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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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Apple Ecosystem Trap

by GeeksModo Staff

Do you have an Iphone? I have an iPhone. Many people have them, but why? I have struggled for a long time to find the answer even though I use their products daily.
Apple is a master at making your current device feel obsolete. Especially the iPhone, which has a new model released every year. In Addition, The company is known to charge a ‘luxury price’ for their products, even though there are other companies that manufacture devices at a similar price, with much better internals.

Take Samsung for example. I know many iPhone users mock the idea of switching to ‘one of those Android things’; but honestly you get so much more for your money if you consider the high quality of Samsung’s screens, cameras, batteries and other internal components.

Why do we buy iPhones when there are alternatives that are better for the price?

The answer is simple: Apple has a very good build quality, a good reputation and a very user-friendlyecosystem.
There is no company like Apple that can produce products that work so well together. You can buy an iPhone and an iPad and sync all your photos and apps to each other via iCloud. You can buy a MacBook Pro and reply to text messages directly from your laptop. You can buy a few AirPods and switch seamlessly between your devices with very little effort. If you replace that MacBook with a laptop from a Window, you immediately lose a lot of compatibility.
Lately, am starting to feel stuck in the Apple Ecosystem trap. For years I have been proud to own an iPad, Macbook, iPhone, and accessories to not only support a company that I feel makes premium products with customers in mind but to also experience the unifying tie-in between all its devices. iMessage, iCloud, Handoff, Keychain, and so many other services by Apple that you can’t truly experience unless you are fully invested in the entire Apple Wcosystem.

Appleseems to get the user experience aspect of their devices just right. The American company knows exactly what users want in a smartphone in terms of user interface and security. But that doesn’t explain why they put even a 1080p screen in their best-selling phone.

Apple is one step ahead (usually)

There are areas where Apple is behind the competition, such as the introduction of a widescreen camera; make their screens from edge to edge and add a screen with a high refresh rate.
However, when it comes to security and physical design features, Apple is often ahead of the game. You just need to look at the AirPods, Touch ID and “Sign in with Apple” to know that the company knows what their customers want. Why else would all other manufacturers copy the idea of unlocking your phone and making purchases with your thumb? Why does every company have wireless headphones that can easily fit in a small charging case?

Two devices that work together perfectly.
Because Apple started the trend and Apple is very successful.

What is the future for Apple?

While the current formula has worked very, very well for Apple, I believe that the current approach to the way Apple operates is not at all the vision Steve Jobs had when he was in charge.
Steve Jobs focused on innovation, price, quality and above all the customer. Remember when Jobs announced the very first MacBook Air with an envelope in 2008? This was a quote he used, summarizing the change in Apple’s attitude in a nutshell:
The MacBook Air comes standard with an 80 GB hard disk; and there is an option of a 64 GB solid state drive if you wish. These are a bit pricey, but they’re fast!
You’d never catch Apple calling any of their products pricey these days, and this shows just how customer-focused Steve Jobs was. He wanted to sell products that customers would be happy with, while selling for a fair price.
I think Apple should work on this in the future. Of course we know that people are willing to pay for the products; but in order to compete with other emerging brands, Apple needs to give you more for your money or lower their prices for what they have.

How does Apple make sure you buy their products?

Smart marketing and “FOMO” – the fear of missing out. We live in a generation where Apple is the default name for a smartphone or the default name for a laptop. We live in a generation where things don’t last ten years, things last 4-6; and Apple are usually the first people to need a replacement.
Apple designs its products to be updated in five years so that you are more of a repeat customer; as you are probably in their ecosystem. My iPhone 6 (released in 2014) was running so slow that I upgraded out of sheer frustration. But I couldn’t go for a Samsung, OnePlus or Google Pixel because of the other Apple devices I bought. Long story short, Apple knows how to keep you.

Why don’t you choose anyone but Apple?

