking”, ie the observation of sleep. Thanks to the watch’s motion sensors, the Apple Watch can determine how calm or restless you are while sleeping. The internal microphone can detect disturbing noises from the environment or even snoring. With the heart rate monitor, records about awake phases are achievable. The Apple Watch can register all this information while you sleep and present it the next morning.

Apple and sleep tracking

The Apple Watch seems to be made for the task of monitoring sleep – it is all the more surprising that there has not yet been any Apple initiative in this direction. The rumor has long suspected that the company is working on corresponding functions.

Better sleep through meditation

Those who have problems with poor sleep, especially when falling asleep, may also generally have problems with coping with stress. Regardless of whether it is personal trouble at home or challenging projects on the job: a good night’s sleep requires rest. Therefore, in addition to recording sleep times using sleep tracker apps, a completely different function of the Apple Watch can also be helpful: the breathing app. Regular meditation exercises can be a quick and easy aid for coping with stress. Two short meditation exercises a day are usually enough; one exercise after getting up and one after work should be integrated into everyday life.The pre-installed breathing app records your heart rate and helps you take a deep breath. The application also transfers the results to the Health app. Just try it out!

The health app can already record data from sleep tracker apps, but the Apple Watch has not yet created this independently. However, Apple is obviously working diligently behind the scenes on this topic: In 2017, the company took over a provider of sleep trackers, in October 2019 even a reference to a “Sleep” app appeared in a screenshot for the alarm clock app on the Apple Watch on. So it only seems a matter of time before Apple retrofits the corresponding functions for its smartwatch. With a simple software update, these could also reach older models of the watch, provided that they have the required sensors.

Sleep tracking with “Sleep Watch”

There are a variety of health apps in the App Store. There are also some sleep trackers and wake-up aids. Sleep Watch, for example, takes care of the automatic recording of your night’s sleep. When you set up the app for the first time, you first create a user account and enter some personal data, such as your weight and height. You can then link the app to Apple’s Health app to view the data on your sleep phases.

The subsequent use of the sleep tracker works automatically. You wear the Apple Watch while sleeping, make sure you have enough battery capacity – and the rest happens without your intervention. The next morning you will automatically receive a report of your night’s sleep. Sleep Watch informs you about your sleep duration and patterns. The app tries to automatically detect at night when you wake up, sleep lightly or deeply. The application derives this data from your movements and your pulse. When evaluating data, Sleep Watch checks whether you have had a good night’s sleep for several days and shows you the corresponding developments. During the day, the application queries your wrist for how relaxed you feel. All of this flows into the data evaluation, which provides daily, weekly and monthly averages.Sleep Watch is generally free of charge. With a paid subscription, you unlock other functions. Then the watch app offers, for example, an alarm clock that wakes you up from light sleep phases and should make it easier to wake up. In addition, there is also data collection for automatic sleep detection as well as more precise evaluations and notifications. The subscription costs around 4.50 euros per month or 33 euros per year.

Check out Sleep Watch on the AppStore

The automatic data collection works quite reliably overall in our long-term test, but some incorrect recordings can sometimes occur. Sleep Watch, for example, recorded the cozy visit to the cinema on Sunday afternoon as a light sleep phase – the film was not particularly exciting, but it wasn’t sleepy either. You can also delete these false surveys and compare your digital sleep account with reality.

Autosleep prepares your data like Apple’s activity app with colorful rings. Sleep Watch automatically records the sleep phases when wearing the Apple Watch at night and presents an evaluation in the morning. The Sleep Cycle alarm clock app tries to wake you up during a light sleep phase instead of at a fixed time.

Sleep tracking with “Autosleep”

An alternative to Sleep Watch is Autosleep. This app also automatically recognizes your sleep phases and delivers visually appealing data evaluations in English. Analogous to Apple’s activity app for workouts, Autosleep prepares the evaluations in colorful rings. Completing the rings should also motivate better “performance”, that is, better sleep.

However, some data points differ in direct comparison. In the test, Autosleep detected less deep sleep phases than Sleep Watch. At first glance, the data preparation also appears somewhat more abstract. Autosleep works with rings, but initially does not adequately explain what they stand for or how you can close these rings. Only a look at the settings provides help here.So you can set yourself which goals you can or want to achieve with the individual rings. In the settings you can also calibrate the automatic sleep detection.

In the test, Autosleep also understood the visit to the cinema as an afternoon nap. However, the preset calibration responded better to quiet desk work and did not automatically record it as sleep phases.

Check out AutoSleep sleep tracker on the AppStore

Autosleep costs around 3.50 euros in a one-time purchase. There is no subscription model or additional in-app purchases. So if you want to make your first attempts at sleep tracking with the Apple Watch, the best thing to do is to use Sleep Watch first. Autosleep is the better solution for experienced users.

Wake up with the iPhone

For many users, the iPhone has now replaced the alarm clock. However, the iPhone also has some disadvantages with this use: The last grip before going to bed and the first action after waking up. This can be very disturbing to fall asleep and wake up: If you check Twitter before going to sleep, process important e-mails or even write in WhatsApp groups, you may be less able to switch off and fall asleep. Even if the first attention goes to the phone in the morning and greets the nightly messages from the boss, this can bring back the stress that has actually been removed.

Apple knows that too – and that’s why there is also the “bedtime” function in the watch app in addition to the alarm clock. This will set up a time window in which you definitely want to be in bed, as well as a suitable alarm clock for the next morning. The clock app also records these rough sleeping times in the health application.

Data protection in your sleep?

Our test of the sleep tracker on the Apple Watch showed that Apple’s possible move in this direction could be interesting from another perspective: Data protection has traditionally been more important to Apple than to the competition. Because the Apple Watch as a sleep companion on the wrist feels amazingly intimate – not only because the device observes the wearer’s sleep up close, but also because it is equipped with a microphone and can listen to and record nightly noises in the bedroom. With some apps, the analysis of snoring noises, for example, requires this function. Where this data ends up and what happens to it is often less clear than necessary when used.Apple’s handling of personal and sensitive data mostly focuses on local storage instead of cloud solutions. This approach could make it easier for many to use a sleep tracker.

Unlike the normal alarm clock, the iPhone switches to do not disturb mode during this time. This means that you will still receive notifications, but they will not appear on the iPhone’s home screen as the first greeting on the new morning. Instead, your smartphone wishes you a good morning and gives weather information for the new day. Waking up is therefore potentially gentler than with a normal alarm clock. You can use the bedtime function without the Apple Watch as a sleep tracker, but the data collected remains inaccurate – because the app does not know exactly when you fall asleep and how restless your sleep is.

