Covering as many bases as possible, I’m going to take a look at what users can do if Comodo VPN isn’t working on their Mac. Throughout this article, I cover several solutions that should get your VPN working as it should again. When it comes to the solutions, I’ve also done my best to organize them from easiest to perform to hardest to perform, meaning readers may want to look at the entire list before performing any actions. If your VPN isn’t working the way you want it to, just know that there is a solution. Let’s get started. 

Comodo VPN Not Working on Mac: Covering the Basics

If something isn’t working as expected on your machine, there’s always a couple of things you should start with to try and get things right. First, perform a simple restart on your machine by going to the menu bar and selecting Apple > Restart. Performing a restart can rid your machine of any small bugs, potentially getting things operating smoothly again. 

It’s also a great idea to check your device for any software updates that you might need. This primarily includes performing a software updates for macOS and and an update for Comodo VPN. You can find the macOS update by navigating to Apple > System Settings > Software Update from the menu bar. You should be able to update Comodo VPN through its settings as well. 

Lastly, when it comes to covering the basics, check your network connection. Try restarting your Wi-Fi router. You may also want to consult the user guide for your router to see if you need to perform any firmware updates. Users may also want to try recreating the VPN connection, using a different browser or logging in through a different VPN account. It may also be a good idea to clear the macOS DNS cache. 

Comodo VPN Not Working on Mac: Edit macOS Host File

Another thing that may fall under the basic ideas category is manually editing the macOS host file. Editing the host file allows users to link specific DNS addresses while maintaining a VPN connection with their VPN client. However, it may be best to contact Comodo concerning how to specifically edit your host file. 

Comodo VPN Not Working on Mac: Uninstall and Reinstall Comodo VPN Client Profiles

Another thing a user may want to try is uninstalling and reinstalling the VPN client profile. This can be particularly true if a user experienced any errors during the original installation process. It is possible that errors during the installation process may be causing loopholes, which is likely to cause the Comodo VPN client to crash.

Typically, users will need configuration details, which includes account name, server address and other authentications such as passwords. However, since Comodo provides enterprise customers with configuration profiles, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. However, if you are having issues with your profiles during this process, you may want to contact Comodo. 

You can now reconnect the VPN.

1. From the menu bar, go to Apple > System Settings > VPN.
2. Select Add VPN and then choose Select VPN connection type.
3. Within the Display Name field, write VPN (or whatever will help you remember).
4. Click the Configuration pop-up menu. 
5. Select Configuration. 
6. You will then enter your VPN settings.
7. If necessary, choose the following: 
   • L2TP over IPSec: You may need to enter settings for TCP/IP, options, proxies and DNS. 
   • Cisco IPSec or IKEv2: You may need to enter settings for Proxies and DNS. 
8. Select Create. 

Change VPN Settings

It you’re having issues with Comodo VPN, changing your Network settings may be a solution. Ensuring that your VPN is at the top of your Set Service Order can be a helpful way to ensure that your VPN is working as it should. 

1. Go to Apple > System Preferences from the menu bar. 
   
2. Select Network.
   
3. From the Action menu, choose Set Service Order.
   
4. Ensure that your VPN is at the top of the list by dragging it there.
5. Select Ok and then Apply to make the changes.

Try to Repair Permissions with Disk Utility 

Users also have the option of running Disk Utility to check their disk drive for any potential damages to permissions. According to reports online from certain users, a VPN may have connection issues if certain permissions are damaged. Fortunately, Apple’s built-in Disk Utility may provide a solution. Just remember that Disk Utility is typically in the Applications > Utilities folder.

1. From the menu bar, go to Go > Utilities. 
2. Choose Disk Utility. 
3. Choose the volume which contains your VPN. 
4. Select the First Aid tab.
5. Choose your volume again.
6. Click Repair Disk Permissions. 
7. See if this fixes your issues. 

Try Intego VPN

If you find that none of these solutions are working, it may be time to make the switch. Fortunately, there are solutions here as well. I would recommend a user going with Intego for their VPN needs. With over millions of users, as well as high approval ratings from Trustpilot, Intego can be a user’s go-to source for their internet protection needs. 

One of the best reasons a user should choose Intego for their VPN needs is the fact that users are able to bundle it alongside several other internet and computer solutions. For example, users could bundle Intego VPN alongside the company’s Mac Internet Security bundle, giving users access not only to a secure VPN, but can also provide them with Intego’s NetBarrier and VirusBarrier software. That means when a user surfs the internet on their VPN, they can know they’re getting full protection on all fronts thanks to Intego. 

Additionally, users can even go for the Premium bundle, meaning they would not only get a VPN, virus and network protection, but they would also get access to ContentBarrier as well as Mac Washing Machine. A reputable source since 1997, ContentBarrier protects children from online threats by blocking certain dangerous or inappropriate websites and chats, but also can stop predators in their tracks. Furthermore, Mac Washing Machine can help keep a user’s Mac clean of excess or unnecessary files, helping improve the speed and performance of a machine. In the end, being able to combine some or all of these products alongside a VPN just seems like a no brainer. 

Conclusion: What to Do if Comodo VPN is Not Working on Mac

Considering the happenings of the internet in our modern age, it may be more important than ever to ensure that you have a VPN that is working properly for your needs. Hopefully, for those that need help if Comodo VPN isn’t working for them, a solution on this page provides the means to get them back on the right track. If not, remember that Intego provides a VPN alongside a plethora of other internet security resources. So if you’re looking to protect your privacy through a VPN, going with Intego’s Mac Internet Security bundle seems like the right idea. Even more, if you plan on using your VPN for other purposes, it may be an even better idea to ensure that you have further internet protection. 

At the end of the day, being able to traverse the internet with both privacy and security is an ideal situation for most users. Of course, while a user is on the internet, they might find themselves in some troubling situations. Fortunately, we have answers. For example, we can also show you some of the best antivirus solutions not just for your Mac, but for your iPhone and iPad as well. Outside of the internet, we can also show you how to lower your RAM usage on Mac while speeding it back up. While there can often be problems in life and on the internet, that doesn’t mean there also isn’t a solution.

Tags: featured, Mac, Network Diagnostics, VPN

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 14:35:17 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_89008 The era of digital paperwork has seen an increase in the use of PDFs, given their convenient, standardized format. You might often find yourself needing to combine various PDF files on your iPhone or iPad for reasons such as organization, convenience, or creating comprehensive documents. Contrary to what you might believe, merging PDFs on iOS is a simple task. You can accomplish it easily using two built-in apps on your iOS device, namely the Files app and the Shortcuts app. Follow along to find out how to merge PDFs on iOS using those built-in apps.

Can You Merge Documents in Files on iPhone?

Yes, you can certainly merge PDF documents on your iPhone, specifically PDF files, using the File Manager app named Files or the Shortcuts app. The Files app is an intuitive file management application that comes pre-installed on all iOS devices. It can also help you merge PDFs on iOS in a straightforward manner.

The Shortcuts app is another built-in application in iOS devices that allows you to automate a vast array of tasks, including merging Google Drive PDFs and more.

How Do I Combine Files in the Files App?

To control the order in which the PDFs are merged, simply rename the files in the order you want them combined. The Files app merges them in alphabetical order.

Note that your original files will remain intact after merging. If you no longer need them, you can manually delete the individual PDF files so that you will only have the merged PDF file left.

How Do I Combine PDF Files Into One With the Shortcuts App

The Shortcuts app is another built-in application in iOS devices that allows you to automate a vast array of tasks, including merging PDFs. For this, you would need to download and use a pre-made shortcut.

Here’s how to combine files into a single file:

1. Download a pre-made shortcut for merging PDFs by accessing the link and tapping Add shortcut.
2. After downloading, go to the Shortcuts app. You will see the shortcut you downloaded under My Shortcuts.
3. Now open the Files app and navigate to the location of the PDF files you wish to merge.
4. Tap on the More icon then tap Select to choose the PDF files. Tap on the files to select them.
5. Now tap on the Share icon and select Combine PDFs or Merge PDFs.
6. You will be prompted to choose a destination for your merged file. Select as per your convenience.

You might need to grant necessary permissions to the Shortcuts app to access your files. This process is secure and only used to facilitate the action you requested.

Alternatives To Merging PDFs on iOS: PDF Expert and Smallpdf

While the Files app and the Shortcuts app offer a simple way to merge PDFs on iOS, you can also explore paid third-party apps like PDF Expert and Smallpdf or other online services. PDF Expert, Smallpdf, as well as similar apps, offer more features such as editing PDFs, adding signatures, and password protection. However, unless you require these extra capabilities, the built-in apps should suffice.

Conclusion

In the modern digital age, merging PDFs on iOS using the Files app or Shortcuts app is a breeze. These in-built applications provide simple yet effective ways to combine your PDF files, catering to your professional and personal needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the approach that works best for you. And if you find that you need other features such as editing the PDFs, you can try third-party apps like PDF Expert and Smallpdf.

Get started now with our easy guide and share your experience or ask questions in the comments section! For further reading, check out how to edit PDFs on iPad.

Tags: Files, pdf, productivity

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:44:09 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153822 Apple ID is your key to the Apple ecosystem and you might need to remove it from some devices that are no longer in use. There are quite a few ways to do so. We will learn about the best ways to remove devices from your Apple ID. Stay tuned to learn what Apple ID Device List is and when should you remove a device from your Apple ID.

What Is the Apple ID Device List?

The list of devices on which you have logged in with your Apple ID is known as the Apple ID device list or the Trusted Device List. This consists of your iPhone, Mac, iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, etc.

These devices have access to your personal credentials like bank statements, credit card details, social security number, etc. These devices can also be used for two-factor authentication when you log into your Apple ID and can also access the Apple services that you pay for. So, if you wish to limit services to the devices, you will have to create a separate Devices List for online services.

How To Remove Devices From Apple ID Using iPad or iPhone?

First, we will learn how to remove devices from Apple ID using your iPhone or iPad.

Remove Devices Using Your Mac

Now we will learn how to remove devices using Macs that have the Mac OS Ventura running.

1. Open Apple Menu and Go to System Settings.

2. You will find your name on the top left side of the screen. Click it.

3. Scroll down on the right side of the screen and go to the Trusted Devices List. From the list, click on the device you wish to remove from your ID.

4. Select the Remove from Account option. Then click on Remove again on the prompt that will pop up.

The process is the same for all older Mac OS. Just the user interface is different.

Account Management Portal

If you do not have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac handy, the Account Management Portal will help you remove devices from your Apple ID.

1. Open Account Management Portal.

2. Log in to your Apple ID and go to Devices.

3. From there Choose the device that you wish to remove and select the Remove from Account option.

Steps To Remove a Device Using iCloud

iCloud can also be used to remove devices from your Apple ID. Let us see how.

1. Open iCloud on any device.

2. Click on your name on the top right side and select Manage Apple ID. This will redirect you to the Account Management Portal.

3. Go to the My Devices section and remove the device that you wish to remove.

When Should You Remove a Device From Your Apple ID?

There are a number of reasons why you might need to edit the device list of your Apple ID. Let us look at some of the possible reasons.

• You got an upgrade over your current device. (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, etc.)

• Your device got misplaced and you do not want it to access your Apple ID for the time being.

• Someone is accessing your Apple ID through a device, and you wish to limit it.

• You wish to stop using a particular device.

Wrap Up

Your Apple ID contains your personal details and information. So, it is imperative to keep it safe. If you wish to learn how to manage your Apple ID, please follow our comprehensive guide.

If you have any more questions regarding removing a device from your Apple ID, do let us know in the comments below. We will get back to you as soon as possible and try our best to help you fix your issue.

Tags: Apple, Apple ID, Security

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:19:46 +0000 Tom Victor tmo_wp_153644 iPhones offer a feature called “Restricted Mode” that allows owners to set limitations on various functionalities. However, you may reach a point where you desire a more unrestricted experience. If you find yourself in that situation, you’ve come to the right place. It’s time to break free!

Restricted Mode on your iPhone provides you with control over your device, enhancing safety and suitability for different scenarios. It is like having a personalized rulebook that aligns with your needs and offers protection.

However, as our needs evolve over time, what once worked and catered to our requirements may no longer suffice. If you’re seeking to turn off Restricted Mode on your iPhone, you may encounter challenges. If that’s the case, you’re in the right spot. Keep reading to receive step-by-step instructions, along with essential tips and tricks on how to turn off the restrictions on your iPhone.

Restricted Mode on iPhone: What It Is

On an iPhone, Restricted Mode is a built-in feature that allows iPhone owners to impose limitations and restrictions on the device’s functionality. This feature strives to create a safer and more controlled user experience. You can specifically utilize this feature in situations where you need to restrict access to specific content or features.

Restricted Mode is akin to having a personalized set of rules or limitations for your iPhone. It empowers you to control and manage the actions and capabilities of your iPhone or a third-party iPhone. This guarantees enhanced safety and suitability for various scenarios.

For instance, as a parent, you can utilize Restricted Mode to establish parental controls. If you have younger siblings or children using your iPhone, you can restrict their access. You can block explicit content, prevent the installation of specific apps, and manage their screen time. This way, you can ensure that they utilize the iPhone in a manner appropriate for their age.

Additionally, in educational settings such as schools or colleges, the Restricted Mode can foster a better learning environment. Teachers can restrict access to distracting apps or websites that may contain inappropriate content. This guarantees that everyone remains focused and utilizes their iPhones solely for educational purposes.