Obviously, this doesn’t apply to those of you who don’t use Apple devices, and you’re probably very happy with your fruit brand alternative, but those of you who use Apple products probably aren’t interested in switching to another brand – I certainly am not, despite the hardware Restrictions that we have.
As I mentioned above, the ecosystem does a lot for Apple. But there are other areas, such as the high quality associated with the brand; the user experience, the first-class product support (in terms of software) and often good customer service. This is why I don’t want to switch from Apple.
That’s right, I’m happy with using Apple products for now. But I still wish they would be ‘revolutionary’ with their products. The minor changes between the last three models of the iPhone weren’t big enough to be considered game changers. The laptops they produce seem to be less competitive than others, but I will still prefer their products purely for the user experience.
At the end of the day; if the product experience is good and your productivity is as high as normal, it doesn’t matter which brand you choose. Apple knows this, but they don’t want you to.
So though it is easy to make myself depressed over the aspect of feeling trapped. I am instead going to focus on what I can control within my technology life. And that is to restrain from impulse purchases of Apple products just because they are new or adds a small improvement to the ecosystem.

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How to Use Zoom App on iPhone and iPad )Help Guide)

by GeeksModo Staff

In the backdrop of the COVID-19 outbreak, remote working has become order of the day. And in this testing time,Zoom a video conferencing app – has proved to be a very helpful tool for professionals tohold online meetings. through video calling, seamless screen sharing, and instant meeting right from the comfort of the couch. If this Video Conferencing App has caught your attention as well, follow me as I teach you how to use Zoom app on your iPhone and iPad like a pro.

How to Set up Zoom App on iPhone and iPad

While there are a number of notable alternatives, very few of them are as easy-to-use as Zoom. This video conferencing app has a easy to navigate -interface and can be set up in a few easy taps. And even better, it allows you to join a meeting even without having to sign in (simply tap the gear icon to access all the basic settings).

What kind of Permissions Are Requested By Zoom app?

Before you can use Zoom app on iPhone, you may be asked to authorize access to several essential features like camera, microphone, calendar, photos, and more. It’s up to your discretion to allow or disallow the app to use these features.

Zoom Will Request for the Following Permissions:

  • Contacts: Grant the app permission to access your Contacts app to allow you to conduct a video/audio call.
  • Location: The app will request access to your location so that it can generate an Emergency Response Location. It will help you when dialing emergency services from the Zoom phone.
  • Calendars: It helps Zoom to add a meeting as an event in the stock calendar app.
  • Microphone: Grant the app permission to use the microphone of your iPhone so that you can join a meeting or webinar.
  • Camera: Grant the app permission to use the camera of your iPhone so that you can share your video in a meeting or webinar.
  • Photos: Grant the app access to the Photos app so that it can add images to chat messages, or for screen sharing during a meeting or webinar.
  • Background App Refresh: Offers the app the ability to send notifications for Meeting invites when the app is closed or not running actively.
  • Notifications: It allows the app to display notifications for chat messages, upcoming meetings, and much more.
  • Siri & Search: Allows the app to add Siri Shortcuts such as Join the Next Meeting, View Today’s Meetings, Start My Personal Meeting.

How to Start an Instant Meeting Using PMI or Meeting ID in Zoom App

You can start a meeting as the host using your host key. So, whenever you want to get started with a conference call, it will only take a few easy taps.

  1. To get started, tap on the Meet & Chat tab located at the bottom of the screen.
  2. Next, tap on the New Meeting tab located at the top of the screen.
  3. Next on, if you want to use a personal meeting ID (PMI), turn on the switch next to it.
  4. Lastly, tap the Start a Meeting button and you are all set!
  5. You will see a pop-up asking you to join audio so that you can hear others. Tap on Call Using Internet Audio.

You can switch between selfie and rear camera using the camera switch button located at the top left corner.

During the conference call, you can view the participants, mute/unmute them, send messages to everyone, and even invite others to join you.

If you want to share content, tap on the Share Content tab. You will see a pop-up from the bottom with multiple options such as Photos, iCloud Drive, Box, Google Drive, Screen (more on this later), Microsoft OneDrive, Website URL, and Bookmark. In case you want to share files saved in particular cloud storage, tap on it and then go to the folders. Select the file and share it.