In addition to Apple’s own alarm clock function, there are otherSleeping apps on the App Store for a better tomorrow. WithSleep Cycle you use the iPhone not only as an alarm clock, but also as a sleep aid. Various background sounds, such as the sound of the sea, are intended to calm you down. The alarm clock for the next morning is more flexible than the classic alarm with a fixed time: you only specify a time to wake up, and Sleep Cycle uses a half-hour window to wake you up in a light sleep phase.

For this to work, you have to place your iPhone correctly next to you at night – on a fixed shelf, for example, so that the microphone can analyze your sleep movements. The iPhone’s motion sensor also helps, but you have to put the smartphone on your mattress – a rather sub-optimal solution. If desired, Sleep Cycle can also record your snoring so that the next morning you can get information on restless sleep – if your partner has not already done so.

For the full version, you need a paid subscription for just under 30 euros per year. In addition to the sleep aid and the snore sensor, you also get extended statistics on your sleep behavior.

Night’s sleep – despite Apple Watch

No matter which solution you choose: As soon as you use the smartwatch at night, you have to take some pragmatic changes in the use of Apple Watch and iPhone into account. This most likely affects the watch’s loading rhythm. If you have previously used the nights to charge the battery, you must now switch to a different time window – for example, in the morning directly after getting up, in the evening before falling asleep or during the day during the lunch break. Fortunately, the watch can be charged quite quickly: after an hour and a half, you have already recharged around 80 percent of the battery in the current Apple Watch.
At night it is also important to consider other factors. Since the watch cannot yet automatically distinguish between day and night, it behaves the same way at night as during the day. This means that each notification causes the watch to vibrate or light up. Movement of the arm can also illuminate the watch. This can disturb the night’s sleep – both yours and that of your partner.

Therefore, activate both the theater mode and the do not disturb mode of the watch in the evening. The theater mode prevents the clock display from lighting up due to your movements, “do not disturb” any notifications with sound and haptics. You can even activate and deactivate this mode automatically at fixed times – this ensures a better night’s sleep and a refreshed wake up without much effort.
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No movement: How to disable Apple Watch activity notifications

by GeeksModo Staff

The corona virus forces many people to stay at home and consequently gets less exercise. The Apple Watch of course knows nothing of the circumstances and continues to provide information about activities, breathing exercises and standing times. Thankfully,You can completely turn off notifications for Apple’s built-in apps, like Activity, Breath, Mail, Messages, and more.

activity app on Apple Watch

In order to reduce the stress level in relation to your own activity or lack thereof, it is advisable to currently deactivate the notifications.

How to disable Apple Watch activity notifications

TheApple Watch records a wide range of activities and notifies you of goals that have been achieved or missed. There are also small motivational aids to be seen again and again. However, the quarantine overrides the usual processes, so that information about activities can be demotivating for many people in the already difficult situation. If you want to disable notifications on Apple Watch, there are a few simple steps which you need to follow.

Here are step-by-step instructions for how to deactivate the notifications on your Apple watch:

  1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
  2. You’ll see a couple of options, starting with your watch itself at the top, your choice of watch faces underneath that, and then a list of four tabs you can tap – Complications, Notifications, App Layout, and Dock.
  3. Now, tap Notifications.

By default, there are two Watch apps that will send notifications and reminders – Activity and Breathe.

  • Tap Activity. The easiest way to disable it entirely is to tap Notifications Off in the next screen.

And that’s pretty much it on how to disable Apple Watch activity notifications. We hope we are able to help you one way or another.
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Tag: Notifications
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iPhone SE 2020: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly!

by GeeksModo Staff

iPhone users rarely get confused about which iPhone to buy. For the most of us, it’s a matter of price. If there is one good news about the iPhone SE, it is consumer choice. Apple has now given us so many iPhones to pick from.

Apple’s new budget 2020iPhone SE second generation is a surprisingly good value for all it gives you.However, to get to that $399 price tag, you sacrifice numerous significant features that sets the iPhone range apart.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at iPhone SE (2020) The good, the bad, and the ugly.

iPhone SE 2020, The good:

compact phone

You just have to look around you to see that phone screen sizes are growing ever larger. The
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra,
for example features a 6.9-inch screen, while even the smallest member of the Galaxy S20 line boasts a display that’s larger than 6 inches. So heavy
is the demand for huge smartphone screens that companies are now trying to create foldable phones with displays that fold out into even larger panels.
And if you have tiny hands, you take one glance at these hilariously gigantic smartphones and shake your head, wondering if there’s even a place
for people like you in this Bigger Must Be Better planet.

For those with tiny hands, the introduction of iPhone SE 2020 has given hope for a more comfortable future. Although it’s bigger than the original 4-inch model, the new 4.7-inch phone should rest gently
in your hand and even more gently in your pocket. Despite the industry push toward huge displays, there’s still a need for compact phones.

Budget phone

The iPhone SE 2020 has one specific killer feature that you will come back to again and again as you compare it to other iPhones. It’s cheaper. If you’re purchasing brand new and straight fromApple, the iPhone SE is $200 less than its cheapest competitor. That’s a huge difference that it must make the iPhone SE the only iPhone some people can afford. Even if you can comfortably stretch to a more pricey iPhone, too, then this price difference is enough that it’s got to make you weigh up what is really worth your money and what is not.

Screen sizes aren’t the only thing that are getting bigger with phones. Have you seen the prices of premium phones these days? For a top-of-the-line Flagship device, $999 now looks like the starting point, and when a feature-rich smartphone comes in at anything lower less than that — say, the $899 people are generally startled.

Good value

If it were just about saving cash, the iPhone SE 2020 would already be a compelling buy. But you’re getting lots of features for just $399.

For starters, the iPhone SE is bandled with the A13 Bionic chipset, similar to the one poweringApple’s iPhone 11 lineup. The A13 has proven to be the best-performing mobile processor out there, thrashing out even the newer Snapdragon 865 in head-to-head benchmarks. Until the iPhone SE came along, you’d have to part with at least $699 for an iPhone 11 to enjoy that kind of power. Now you can have it for $300 less.

The new iPhone SE features other niceties you normally wouldn’t expect in a sub-$400 phone, like wireless charging support.
You’re only getting a single rear camera with the new iPhone SE, but the 12-megapixel lens is augmented by the A13’s built-in Neural Engine. So as far as camera is concerned, you’ll surely be impressed with what this device has to offer.

Phone that lasts

Apple does a commendable job making sure older
iPhones can still support updated versions of iOS a couple of years into the future. More recent iPhones may have had more oomph.