Why Are Restrictions Enabled on My iPhone?

Let’s explore some of the reasons why your iPhone may have restrictions enabled on it:

1. Parental Control: If you are a child or teenager using an iPhone provided by your parents or guardians, they may have activated restrictions on your device. These restrictions, known as parental controls, aim to manage screen time, control access to specific apps or content, and create a safer digital environment tailored to your needs.
2. School Policies: If you utilize your iPhone in an educational setting, such as a school or college, restrictions may be in effect based on the institution’s policies. Typically, these restrictions aim to minimize distractions, ensure access to appropriate content, and foster a learning-focused environment.
3. Workplace policies: If an organization manages your iPhone, it may enforce restrictions to comply with security measures and regulate device usage within the organization. This practice is common in corporate environments or institutions that provide devices to their employees or students.

Whatever it is, it’s important to understand that the device owner or administrator usually enables restrictions on your iPhone for specific purposes. These purposes may include ensuring safety, promoting productivity, or maintaining compliance with policies or regulations.

Why Can’t I Turn Off Restriction Mode on My iPhone?

There are several possible reasons why you might be unable to turn off Restricted Mode on your iPhone. Here are some of them:

1. You forgot the Restricted Mode passcode: If you have forgotten the passcode for Restricted Mode, you will need to enter the passcode to make any changes to the restrictions settings. Without inputting the passcode, you will be unable to switch off Restricted Mode.
2. Parental Controls: If a parent or guardian manages your iPhone using the Screen Time or Family Sharing features, they may have enabled restrictions on your device. In such cases, you should contact them and request that they disable the restrictions for you.
3. Software Updates: Occasionally, a software bug or glitch in the iOS may affect your ability to turn off Restricted Mode. To address this, make sure to keep your iPhone’s software up to date by installing the latest iOS updates. This can help resolve such issues and improve functionality.
4. Factory Restrictions: In very rare cases, if you have purchased a secondhand or refurbished iPhone, you might come across built-in hardware or software restrictions that cannot be disabled. Manufacturers or sellers typically implement these restrictions to comply with specific regulations or contractual obligations.

Now that you have an understanding of the reasons that can make it challenging to remove your iPhone from Restricted Mode, let’s delve into how you can actually disable Restricted Mode on your iPhone despite these circumstances. Additionally, I will provide guidance on removing your iPhone from Restricted Mode, even if you have forgotten the passcode.

How To Turn Off Restricted Mode on Your iPhone Using Passcode

If you can remember your iPhone’s Restricted Mode passcode, you can easily turn off this feature from the Settings app. If you are using iOS 12 or a later version, you will need to utilize the Screen Time feature instead of Restricted Mode. Here’s how to turn off Restricted Mode on your iPhone from the Settings app:

For iOS 11 or Earlier Versions

1. On the Home page, open the Settings app.
2. Tap on the Restriction option.
3. Next, select the Turn Off Restriction option.
4. You will be prompted to enter the passcode to turn it off and input the passcode.

Once you enter the correct passcode, your iPhone’s Restricted Mode will be disabled. This will allow you to use your device without any limitations.

For iOS 12 or Later Versions

Once you turn off the toggle switch and enter the passcode, you will disable the Restricted Mode on your iPhone, granting you access to unrestricted functionality.

Interested in setting up Parental Control on Mac? Check out our dedicated guide.

How To Turn off Restrictions on iPhone Without Password

What should you do if you no longer remember your iPhone’s Restricted Mode passcode? If you remember your Apple ID passcode but have forgotten the Restricted Mode passcode, there’s no need to worry. You can easily disable Restricted Mode on your iPhone by using your Apple ID passcode. Here’s how to do it:

1. On your iPhone’s Home page, Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to and tap on Screen Time.
3. Select Change Screen Time Passcode.
   
4. Next, the system will present you with options to either Change Screen Time passcode or Turn Off Screen Time Passcode. Tap on Change Screen Time passcode.
   
5. On the passcode entry screen, tap on Forgot Passcode?.
   
6. You will then be prompted to authenticate using your Apple ID and password. Enter the required information.
   
7. You will then be required to Enter New Screen Time Passcode and verify it. Now that you have changed your passcode, use your new passcode to turn off Restricted Mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Learning how to turn off restrictions on your iPhone can provide a liberating experience, granting you increased control and freedom over your device. By taking charge of your iPhone’s restrictions, you can customize your device to align with your preferences, enhance productivity, and embrace a more personalized digital experience.

However, it is important to always respect the guidelines and restrictions set by parents, employers, or organizations when necessary. Engaging in open communication with the device owner or administrator can help you gain a deeper understanding of the reasons behind the restrictions and facilitate negotiations for adjustments that accommodate everyone’s needs.

Apart from enabling Restricted Mode, there are several other practical ways to protect your child on the internet. You may want to explore Tom Victor’s guide on how to safeguard your child from online predators on a Mac.

Tags: iPhone, Restrictions, Screen Time

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:55:19 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_153884 Now that the excitement over the upcoming iOS 17 has died down, most of those who have downloaded the iOS version are now contemplating downgrading their iPhones to iOS 16. It’s understandable since iOS 17 is a bit buggy and unstable simply because by default, that’s how beta OS is supposed to be. So, whether you downloaded iOS 17 Beta from Apple’s Developer Program or Software Beta Program, see below for the steps on how to downgrade from iOS 17.

Some Important Things to Know Before You Proceed

In case you’ve also downloaded and installed watchOS 10 on your Apple Watch, here’s some bad news. You won’t be able to pair it with your iPhone after you revert it to iOS 16. To pair it again, you must also downgrade watchOS 10 to watchOS 9. Unfortunately, unlike the iPhone, there’s no way to downgrade from watchOS 10 on your own. You have to bring your Apple Watch to Apple to do so. Still, want to downgrade your iPhone from iOS 17 to iOS 16? Then proceed with the steps below.

How to Enter Recovery Mode on Your iPhone

The first thing you need to do before you downgrade from iOS 17 is to put reboot your iPhone into Recovery Mode.

1. If you’re using iPhone XS or later, press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
2. Then press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
3. And then press and hold the side button until the Recovery Mode screen appears.

Downgrading Your iPhone from iOS 17 to iOS 16 Using the Finder App

Now that you know how to put your iPhone into Recovery Mode, you may proceed with the steps below to downgrade your iPhone from iOS 17 to iOS 16.

The process may take some time since your iPhone will be reset and restored to factory settings. Afterward, your iPhone will download iOS and install it on your device. If you have backed up your device prior to installing iOS 17 Beta, you may choose to restore it from the backup instead.

Want to also downgrade macOS Sonoma to Ventura? Check out our dedicated guide on how to do it.

How to Downgrade from iOS 17 Beta Without Using Your Mac

Now, here’s a simpler process of reverting your iPhone to the latest public release of iOS from iOS 17.

1. Go to Settings on your iPhone.
2. Tap on General > Software Update.
   
3. Tap on the iOS 17 Beta profile.
   
4. Tap Off.
   
5. Restart your iPhone.

And that’s it! Once your iPhone restarted, it will reinstall iOS 16.

Conclusion

Thankfully, I have yet to notice any significant slowdown in my iPhone after I installed iOS 17 Developer Beta. The new features are all working so well since I installed the Beta. But I understand that this whole process of testing beta iOS is different for every user. So, if you’ve had your dose of what’s coming to iOS 17 and want to revert to the latest public release of iOS for whatever reasons, then the process couldn’t be simpler enough.

Tags: featured, iOS 17, iPhone, public beta

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 00:29:00 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_153940 For those looking to automatically hide their Dock on Mac, a solution isn’t too far off in the horizon. When one thinks of a Mac, it isn’t hard to imagine a fantastic display. For example, consider the Liquid Retina XDR display which can be found on a 2023 MacBook Pro. Both impressive and beautiful, some users may want to take advantage of that screen as much as they can. Hiding your Dock is but one solution, as hiding it can create more space for whatever it is a user is trying to do. Luckily, users are able to do just that. 

With that in mind, I’m going to show users how to minimize the Dock on their Mac. I’m also going to show a shortcut on how to hide the Dock on Mac, as well as how to hide the Dock on Mac when in fullscreen. I’ll also provide a few additional details, including how to hide the menu bar if you’re looking to have all of the workspace on your desktop. If you’re looking to add some space to your desktop, you really only need to know a specific setting, or even just a keyboard shortcut. Let’s get started. 

How Do I Automatically Hide My Dock?

If you’re looking to hide the Dock on your Mac, it’s really as simple as making sure you find one particular setting. Fortunately, macOS has the option to automatically hide the Dock, allowing users to find it by hovering over the bottom of their screen. Once your Dock is off screen, all you need to do is place your cursor at the very bottom of the screen to bring it back.

And that’s all there is to it! The Dock will hide until you bring it up by moving your cursor to the bottom of the screen. Considering some might find that the Dock is taking up a little more space on their screen than they would like, hiding it can be a great way to free up some screen real estate. Users are also able to go back and reverse this setting if they find that it doesn’t suit their needs. Simply follow the instructions again to reverse this change.

How Do I Hide the Dock Bar on my MacBook?

In addition to being able to hide your Dock via the Dock & Menu Bar settings, users are also able to hide their Doc through a simple keyboard command. This not only applies to MacBooks, but to Macs in general. Users are also able to hide the Dock via keyboard commands, which can be great if you need to know how to hide the dock on MacBook Pro. Simply press Option + Command + D to make your Dock disappear. Knowing how to properly navigate keyboard shortcuts can be incredibly useful, especially if you need to hide your Dock. Naturally, you can always bring your Dock back following the same command. 

How to Remove Dock Animations Using Terminal

For those that have an interest in hiding the Dock, there is a way to remove the animations whenever you retrieve or hide the Dock. This can speed up the process for users, allowing them to get back to what they need to do. However, note that this solution does require the use of Terminal, which can be found in the Applications > Utilities folder. 

1. Open the Terminal app.
2. Input the following command: defaults write com.apple.dock autohide -bool true && defaults write com.apple.dock autohide-delay -float 0 && defaults write com.apple.dock autohide-time-modifier -float 0 && killall Dock 
3. Hit Enter.
4. To go back to your original settings, you can input the following command and hit Enter: defaults delete com.apple.dock autohide && defaults delete com.apple.dock autohide-delay && defaults delete com.apple.dock autohide-time-modifier && killall Dock

How Do I Automatically Hide My Menu Bar? 

If you want complete access to your Mac’s screen, you can also hide your menu bar. While not as tall as the Dock, hiding your menu bar will give you even more room to work on your Mac. Once it is hidden, you can move your cursor to the top of the screen to find it again, just like your Dock.

1. Go to Apple > System Settings.
2. Select Desktop & Dock
3. Go to Automatically hide and show the menu bar.
4. Select Always from the drop-down menu.
   

There’s also some additional options from the drop down menu, with users having the ability to never hide the menu bar, or only hide it when they are in fullscreen mode. You can also hide the menu bar solely when you are on the desktop. Naturally, if you want to bring your menu bar back, you simply need to select Always rather than never, or whatever suits your preference. 

Conclusion: How do I Hide the Bottom Bar in Fullscreen on Mac?

For Mac users, there’s really nothing better than taking full advantage of a gorgeous display. That’s why for many, they want as much screen real estate as they can possibly get, which is why hiding the Dock can be a great solution for those looking to have it all. Fortunately, hiding the Dock is incredibly straightforward, and there’s even a few shortcuts if one needs them. With this knowledge, a user can hide the Dock (or even the menu bar) on their Mac, and really take in the beauty of their Apple display. 

For Apple fans, there’s nothing better than getting the most out of your device. However, knowing the ins-and-outs of every single feature, detail and setting can be quite the task. Worry not, as we’ve got solutions and answers. For example, if you always want to see the Dock, we’ve got an answer for that. If you’ve got an old iMac laying around, we can show you how to use it as an external monitor. There’s a lot to enjoy about virtually any Apple product, and fans of the company certainly know what to expect when it comes to their Mac. Fortunately, having a solution handy is typically just a few clicks away. 

Tags: desktop, Dock, featured, Mac

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:05:21 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_153887 Many users are bombarded with the “Approve My iPhone? This iPhone wants to use your iCloud Account,” notification every time they restart their Mac. Even after you approve the request, the notification still pops up and will certainly be there when you restart your Mac. To help you get rid of these notifications, we’ve come up with a troubleshooting guide that helps fix constant iCloud approval on Mac. 

How to Fix Mac Keeps Asking for iCloud Approval

1. Enable Keychain on All Your Apple Devices

iCloud Keychain securely stores your passwords, credit cards, etc., in iCloud and syncs it with other devices using the same Apple ID. It is a very handy feature that also assists in auto-filling your saved information to PDF, Safari, etc. Therefore, the issue you’re facing with repetitive iCloud approval request notifications on your Mac might be because you haven’t enabled iCloud Keychain. Follow the steps mentioned below to enable iCloud Keychain on your Mac, iPhone, and iPad.   

Steps to enable iCloud Keychain on iPhone and iPad. 

1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad and tap on your Name at the top. 