By the same token, you can share a website URL as well as saved bookmarks.

If you’d like to stop video but wish to continue with the audio call, tap on the Stop Video button located at the bottom.

If you wish to leave the meeting, tap on the End button located at the top right hand corner, and choose Leave Meeting. To close the meeting, hit the End meeting button.

Note:

  • Zoom includes a phone feature that you can use to call a number or contact using your direct phone number or company number.
  • If you want to view your call log, simply head over to the Phone tab > history section. Answered, missed, and recorded calls will be available on this screen.
  • Also, there is a Voicemail tab where you can play and delete voicemail messages.

How to Join a Meeting Using the Meeting ID in Zoom App

Joining a meeting on iPhone or iPad is quick and easy. Apart from using an iPhone or iPad to join a meeting, you can also use an Android Smartphone, a web browser, Zoom desktop app for Mac/PC, a landline, an H.323 or SIP device.

Keep in mind, every meeting has a unique nine, ten, or eleven-digit number referred to as meeting ID which you can use to join a Zoom meeting.

Note:

  • If you want to join a meeting through telephone; you’ll be required to use the teleconferencing number provided in the invite.
  • Zoom app also offers you an option to invite others to your PMI using text messages or emails. Alternatively, you can simply copy the meeting details and paste them into a calendar invite.

How to Change Backgrounds in Zoom App on iOS

One cool reason why people prefer to use the Zoom app on iPhone or iPad is the ability to use a virtual background. The app set a beautiful ocean background for me, which I really liked. In addition, you can select your own background, if you are not comfortable with the predefined option.

  1. During the meeting, simply tap the More button located at the bottom right hand corner of the screen.
  2. Next, tap “Virtual Background” in the menu.
  3. Next on, choose the virtual background option given by the app.

If you prefer to choose your own background, tap on the “+” button and then browse you’re your favorite background from the camera roll. Next, tap Done. Next on, tap Close to go back to the main screen.

If you wish to remove the virtual background, hit the More button, hit virtual backgrounds and tap on Remove located at the bottom left hand corner of the display. Then, hit Close.

Note: Inside the More menu, there are a number of useful options such as Chat, Meeting Settings, Minimize Meeting, as well as disconnect audio.

How to Schedule a One-Time or Recurring Meeting with Zoom App

You can use the Zoom app to host either a one-time or recurring meeting. Again, you can host it from an iPhone, iPad, Android phones, Zoom desktop client, or web portal.

It’s worth noting that a non-recurring meeting ID will expire after 30 days. However, you have the option to restart the same meeting ID within the 30-day period.

As far as the recurring meeting ID is concern, it will expire after 365 days. The app allows you to re-use the meeting ID for future events.

In addition, the app gives you an option to start a scheduled meeting at any time before the scheduled time.

The links remain valid for 30/365 days. It’s worth noting that an instant meeting link will automatically expire once the meeting is over.

  1. To start off, launch the Zoom app on your iPhone or iPad > Meet & Chat tab located at the bottom of the screen.
  2. Next, hit the Schedule button tab located at the top of the screen.
  3. Next on, go ahead and schedule the meeting according to your needs.

Note:

  • Use personal meeting ID: Switch it on, if you wish to use your Personal Meeting ID. If it’s not selected, a random meeting ID will be created.
  • Host Video On when starting: Select this option if you want the host video to turn on by default when joining the meeting.
  • Attendee Video On when joining: Choose this option if you want the attendee video to get enabled by default when joining the meeting.
  • Audio Option: Choose this option to allow users to call in via Device audio, Telephone, or Both.
  • Meeting Password: If you want participants to enter a password before joining a scheduled meeting, set a password.

Tap Advanced Options in case you want to use the advanced meeting options.

Allow join before host: Choose this option if you want to allow the participants to join your meeting before you. It’s worthing noting that the meeting will automatically end after 40-minutes for Basic (free) users if three or more people join the meeting.