I don’t expect things to be different with the iPhone SE 2020. The A13 processor is going to give you a lot of muscle out of the gate, and ongoing iOS support
will last long after the upcoming
iOS 14
update coming this fall.

Good battery:

The new iPhone SE 64-bit Fusion architecture, coupled with an efficient CPU and dated but low-energy Retina LCD display should surely translate to the
longest lasting battery-life you’ll find in an iPhone.

iPhone SE 2020, The Bad:

The new iPhone SE has cut a few too many corners to bring
the price down to the budget-friendly $399. Here’s what you need to know before you make the leap.

Dated design

Starting with the obvious, Apple’s decision to reuse the design of the iPhone 8 – which in turn, dates back to the six-year-old iPhone 6 – is a stretch.
Displays have gotten so much more advanced, with slimmer bezels that maximize the use of space on the front of the device.

The design of the iPhone 5 may have been almost four years old when the first iPhone SE launched, however, it wasn’t a major concern. Users weren’t putting up with
old tech. Phones didn’t make the big leap in bezel-less technology, which is not just an aesthetic improvement. That’s loads of real estate wasted.

Overkill specs

We’re not complaining that Apple has packed an industry-leading A13 Bionic chipset in a $399, but we can only hope users find the use for it. Power users
are unlikely to be the iPhone SE’s target market. Odds are, those users will opt for phones with the color-accuracy of OLED displays, array of camera
options and a larger screen.

In Apple’s discription, the A13 Bionic is years ahead of any other chip – just in a body that’s years behind. So much of what the chip was built for is unavailable
with the new iPhone SE, such as triple-cameras, Face ID and depth-sensing for AR.

Budget phone, pricey peripherals

The iPhone SE 2020 may entice you in with its low price, but Apple’s seems to have made some calculated omissions to make sure money streams their way. The 3.5mm headphone
jack has been grumbled about to no end, but hold on, there’s an important point in defense of buyers here.

Budget customers perhaps don’t want to part with additional hundred bucks on wireless headsets. This is one of the reasons why the Google Pixel 3a didn’t
go the way of the Pixel 4 and retained the headphone jack. But in a non-budget-oriented move, Apple’s eliminated the headphone jack, forcing customers to make that
decision ultimately. A win in the making for Apple.

With no expandable storage, the base 64GB model surely can’t be sustainable for most users, who will probably choose the $449, 128GB model. Unfortunately, the
price is somewhat heavier to stomach.

iPhone SE 2020, The Ugly:

You don’t get TrueDepth and Face ID

Touch ID is as striking today on the new iPhone SE as it was when it debuted on the iPhone 5S
back in 2013.
It’s fast, secure, and as well as swiftly unlocking your phone, it allows you to quickly pay for goods or services with Apple Pay.
This technology is seven years old, though, and as of the launch of the iPhone SE, precisely one iPhone in the entire range has it. All of the rest of
Apple’s current lineup uses
Face ID
and for the bigger part, that is better. Much better.
Face ID is more secure, harder to hack, and since the original generation of it in the iPhone X, has
become faster
than Touch ID. Right now with the coronavirus we are having the issue that faces with a mask can’t reliably be recognized, but in general use, glancing
at your iPhone has become much faster than pressing your thumb onto a button and waiting.
Additionally, there are users who find that Touch ID is unreliable. That can be because of the cases that their employers require them to use, it can be because
your finger is damp or sweaty. Whatever the reason, Touch ID can frustrate users who don’t find any difficulty with Face ID.
So for convenience, speed, and security, Face ID is a strong justification to purchase a different iPhone.
Your choices are the iPhone XR starting at $599, the
iPhone 11
at $699,
iPhone 11 Pro
at $999, and
iPhone 11 Pro Max
at $1,099.
To save you counting, those prices range from $200 to $700 more than an iPhone SE. Put it differently, for the price of an iPhone 11 Pro, you could purchase two
iPhone SE models and have change enough over to get a case.

Screen size

This is one area where the iPhone SE, as good as it is, is ragging behind whichever way you look at it. If you’re someone who loves the older, smaller, 4-inch
display, then the 4.7-inch one of the iPhone SE is more of a difference than it sounds. It’s the difference between being able to work the phone entirely
with one hand, and not.
Then if you do like larger screens, as so many folks do, then have to see the 4.7-inch iPhone SE display as being paltry. Both the iPhone XR and the iPhone
11 features 6.1-inch screens, while the iPhone 11 Pro features a 5.8-inch one.
Even those don’t really compare to the larger models, or what used to be referred to as the Plus ones. The current iPhone 11 Pro Max features a 6.5-inch screen —and
that’s now your only choice for a larger form factor. The iPhone SE has really only replaced the iPhone 8, but its launch saw the larger iPhone 8 Plus
vanish too.
The iPhone 8 Plus was actually bigger, physically, than the iPhone 11 Pro Max, but it’s perhaps not a great loss to the lineup because that larger case
held a comparatively smaller screen. The iPhone 8 Plus featured a 5.5-inch display in a chassis that was slightly bigger than the iPhone 11 Pro Max with its
6.1-inch one.

That old iPhone 8 Plus was also substantially bigger than the iPhone 11 Pro, running to 6.24-inches by 3.07-inches compared to the newer iPhone’s 5.67-inches
by 2.81-inches.
The reason that even the 11 Pro can have a smaller chassis yet a larger screen is down to how the newer phones have an almost edge to edge display. The
iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone SE 2020, both have old-style thick bezels around the screen.
You can still buy an iPhone 8 Plus from resellers where it will typically cost around $499, or about $600 less than the only other large-scale model, the
iPhone 11 Pro Max.

Screen resolution

The iPhone SE is repeatedly said to be the old iPhone 8 with new internal hardware, but actually its screen goes back much further than that. As far as physical size, resolution and technology are concerned, the screen
in the 2020 iPhone SE is nearly the same as that of the iPhone 6 or iPhone 6S from 2014/15. The only difference is that the iPhone SE’s version supports True Tone so it alters color levels depending on your surroundings.
In the six years since the iPhone 6, though, displays have improved. They’re edge to edge, or nearly, and instead of the old LCD display panel, many of
them use OLED. This technology provides a better black and overall an improved contrast.
It’s not as if the difference is even close. Where the iPhone SE 2020 has a contrast ratio of 1,400:1, the iPhone 11 Pro provides 2,000,000:1. No question,
the screens on the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max are better than that on the new iPhone SE. They’re also brighter on the iPhone 11 Pro, at 800 nits instead
of 625 nits on the new iPhone SE.
As clear as these differences are when either you hold the iPhones next to each other, or you downgrade, there’s no other way you’d even see the SE screen
as a problem. It is clear, bright, and sharp, and if the other models are clearer, brighter, and sharper, that doesn’t make the new iPhone SE screen unusably
poor.