2. Tap the iCloud option on the next screen. 

3. Here, tap the Passwords and Keychain option under the Apps Using iCloud menu. 

4. Now, enable the Sync this iPhone toggle to enable Keychain and sync your iPhone’s data to iCloud. 

2. Sign Out and Sign in Back Again to iCloud

Another solution to fix the constant iCloud approval requests on your Mac is to sign out of your Apple ID from all devices and then sign in back again. Also, once you’ve signed out of your Apple ID, we recommend restarting the device before signing in back again. Because if any temporary bugs are causing this error, a quick restart will iron them out. 

1. Open System Settings on your Mac.

2. Click on your Name at the top of the sidebar and click the Sign Out button located at the bottom left corner. 

3. In the pop-up, unselect any of the checkboxes next to the items which you would like to keep a copy of. In case something is unselected by default and you do not want to store a copy of the particular item, just select the checkbox. 

4. Now, click the Keep a Copy button. 

5. If you’re asked if you want to keep a copy of your Photos since they aren’t backed up to iCloud, select whatever best suits your needs. 

6. Next, enter the password of your Apple ID to disable Find My Mac and click Continue. 

7. Once you’ve signed out of your Apple ID, restart your Mac and head to System Settings > Sign In > follow the on-screen instructions. 

We suggest you follow the same procedure and sign out of your Apple ID on your iPhone and then sign back in again after restarting your iPhone. Just head to Settings > Your Name (Apple ID) > Sign Out > and follow the on-screen instructions. 

3. Update macOS to Fix Mac Keeps Asking for iCloud Approval

Many users reportedly faced the Mac asking for iCloud approval issues after updating to macOS Ventura. If you’re in the same boat and are facing this issue ever since you updated macOS from an older version to Ventura, you should consider checking for macOS updates. Because, if this is a widespread issue, Apple might release an update that fixes this bug. Follow the steps mentioned below to update macOS to the latest version. 

1. Click on the Apple logo at the top left corner and select the System Settings option from the list. 

2. In System Settings, click the General option from the sidebar and select the Software Update option to the left. 

3. Click the Update Now button to download and install the latest version of macOS on your Mac. 

6. Enter your system password to proceed. 

4. Contact Apple Support to Fix Mac Keeps Asking for iCloud Approval

If none of the above-mentioned steps help fix your Mac constantly asking for iCloud approval, the last option is to contact Apple Support. Moreover, if you have an Apple Store near you, the people at Genius Bar will certainly be aware of this issue and will hopefully be able to fix it for you.  

No More Annoying iCloud Approval Notifications

We hope this article helps you get rid of the iCloud approval notification on your Mac. If you’re aware of any other steps that have helped you resolve this issue, or have any other doubts, please let us know in the comments. 

Tags: iCloud, Mac, macOS

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:33:39 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153840 Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup and then select Back Up Now. To avoid any interruptions, make sure your iPad is charging during the update. A stable Wi-Fi connection is essential to download the update. Tap on the Settings app on your home screen, then navigate to General > Software Update. If iOS 14 is available, you'll see an option to download and install it. Tap on Download and Install. You might be asked for your device's passcode before you can proceed. After entering it, the update should start downloading. Once the download is complete, your device will restart to complete the installation. Please note that if iOS 14 is not available for your iPad, this could be because your device is not compatible with this version, or it may already have a newer version of iOS or iPadOS installed. Always make sure to check the compatibility of your device with the version you're trying to install. Conclusion Updating your iPad not only keeps it functioning optimally but also equips it with the latest features and security improvements. However, it's essential to remember that each iPad model can only be updated to a certain iOS version. It is, therefore, crucial to consider the age of your iPad and iOS compatibility before attempting an update. If your iPad is beyond the five-year mark, you might want to consider upgrading to a newer model to keep enjoying the latest features and improvements that come with newer iOS updates. For further reading, check out how to update an old iPad to iPadOS 15. Can iOS 9.3.6 be updated? iOS 9.3.6 is quite outdated. If your device supports a later version of iOS, you can update it through the Settings app. However, older devices like the iPhone 4s or iPad 2 only support up to iOS 9.3.6. Please consult Apple's official support for the most current information. Can I update my old iPad to the newest software? Whether you can update your old iPad to the newest software depends on its model. Not all iPad models can support the latest iOS versions due to hardware limitations. To find out, you should check the list of supported devices for the latest software available. Why will my iPad not update past 10.3.3? Certain older iPad models cannot be updated past iOS 10.3.3 due to hardware limitations. For instance, the iPad 4th generation is not compatible with any version newer than iOS 10.3.3. When your device reaches its maximum supported iOS version, it will no longer receive software updates, including those for newer features and security enhancements.]]> Does your trusty old iPad seem to be stuck in a digital time warp? Updating your device can feel like defusing a time bomb, one wrong move and your beloved device might just explode (figuratively, of course). This guide aims to answer all your questions about updating your old iPad to iOS 14, providing clear and easy steps to help you do it smoothly.

Why Can I Not Update My iPad to iOS 14?

If you’re unable to see the iOS 14 update on your iPad, it could be due to one of several reasons:

• Your iPad may not be compatible: Not all iPads can be updated to iOS 14. Older models that don’t meet the hardware requirements for iOS 14 will not be able to perform the update. Below you will find the list of supported devices for iOS 14.
• Your device may already be updated: If you have automatic updates turned on, your device may have already updated to a newer version of iOS.
• Network restrictions: Some network conditions, like VPN or proxy connections, can prevent your device from contacting the update servers.

Is iPadOS the Same as iOS?

While iOS and iPadOS are closely related, they are not exactly the same. In 2019, Apple introduced iPadOS as a distinct operating system for its iPads. Until that point, iPads ran on iOS, the same system as iPhones. The decision to separate the two was based on providing features specific to the larger, more versatile screen of iPads.

However, the core features and security updates remain consistent across both platforms, which is why iPad users sometimes still refer to their iPad’s operating system as iOS. Without further ado, let’s see how to update an old iPad to iOS 14.

iOS 14 Supported Devices

iOS 14 is compatible with these iPad models:

• iPad Pro (all models)
• iPad Air 2 and later
• iPad 5th generation and later
• iPad Mini 4 and later

Remember that while these models are technically compatible, performance might vary depending on the age of the device and how it’s been used. Always back up your device before performing any update.

How Do You Update an Old iPad That Won’t Update?

If you’re having trouble updating your iPad to iOS 14 wirelessly, you can try updating it manually using a Mac or a Windows PC. Here’s how:

1. Connect your iPad to your computer using the appropriate cable.
2. If your Mac runs macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. For macOS Mojave or earlier or Windows, use iTunes.
3. Select your iPad when it appears in Finder or iTunes.
4. Click on General or Settings, then Check for Update.
5. If an update is available, click Download and Update. You’ll need to enter your iPad passcode to proceed.

How Do I Install iOS 14 on My Old iPad?

Interested in trying out iPadOS 17 Developer Beta? Check out how to get it for free.

How Do I Update My Old iPad from iOS 9 to iOS 14?

If your iPad is running on an older iOS version, like iOS 9, and it is compatible with iOS 14, you can follow the same steps listed above. Remember to back up your data first to avoid losing any information during the update process.

How To Update an Old iPad to iOS 14 Without a Computer?

If your iPad is on the iOS 14 compatibility list, here’s how you can update it without needing a computer:

1. Before updating your iPad, it’s crucial to back up your data using iCloud. Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup and then select Back Up Now.
2. To avoid any interruptions, make sure your iPad is charging during the update.
3. A stable Wi-Fi connection is essential to download the update.
4. Tap on the Settings app on your home screen, then navigate to General > Software Update.
5. If iOS 14 is available, you’ll see an option to download and install it. Tap on Download and Install.
6. You might be asked for your device’s passcode before you can proceed. After entering it, the update should start downloading. Once the download is complete, your device will restart to complete the installation.

Please note that if iOS 14 is not available for your iPad, this could be because your device is not compatible with this version, or it may already have a newer version of iOS or iPadOS installed. Always make sure to check the compatibility of your device with the version you’re trying to install.

Conclusion

Updating your iPad not only keeps it functioning optimally but also equips it with the latest features and security improvements. However, it’s essential to remember that each iPad model can only be updated to a certain iOS version. It is, therefore, crucial to consider the age of your iPad and iOS compatibility before attempting an update. If your iPad is beyond the five-year mark, you might want to consider upgrading to a newer model to keep enjoying the latest features and improvements that come with newer iOS updates. For further reading, check out how to update an old iPad to iPadOS 15.

Tags: iOS 14, iPad, software update

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:56:19 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153834 Continue. Select Macintosh HD from the sidebar, followed by clicking Erase twice. Confirm by clicking Erase Mac and Restart. After your Mac reboots, you’ll enter Recovery Assistant. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your network and activate your Mac. Next, choose Exit to Recovery. Finally, click Reinstall macOS Ventura, and follow the on-screen instructions to download and install macOS Ventura. Once your Mac completes the installation, the Setup Assistant will take over. You’ll have the option to restore from your Time Machine backup now. Out With the New, Back In With the Old The macOS Sonoma is definitely a robust enhancement, with its beta version offering users an exclusive sneak peek while enabling them to identify any teething issues. However, Apple's beta version might not suit all, particularly those who lean heavily on specific apps' flawless functioning. Cheer up, though! The process to strip away the macOS Sonoma beta from your Mac isn't as daunting as you might think. Essentially, it's all about wiping your Mac clean and restoring it to its former glory. And if you've been a fan of Time Machine backups or utilize iCloud, this task will feel like a walk in the park.]]> Apple’s annual release of beta versions of its forthcoming operating systems is a strategic move, offering developers an opportunity to get their apps ready, while beta testers provide their crucial feedback and identify any hitches. Among these, the macOS Sonoma developer beta is a freebie, allowing Mac aficionados early access to a plethora of innovations, even before they hit the mainstream market.

Nonetheless, some who have taken the leap and tested the macOS Sonoma beta on their Mac might want to downgrade to Ventura. There is, fortunately, a simple method to achieve this. Unfortunately, it will require erasing your storage device.

The Perils of Operating System Betas

When diving into the world of beta versions, one must brace for a potential whirlwind of instability. There’s a likelihood of encountering disruptive macOS glitches that can tarnish the otherwise pristine Mac user experience. These bug-related hurdles can impede your workflow, leading you to want to downgrade from the macOS Sonoma beta.

A consensus in the tech community says you should only install Apple’s beta software on a secondary Mac, a device that isn’t pivotal to your day-to-day operations. That being said, if you’ve already taken the plunge and now want out of the dangerous waters, we’ve got your back.

Things To Be Aware of Before You Downgrade

To uninstall the macOS Sonoma beta, you’ll need to put your Mac into macOS Recovery mode. Make no mistake, though: this journey purges your Mac of its data.

Before you installed the beta, Apple and others highlighted the need for a Time Machine backup of your data. This will be vital to restoring your Mac to the previous, stable version of macOS without losing your important files.

If you’ve worked on important files since installing the beta, it will be crucial that you copy them to an external drive. Otherwise, they’ll be lost in the downgrade. After the downgrade from the beta, any files you’ve saved to an external drive can be conveniently retrieved. Bear in mind that any unsecured data faces the guillotine, resulting in permanent loss.

Using Recovery Mode to Uninstall the macOS Sonoma Beta

Once you’re ready to uninstall the macOS Sonoma beta, you’ll need to boot your Mac into its Recovery Mode. Remember, too, that an active Wi-Fi connection is a prerequisite, necessary to retrieve the older macOS version via Internet Recovery.

To boot into macOS Recovery, follow this sequence:

1. Shut down your Mac by accessing the Apple menu and choosing Shut Down > Shut Down. Wait for the shutdown process to complete.
2. For Apple Silicon Macs, press and hold the power button until you see the startup options.
3. For Intel Macs, power up the machine, keeping Cmd + R pressed.
4. Proceed by clicking Options > Continue.
5. Choose your user account, key in your password, and you’ll soon be in macOS Recovery Mode .

Once you’ve booted into Recovery Mode, you’ll use Disk Utility to uninstall the beta.

Once your Mac completes the installation, the Setup Assistant will take over. You’ll have the option to restore from your Time Machine backup now.

Out With the New, Back In With the Old

The macOS Sonoma is definitely a robust enhancement, with its beta version offering users an exclusive sneak peek while enabling them to identify any teething issues. However, Apple’s beta version might not suit all, particularly those who lean heavily on specific apps’ flawless functioning.

Cheer up, though! The process to strip away the macOS Sonoma beta from your Mac isn’t as daunting as you might think. Essentially, it’s all about wiping your Mac clean and restoring it to its former glory. And if you’ve been a fan of Time Machine backups or utilize iCloud, this task will feel like a walk in the park.

Tags: beta testing, featured, macOS Sonoma

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:34:07 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153703 Is your iMessage not working for a particular contact? Why does that happen? In this article, we will discuss easy fixes for this issue. iMessage lets you stay connected with your contacts. You can send texts, MMS, voice notes, location, and more via iMessage. However, sometimes you might find your iMessage not working for some particular contacts.

There can be a several reasons behind this issue. So, we suggest you follow the list of fixes top-down to see which one solves the problem for you.

1. Ask Your Contact To Check if They Have Enabled iMessage

If the person you are trying to send a message to does not have iMessage enabled on their device, then this issue will occur.

2. Check if You Have Blocked the Contact by Any Chance

In case you blocked a contact, you will not be able to connect with them via iMessage. So, you should check your blocked list to see if you have mistakenly blocked the particular contact whom you cannot connect with via iMessage.