Record the meeting automatically: Select this option if you want to automatically record the meeting.

Schedule for: In the event you have the scheduling privilege for another Zoom user, you can choose whom you want to schedule the meeting for.

Alternative Hosts: It lets you choose users in the same group to let them start the meeting in your absence.

After you have scheduled the meeting, hit Done to confirm.

Note:

A popup to add the meeting to your iOS calendar will appear, where you can invite others to join the scheduled meeting.
In the event you are not able to add the meeting to the stock calendar app, go to Settings > Privacy > Calendars. Here, make sure to enable Zoom.
Inside the Meeting tab, all the scheduled meetings will show up. You can start any meeting right from there. And even better, you will be presented with an option to send an invitation as well as edit your personal meeting ID.

How to Share Screen in Zoom App on iOS

Zoom makes use of ultrasonic sound proximity detection to generate an ultrasonic signal for a seamless screen sharing. If the app senses the signal in a Zoom Room, it automatically connects to the Zoom Room when the attendee tap on the Share Screen button.

In the event the proximity detection is not available, participants can enable direct sharing by typing in a Sharing Key that is made up of a string of letters.

  1. Launch the Zoom app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Next, tap on the Meet & Chat tab located at the bottom left hand corner of the screen.
  3. Next on, Hit Share Screen.
  4. Next up, type in the sharing key and tap on OK.
  5. After doing so, you can choose to turn ON or OFF the microphone. Then, tap on start recording.

Boom! Zoom Rooms will start displaying the shared screen on the Zoom Rooms display. Everything that appears on the screen including notifications will be recorded. You can turn on Do Not Disturb (Settings app > Do Not Disturb) to stop receiving notifications during screen sharing.

It’s also easy to share the screen during the meeting. Just tap on the Share Content tab at the bottom > Screen and then proceed with the screen sharing.

When you want to stop sharing the screen, hit the red button and then tap on Stop in the pop-up that appears. Now, the recorded video will be saved to your photo library.

How to Use Your Personal Chat Space in Zoom App

Another Zoom feature worth noting is the “Personal Chat Space” where you can store private notes and files.

  1. Open the Zoom app on your iPhone or iPad > Meet & Chat tab at the bottom.
  2. Next, hit the star icon located at the top left hand corner of the screen.
  3. Next on , choose your name in the Shared list.
  4. Next up, input your notes and tap on Enter to save them by sending the notes to yourself.

Hit the “+” button located at the bottom left hand corner and then select the option to send photos, files or even snap a photo. Since the video-conferencing app is incorporated with many cloud services, you can easily access files saved in those cloud services and send them.

Note:

  • To access all the images, content, and starred messages, hit the “i” (info button) located at the top right hand corner. Then, go to a particular section.
  • If you want to clear all the Zoom chat history, hit the info button located at the top right hand corner of the screen and then tap on Clear Chat History and confirm the action.
  • To edit or delete any sent/received message, touch and hold it down. a menu will pop-up with a number of options such as: reply, share, star message, edit and delete. Select your preferred option.
  • Alternatively, you can hit the star button located at the top right hand corner of the display and then tap on All Files to dive into all the personal or entire files. Check out the filter option located at the top right hand corner of the screen and then select the None or Images option to filter files.

How to Create Channels in Zoom App on iOS

Channels can play an important role by allowing you to stay connected with your colleagues. Thankfully, it’s really easy to create a channel or join an already existing one on this Video-Conferencing app.

  1. On your iPhone or iPad, Open the Zoom app > Contacts tab at the bottom.
  2. Next, hit the “+” button located at the top right hand corner of the screen.
  3. Select “Create a New Channel” or “Join a Public Channel” and then set it up normally.

You can access all of your channels through the Channels tab at the top center.

How to Add an App to Zoom Using App Marketplace

One good thing about Zoom is the incorporation of a super handy app marketplace from where you can install your favorite apps to improve your productivity. From Trello to GitHub to Twitter, the app marketplace has got a range of apps to suit your various needs.