Cameras are an issue

This is another area where there’s no comparison whatsoever. The iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max features a triple camera system on the back, and
all three are lenses are superb. They’re 12MP and provide seamless switching between their Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto cameras.
The new iPhone SE features a single camera on the rear. It is a 12MP camera, and it is Wide, but it’s one camera and that’s your lot.
Except that of course all iPhones also have a front-facing camera. Here the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max are better than the iPhone SE 2020, or any other
model in that regard. The front or selfie camera on an iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max is a 12MP one that’s as capable of shooting 4K video as the
back cameras.
With the iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max, and exclusively with these phones, you can shoot videos equally well from front and back. If you’re making a YouTube video where you’re talking to the camera, this is a difference that means you can watch yourself on the phone screen to make sure you are framed correctly throughout.
It means you can use a Teleprompter app right there with the selfie lens.

Our two sense

iPhone SE 2020 gets so much right on the inside but will surely leave much to be desired externally after long term use. It will surely last years, with Apple’s
loyal software updates and enough power from the A13 Bionic to keep it fit for use.

However, the phone could enjoy far better longevity by going bezel-less to maximize what can be done on its screen. Wireless charging has also made the
glass back a necessity, but it would make more sense to the budget-conscious buyer to have a sturdier metal back to last the years, never mind the wireless
features.

While the iPhone SE 2020 is a really fascinating combination of features as well as price, it does not include every feature you may be used to in
an iPhone. And these missing features could either make you consider a more expensive model, or they could contribute to your deciding that you’ll stay
with whichever iPhone you already have.
And that covers everything about iPhone SE (2020) The good, the bad, and the ugly!

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20+ Best iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks to Try First

by GeeksModo Staff

Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max

Congratulations on your brand new iPhone 13 Pro Max! Now you’ve given so much money over to Apple, you’re going to want to make the most out of your handset, and we’re here to guide you through some of its best features and how to use them. Now, check out some of the best iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks to unlock the full potential of your new phone.

Some of the tips and tricks we’ve listed apply specifically to the iPhone 13 Pro Max, while others are tied to the iOS 15 update that Apple just pushed out (and so should work on older phones too). Check out the best iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks below.

Best iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks

Here’s a list of the best iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks to try first:

1. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Share items with Siri

One of the best features in iPhone 13 Pro Max, you can share items onscreen like photos, web pages, content from Apple Music or Apple Podcasts, Apple News stories, Maps locations, and more. For example, just say “Send this to Filipe” and Siri will send it. If the item cannot be shared, Siri will offer to send a screenshot instead.

2. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Understand 5G Icons

The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes with improved 5G connectivity over the iPhone 12. That allows for incredible download and upload speeds of up to 4.0 Gbps and 200 Mbps, respectively.

When you’re in an area with 5G coverage for your carrier and your 5G cellular plan has been activated, you’ll see a 5G icon in the status bar of your iPhone 13 Pro Max. There are three different status icons that you may want to keep an eye out on — 5G, 5G , 5GUW, and 5G UC.

5G — Indicated normal 5G network availability.
5G / 5GUW / 5G UC— Indicated faster high-frequency 5G network availability.

3. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Manage Smart Data Mode

5G is great. But it can also reduce your iPhone’s battery life. To address this, Apple has included Smart Data Mode feature on iPhone 13 Pro Max, a functionality that switches between 5G and 4G depending on network activity.

For example, you won’t need 5G while scrolling down your Twitter and Facebook timelines. Smart Data Mode will make your iPhone use 4G in those instances. But if you choose to download a video on Apple TV, your iPhone 13 Pro automatically takes advantage of faster 5G.

To manage Smart Data Mode on your iPhone 13 Pro Max, go to Settings > Cellular > Voice & Data. Select 5G Auto to enable Smart Data Mode or 5G On to disable the functionality — 5G On always uses 5G network when it’s available but it can reduce your iPhone’s battery life.

4. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Restrict 5G

You can use Low Data Mode to reduce Wi-Fi and cellular-data usage by pausing automatic updates and background tasks on your iPhone 12 Pro Max. Go to Settings > Battery to turn it on. Alternatively, you can enable Low Data Mode from the Control Center.

5. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Buy 20W USB-C Power Adapter

The iPhone 13 Pro Max doesn’t come with a charging adapter in the box. There is only one cable included in the box — a USB-C to Lightning cable. Therefore, you need an USB-C charging adapter. Using a USB-C cable and USB-C charging adapter will allow the iPhone to charge at faster speeds. Using USB-C, you can charge the iPhone to 50% in about half an hour. The highest wattage the iPhone 13 Pro Max will use is around 22 watts, so a 20 watt or 30 watt charger will result in the about same charging speed. But basically any USB-C charger will be significantly faster than the old USB-A chargers.

6. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Get a MagSafe Charger

The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a magnetic area on the back of the device, called MagSafe. MagSafe is essentially a better version of Qi as the magnets auto-align with the case. Using the secure magnetic attachment, Apple enables up to 15 watt charging for MagSafe chargers. So for the best wireless charging, choose MagSafe over Qi … but the USB-C cable is still the fastest overall.

7. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Install iOS Updates Over 5G

The 5G connectivity on the iPhone 13 Pro Max unlocks the ability to download iOS updates over 5G. You can enable this by going to Settings > Cellular > Data Mode and select Allow More Data on 5G.

8. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: FaceTime HD Calls

Another advantage of 5G is the ability to perform FaceTime video calls in 1080p HD on your iPhone 13 Pro Max. You can enable this by going to Settings > Cellular > Data Mode and select Allow More Data on 5G to FaceTime in HD over 5G. Alternatively, use WiFi to perform FaceTime HD calls.

9. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: FaceTime Eye Contact

You can complement FaceTime HD on the iPhone 13 Pro Max with Eye Contact to improve your experience with FaceTime video calls. Essentially, the Eye Contact feature augments the FaceTime call to make it look like you are looking at the person, rather than at the screen. You can enable this by going to Settings > FaceTime and enable the toggle next to Eye Contact.

10. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Night Mode for All Cameras

All iPhone 13 Pro Max camera sensors include Night mode feature. This lets you take Night mode shots using the telephoto as well as the ultra-wide camera in low-light scenarios.

11. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: View Image Metadata

The Photos app on the iPhone 13 Pro Max has a much-needed feature with the new iOS 15 software update. It can now display the image metadata or EXIF data for photos shot and stored on your iPhone. To do this, start the Photos app and tap the photo you want to view the metadata for. Next, tap on the info ‘i’ button to view the camera used, lens type, focal length, shutter speed, image resolution, file size,, location and more.

12. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Use iCloud Private Relay

When Private Relay is enabled, all of your browsing activity in Safari will be routed through two internet “hops,” or relays. Your data is encrypted and then sent to Apple, so your ISP can’t see any of your web browsing requests.

Please note: iCloud Private Relay is only available for paid iCloud users. To enable this, go to Settings > iCloud > Private Relay menu.

13. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Drag and Drop Content Across Apps

This iPhone 13 Pro Max trick lets you drag and drop text, photos, links, videos, documents, audio files, PDFs, and more. To do this, simply long-press any image/video/file from one app, open another app, and drop it there. Without lifting your finger off the screen, exit the app and open another app with another finger and drop the content.

This new drag and drop trick for copy/pasting texts, photos, and other files, is pretty useful and makes moving things much faster. It’s just one of the many new features in iOS 15 that has, and will make life easier for many users. You can try it out in your favorite apps to see if it works, but not to worry if it doesn’t. We’re sure most apps will support the feature in due course.

14. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Shoot Videos in Dolby Vision

The iPhone 12 was the first smartphone in the world last year to allow shooting videos in Dolby Vision. However, the non-Pro models were limited to 4K30fps. There’s no such limitation this time around, so if you have the iPhone 13 mini or iPhone 13, you can now shoot stunning 4k60fps Dolby Vision videos and edit them straight off your iPhone.

15. iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks: Use your iPhone’s camera to scan any text

Have you ever wished you could point your iPhone’s camera at a sign or piece of paper and have it automatically identify then copy the text into an email or a document? That’s where Live Text comes in – this new iPhone 13 Pro Max trick lets you scan and copy text from photos and your iPhone camera, even if it’s handwritten. And once you’ve pulled the text, you can paste it into any text field. It’s great for quickly sharing addresses, phone numbers, and anything else you don’t want to type out manually.

To use the iPhone 13 Pro Max new scan text feature, long-press inside a text field as if you are going to use the copy and paste prompt. Only, you’ll now see a Scan Text button. You may also see a button that uses just the scan icon, which looks like a piece of paper with brackets around it.

Tap the button, which will then replace your keyboard with your iPhone camera’s viewfinder. Point your camera at whatever you want to scan, and then follow the prompts on the screen. For instance, if you’re moving the camera too fast, you’ll see a “Slow Down” message flash on the screen.

As you’re lining up the camera and text just right, you’ll see a live preview of the text your iPhone is identifying and ready to place in your document. Tap the Insert button when you’re ready.

16. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Turn Off Night Mode

The iPhone 13 Pro Max will automatically enable Night mode in low-light scenarios for the best possible photos. If you don’t want ‌‌Night Mode‌‌ engaged when you’re shooting in low light environments, you can turn it off by tapping the yellow ‌‌Night Mode‌‌ button when it appears at the top of the viewfinder. The problem is, when you open the Camera app again and the sensor detects low light, ‌Night Mode‌ will automatically enable itself again. In iOS 15, you can turn off ‌Night Mode‌ and ensure it stays off. Go to Settings -> Camera -> Preserve Settings and enable the Night Mode toggle.

17. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Shoot Macro Photos

The iPhone 13 Pro Max can take ultra close-up photos with a new macro mode. Simply open the camera app and tap on the 0.5X button to use the ultra-wide lens, and the moment you point your iPhone 13 Pro Max towards an up-and-close object (macro mode works from 2cm distance), the phone will automatically know and capture a macro photo.

18. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Record Macro Videos

iPhone 13 Pro Max can now also shoot macro videos! Simply Open the ultra-wide camera. Get your iPhone 13 Pro Max up and close to an object and macro mode will work automatically.

19. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Shoot Cinematic Videos

Cinematic mode is designed to act like a virtual focus puller. Cinematic mode mimics professional videography techniques by adding on-the-fly depth of field effects to recognized subjects. Software algorithms are used to detect and focus on people, pets and objects, which are made to stand out against blurred backgrounds. Be sure to record Cinematic Videos on your iPhone 13 Pro Max if you want to take your videos to the next level.

20. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: AirPlay 4K HDR Content

If you have a second-gen Apple TV or an AirPlay 2-enabled smart TV, you can AirPlay 4K HDR content using your iPhone 13 Pro Max. Once your Mac gets the macOS Monterey support, you’ll also be able to AirPlay videos to it.

21. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Quick Take Videos

To capture a QuickTake video, just press and hold the Shutter button.. Release the button to stop recording. Swipe your finger to the right if you want to switch to video recording completely.

22. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Shoot in Apple ProRAW

ProRAW means you no longer needed an expensive DSLR to capture stunning professional-level pictures — now you can capture them on your iPhone 13 Pro Max.

To use Apple ProRAW, the first thing you need to make sure you do is enable the feature. Here’s how you do that:

Open the Settings app and go to Camera > Formats. Toggle Apple ProRAW on. The next time you go into the Camera app, you should see a button to turn Apple ProRAW on and off.

23. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Get the MagSafe Wallet Case with Find My Support

If you are someone who tends to lose or misplace their iPhone frequently, get the new MagSafe Wallet case from Apple. The case can come in handy if you are unable to track your iPhone directly. You can instead try to locate your wallet case. Alongside the iPhone 13, Apple launched an updated MagSafe Wallet case with Find My functionality built in. That means if you accidentally lose your wallet when it becomes unattached from your iPhone, you can launch the Find My app to locate it as you can with other Apple devices or items attached to your Apple AirTags.

In this case, the MagSafe leather wallet will notify you of the last known location where the wallet was separated from the phone. It will not, however, provide real-time tracking.

24. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Watch Videos in Picture-in-Picture Mode

Picture in Picture lets you watch videos or view FaceTime calls in a corner of your screen while continuing to use other apps. It works on any iOS 15-compatible phone but obviously benefits from the larger screen size of newer phones like the iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Most of the major video apps support PiP, as well as browser videos through Safari. Swipe up while watching a video in full-screen mode, and you should see the video show up in a floating PiP pane automatically.

25. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Change Default Browser

The default browser on your iPhone 13 Pro Max can be changed by following a few simple steps. By changing it, any URL or web-based file you tap on will open in your browser of choice, as long as your phone supports it.