1. Open Settings and go to Messages.

2. Scroll down and select Blocked Contacts.

3. Now click on Edit on the top right-hand side of the screen.

4. Now select Unblock to remove the contact from the block list.

3. Switch to Wi-Fi From Mobile Data

Your mobile data connectivity might also be a reason behind the ‘iMessage not working for a particular contact’ issue. So, if you are facing connectivity issues with your mobile network, it is a good idea to switch to a Wi-Fi service. Connecting to a Wi-Fi service will resolve the issue if it was caused due to the poor connectivity of your mobile data.

4. Disable and Re-Enable iMessage on Your iPhone To Resolve ‘iMessage Not Working’ Issue

Sometimes, when iMessage is not working for a particular contact, the issue might lie with your iMessage app. If it is a minor issue, disabling and re-enabling iMessage on your iPhone can solve your problem. Here are the steps to do so.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone. Scroll down and select Messages.

2. Scroll down and turn the toggle beside iMessage off.

3. Wait for some time and then turn the toggle beside iMessage on again.

4. Open Messages and check whether the issue is resolved.

6. Force Quit Messages and Open It Again

When any app on your iPhone is malfunctioning, force quitting that app has a good chance of fixing the issue. So, if the issue of iMessage not working for a particular contact persists, force quit Messages and re-launch it.

1. Go to your iPhone home screen and swipe up to reveal the background apps that are running.

2. Look for the Messages window and swipe up to force close the app.

3. Now relaunch Messages and check whether your problem is solved.

7. Check for Software Updates To Fix ‘iMessage Not Working’ Issue

Sometimes if you haven’t updated your iOS, some apps might start acting up. If you update the iOS on your device to the latest available version, the problem usually gets solved. The latest iOS available now is iOS 17, although it is in its beta testing phase. Please follow our comprehensive guide if you wish to update to iOS 17.

Please note that installing iOS 17 Beta on your primary Apple device is not advised because of the risks associated with Beta versions of software.

8. Force Send as Text Message

When iMessage is not working, you can also choose to send messages as text. Let us see what are the ways to do so.

1. You can send all your messages as text messages. To do this, go to Settings>Messages>toggle off iMessage.

2. If you wish to send messages as SMS when iMessage is unavailable, turn on Send as SMS.

3. To manually send messages as texts, turn off Send as SMS. When iMessage is available, your messages will not be delivered. You can then click on these messages and send them as texts manually.

Hope Your ‘iMessage Not Working for a Particular Contact’ Issue Got Solved

iMessage is a good way to stay connected to their loved ones. So when iMessage starts acting up, it becomes quite inconvenient. With these easy fixes up your sleeve, make sure that you never let iMessage issues stop you from connecting with your close ones.

For any other issues that you might face with iMessage, here is a list of curated solutions for iMessage not working that you can check out.

Tags: iMessage, iPhone, Messages

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 06:47:11 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_153793 With over 2 billion users (as of 2021) exchanging over 100 billion messages daily, WhatsApp is possibly the most popular messaging app today. Although most of the WhatsApp userbase are Android device users, there are still a considerable number of iPhone owners who use it as their preferred messaging app. Despite this, WhatsApp is not immune to occasional bugs, glitches, and crashes. As a matter of fact, many users complain that WhatsApp keeps crashing on iPhones. If you’re one of them, read along to learn how to fix the issue by following several troubleshooting steps.

Why Does WhatsApp Keep Crashing on iPhone?

Whether you have an iPhone 11, 12, 13, or later, you may find WhatsApp suddenly not working properly on your iPhone. Some of the possible reasons for this error include an outdated app version, an outdated iOS version, a weak internet connection, lack of storage space on your iPhone, incorrect configuration of the app’s settings, and app glitches.

To solve the issue of WhatsApp that keeps crashing on your iPhone, follow the troubleshooting steps below.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Since we’re talking here about message exchanges over the air, it’s a must that your iPhone is connected to a strong network. When using WhatsApp, your iPhone needs to connect to the app’s server before it can receive and send messages. So, make sure that you have a strong and stable Internet connection when using WhatsApp. The same holds true when you’re using a cellular data connection to connect to WhatsApp.

2. Check Whether There’s a Problem with the WhatsApp Servers

Unlike Apple and other big tech companies, WhatsApp doesn’t have a website where you can check the status of its servers. The company does, however, have device reporting mechanisms through its social media accounts. So, make sure that you are following one or all of its accounts on various social media platforms.

3. Update Your iPhone’s OS to the Latest Version Available

We have always reiterated the importance of having an updated version of iOS on your iPhone. Continuously running on older versions of iOS could cause a problem when using various apps on your device. That’s because when Apple releases the latest iOS, app developers make it a point to update their apps to run smoothly with the latest version.

4. Update to the Latest Version of WhatsApp

Similar to updating your iPhone to the latest iOS, you should ensure you are using the latest version of WhatsApp. Prolonged usage of an outdated version might result in a glitchy app.

5. Restart Your iPhone

Before you go further into resolving the issue of WhatsApp continuously crashing on your iPhone, you might want to try giving your device a fresh start first. Most of the time, restarting your iPhone can resolve glitches and bugs, especially involving a particular app. So, go ahead and force restart your iPhone if you must.

6. Uninstall and Re-install WhatsApp

If restarting your iPhone doesn’t resolve the issue at hand, you can try refreshing WhatsApp instead. You can do so by uninstalling the app and reinstalling it. It’s a free app anyway. And even if it were a paid app, uninstalling and re-installing will not cost you anything.

7. Verify the Configuration Settings of WhatsApp on your iPhone

This simply means giving WhatsApp the necessary permissions to work its wonders while installed on your iPhone. These include location, network, and message delivery options. Choose the necessary preferences and hopefully, it resolves the issue of WhatsApp that keeps crashing on your iPhone.

8. Reset Your iPhone

This is different from restarting your iPhone. Before resetting your device, make sure that you have done all the possible troubleshooting steps to make WhatsApp work properly again. That’s because completely resetting your iPhone takes a considerable amount of time.

Although this will give your device a fresh start and possibly remove system bugs and glitches, it also means that all your saved preferences and other pertinent data will be totally gone.

Final Words

If all of the above-mentioned steps did not resolve the issue of WhatsApp not properly working on your iPhone, your last resort would be to contact Whatsapp’s customer support. Go to the WhatsApp website and look for their customer service page. You can directly contact WhatsApp through that page and hopefully, somebody will respond and handle your request for help.

Now that you know what to do if WhatsApp keeps crashing on your iPhone, you might want to consider regularly backing up important conversations and data to ensure that you won’t lose them in case you need to uninstall the app and then install it again.

Also, make it a habit to check the WhatsApp website to know about the latest updates and reported issues or bugs with the app.

Tags: featured, iPhone, messaging apps, WhatsApp

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 04:48:14 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153817 General > About. Tap the iOS Version number. Choose Remove Security Response. From your Mac running macOS 13 Ventura, you can follow these steps to uninstall the Rapid Security Response update. Open System Settings from the Dock or the Apple menu. Click General > About. Click the ⓘ (Info) button next to macOS version. Beside Latest Security Response, click Remove.]]> Apple unveiled its latest Rapid Security Response (RSR) updates for iOS 16.5.1, iPadOS 16.5.1, and macOS Ventura 13.4.1 on Monday, July 10. The Cupertino-based tech giant swiftly retracted them, however. The updates included a bug causing a disruption in the functionality of select websites post-installation.

Apple Releases, Then Pulls, Rapid Security Response Updates for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS Ventura

Apple seeded the Rapid Security Response updates Monday. The idea was to remedy a WebKit vulnerability that Cupertino suspects malicious actors were actively exploiting.

The iPhone maker unveiled Rapid Security Response updates for its iOS and its other major operating systems in 2022. The feature debuted in iOS 16, iPadOS 16.1, and macOS 13 Ventura. The new system allows Cupertino to issue security and bug fixes on-the-fly in between full iOS, iPadOS, and macOS incremental updates.

Unfortunately, the latest RSRs had an unintended side effect. According to a MacRumors report, consumers quickly began having problems with popular online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Zoom, and others.

These sites began issuing warnings, specifically notifying Safari users that their browsers were no longer supported after implementing the RSR updates. It turned out the culprit was a modification to the Safari user agent to incorporate an additional element denoted by an (a), leading to the disruption of certain websites.

Once the underlying issue has been duly resolved, Apple is expected to re-release the RSR updates, providing users with a more polished and secure experience.

Uninstalling the RSR Update on Your iPhone, iPad, or Mac

For those who have already installed the update and find themselves contending with the fallout, a feasible solution exists. On all devices, you can uninstall the Rapid Security Response easily.

From your Mac running macOS 13 Ventura, you can follow these steps to uninstall the Rapid Security Response update.

1. Open System Settings from the Dock or the Apple menu.
2. Click General > About.
3. Click the ⓘ (Info) button next to macOS version.
4. Beside Latest Security Response, click Remove.

Tags: featured, iOS 16, macOS Ventura, updates

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 00:22:00 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_153794 Need to know how to keep your Dock visible even when in fullscreen on Mac? You’re mostly in luck. The Dock on a Mac can be extraordinarily useful, as it serves as something of a central hub for your machine. However, some users may have an issue where they find that the dock is disappearing on them. While it may potentially be a software bug, it’s more likely a feature that may have been enabled by accident. If you’re interested in how to unhide the dock on Mac, or how to keep the dock with full screen on Mac, continue reading to find out more.

Keeping it altogether, I’m going to show users the options they have when it comes to keeping the Dock on their screen, even when you are running an application full-screen. There’s a couple of things a user should remember about the dock, which I will also explain. I’ll go into some things you can do if things are going astray, and I’ll briefly touch on some other ideas as well. While some users may find it annoying that their Dock is disappearing on them, the solution is rather straightforward. Let’s get started. 

How Do I Turn Off Dock Hiding on Mac?

If you’re looking to stop your Dock from hiding on your Mac, try these solutions below.

Covering the Basics: Download the Latest Version of macOS

One of the first things a user should do is ensure that they are running the latest version of macOS. Keeping a Mac up to date is one of the best ways to avoid small bugs and potentially large security exploits. Check for a system update by going to System Settings > General > Software Update. If you are in need of an update, click Update Now if it appears. 

Users should also try performing a restart on their Mac. A small software issue may prevent users from having the dock appear when they want, so performing a quick restart by going to Apple > Restart from the Menu Bar can be a good way to clear up small issues that may be occurring. 

Keep Dock Visible in Fullscreen on Mac: Disable Desktop & Dock Setting

When it comes to your Dock and fullscreen mode, the Dock is going to hide. However, you should be able to easily access it by moving your cursor to the bottom of the screen. If this isn’t happening, there’s a multitude of steps you can take to correct this. 

Keep Dock Visible in Fullscreen on Mac: Reset Your Mac’s Dock 

With this option, users will be using Terminal to reset and restart the Mac’s Dock to factory settings. This should eliminate any errors or bugs that may be occurring within the operating system. Note that Terminal is located within Applications > Utilities. Users should also note that they have to set up their Dock back to the way they like it. 

1. Open the Terminal app. 
2. Input the command killall Dock and then press Enter. This will kill the Dock momentarily and it will then reappear. 

How Do I Keep the Bottom Dock Visible on My Mac?

If you are simply looking to make sure that your dock is always visible, make sure that Automatically hide and show the Dock is enabled within your Desktop & Dock settings. Remember that if you are running an app in full-screen mode, then you will still need to make sure that the cursor is at the bottom to bring up your Dock. 

Users should also note there’s another method to make sure the Dock stays on screen. Rather than having your apps actually take up the full screen, you can simply make an app the size of the screen, without giving up the space the Dock provides. This means your apps won’t be full screen, but they will take up the maximum amount of space without taking up the space the dock provides. 

Simply follow these steps:

1. Go to Apple > System Settings.
2. Select Desktop & Dock.
3. Select Zoom under Windows Title Bar. 
   

Now, whenever you double-click on a Title Bar (the very top of an application or window where the name appears), your windows will be the height of your screen without overtaking the dock. Additionally, users can also hold Option while clicking the green dot in the top-left corner of an application window. This will expand any window to the height of your screen Note that the icon may not be green in newer versions of macOS, simply hover over it while holding Option and it should say Zoom.

How Do I Keep the Top Menu Bar from Disappearing in Full Screen Mac? 

Just like with making sure your Dock is where you want it to be, ensuring that you can always find the menu bar is also rather easy. 

1. Go to Apple > System Settings. 
2. Select Desktop & Dock
3. Go to Automatically hide and show the menu bar, select Never from the drop-down menu. 
   

Users will also have the option to always hide the menu bar, or only hide the menu bar when you’re in full screen or when you’re on the desktop.  However, all you need to do is ensure that this setting is set to Never to always have your menu bar appear on your Mac. 

Conclusion: How Do I Keep the Dock in Place on My Mac? 

If you need to ensure that your Dock is where you want it to be, it’s really just a matter of ensuring that one specific setting is in place. Of course, making sure that your computer is free of small bugs also helps. Nevertheless, if you are having issues with the Dock not showing up on your screen, we’ve got some solutions that may help with your situation. Again, I would suggest taking a look at your settings in Desktop & Dock and working from there. 