  1. Launch the Zoom app on your iPhone or iPad > Contacts tab.
  2. Next, hit the “+” button located at the top right hand corner of the screen.
  3. Next on, hit Add an app in the menu.
  4. The app will take you to the App Marketplace. Here, go through all the available options and install the ones that suits your needs.

How to Customize Zoom Settings on iOS

When you use Zoom app on your iPhone or iPad, you can customize its settings according to your needs. The app includes multiple features that you can personalize to improve your experience.

  1. On your iOS device, Open the Zoom app.
  2. Next, hit the Settings tap located at the bottom right hand corner of the display.
  3. Next on, you will be presented with a range of options to personalize.

Edit Zoom Profile

If you wish to edit your zoom profile, tap on the profile photo. Here, you can change your profile photo, display name, job title, location, default call-in country or region. In addition, the app offers you an option to add a personal note and get a custom meeting ID (for pro version).

Customize Zoom Meeting Settings

One thing that separates the Zoom app from the pack is the ability to offer a more personalized meeting experience. With a dozens of useful features to choose from, you can easily adjust everything to take full control of the meeting.

To do this, hit Meetings and then set up all the features as per your liking. For example, you can auto-copy the meeting link, always show meetings controls, sync Zoom meetings from Calendars app, and touch your appearance.

In addition, you can keep the virtual background for all meetings or current meetings only and even choose a fantastic reaction skin tone.

Personalize Zoom Chat Settings

It’s easy to fine-tune the Zoom chat settings. And depending on your liking, you can set it up to stay tuned in with your friends and colleagues at your own pace.

Hit Chats and then you can include or exclude link preview, configure the app to receive only given notifications, select where unread messages should appear, and when to alert you. Moreover, the app allows you to choose whether to receive push notifications when Do Not Disturb is enabled.

Blur Snapshot on Task Switcher

Zoom also allows you to hide sensitive information from the snapshot of the Zoom’s main window. The snapshot shows up as the preview screen in the iOS task switcher when many apps are running. To do so, hit General. Then, enable the switch next to Blur snapshot on the task switcher.

In addition, there is an option to enable incorporated calling to receive incoming calls on your lock screen. The app will allow you to show your zoom calls in the system’s call history. Other recording apps will not function when a Zoom’s call is enabled.

Use Zoom Siri Shortcuts

Another great feature on Zoom is the ability to work with Siri. So, in case you like using nifty Siri Shortcuts, there is a high possibility that you will find Zoom Siri Shortcuts quite useful. In addition, you can use Siri Shortcuts to join a meeting, view today’s meeting, and even kickstart your personal meeting effortlessly.

Signing off…

And that covers everything about how to use Zoom app on iPhone to remain in touch with your friends and colleagues. As the video-conferencing app is quite easy to use, I trust you have got a good hang of it.

What are some of the things you’ve found striking about the Zoom app? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.

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The Best Online Meeting Apps for iPhone in 2022

by GeeksModo Staff

Due to the spread of the coronavirus, millions of people around the world have been forced to start working from home and rely on online meeting apps.

Online meetings apps for iPhone makes it easy to still hold those meetings we all dread so much but are a part of our daily work lives. In fact, they might just be more useful than ever bearing in mind how much we all now rely on communicating with our colleagues as much as possible.

With those benefits in mind, the following are some of the best online meeting apps for iPhone in 2022.

Best online meeting apps for iPhone

Our Best Picks:

Zoom

We mentioned Zoom in our roundup of best Remote Worker Apps for iPhone and iPad but it’s worth talking about it here. In fact, you can argue that Zoom is just one of the absolute best online meeting apps for iPhone out there.

What separates Zoom from the pack is accessibility, quality, and features. The app allows users to start or join a meeting with just one or two steps. It rocks , and delivers, some of the best audio and video quality of any app of it’s nature. It’s packed with great features that ranges from easier hands-off use to smart visual sharing which open a whole world of online meeting possibilities.