To change the default browser on your iPhone 13 Pro Max, open the Settings app and select the app that you want to make the default. Then, tap Default Browser App and specify the app as the default.

26. iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Tricks: Track Your iPhone Even When Switched Off

Thanks to iOS 15, you can now find a lost or missing iPhone 13 Pro Max in Find My — even if it’s powered off or factory reset. This can help you locate a missing iPhone 13 Pro Max that was low on battery power or that may have been turned off by a thief.

Your Favorite iPhone 13 Pro Max Tips and Trick?

So these were some of the best iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks you would love to try today. surely plenty more hidden iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks to discover, so I’ll keep tapping, swiping and noting anything I find. Did we miss out on something important that needs to be added to the list? Which are your favorite iPhone 13 Pro Max tips and tricks? Let me know in the comments section below. Meanwhile, you may want to check our list of 30+ Best iOS 15 Tips and Tricks to help you master your new iPhone better.

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How To Delete Spotify Account Permanently In 2022

by GeeksModo Staff

If you’ve had enough of Spotify, you might want to delete your account. Here’s how to cancel Spotify premium subscription.
If you prefer listening to music on other streaming music services such as Amazon Music or Apple Music, or you are just uncomfortable listening to music that is clouded With ads, you could delete your Spotify account. Fortunately, learning how to delete spotify premium is quick and easy.
In case you are no longer interested in listening to music on spotify, or you just want To switch allegiance,
you may need to delete your spotify account. If you want to delete your Spotify account, there are a few simple steps which you need to follow.
here is the step-by-step guide which can help you to delete your Spotify account permanently.
Before you dive into deleting your Spotify account, there are a couple of things to bear in mind:

  • You will lose your username, and you will no longer use it with Spotify in future.
  • All your downloaded music will be removed.
  • All your locally stored playlists will be lost.
  • All your followers will be lost.
  • In case you havestudent discount,
    it will not be possible to transfer it to another account until the end of 12 months from the time you signed up.

 If you’re a Spotify Premium user, you need tocancel your Spotify subscription
before deleting your account.
Note: If you are premium spotify subscriber, you can cancel your membership and switch to Spotify free without closing your account permanently.
You will still be able to stream your playlist online.

How to Delete a Spotify Account

After you’ve cancelled your subscription, follow these steps to delete Spotify account.

  1. On your computer browser, go toContact spotify support page.
  2. Click on Login in the upper right-hand corner and sign in to your account with your Spotify credentials.

    3. Click on account and then click I want to close my Spotify account permanently.

  3. Click on close account.

    4. Moses Gitari | GeeksModo

  4. Confirm cancellation by clicking close account.

Click on I want to close my account permanently in Spotify

Alternatively, skip all the above steps and go straight to this link todelete Spotify account.
That’s all folks! You’ve successfully deleted your Spotify account.

Have you deleted your Spotify account? Which music streaming service do you prefer in its place? Let us know in the comment section below.

While you are here, you may want to check the following article as well:
How To Spot A Fake iPhone 11, 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max?

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14 Tips To Protect The Private Information On Your iPhone

by GeeksModo Staff

Security is something we may overlook more than we should. We carry extremely sensitive information in our pockets, yet we assume that our iPhones are secure enough on their own. Do not get me wrong; Apple does its best to keep all their devices as secure as possible. However, it doesn’t matter what we do if we don’t take the time to check what kind of information we give to third-party apps (or Apple itself).

There are many things you can do to keep your iPhone as secure as possible. If you simply explore the privacy settings, you will be presented with a lot of information that you may not want to share.

If you don’t even know where to start, here are 14 settings you can change to keep your private data secure.

How to secure your iPhone & iPad

#1. Use a strong password instead of a 6-digit code

The easiest and most efficient way to protect your data is to use a strong password instead of a simple six-digit PIN to unlock your iPhone. It is a good idea to use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. It is even better if the password is requested immediately after the lock screen, without delay. As an additional option, you can also enable the “erase data” function, so that the device erases everything from the memory after 10 failed passcode attempts. However, keep in mind that all data will be erased forever and you will not be able to recover them so it’s best not to forget your password.

How does it help? It reduces the chance that a criminal can guess your password.
Where can you make these changes?? Go to “Settings” -> “Face ID & Passcode” (or “Touch ID & Passcode”) -> “Require Passcode: Immediately”;
While you are there, go to change passcode > passcode options > custom Alphanumeric code.

#2. Turn off notifications on the lock screen

Any password, even the strongest one, will not prevent your data from being revealed when shown on a lock screen. Messages, emails and other information in your apps can contain sensitive data, such as confirmation codes, private appointments, financial data, etc. The less your iPhone is shown on a lock screen, the more secure your data is.

How does it help? It doesn’t allow strangers to see information on a lock screen.
Where can you make these changes? Go to the “Settings” -> “Face ID & Password” (or “Touch ID & Password”) -> “Allow Access When Locked” section.

#3. Enable two-step verification for Apple ID and iCloud

One step is good, but two are better. Therefore, it is highly recommended to set up two-step verification when it is available for Apple ID and iCloud. When you set up two-step verification, you register one or more trusted devices (devices you manage) that can receive 6-digit verification codes via SMS or the Find My iPhone service. Every time you sign in to manage your Apple ID, sign in to the iCloud, or make an iTunes, iBooks, or App Store purchase from a new device, you need to verify your identity by entering both your password and a 6 -digit verification code.

How does it help? It prevents your Apple account from being used by someone who is not authorized.
Where can you make these changes? Go toappleid.apple.com -> “Manage your Apple ID” -> “Password and Security” -> “Two-Step Verification”.

#4. Turn off Siri on a lock screen

Anyone can use Siri on a lock screen while you’re away from your iPhone.
Siri is a great feature, but sometimes this nice personal assistant can give away information you’d rather keep confidential. There’s no need to turn it off completely, but you’ll be much more secure if you prevent it from being activated from a lock screen or with a ‘Hey Siri’ voice command. Remember: Siri can communicate with anyone, not just an owner of the device it is working on.

How does it help? It eliminates the possibility of data extraction from the smartphone with Siri.
Where can you make these changes? Go to “Settings” -> “Face ID & Passcode” (or “Touch ID and Passcode”) -> “Allow access when locked” section -> “Siri: off” and “Settings” -> -> “Siri & Search” -> “Listen for Hey Siri” “: off” “Allow Siri when locked” “: Off”.