One of the greatest benefits about having a Mac is that the machines are incredibly user friendly. Whether you’ve been an Apple fan for years, or this is your first foray into computers, a Mac is almost universally-equipped to handle any user’s needs. However, if things go south, a solution typically isn’t too far behind. For example, when it comes to the Dock, we can show you how to remove icons of recently used apps from your Dock. We’ve also got some recommendations when it comes to the best antivirus software available on the market. If you’re in need of help, know that there’s typically a solution for any problem. 

Tags: Dock, featured, Mac, screen

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 18:55:41 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_153718 There are a plethora of text editors available for Mac right now. And, in today’s programming and content creation world, having a reliable and efficient text editor is essential. If you’re a Mac user and are looking for the best text editor for your needs, look no further. We’ve listed down the best text editors for Mac in this article and while highlighting their features, versatility, and suitability for different users.

1. Sublime Text 

Sublime Text is a popular and user-friendly text editor for Mac. The split screen feature allows programmers to work on multiple files and also comes in handy to check or edit the code. Sublime Text makes editing and organizing text files easier thanks to its wide range of features. 

Sublime Text also offers features like syntax highlighting (different colors for different elements), search and replace, autocomplete and syntax definitions which are extremely helpful as they provide explanation about different code terms. All of these are great features for beginners as they can learn and code simultaneously. 

Furthermore, Sublime Text also supports macros which can help automate repetitive tasks and help programmers be more efficient. And, if you want to personalize the app, you can install color schemes, themes, plugins, etc. 

While Sublime Text is great for Python and web programming, it can also be used for other programming and markup languages.  Moreover, it is a shareware, offering most features for free but with a few behind a paywall. 

2. Atom Text Editor for Mac

If you’re looking for a text editor that offers a vast range of customizations, Atom is a perfect match. It has a clean user interface and lets you personalize it by adding extra features using packages. You can install packages that will improve the autocomplete feature, highlight different programming languages, etc. 

Atom also allows you to work on multiple projects simultaneously by using features like the build-in system browser, etc. You can even compare code or write two different codes simultaneously by using the split screen feature. 

If you’ve just started to learn coding, you should consider using Atom because it offers a very user-friendly UI, paired with features like autocomplete and a very helpful user guide. And, with the customization options, I’m sure most of us would love to personalize our workspace. 

Unfortunately, GitHub has decided to retire Atom. However, you can still use older versions of the app. But keep in mind that you won’t receive security updates and certain features might not work. We suggest you read the blog post linked to the Download button below before you decide to install an older version of Atom. 

3. BBEdit 

BBEdit is an acclaimed software that focuses on HTML and text editing. It offers various productivity tools like code folding, window pane division, and a “clippings” function for frequently used code snippets. Moreover, the most notable feature of BBEdit is its find and replace lines feature that works across multiple files. 

If you’re a programmer, BBEdit supports auto-complete, auto-indentation syntax highlighting for around 20 programming languages. The icing on the cake is the inbuilt debugger that can help you locate and fix mistakes. 

BBEdit is a versatile text editor for programmers, authors, or just about anyone whose work revolves around text. The customizable interface, coding and productivity tools make it a very popular choice among Mac users as it is also available on the App Store. 

4. VS Code Text Editor for Mac

Visual Studio Code or VS Code is a free, and open-source text editor developed by Microsoft. It offers a user-friendly experience paired with efficient code writing and debugging capabilities. With its simple and clean interface, substantial language support, and the ability to install extensions, VS Code has gained popularity among developers.

One of the most prominent features of VS Code is its support for multiple programming languages. This makes it versatile for different coding projects within one text editor. So, developers can work on many directories without mixing them together. It also provides features like syntax highlighting, code snippets, refactoring options, and intelligent code completion. 

If you’re a beginner, VS Code provides features like IntelliSense and Peek Definition, which immensely help in understanding programming languages and contribute to the learning process. Moreover, it also supports collaboration and remote work, enabling real-time collaboration with peers. 

The in-app debugging options and smart autocomplete system of VS Code enhance productivity. If you aren’t satisfied with its capabilities, you can always add more features using extensions. 

To sum it all up, Visual Studio Code is a powerful and versatile text editor for Mac that combines user-friendly features, supports a wide range of coding languages, offers efficient coding tools, and collaboration capabilities. It caters to both beginners and seasoned programmers. 

5. Vim Text Editor for Mac

Vim is the upgraded version of Vi editor which has been around for more than 30 years. It is highly capable and versatile and it can handle several projects and programming languages. While it lacks some features and also a graphical user interface, it’s lightweight nature and customization options make up for it. 

Vim will automatically color-code syntax text which improves the readability. However, unlike other text editors in this list, it does not offer suggestions or identify errors. Therefore, it isn’t the best choice for beginners who have just begun learning coding. 

On the contrary, if you’re an experienced programmer, Vim is the perfect choice as it offers functionality without unnecessary frills. Mastering this text editor might take a while but it will certainly be worth the effort. If you’re willing to put in this effort, you will find out the reason why Vim is known as the “Programmers Editor.” 

6. Emacs 

Editor MACroS popularly known as Emacs is another old yet highly sought-after text editor for Mac. It is an open source program loaded with a ton of customizable features for programming or editing markup languages. Regardless of how old Emacas is, it still offers a package manager that allows you to conveniently install modes, themes, and extensions. 

One of the cool features of Emacs is that it excels in keyboard shortcuts. You can modify words or navigate through files without using a mouse. It also supports macros for automating repetitive tasks and includes a shell for executing commands. 

Since Emacs is an older software like Vim, it isn’t the best for beginners. It takes some time and effort to get well versed with Emacs and it offers similar features to Vim. Both of these are regarded as rival text editors because even the features they offer are very similar. 

Once you’ve mastered Emacs, it allows you a lot of control over your programming workflow which is what every experienced programmer loves. There are many other features with Emacs and you’ll be better off downloading it and exploring all of them by yourself. 

Get the Perfect Text Editor for Your Mac

No matter if you’re a developer, programmer or a writer there are several text editors available for Mac that will help enhance your workflow and productivity. Each text editor has its highlights like the feature-rich nature of Visual Studio Code, the simplicity of Sublime Text, the customization options of Atom, the specialized functionalities of BBEdit, the power and versatility of Vim and the control offered by Emacs.  

We’ve tried to ensure that we can help you find a text editor that fits your needs. Each of them have their unique set of features and capabilities, catering to various skill levels and requirements. You might need to download and explore these text editors to find the perfect fit for your coding or writing endeavors on your Mac.

FAQs

Tags: Mac, macOS, text editors

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:53:29 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153711 Software Update. If updates are available, click on the Update Now button to install them. Is My Mac too old if it won't update? If your Mac won't update, it's possible that your device is no longer supported by the latest macOS versions. Apple typically supports Mac computers for about 7 years after they stop selling that model. Visit Apple's support website to check the list of compatible devices for the latest macOS version. How do I force Mac to verify an app? To force your Mac to verify an app, you need to bypass Gatekeeper. Control-click the app in question, then select Open from the contextual menu. This should prompt a new message where you can choose Open again to verify and launch the app. Remember, this should only be done with apps from trusted sources to ensure the safety of your system.]]> Anyone who has attempted to install or upgrade macOS knows that the process can sometimes be fraught with errors. The dreaded “macOS (version) could not be verified” error is among the most common you might encounter. This issue can occur when you try to install macOS on either your internal hard drive or an external disk. In this article, I will guide you through the process of troubleshooting and resolving the “could not be verified” issue when upgrading to or reinstalling macOS Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, Catalina, or any other version.

Why Won’t My Mac Let Me Install macOS Big Sur?

The introduction of macOS Big Sur was met with much fanfare, but some users encountered hurdles in the installation process. Several reasons might explain why your Mac isn’t allowing the Big Sur installation, ranging from incompatible devices to insufficient storage space. A good macOS cleaner like Intego Washing Machine can be a great solution, as it can help you get rid of all unnecessary files, caches, and other build-ups, optimizing almost immediately your storage space.

Typically, Apple only supports Mac models for approximately seven years. If your device is older, it may not be able to run Big Sur. Furthermore, macOS Big Sur requires a minimum of 35.5GB of available storage – anything less might halt the installation process.

Why Is My Mac Unable To Verify macOS?

Verifying macOS is a crucial step for the system’s security and stability. However, there can be times when your Mac struggles with this task. Often, a faulty internet connection, incorrect date and time settings, or an outdated macOS can lead to verification issues.

How To Fix Could Not Be Verified macOS Big Sur, Ventura, Monterey, Catalina

Before moving on to more complex solutions, make sure to do the following:

• Check Apple’s system status page to ensure there isn’t a global issue with macOS Software Update. If there is an outage, all you need to do is wait. If not, proceed to the next steps.
• Make sure you have a strong, stable connection. Try to minimize network traffic by disconnecting other devices, consider using an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection, or get closer to your router. If you are using a VPN or security software, temporarily disable them, as they can sometimes interfere with the update process.
• Firewalls blocking incoming connections can prevent the macOS installer from running correctly. Make sure that your settings allow incoming connections. Go to System Settings > Network > Firewall and turn it off.

1. Use the App Store

macOS Ventura won’t install? Check out the best solutions to successfully install it.

2. Boot Into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads only the necessary components and verifies your startup disk. It can often resolve issues that occur during normal operation.

For Macs with Apple Silicon

1. Start by choosing Apple menu > Shut Down on your Mac.
2. After your Mac has completely shut down, press and hold the power button until you see Loading startup options.
3. Select the volume you wish to boot from.
4. Continue holding the Shift key and then click Continue in Safe Mode.
5. Your Mac will then restart automatically. Once the login window appears, you should see Safe Boot in the menu bar, indicating that you are in Safe Mode.
6. Now try once again to update or install your macOS.

For Intel-based Macs

1. Turn on or restart your Mac and then immediately press and hold the Shift key until the login window appears.
2. Log into your Mac. You might be asked to log in a second time.
3. Either on the first or second login window, you should see Safe Boot in the menu bar, which confirms you are in Safe Mode.
4. Try again to update or install your macOS.

3. Repair Your Startup Disk

You can use Disk Utility’s First Aid in macOS Recovery to check for and repair disk errors that might be causing verification failures. Here’s how to do this:

1. Restart your Mac.
2. While the startup disk is waking up, press and hold the Command and R keys together. This will boot your Mac into Recovery Mode.
3. Once you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe, release the keys.
4. When the macOS Utilities window appears, select Disk Utility and click Continue.
   
5. Choose your startup disk from the sidebar and click on First Aid.
   
6. Click Run to start the disk checking and repair process. If Disk Utility tells you the disk is about to fail, back up your data and replace the disk. Otherwise, if no errors are reported click Done.
7. Restart your Mac normally to exit Recovery Mode.

4. Check Your Date & Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with macOS verification. Navigate to System Settings > General > Date & Time and ensure your settings are correct. The could not be verified issue while updating macOS Big Sur and the other releases should be solved.

For more potential solutions, check out what to do if macOS install is stuck (Monterey, Ventura, Sierra and more).

What Do I Do When My Mac Is Stuck on Software Update?

When your Mac gets stuck during a software update, it can feel like a never-ending loop. However, there are several solutions to get your device back up and running. Safe boot, resetting the NVRAM, or booting in Recovery Mode can often resolve this issue. If you’re still experiencing difficulties, consulting with a tech professional or Apple’s support might be necessary.

Why Does My Mac Say ‘An Error Occurred During Update’?

Your Mac may occasionally display the ‘an error occurred during update’ message. It might mean that the macOS download file is corrupt or that there’s an issue with your Mac’s software update service. Resolving this can involve deleting and re-downloading the update, or resetting the Software Update service.

Why Does My Mac Keep Saying ‘Error While Installing’?

Seeing the ‘error while installing’ message pop-up repeatedly during a macOS update can be frustrating. It’s typically a symptom of minor software glitches, an overworked system, or a lack of storage space. Try closing unnecessary applications to free up system resources and ensure that your Mac has enough space to perform the update.

Remember, before trying any fix that involves system changes or data loss, always ensure your data is safely backed up. With a bit of patience and following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Could not be verified” error while updating macOS Big Sur and other versions.

Tags: macOS Big Sur, macOS Ventura, software update

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:48:43 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153588 If you’re a videographer who enjoys capturing high-resolution clips with a Sony A7S3 at 100fps, you might have noticed a peculiar issue after updating to MacOS Ventura 13.4 or 13.5. The video clips, encoded with the codec AVC280_3840_2160_H422P@L6, suddenly only play audio, leaving you staring at a pitch-black screen. This problem is plaguing multiple Apple platforms, including QuickTime Player and the renowned editing program, Final Cut Pro X. Follow along to find out how you can fix the can’t play Sony A7S3 100fps video codec issue.

Importance of Reporting the Issue

Recognizing and identifying this issue is the first step to rectifying it. You can help draw Apple’s attention to it faster by reporting the issue on their feedback page. The more reports Apple receives about this issue, the quicker they might be able to address it.

This problem is severe, particularly for those who use their Mac for professional videography. Your work can come to a standstill because of this incompatibility issue. So, make sure you make your voice heard.

The peculiar part is that there were no such issues with the previous version of the operating system, namely macOS Ventura 13.3.1. This leads us to believe that there are compatibility issues between the new macOS version and the specific video codec from the Sony A7S3. Are you getting the “this copy of the install macOS is damaged error”? Check out how to fix it.