Zoom is so good that you might start using it even when physical meetings are an option. It should be your first choice in this field, and it might be the only online meeting app for iPhone that you’ll ever need. You can check out How to Use Zoom App on iPhone and iPad Here

GoToMeeting

As one of the “older” online meeting apps for iPhone out there, you might be tempted to replace GoToMeeting with a newer option. but, you’d be overlooking some of the things that this app shines in.

First of all, this service’s oldness means that it’s been polished over the years. You can tell this just by exploring its clean user interface and smart user features. Next, GoToMeeting offers some of the most steady connections than any app of it’s kind. That steadiness often makes a big difference when you’re talking about overall quality.

Typically, however, GoToMeeting is mostly preferred because of its great features. From easy full-screen sharing to commuter options and smooth individual chat options, GoToMeeting delivers almost total suite of thrilling capabilities.

FaceTime

If you don’t already know, FaceTime is probably installed on your iPhone or iPad. We’re certain, nevertheless, that you don’t consider it as one of the best online meeting apps for iPhone.
Maybe, you only use it to communicate with friends and family.

However, FaceTime can do more than that. It doesn’t contain some of the more advanced features available on dedicated options, but it makes up for it with accessibility and easiness of use. FaceTime is user-friendly and most people already have it installed on their devices. If you’ve just gotta have a chat with your co-worker, it’s a largely pain-free way to do just that.

For larger business meetings, we can’t really recommend FaceTime as an option. However, you’d be amazed how well it works for small audience ,.

Google Hangouts

Another app we’d want to talk about is Hangouts. Just like FaceTime, we can’t really recommend this as one of the best full-service online meeting apps for iPhone. We understand that statement is quite ironical considering the proposition of the title of this post.

However, Google Hangouts is one of those options that makes too much sense to not recommend. As part of the larger suite of Google programs, it’s for most people to easily gain access to it. The best part, it’s probably attached to other Google programs that most people would want to access at a meeting. That qualifies it as one of the best choices for more “impromptu” arrangements.

In fact, with its support for multiple users capability, Google Hangouts is not a bad overall option for smaller meetings and chats of that nature.

Slack

As an iPhone user, there’s a high chance you’ve heard about Slack. It’s definitely one of the best apps for iPhone and iPad regardless of function.

One thing you might not be aware of is that Slack is also one of the better overall online meeting apps for iPhone. It offers some fairly expansive video call options that many users don’t know about. Just like Slack, it’s particularly fantastic at supporting conversations between multiple people.

Generally, however, we recommend Slack, why? There is a high chance your co-workers are already using it. That means that everyone can turn a regular Slack session into a full meeting with a few taps. Apart from making Video calls, Slack can also help in communicating with your team members in a way that hopefully ensures you can avoid having so many meetings in the first place.

Skype

Here comes another app that we don’t necessarily recommend as the best choice for those who need to host larger meetings quite often. Similarly, we understand that’s quite ironical taking into account why you probably decided to look for online meeting apps for iPhone in the first place.

Yet, Skype is one of the definitive examples of working with what is at your disposal. Most computers have Skype installed as a default communication option, and the vast majority of people knows how to use it. That makes it really easy to host a meeting with a colleague without having to go through a complex set-up process that includes installing new technology.

We assume your average workstation will get better options than Skype. For what it offers, though, it’s certainly a fairly great alternative to more complex options.

Cisco WebEx

Professionalism is very crutial in meetings, and it’s also crutial in online meeting apps. The best such apps should not only be professional in their Design but should be rich with professional features crafted to help you host and participate in meetings effortlessly.

That’s where Cisco WebEx stands out from the pack. Noticeably, Cisco WebEx is developed by professionals for professionals to host the smoothest web meetings possible. The quest of that ambitious goal involves everything from great connection speeds, easy file sharing, and fantastic options which makes it easy To schedule meetings with just a few taps.

With features such as custom video layouts, Cisco definitely doesn’t fall short of style. Yet, we tend to recommend it most to the people looking for something neat, reliable, and best of all, professional.