#5. Discard automatic WiFi connections to known networks

iPhones have a very good feature that allows you to automatically connect to known WiFi hotspots without your permission. On the one hand, this is a very handy option, because you don’t have to do anything to switch from mobile internet to local Wi-Fi. But on the other hand, there is a chance that a cybercriminal will set up his own fake wireless network with the same name as a trusted public hotspot. In this scenario, you may not even recognize that your iPhone is working within the malicious WiFi network and give all your data away to the scammer. That is why we recommend that you be well aware of every WiFi hotspot you are in or disable this option.

How does it help? It reduces the risk of connecting to a malicious wireless network. Put it simply, it helps to secure your iphone from hackers.
Where can you make these changes? Go to “Settings” -> “Wi-Fi” -> “Ask to join networks: on”.

#6. Get used to VPN

We talk about VPN quite often on this blog. A virtual private network is an indispensable tool that can provide additional security to anyone using an iPhone across a variety of wireless networks, including unknown ones. Some VPN services are free, others aren’t, but a few dollars a week is more than a fair price to protect your data. For UK users, you can learn about the best VPN services at thebestvpn website.

How does it help? It encrypts all incoming and outgoing internet traffic, so it can no longer be intercepted and analyzed.
Where can you make these changes? Go to “Settings” -> “General” -> “VPN” -> “Add VPN configuration …”.

P.S .: All the information you need to enter is provided to you by your VPN provider.

#7. Disable cookies in your browsers

Cookies are small files that almost every website generates and leaves on your device. They may contain some information about you, your computer or smartphone and your preferences. It helps websites to keep you logged in or to show you relevant content, including advertisements, but in some cases they can be very useful to cyber criminals because they can contain credentials and other sensitive data. To be fair, disabling cookies can put you more stress than relief, but it helps your data by being more secure. In addition, any inconvenience is not the greatest price to pay for data protection.

How does it help? It reduces the risk of unauthorized use of your login details and some other private information stored in cookie files.
Where can you make these changes? For Safari: Go to “Settings” -> “Safari” -> “Privacy & Security” -> “Prevent Not Cross-Site Tracking: On”, “Block all Cookies: On.

#8. Disable the Autofill option in your browsers

The same goes for the Autofill option: if someone gets your iPhone, chances are they can log in like you on some sites. You don’t want this to happen, do you? Then take it out! Again, you will experience some inconveniences, but it is worth it.

How does it help? It reduces the risk of someone logging into websites with your credentials when your iPhone is stolen or given to someone.
Where can you make these changes? For Safari: go to “Settings” -> “Safari” -> “General” -> “autofill”

#9. Don’t trust most third-party keyboards

There are tons of Keyboards on the AppStore. Various companies offer keyboards with different styles and functionalities. Some are reliable, but you should be careful when using a keyboard from a developer you don’t know.

When you use a keyboard, you grant it full access. This means that the developer can access any type of information you enter on your keyboard. This includes your address, credit card and any other sensitive information you type with their keyboard.

To check which keyboards you have, go to Settings, then General and select Keyboards. The first keyboards you see are those from Apple, below those two are the other keyboards you have installed. Tap it to grant or deny full access.

#10. Choose which apps have access to your information

Sometimes, apps asks you to grant them access to certain types of information they don’t really need or just don’t want to share. More often than not, this could be a bug on the side of the developer. Still, it is recommended that you check which apps have access to your information.

Go to the privacy section of your iPhone’s settings. There you will see a number of categories that various applications have requested access to. You can tap these categories and see which apps have access to that information. You can also completely disable their access.

#11. Prevent USB accessories from staying connected

If your iPhone is connected to another device via USB, it could become vulnerable to certain types of hacking. If you need to connect your iPhone to someone else’s computer or device, blocking that connection after a while can be a great way to keep your data secure.

This feature helps in blocking the connection to your iPhone via USB if it’s been over an hour since you last unlocked it. To enable it, you have to go to Settings, scroll down to Touch ID & Passcode and turn on USB accessories at the bottom of the list.

#12. Control which apps use location services

Location Services is another option in the Privacy section of your iPhone. This feature uses GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspots from crowdsourcing and cell towers to determine your exact location and then use it in the apps that need it.

While some apps, like Google Maps, need location services to work properly, there are others that don’t necessarily require access to keep working.

In your privacy settings, tap Location services. You can choose which apps can use your location or disable this feature altogether. Although, this limits the functionality of many apps that need access to your location to work.

#13. Limit ad tracking

Have you ever googled something to see it as an ad seconds later? These are called targeted ads and they are basically how websites are able to offer free content to readers like you.

But while targeted ads may be necessary for websites to function, it can feel a little weird if they know exactly what you’re looking for.

Your iPhone has an ad option that uses your information to serve better targeted ads. Although Apple states that they will not provide your personal information to third parties, you can still disable this option.

In the Privacy option in your settings, scroll down and tap on Advertise. Once there, enable the Limit ad tracking feature.

#14. Turn off Significant Locations

Significant locations is a feature you may want to look into. When enabled, Significant Locations lets your iPhone and your iCloud connected devices learn which places are important to you. This means your iPhone learns which places you visit the most.

Apple says this is used to provide useful information to various apps like Calendar and Maps, but these apps work fine without this feature turned on.

To disable this feature, go to your privacy settings and tap Location services, then scroll down and select System services. Scroll down again and select Significant Locations. Use the Important Locations switch to turn the feature off if you want.
And that covers everything about how to protect private information on your iPhone. We also have plenty of other articles that I suggest you check right now. Read also

30 + amazing iPhone tips & tricks for 2020

Tag: iPhone Tips
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5 Habits to Avoid While Charging Your iPhone in 2022

by GeeksModo Staff

No matter how big the battery of your iPhone is, it will eventually die. And in addition to some iPhone models supporting fast charging, you need to pause tasks that need to be performed on your iPhone intermittently to charge. The fact that they have life cycles also means that over time the level of performance starts to drop and they don’t last as long as they used to while they were new.

  • [ ] The kind of apps that run on our iPhones, our charging habits sometimes contribute to a faster drop in the performance of these batteries. Here are some common charging habits to avoid andimprove iPhone’s battery performance.

Habits to avoid while charging your iPhone

Bad habit #1: Charging and gaming

Well, I confess, I do this often. We all love to play games on our smartphones and sometimes they can be addictive and hard to resist. But what you need to understand is that, since games now come with advanced graphics and special effects, they require more power and put pressure on your iPhone’s battery.

When you charge and play at the same time, you put extra pressure on your battery. In addition, the short charge and discharge cycles cause it to overheat. Overheating can cause the battery to explode or negatively affect battery life.