A Temporary Solution: Convert Your Footage

While we wait for Apple to roll out a permanent fix, there’s a temporary workaround that allows you to continue working with your footage. You can use the free, open-source video transcoder Handbrake to convert your footage to a different format.

To maintain the quality of your footage, you should convert it to H.265 10-bit with about 200mbit. Keep in mind, though, that this process can be extremely slow. However, it’s a price you might be willing to pay to ensure the continuity of your work.

How To Convert Your Footage Using Handbrake

Although this isn’t an ideal solution, it allows you to keep working until a proper fix is released. It’s also crucial to remember not to rush into updating your macOS, especially when you heavily rely on certain features. Always keep an eye out for user feedback about new updates and their compatibility with various codecs before upgrading. Is Mac unable to check for updates? Take a look at our dedicated guide to fix this.

Hopefully, Apple will quickly address and fix this issue, and we can go back to working with our favorite Sony A7S3 clips without any hassle. For further reading, check out the 7 best video editing apps for iPhone.

Tags: macOS Ventura, video

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 02:54:36 +0000 Tom Victor tmo_wp_153023 There is a seemingly endless list of antivirus software companies out there. All of them claim to give the best all-around protection. However, it is crucial to understand that many of these antivirus solutions lack the trustworthiness needed to secure your Mac or PC. Only a select few antivirus products have the necessary security and strength to be deemed the best options for both Windows and Mac.

The truth is lots of antivirus tools out there are not as effective as claimed by the marketers for these companies. They do not consistently block threats, and they don’t come with enough extra features, or those extra features are badly designed. It is easy to get confused as regards the best choice of antivirus in this sea of options.

I have carefully tested and selected the best antivirus products on the market. This is to help you narrow down the endless list to only dependable options and make choosing easier for you. These antivirus solutions are ranked based on functionality, scanning speed, security, and price. Read on to discover the top picks for the best antivirus products for both Windows and Mac computers.

1. Intego Antivirus Solution

Intego has built a strong reputation in the realm of top-notch software products specifically tailored for macOS and Windows.

As a result, it unquestionably claims the leading position on my list of Mac and Windows antivirus software.

Backed by decades of experience since 1997, the team of experts at Intego has created an antivirus solution that stands out for its effectiveness.

The antivirus demonstrates this expertise in every aspect, starting with its remarkably swift scanning time and user-friendly interface. Intego’s premier malware defense service, Internet Security X9, goes the extra mile by incorporating a firewall that acts as a barrier, effectively thwarting hackers’ attempts to infiltrate your Computer.

Intego is often referred to as the best macOS and Windows antivirus software for obvious reasons. While other brands of antivirus products are usually more focused on protecting Windows PC, Intego seems to be more balanced, offering top-notch protection for both Windows and Mac.

Intego goes beyond basic antivirus protection by offering a range of valuable features. Its scheduled scans, real-time malware scanning, and regular updates to the blacklist ensures that your antivirus remains up-to-date and vigilant against emerging threats.

Additionally, its content filter effectively blocks unwanted and potentially harmful content from appearing on your Mac. This aspect makes Intego an outstanding choice for parents who are concerned about their children’s online safety, as it not only prevents malware but also restricts access to adult content on their devices.

The Intego antivirus offers powerful protection and puts its subscriber’s privacy first. With Intego, you can protect your Windows PC and Mac from cyber threats and enjoy smarter and faster security. Below are some features of the Intego Antivirus premium bundle:

VirusBarrier – Malware Scanner

Intego sets the standard for comprehensive malware protection on Mac, with its exceptional VirusBarrier. This powerful software goes above and beyond to detect various types of threats, including adware, Trojans, ransomware, and other malicious forms of malware.

One of the standout features of Intego’s VirusBarrier is its ability to extend protection beyond your Mac. It allows you to scan your connected devices such as iPhones, iPads, and other external devices, ensuring they remain malware-free. The software offers essential features like real-time protection, an antivirus scanner, and the convenience of scheduling scans.

The malware scanner provided by Intego offers both a quick scan and a full scan option. The quick scan efficiently examines your Mac in less time by focusing on the most vulnerable files and directories. On the other hand, the full scan conducts a thorough examination of all files and directories on your system.

Once the scan is complete, the scanner presents a detailed report containing the total number of scanned files and a list of detected threats. Intego provides you with several options to handle the identified files using the following features:

1. Trust: Select this option if you trust the detected threat and wish to take no further action.
2. Quarantine: Isolate the file to prevent it from infecting other files on your Mac.
3. Repair: Completely remove the threat from your device, ensuring complete eradication.

In addition to its robust malware scanning capabilities, Intego’s VirusBarrier offers additional protection measures. It includes an intelligent phishing website alert system, providing an extra layer of security when encountering potentially malicious websites.

Furthermore, it scans your email for any potential malware, further enhancing your overall protection. With Intego’s VirusBarrier, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your Mac and connected devices are safeguarded against a wide range of threats.

NetBarrier – Network Firewall

Intego’s NetBarrier takes network security to the next level by providing a robust firewall that protects your computer against network-based attacks. This essential tool effectively blocks suspicious incoming and outgoing connection requests, ensuring the safety of your system.

Gain complete control over network access with NetBarrier, allowing you to decide which applications receive permission and block those that pose potential risks. I strongly advise that you limit network access for applications that handle sensitive information, such as messaging or work-related apps.

Intego’s network barrier encompasses a range of valuable features that enhance your overall security. This becomes especially significant when connecting to public networks, where the risk of security threats is heightened. By leveraging Net Barrier’s capabilities, you can confidently navigate public networks while knowing that your system is well-protected.

Washing Machine – Optimizing Your Mac

Intego understands the frustrations that can arise when your Mac starts to slow down and become unresponsive over time. Manual optimization can be a tedious and time-consuming process, which is why Intego’s Washing Machine feature is here to provide a solution that streamlines the process and enhances your user experience. The Washing Machine feature offers three convenient options to optimize your Mac:

1. Reclaim: This powerful option scans all files and folders on your device, generating a detailed report. You have the flexibility to review the scanned files and select the ones you want to delete. By removing the selected files, the Washing Machine frees up valuable space on your system, resulting in improved performance and optimized efficiency.
2. Duplicates: With this option, the Washing Machine thoroughly scans your Computer, identifying duplicate files that are taking up unnecessary storage space. You can easily choose to delete these duplicate files, thereby reclaiming valuable storage space and ensuring a more organized and streamlined system. Additionally, the Washing Machine provides a convenient preview feature, allowing you to examine files directly within the application.
3. Organize: The Organize feature takes tidiness to a new level by scanning and arranging your files into neatly organized folders. This option simplifies the process of reorganizing your documents, leading to a clutter-free home screen and easier navigation.

Intego’s Washing Machine feature simplifies the optimization process. It allows you to efficiently clean up and enhance the performance of your Mac. With its intuitive options and comprehensive functionality, Washing Machine is a valuable tool for maintaining an optimized and smooth-running Mac experience.

Personal Backup – Backup & Secure Your Essential Data.

Intego introduces Personal Backup, which is a versatile and advanced alternative to Apple’s Time Machine feature. It was designed to provide efficient device backups with added benefits. With Personal Backup, you gain the flexibility to selectively back up specific files and folders to either an external device or a cloud server. This powerful tool offers three distinct options to suit your backup needs:

1. Synchronize: This option proves invaluable when working across multiple devices. By selecting Synchronize, your actions are replicated and updated across all connected devices, saving you time and effort. This feature ensures that your files remain consistent and up-to-date across different platforms.
2. Bootable Backup: Personal Backup takes data protection to the next level with the Bootable Backup feature. It creates a local backup of every file, both on your Mac and the external device. This comprehensive backup approach ensures that your data is securely stored and easily accessible. It also allows for a swift recovery process in case of any unforeseen incidents.
3. Restore: When the need arises, the Restore option comes to the rescue. It enables you to seamlessly retrieve selected backups and restore them onto your Mac. Whether you need to recover specific files or restore your entire system, this option comes through. Ensuring a hassle-free recovery process and putting your data back in its rightful place.

Intego’s Personal Backup goes beyond the conventional backup capabilities. It offers features like synchronization, bootable backups, and easy restoration. With Personal Backup, you can confidently safeguard your important files. It also helps maintain data consistency across devices, and recover seamlessly whenever necessary.

Intego’s Identity Theft Protection

Intego offers an added layer of protection against identity theft. By integrating Intego with your credit score, you gain the advantage of receiving timely updates whenever a significant change occurs. This invaluable feature acts as an early warning system, promptly notifying you of potential instances of identity theft. With Intego’s identity theft protection, you can remain informed and vigilant, safeguarding your personal information from unauthorized use.

Intego’s ContentBarrier – Comprehensive Online Protection for Your Family

Intego’s ContentBarrier is a powerful tool designed to provide comprehensive online protection for families. With the ever-expanding digital landscape, ensuring a safe and secure online environment for children is of utmost importance. ContentBarrier acts as a shield, allowing parents to regulate and monitor their children’s online activities effectively.

ContentBarrier empowers parents with the tools needed to protect their children from potential online dangers. It ensures a worry-free online experience. With Intego’s ContentBarrier, you can safeguard your family’s digital well-being with ease and peace of mind.

Intego Privacy Protection: Safeguarding Your Digital Privacy

In today’s interconnected world, protecting your digital privacy is essential. Intego Privacy Protection is a comprehensive solution that shields your personal information from prying eyes. With features like secure browsing, data encryption, and anti-phishing tools, Intego ensures that your online activities remain private and secure.

Privacy Protection also includes advanced features such as webcam and microphone protection, preventing unauthorized access to these devices. Additionally, it offers secure file deletion to permanently remove sensitive data, leaving no trace behind.

Experience a confident journey through the digital landscape with Intego Privacy Protection, ensuring the safeguarding of your personal information and privacy. Seize control of your digital privacy and embrace a tranquil state of mind through Intego’s powerful Privacy Protection solution.

Intego’s Packages and Pricing for Mac

When it comes to pricing, Intego provides a variety of plans to choose from, although options for customization are somewhat limited. Intego’s basic plan – Mac Internet Security X9, is available at an annual price of $39.99. Subscribers to the basic package will enjoy Antivirus against malware, auto scan, firewall network protection, anti-phishing protection, and NetBarrier x9, which will protect your computer against unknown apps and devices.

To enjoy features such as Mac washing machine X9 – which helps remove unnecessary and duplicate files, ContentBarrier X9 – which blocks inappropriate content and monitors your kid’s Internet time and Personal Backup 10.9 – which gives quick access to your favorite files you will need to opt for the premium bundle at $89.99 per year.

It’s important to note that Intego’s default coverage is for a single device, so when making a purchase, you’ll need to specify the number of devices you wish to protect. While there may be some constraints on plan flexibility, Intego offers affordable options to ensure your preferred level of protection for your devices.

➡️ Get Intego for Mac

Intego’s Packages and Pricing for Windows

Intego Windows antivirus offers three plans based on the number of PCs covered. these plans are listed below:

1. Personal: As the name implies, Personal covers only a single computer. The price is $39.99 a year.
2. Family: the Family plan covers three PCs and the price is $54.99 per year.
3. Extended: this is the highest plan for Intego Windows antivirus and it covers five PCs. The price is $69.99 a year.

➡️ Get Intego for Windows

Pros

1. Specializes in Mac security while also providing protection for Windows systems.
2. Comprehensive protection against malware and viruses.
3. Regular updates to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Cons

1. Limited platform support (primarily focused on Mac systems)
2. Higher pricing compared to some alternatives

In addition to the Intego antivirus, let’s explore four other leading antivirus solutions for both Mac and Windows operating systems:

Intego Antivirus

Get the ultimate Windows and Mac antivirus protection with Intego Antivirus.

Free Trial Visit Website

2. Norton

Norton Antivirus, a trusted name in the industry, offers robust protection for both Windows and Mac owners. With its comprehensive feature set and advanced threat detection capabilities, Norton Antivirus provides peace of mind, ensuring your devices remain secure.

Norton Antivirus is a reliable choice for Windows and Mac owners seeking robust protection against cybersecurity threats. With its advanced features, real-time threat detection, and comprehensive security measures, Norton Antivirus safeguards your devices and personal data, allowing you to browse the internet with confidence.

Norton Antivirus offers comprehensive protection against various types of malware, including adware, spyware, viruses, and ransomware, keeping your Mac system secure. Norton also offers Mac owners Identity protection. Hence, your online identity is safeguarded through email scanning for malicious attachments and suspicious links. It helps prevent phishing attacks and defends against identity theft, ensuring your personal information remains protected.

You also get to enjoy other features such as automatic updates, cloud backup, multi-device protection, web protection, vulnerability assessment, a built-in password manager that securely stores your login credentials, a robust firewall that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, and secure VPN.

Pricing

Norton’s basic plan is available at an annual price of $19.99. Subscribers to the basic package will enjoy secure and high-speed VPN, malware and ransomware protection, 2GB cloud backup, dark web monitoring, and a password manager. Note that all these features is only for a single device.

To enjoy these features on up to ten devices including a 250GB worth of cloud backup storage, you will need to opt for the premium bundle at $99.99 per year.