BlueJeans

Thinking that there’s not much new in the planet when it comes to online meetings apps for iPhone? Well, That’s not entirely the case, but there is an element of truth in That. There are many apps available today that offer excellent service, but they fairly also offer rather similar services.

BlueJeans is one of the few options which offer something a bit different. Apart from boasting the most extensive in-app scheduling modes that you Can ever find from the apps of it’s nature, it also feature smart options like low bandwith support. Moreover, it features fantastic touch screen interface and can support up to 25 people at a go (and up to 100 via the premium option).

What you’ve got here, then, is a total incredible app that happens to offer certain features that we’d love to see become standard. Some people may argue that this is the best overall online meeting app for iPhone, however, that’s a matter of debate

Join.Me

One major drawback with online meetings is relative lack of shared resources. In a physical meeting, you can all look at the same screen, the same board, or the same piece of paper. This simplifies the process of communicating similar ideas. In a virtual meeting, such options are usually much more limited. That’s where Join.Me kicks in. With features such as a virtual whiteboard, presenter swaps, and even screen sharing abilities, Join.Me offers one of the most striking collections of physical media alternatives that you can ever find. This is certainly the easiest way to share such materials with a large group of people digitally.

And that covers everything about best online meeting apps for iPhone. We hope we are able to help you in one way or another. For more articles like this, please visit our website

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Best Sleeping Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2022

by GeeksModo Staff

Sleeping apps are quickly becoming some of the most downloaded apps on the app store. As it turns out, millions of people around the world are looking for ways to sleep a little
better at night.

While that’s never an easy thing for those who struggle to get good sleep, you do have choices. There are dozens and dozens of apps designed to help you
sleep better. They’re not quite miracles, but you’d be amazed what they can do for you.

The following are some of the best sleeping apps for iPhone and iPad.

Best sleeping apps for iPhone and iPad

Our best Picks

Relax Melodies

During the initial days of iPhone, the most preferred apps were often the simplest ones. They featured some sort of function that people realized could hardly live
without. It’s all right, then, that one of the most popular modern apps on iPhone, Relax Melodies, is simply fantastic.

Relax Melodies’ main function is to play soothing music and other sounds that help you fall asleep in no time. Inaddition, it provides meditation instructions and other
Useful information for that same goal.

This app is almost certainly better than leaving the television on at night or listening to apodcast. It might just offer a different approach to how you choose to relax at night. It’s
certainly one of the best sleeping apps available today.Download Relax Melodies on the App Store

Sleep Cycle

It’s surprising to know that most people are not really aware how they sleep. That means that they’re sleeping while they’re…sleeping. As such, they are
unaware how their body reacts to that process.

That’s where Sleep Cycle comes into play. It tracks your sleeping habits and offers you a better understanding of what is happening. By monitoring information
Such as your snoring and common sleep hours, it allows you to figure out what can be disturbing your sleep patterns and how to correct them.

There are many apps like Sleep Cycle, however, it’s still one of the absolute best sleeping apps in the market.Download Sleep Cycle on the AppStore

Pzizz – Sleep, Nap, Focus

We’ve already pointed out how simplicity in sleeping apps is always welcome feature. In any case, you don’t want to have to think too much when you’re just trying
to sleep.

Simplicity is what separates Pzizz from the pack. At the push of a button, it presents you with a pleasing range of sounds designed to help create a relaxing
sleep atmosphere. And even better, it offers advanced sleeping stats when you wake up.

This is one of the best sleeping apps for iPhone and iPad. It’s easy to recommend even if you just want to use it for a trial period.Download Pzizz – Sleep, Nap, Focus on the App Store

White Noise Lite

Most of the best sleeping apps involve producing relaxing noises of some kind. Well, that’s not by mistake. Research have proven the positive effects
of such techniques.

White Noise Lite is one of the best sleeping apps for that purpose. Basically an advanced alarm clock, this app allows you to use pre-programmed or custom
soundtracks to build a relaxing sleeping environment. When it’s time to wake up, it allows you to do so in a more peaceful and systematic way.