Bad habit #2: Charging with a protective cover on

While charging your iPhone it gets a little warmer and this is because batteries emit heat during charging. So it is advisable to remove the phone cover before charging it so that the heat released while charging your phone can dissipate into the atmosphere (at a higher speed).

Heat is the biggest enemy of batteries, and it’s important to avoid exposing your iPhone’s battery to temperatures above 95 ° F (35 ° C). Anything higher will compromise your iPhone’s battery.

Bad habit #3: Charging over night

I often watched videos with my laptop and did homework late at night to see which battery I had left to complete my task. After that, I would plug it into the charger and go to sleep overnight to fully charge – but I never stopped thinking about what happens to the battery overnight after it hits 100%.

Even then, without fast charging, it didn’t take eight hours to fully charge a battery. But since a battery can only receive so much power, how does it stay fully charged without overcharging?

Each iPhone battery has a specific charging limit and at times We are usually used to charging our iPhone’s batteries over night and this can damage our battery. Charging your iPhone all night long constantly charges your phone’s battery and weakens it over time. The temperature also rises if the battery is overcharged. This compromises the safety of the user as excessive heat can cause the battery / phone to explode.
As you may have noticed, your iPhone gets quite hot while charging. The same happens during overnight filling. Heat causes damage to lithium ion batteries – it weakens the battery, reducing the maximum amount of power it can store (known as battery capacity) and compromises its integrity, which can cause your device to explode.

Bad habit #4: Using counterfeit charging accessories

Always charge your iPhone with its original charger and avoid using unofficial / counterfeit accessories to charge your device. This is because the voltage and power requirements vary from battery to battery, and using a charger that provides a higher voltage can overcharge your battery. For example, chargers that support fast charging can supply high voltage to phone batteries, and using it to charge an iPhone that does not support the fast charging function can be harmful to the battery.

Bad habit #5: Avoid constant charging

It’s normal for iPhone users to charge their device’s battery constantly even though they still have enough power. This is common in areas without a constant power supply and people need their iPhones to retain as much power as possible when there is a power shortage – this is completely understandable.

However, you should know thatconstant charging shortens your iPhone’s battery life. The typical estimated life of a lithium-ion battery is about two to three years or 300 to 500 complete charge cycles, whichever comes first. Continuous charging, even when you don’t have to, just means that your battery will complete its life faster.

Charge properly

The above mentioned habits should be avoided if you don’t want a sharp drop in your iPhone’s battery life. There is also an explosion hazard: you can damage your battery and eventually your iPhone by overcharging. Stay safe!

What is the correct way?

So now that you know why these habits are bad and how they affect your battery, what’s the right way to charge your iPhone? How can you reduce the load on your battery, keep it safe and perform well over the years? We have three recommendations for you.

#1. Use fast charging

The first is to take advantage of fast charging if you own an iPhone model that support the feature.
When you wake up in the morning, connect your iPhone to power. Most of us have at least 30 minutes to prepare, by which time fast charging should have your battery up to at least 50 percent. Depending on the battery percentage when you started charging, you could have charge for all day for 30 minutes.

#2. Keep your iPhone cool

The second tip is to keep your iPhone in a cool place while charging. This doesn’t mean you put your iPhone in the freezer or fridge (batteries don’t charge at extremely low temperatures anyway), but to avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat while charging. Look for flat, cool metal surfaces as they will dissipate most of the heat from the phone and provide the best airflow.

#3. Avoid third-party chargers

The final recommendation I have for you is to avoid third-party chargers at all costs – not just the charging brick, but the cable as well. If you need a charger replacement, buy only one from Apple – preferably one designed for your specific iPhone model.
If you learn nothing else from this article, at least remember this: take your iPhone off the charger as much as possible, keep it cool while charging, always use a first party charger and try to keep your battery in the sweet zone of 25-85%.
And that covers pretty much everything about habits to avoid while charging your iPhone. We also have plenty of other articles that i suggest you check right now.

Tags: Battery, iPhone Tips
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Top iPhone Apps That Work Without an Internet Connection

by GeeksModo Staff

How handy is your iPhone or iPad if you no longer have any data or cannot access the internet? Not very convenient, right? These things are sometimes inevitable; you may experience problems accessing the internet on an airplane or in areas with poor internet connection.

With that in mind, here are some of our favorite iPhone and iPad apps that work without an internet connection in 2020.

iPhone & iPad Apps that work without an internet connection

Our best picks:

1. Google Drive

Google Driveis one of the largest, if not the largest cloud storage platforms out there. It allows you to save a file (s) offline so you can work on it even without internet access.

To do this, click the three-dot icon at the top right of the document you want to open offline, then select “Make available offline”. Do this for every file you want to open offline.

2. Google Maps

Google Maps appis one of the absolute best map out there. You can use it to find hotels, restaurants, offices or even find your way from an unknown location.

So if you need directions to a particular location and you are unsure of the quality of the internet when you get close, simply download the map before you leave home.

To download the offline Google Maps, launch the app on your iPhone or iPad, type in the location and search. Tap the ‘More information’ card that appears and then select ‘Download’. Select the area you want to view offline and click “Download” again.

3. Spotify

Perhaps the most visited music streaming platform,Spotify allows you to save your favorite songs, albums, playlists and podcasts for offline listening. While it’s only available to premium subscribers, Spotify allows you to store up to 10,000 songs in your library.

To download, go to the playlist, album or podcast you want to download and tap Download. You can download an album or playlist) forr offline listening.

After downloading the songs you want to listen to offline, the next thing to do is to enable ‘Offline mode’. In “Settings” on the app, tap “Play” and enable “Offline”.

4. Netflix

Netflixis one of the most popular movie streaming platforms we have and allows users to download certain TV shows and movies – because not all content from the app can be downloaded – through the app Before attempting to download, make sure that your smartphone is running iOS 12 or higher. Also make sure that the Netflix app installed on your device is up to date.

5. YouTube

YouTubeis a perfect option for enjoying yourself on planes, trains and traveling to places with unreliable internet access, as you can download content for offline viewing.

To do this, open YouTube on your iPhone, tap the video you want to download for offline viewing and select “Download” and the content will be downloaded to the “Library” section of the app.

You should also know that Google has only made this feature available to users in developing countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East. In countries outside of these regions, you must be a premium member to enjoy this feature. Read also 30 YouTube keyboard shortcuts you need to know

There you have it; our favorite iPhone and iPad apps that work even without an internet connection. Do you have any other favorite iOS apps that work without the internet? Or every desired app had an offline mode? Share with us in the comments section below.

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