Pros

1. Offers dark web monitoring to alert you if your personal information is compromised.
2. Has a minimal impact on system performance during scanning.

Cons

1. Higher pricing compared to some other antivirus solutions.
2. Can impact system performance, particularly during scans.
3. The online storage feature is not compatible with Mac systems.

Norton

Detect and erase all virus traces while having minimal impact on your system’s performance.

Free Trial Visit Website

3. Kaspersky

Kaspersky Antivirus offers robust protection against malware, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious threats for PC owners. Its advanced scanning engine swiftly detects and eliminates infections. It ensures the security of files, personal information, and online activities. The real-time protection feature continually monitors the system, preventing malware from compromising the PC.

Mac owners can also benefit from Kaspersky Antivirus’s comprehensive protection. Kaspersky’s Mac version provides specialized features tailored to the Mac environment, effectively detecting and removing Mac-specific threats. It shields Macs from viruses, adware, phishing attempts, and other cyber risks, safeguarding sensitive data.

Furthermore, Kaspersky Antivirus offers additional features like web protection, which blocks malicious websites and prevents phishing attacks, enhancing the browsing experience for both PC and Mac owners. With Kaspersky Antivirus, subscribers can trust that their systems are defended against a wide range of cyber threats, ensuring a secure computing environment.

Pricing

Kaspersky prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as location, subscription duration, and any ongoing promotions or discounts. I’ll recommend that you visit Kaspersky’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Pros

1. Comprehensive protection against malware and viruses
2. Advanced features like real-time scanning and automatic updates
3. Offers multi-platform support for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices

Cons

1. Some subscribers have reported performance impact on system resources
2. Limited additional features compared to more feature-rich security suites
3. Mixed reviews on customer support and user experience

Kaspersky

Protect your Windows and Mac systems against malware and viruses with Kaspersky.

Free Trial Visit Website

4. Avast Antivirus

When it comes to protecting your Mac and PC, Avast stands out as a widely trusted antivirus software. Subscribers can rely on Avast to provide reliable and robust protection for their systems.

Avast stands out with its dedication to preserving optimal computer performance. It achieves this by minimizing its impact on your device’s resources, guaranteeing that features such as the Smart Scan exert negligible effects on RAM and CPU usage.

Avast’s dedication to maximum protection is evident in its malware detection capabilities. In various malware tests conducted, Avast consistently detected all malware on both Mac and Windows systems, demonstrating its effectiveness in keeping your devices secure.

In addition to its strong malware defense, Avast offers a range of additional features. These include malware blocking, which prevents malicious software from infecting your Mac, antiphishing protection to safeguard you against online scams, and a network analyzer that provides valuable insights into the devices connected to your network.

Pricing

Avast Free Antivirus, which is Avast’s basic plan provides essential antivirus protection for free. It includes features like real-time scanning, malware removal, and Wi-Fi security.

Avast Premium Security, which is Avast’s premium plan offers advanced protection for multiple devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets. It includes features such as antivirus protection, firewall, ransomware shield, webcam protection, and secure browsing. The pricing for Avast Premium Security is $39.99 for an individual and $49.99 per year for up to ten devices.

Pros

1. Comprehensive protection against malware and viruses
2. Offers multi-platform support for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices
3. Provides a range of additional features such as a password manager, VPN, and system optimization tools

Cons

1. Some additional features may require a separate subscription or purchase
2. The free version includes ads and prompts to upgrade to the paid version
3. Limited customer support options for free subscribers

Avast Antivirus

Try Avast AV and enjoy a virus-free activity by blocking all digital threats.

Free Trial Visit Website

5. McAfee Antivirus

McAfee, a globally recognized antivirus solution, earns the trust of individuals and enterprises worldwide. It places a high priority on comprehensive security by providing real-time threat protection and scheduling antivirus scans to safeguard your system against evolving threats.

A standout feature of McAfee is its personalized scanning profiles, which empower you to customize scanning settings for each family member. This ensures that the unique security requirements of every individual are met.

However, McAfee Antivirus is just one part of a robust suite of privacy protections. This suite includes a range of features designed to enhance your online browsing security. From credit monitoring and online data cleanup to identity theft protection, McAfee offers a comprehensive solution to safeguard your digital life.

In the event of suspected fraudulent activity, McAfee’s “kill switch” feature provides peace of mind by allowing you to quickly disable your online accounts. Additionally, McAfee’s security freeze feature gives you the power to block access to your bank accounts and credit cards, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Pricing

McAfee’s basic plan is available at an annual price of $39.99.

Pros

1. Offers multi-platform support for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices
2. Includes additional features like firewall protection, password manager, and secure browsing
3. User-friendly interface with straightforward configuration options

Cons

1. Mixed reviews on customer support and user experience
2. Some subscribers have reported occasional false positives
3. Installation and initial setup can be time-consuming and complex

McAfee

Try one of the latest antivirus protection and keep viruses away from your devices.

Free Trial Visit Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best antivirus for Windows and Mac, several options stand out for their reliable protection and comprehensive features. Each antivirus mentioned in this guide offers a range of plans tailored to meet different owners’ needs.

These antivirus solutions provide real-time threat detection, malware removal, secure browsing, and additional features like firewall protection, identity theft prevention, and VPN services. The choice ultimately depends on individual requirements, budget, and desired features.

Regardless of the choice made, investing in a reputable antivirus is essential to ensure the safety of personal data, privacy, and a secure online experience on both Windows and Mac systems. Are you more of a Mac lover than Windows? Why not check out Arnold Zafra’s round-up of the best antivirus tools for Macbook Pro in 2023?

Tags: Antivirus, Mac, WIndows

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 19:29:00 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_153549 Settings. Click the General tab. Check if the Safari homepage is set to a webpage that you want as your start-up page. Click the Extensions tab, then check for any suspicious browser extension that may have been installed on your Safari browser. If there are, be sure to delete them. Click the Websites tab, then select Notifications on the left sidebar. Click Allow websites to ask for permission to send push notifications to disable that option. Click on Privacy > Manage Website Data. Click Remove All. Click Advanced > Show Develop menu in menu bar. Click Develop > Empty Caches. You should note that you can do the preceding steps before or after you scan your Mac for malware and viruses using third-party antivirus software. Final Words Now that you know how to get rid of aceonaillike.com notifications on the Mac Safari browser, make sure that you keep your Mac safe whenever you browse the Internet. Please don't hesitate to spend a few bucks for good and reliable antivirus software such as Intego's. It's one of the best if not the best tool that you can use to stay protected online.]]> Lately, Mac owners are complaining about getting countless notifications from the website aceonaillake.com. The notification is telling recipients that they need to scan their Mac for malware. The notifications point to a malicious website that uses the Safari browser’s push notification system to display pop-up ads on the user’s Mac. In this tutorial, I will show you how to get rid of aceonaillike.com notifications on Mac

What is aceonaillake.com?

Aceonaillake.com is a malicious website and you should never visit it. It uses your Mac’s Safari push notifications to display spam pop-up ads on your Mac. Some folks also reported that the notifications told them that they need to scan their Macs for malicious software. But in reality, they don’t need to do so.

Additionally, the website uses fake error messages and alerts to trick Mac users (and Windows PC owners, too) into subscribing to its push notifications. Once you subscribe, your Mac browsing nightmare starts to happen. That’s because the website will start pushing spam pop-up ads. What’s worse is the fact that it will continue to do so even if your Mac is off. If you’re asking what these pop-up ads are, well, they are usually linked to adult sites, online web casinos and games, fake software updates, and unwanted programs.

Reasons Why You Are Seeing aceonaillake.com Notifications and Pop-Up Ads

If you started seeing aceonaillake.com ads popping up on your Mac, that means a malicious program has infected it. This could be due to a malicious website that you have previously visited. If this happens, you can quickly install an ad blocker to remove and block those ads. But if the pop-up ads continue to appear, then you will have to scan your Mac for the possible existence of malware and other virus programs.

Using Third-Party App to Scan Your Mac

The quickest and safest way of removing malware and other virus programs on your Mac is of course by using third-party scanning software. There are many of them available in the market. Intego’s antivirus software, for instance, is a good option when getting rid of malware and viruses on your Mac. Intego’s VirusBarrier Scanner is available as a free download from the Mac App Store. It scans your Mac for malware and viruses automatically and removes malicious or dangerous files immediately.

But that’s just the free version of Intego’s antivirus software. There are many other options and packages that you can consider that can provide more efficient and effective ways of protecting your Mac from malicious threats. The different Intego antivirus solutions are priced differently depending on their features and functionality. So, choose carefully the one that best suits your needs.

Intego Antivirus

Scan your Mac with Intego and keep its system safe from malware and other digital threats.

Free Trial Visit Website

Resetting the Safari Browser to Default Settings

If you think that your Mac is not that seriously threatened by malware and viruses and you only want to get rid of the aceonaillake.com notifications, then there is a quick way of resolving that issue.

You should note that you can do the preceding steps before or after you scan your Mac for malware and viruses using third-party antivirus software.

Final Words

Now that you know how to get rid of aceonaillike.com notifications on the Mac Safari browser, make sure that you keep your Mac safe whenever you browse the Internet. Please don’t hesitate to spend a few bucks for good and reliable antivirus software such as Intego’s. It’s one of the best if not the best tool that you can use to stay protected online.

Tags: Antivirus, featured, Mac, Malware, Safari

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 10:55:37 +0000 Tom Victor tmo_wp_153130 Have you ever encountered the frustrating error message, “iCloud for Windows has not fully initialized, please wait a moment and log in again?” You’re not alone! Many PC owners have come across this vexing issue when trying to access their iCloud services on a Windows computer.

As someone who thoroughly enjoys using both Apple and Windows devices, I know how essential it is to have seamless access to your iCloud on your Windows computer. That’s why I curated a guide to solve this pesky error and restore harmony to your digital life.

As someone who has dealt with the “iCloud for Windows has not fully initialized” error before, I understand how it can disrupt your iCloud experience and hinder access to your important files and data. Read on to gain practical insights and step-by-step solutions to help you overcome the “iCloud for Windows has not fully initialized” error once and for all.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first thing you should do when encountering any iCloud-related issue is to ensure that your internet connection is stable. Make sure you are connected to a reliable network.

To further confirm the stability of your internet connection, try accessing other websites or online services. Visit different websites, watch videos on YouTube, or check your email to see if you can successfully connect to and use these services without any interruptions.

If you encounter issues with multiple websites or services, it’s worth resetting your router and modem. Locate the power button on your router and modem and turn them off. Wait for about 30 seconds, and then turn them back on. Allow a few minutes for the devices to reconnect to the internet, and then check your connection again. You can also change your Wi-Fi channel for improved speed.

2. Update iCloud Installation for Windows

If you have fixed your network issues but the “iCloud for Windows has not Fully Initialized, Please Wait a Moment and Log in Again” error persists, then you should update your iCloud app. Outdated software can often cause compatibility issues and errors. To ensure that you are using the latest version of iCloud for Windows, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Windows Start button and search for Microsoft Store. Click on the Microsoft Store app from the search results to open it.
2. If you’re not already signed in to your Microsoft account, click on the profile icon in the top-right corner of the Microsoft Store and sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
3. Once logged in, click on the Library icon in the bottom-left corner of the page.
4. The Library section will display a list of all your installed apps. On that same page, click on the Get updates button at the top-right of the page. That will automatically update your iCloud app.

Now that you have updated your iCloud app, sign in again to see if the error is resolved.

3. Repair iCloud for Windows

If updating iCloud did not resolve the issue, you can try repairing the installation. Here’s how:

1. Close iCloud for Windows and any other iCloud-related applications.
2. Click on the Windows icon on the bottom left corner of your home screen.
3. From the list of displayed apps, scroll down to the Settings app and select it.
4. In Settings, click on Apps to access a displayed list of apps on your PC.
   
5. From the displayed list of apps, click on iCloud and select Advanced options.
   
6. On the next page displayed, scroll down to the Reset section and select Repair.
   
7. Once the repair is complete, the Repair box is checked.

4. Clear iCloud Cache and Reinstall iCloud

One effective solution to fix the initialization error is to clear the iCloud cache and reinstall the iCloud software on your Windows computer. This process helps eliminate any corrupted or conflicting files that may be causing the initialization error. Start by signing out of iCloud on your device. Then, navigate to the iCloud cache folder and delete all its contents. Next, uninstall your iCloud app and reinstall the latest version.

How to Clear iCloud Cache

Below is the step-by-step process on how to clear your iCloud cache:

1. Click on the File Explorer icon located on your taskbar or press the Windows key + E on your keyboard to open File Explorer.
2. By default, the iCloud cache folder is hidden on Windows. To view hidden files and folders, click on the View tab at the top of the File Explorer window.
3. In the Show/hide section of the toolbar, check the box next to Hidden items. This will enable the display of hidden files and folders.
4. In the File Explorer address bar, enter the following path: %APPDATA%\Apple Computer\MobileSync\
5. Press Enter or click on the arrow button to navigate to the MobileSync folder.
6. Within the MobileSync folder, you should find a folder named Cache. This folder contains the iCloud cache files.
7. Double-click on the Cache folder to open it to access the files stored within. Now proceed to delete all its content.

Note: The iCloud cache folder may contain various subfolders and files related to your iCloud data, such as photos, documents, or other synced content. Exercise caution when modifying or deleting files in this folder, as it may affect your iCloud data synchronization.