The best part? White Noise Lite is free and easy-to-use. It’s perfect for those who want to dip their toes into sleep aid waters and just want a simple
Starting point. Download White Noise Lite on the App Store

Pillow

It’s true that most sleeping apps feature relatively similar functionality. The difference usually comes down to specific functions and the overall package
being made available.

As far as that last point is concern, Pillow is one of the most popular sleeping apps out there. It features a collection of sleep statistics along with one
of the best advanced alarm clocks we’ve seen in the apps of its nature. That clock can even help you figure out the most appropriate time to sleep and wake up.

Pillow is absolutely exceptional option that’s easy to recommend irrespective of your needs.Download Pillow on the app store

SleepScore

When trying to understand the complex process of human sleeping patterns, you want things to be presented in the simplest way possible. All the information
in the world is useless if you don’t know what to do with it.

That’s why tons and tons of people have turned to SleepScore. This app converts a wide range of data into simple scores that are easy to understand. Enhancing
your score (and your sleep) is then simply a matter of using the information at your disposal to your advantage.

SleepScore is one of the elite sleeping apps that not only helps you sleep better but understand why you sleep the way you do.Download SleepScore on the app store

Headspace

Specialists agree that meditation is an integral part of better sleep. The tricky part is that most people don’t actually know how to integrate meditation into
Their everyday lives.

That’s where Headspace kicks in. Besides offering sounds that help you fall asleep, this app can also help you in learning and integrating meditation
techniques. While it’s not the most advanced app in that area, The feature could actually come in handy for inexperienced users.

I recommend Headspace to anyone looking to slowly integrate relaxing techniques into their daily life.Download Headspace on the app store

Sleepzy

Do you require stats to help you better understand your sleeping habits? Are you just a stat enthusiast who prefer to have their lives presented in form of graphs and charts? Well,
Sleepzy might be one of the best sleeping apps for that purpose.

In terms of raw data, a small number of apps offer what Sleepzy does. From snoring tracking to sleep quality graphs, Sleepzy outlines almost everything you will ever need to
know if you’re going to surely sleep better. The app also includes the usual collection of sleep sounds and alarm options.

I recommend Sleepzy to anyone seeking a better initial understanding of why they’re sleeping the way they do.Download Sleepzy on the app store

AutoSleep

There are many sleeping apps that are compatible with Apple Watch. unfortunately, the number of such apps that truly take advantage of the Apple Watch is limited.

AutoSleep truly excels in that category. Not only does it offer a world-class array of statistics, but it easily presents that information
Through the Apple Watch. We struggle to think of another sleeping app that comes close to matching this one’s interface.

Even if you don’t have an Apple Watch, you might easily find yourself thrilled by everything that this app has to offer. Download AutoSleep on the app store

Noisli

There are numerous sleeping apps that help create bedtime noises, but what about the other times of the day? Surely there are benefits to figuring out ways to
relax throughout the day?

There are, and that’s where Noisli comes into a play. Yes, you can use its array of noises to help you sleep at night. However, they’re also designed to create
generally relaxing environments throughout the day. That makes it that much easier to prepare for bedtime during the course of the day.

For anyone looking to calm themselves before, during, and after they fall asleep, Noisli is a fantastic option.Download Noisli on the app store

Sleep Cycle Power Nap

Taking a nap is a great way to reset and truly rest. Every so often, though, we end up napping a bit too “hard.” This can bring the feelings of tiredness
that affect your sleep cycle.

Thankfully, Sleep Cycle Power Nap has a solution for that. By monitoring your movements and other pertinent stats as you sleep, this app helps you find the optimal
nap time. It wakes you before you fall into a truly deep sleep and ensures you maximize your naps without oversleeping.

It might take a llearning curve, but this app can be greatly benefitial to anyone looking to incorporate naps throughout their day.Download Sleep Cycle Power Nap on the app store

And that covers everything about the best sleeping apps for iPhone and iPad. I hope we are able to help you one way or another. We also have plenty of other articles that I suggest you check right now. Please visit our website

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