It’s important to note that the steps above are based on the default installation and file paths for iCloud on Windows. If you have chosen a custom installation location, the file path may be different. Now that you have cleared the cache folder, the next step is to uninstall the iCloud application from your system.

How to Uninstall iCloud on Your PC

To uninstall iCloud for Windows from your computer, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start menu, then go to the Settings gear icon and select Control Panel.
2. In the Control Panel window, click on the Programs category, then select Uninstall a program.
3. In the list of installed programs, find iCloud for Windows and click on it to select it.
4. Click on the Uninstall button located above the list of programs. A confirmation dialog box may appear asking if you want to allow the program to make changes to your computer. Click Yes to proceed.
5. The iCloud for Windows uninstaller will launch. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process. You may be prompted to confirm the removal and asked to provide your administrator password.
6. During the uninstallation process, you will be asked if you want to keep a copy of your iCloud data on your computer or remove it. Choose the appropriate option based on your preference. Note that removing iCloud data will delete it from your computer, but it will remain accessible on other devices connected to your iCloud account. Since you have already cleared your iCloud cache, you may want to keep your remaining data.
7. Once the uninstallation process is finished, you will see a confirmation message. Click Finish to close the uninstaller. Restart your computer to ensure all changes are applied properly.

Once uninstalled, download the latest version of iCloud for Windows from the official Apple website. Install the software and sign in again to see if the error is resolved.

Downloading the Latest Version of iCloud for Windows

To download the latest version of iCloud for Windows, follow these steps:

Note: Make sure your computer meets the system requirements for iCloud for Windows, and ensure you have a stable internet connection during the download and installation process. The step above should fix the “iCloud for Windows has not Fully Initialized, Please Wait a Moment and Log in Again” error, but if it didn’t, then proceed to the next fix.

5. Replace iCloud for Windows Version 14 With Version 13

Many Windows owners have pointed to this solution as what helped them to fix the “iCloud for Windows has not fully initialized please wait a moment and log in again” issue. All you need to do is replace iCloud for Windows version 14 with version 13.

After successfully uninstalling iCloud version 14, download and install iCloud for Windows version 13. Although this is not a permanent solution to the issue, it can serve as a temporary workaround. It’s important to note that Apple support is actively working to find a more permanent and comprehensive solution for this problem. In the meantime, many PC owners have found success with this method, and it might work for you as well.

6. Adjust iCloud Settings and Network Configuration

Another approach to fixing the error involves adjusting your iCloud settings and checking your network configuration. Follow the steps below to do this:

1. Open the iCloud for Windows application and review the sync settings for different iCloud services.
2. Temporarily disable unnecessary services and ensure a stable internet connection.
3. Additionally, check if any firewall or antivirus software is blocking iCloud’s functionality and make the necessary exceptions or adjustments in their settings.

These steps can help resolve any potential conflicts that might be causing the initialization error.

7. Seek Further Assistance from Apple Support

If the previous methods fail to resolve the error, I’ll recommend that you seek assistance from Apple Support. They have a dedicated team of experts who can provide personalized guidance and troubleshooting steps based on your specific situation.

You can contact Apple Support through their official website or directly from the iCloud for Windows application. They will be able to diagnose any underlying issues and offer additional solutions to fix the error. It’s important to note that Apple Support may request specific information about your system configuration and error logs to provide accurate assistance.

Conclusion

Encountering the “iCloud for Windows has not Fully Initialized, Please Wait a Moment and Log in Again” error can be frustrating, but with the methods outlined, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Clearing the iCloud cache, reinstalling the software, adjusting settings, and checking network configurations can help eliminate any potential conflicts and get your iCloud services up and running smoothly on your Windows PC.

If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance. Remember to back up your important data before making any changes to your system. By following these steps and staying patient, you’ll be able to overcome the initialization error and regain full access to your iCloud services on your Windows computer.

Apart from having issues with initializing iCloud for Windows, you may also have experienced pauses on your iPhone when trying to upload to iCloud. If that is the case, check Arnold Zafra’s fix for “uploading to iCloud Paused” Issue on iPhone.

Tags: bug fix, iCloud, WIndows

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 06:06:34 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_135191 Lock Screen customizations is one of the highlights of iOS 16 and this feature truly deserves the limelight. You can create several Lock Screens and switch between them whenever you want. Moreover, you can even link Lock Screens with particular Focus modes. So, enabling a Focus it will automatically change the Lock Screen. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Read along to learn everything there is about customizing your iOS 16 Lock Screen. 

How to Create and Customize Lock Screen in iOS 16

You can do a lot while customizing the Lock Screen of your iPhone running on iOS 16 or above. Firstly, you can choose from a wide range of inbuilt wallpapers. The categories include Photos, People, Photo Shuffle, Emoji, Weather, Astronomy, and Color. 

Furthermore, you can change the Font and color of the Clock (even play around with Font weight in iOS 17), use Depth Effect wallpapers, add Widgets, and more. Let’s start from scratch and learn how to add and customize a new Lock Screen in iOS 16 and above.  

Add a New Lock Screen in iOS 16

You’ve successfully created a Custom Lock Screen.

Lock Screen customizations is one of the highlights of iOS 16 and this feature truly deserves the limelight. You can create several Lock Screens and switch between them whenever you want. iOS also lets you change Lock Screen clock color and font.

Moreover, you can even link Lock Screens with particular Focus modes. So, enabling a Focus it will automatically change the Lock Screen. Photo Shuffle is a cool way to get new pictures without changing manually. Sometimes the feature might stop working. Here’s how to fix Photo Shuffle.

Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Read along to learn everything there is about customizing your iOS 16 Lock Screen. And those interested can check out some creative Lock Screen customization ideas.

Set Different Home and Lock Screen Wallpapers

In the previous step, you must’ve noticed the Customize Home Screen option at the end. Well, that option allows you to change your Home Screen Wallpaper. However, you can customize your Home Screen wallpaper or even change the wallpaper whenever you want to. Here’s how to set a different Home Screen Wallpaper on iOS 16 and above. 

1. Long Press on the Lock Screen of your iPhone. Now, tap the Customize button. 

2. On the Customize Wallpaper screen, select the Home Screen. 

3. Now, you’ll see five options: Pair, Color, Gradient, Photo, and Blur at the bottom of the screen. By default, the Home Screen wallpaper will be a blurred version of your Lock Screen wallpaper. Tap the Blur option to unblur the image. 

4. Since we want to set a different wallpaper altogether, we’ll select the Photo option. 

5. Now, select an image you want to set as a Home Screen Wallpaper from the Photos app. 

6. You can swipe to the left to try out different color filters. Once you’re done making changes to the selected image, tap the Done button at the top right corner. 

7. Tap the Done button once again to save the changes. 

Add Widgets to Your Lock Screen in iOS 16

With iOS 16, you can add widgets to your Lock Screen. Widgets are a great addition to the Lock Screen as they help make information available at a glance. There are two allocated spaces where you can add and customize widgets on your iPhone’s Lock Screen. These spaces are above the clock and below the clock. 

You can customize the widget above the clock but cannot altogether remove it from the Lock Screen. On the contrary, the space below the clock is dedicated to widgets that can be added or removed based on one’s preferences. You can add a total of four widgets below the clock. Read along to learn how to add widgets to your Lock Screen in iOS 16. 

1. Long Press on the Lock Screen of your iPhone. Now, tap the Customize button. 

2. On the Customize Wallpaper screen, select the Lock Screen. 

3. Here, you can add one widget above the Clock and up to four widgets below the Clock. 

4. To customize the widget above the Clock, tap the Day and Date widget. 

5. You can select from a list of different widgets from the Choose Widget menu. Once you’ve added the desired widget, tap the X icon to close the menu. 

6. Now, tap the ADD WIDGETS option to add widgets below the Clock.  

7. Select any widget that you want to add from the Add Widgets menu. There are several widgets from native and third-party apps. I’m sure you’ll be spoilt for choice and wish there was more space to add widgets. 

8. Once you’ve added the widgets, tap the X at the top right of the Add Widgets menu. 

9. Tap the Done button at the top right corner to save the changes.

One important note, is that using widgets in the space below the clock automatically disables the Depth Effect on your wallpaper. Presumably, Apple doesn’t think you’d want your pictures overlapping the widgets. You can always come back and edit Lock Screen.

How to Switch Between Lock Screens in iOS 16

Learning to create and customize Lock Screen wallpapers in iOS 16 is fun. Moreover, the limit for creating custom Lock Screens is over one hundred. In case you’ve gone on a spree and created many Lock Screens on your iPhone, here’s how to switch between Lock Screens in iOS 16. 

1. Long Press on the Lock Screen of your iPhone until you see the Customize button at the bottom of the screen.

2. Swipe to the left to switch to the Lock Screens to the left. 

3. Swipe to the right to switch to the Lock Screens to the right. 

4. Once you navigate to the Lock Screen you want to set as active, tap on it. 

And that is how you switch between Lock Screens in iOS 16. 

How to Link a Focus Mode to a Lock Screen in iOS 16

Now that you’re aware of the steps to switch between different Lock Screens in iOS 16 and above, let’s put that to good use. What if I told you that switching to a different Lock Screen will automatically enable a Focus on your iPhone? It is certainly possible and here’s how to link a Focus mode to a Lock Screen in iOS 16.  

1. Long Press on the Lock Screen of your iPhone until you see the Customize button at the bottom of the screen.

2. Now, tap the Focus icon displayed on your Lock Screen. 

3. Select a Focus from the Link Focus menu that pops open. 

4. Once you’ve selected the Focus, tap the X icon at the top right of the menu to save the changes.

5. Tap on the Lock Screen. 

6. The selected Focus is now active. 

Once you’ve chosen the Focus Mode, it will turn on whenever you switch to the particular Lock Screen. Moreover, if you enable a Focus – that you’ve linked with a Lock Screen – through the Control Centre, your iPhone will automatically switch to the linked Lock Screen. 

Also, if you change your Focus Mode from another device (your Apple Watch, Mac, or iPad) and have Share Across Devices turned on, guess what happens? If you guessed that your iPhone takes the hint and changes to the correct Lock Screen, give yourself a pat on the back, sticker, or cookie.

How to Delete a Lock Screen in iOS 16

The limit to create custom Lock Screens in iOS 16 is very high. Most of us will get carried away and create several Lock Screen wallpapers. However, we’ll end up switching just between a few which are our favorites. So, why not go ahead and delete the rest? It’ll undoubtedly help declutter the Lock Screen gallery. 

Follow the steps mentioned below to learn how to delete custom Lock Screens in iOS 16. 

1. Long Press on the Lock Screen of your iPhone until you see the Customize button at the bottom of the screen.

2. Swipe up on the Lock Screen you want to delete and tap the Trash icon. 

3. Tap Delete This Wallpaper in the pop-up at the bottom to confirm your selection. 

And that’s how you delete custom Lock Screens in iOS 16. 

iOS 16 Has the Best Lock Screen Customizations

I believe, the introduction of Lock Screen customizations with iOS 16 was truly a game changer. There are certain improvements to the Lock Screen with iOS 17 that enhance the overall user experience. I hope this article helped you learn everything about iOS 16 Lock Screen customizations and if you have any doubts, please let us know in the comments below. 

Tags: featured, iOS 16, iPhone

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 00:13:00 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_153619 Having an issue where your iPhone stops charging at 80 percent? Worry not, as it may actually be a feature on your device. When it comes to your Apple smartphone, one of the most important features is the lithium-ion battery, which is responsible for keeping the gorgeous iPhone display clear and crisp, among other things. Not only is the battery important, but taking proper care of the battery is even more important. That’s why your iPhone charging to a certain percentage may ultimately be a good thing. However, you do also have the option to charge your phone however you want, and there may be other issues at play as well. Let’s explore.

If you’re having issues where your iPhone stops charging at night, or your iPhone stops charging at 80 percent, or even if your iPhone stops charging at 70 percent, there are solutions available. Given the facts, I’m going to take a look at why an iPhone battery may charge to a certain point, and what can be done about it. I also provide some general information about an iPhone battery, including ways to take care of it. If this is your first time reading about your iPhone battery, there is some information you should really know.

Why is My Battery Only Charging to 80?

There can be a number of reasons that your battery stops charging at 80 percent. Considering issues with the battery can be one of the largest issues an iPhone user experiences, this is largely due to the fact the iPhone has a lithium-ion battery. While most users should be aware that they should take measures to preserve their battery, it’s still going to degrade over time. This is true of all lithium-ion batteries. 

Along with the battery, there can be other issues as well. It is possible that your device is becoming too warm. If the temperature of your iPhone reaches a certain threshold, your device will wait until it is cooler to begin charging again. There may also be an issue with your charging cable. Your cable may have become damaged, or it may be experiencing issues if it is not an official Apple product. There may be issues with your iPhone as well. 

With that said, when it comes to charging issues, it can be a matter of your battery, your device or your charging cable. Considering a battery is one of the most crucial elements of an iPhone, or really, any smartphone, Apple has put measures in place to help protect the device. Let’s explore this more in the next section. 

Why Is My Phone Not Charging Up to 100 Percent? Solutions and Answers

After reading the above information, let’s dig a bit deeper into some of these potential issues, while also discussing solutions to these problems. 

Battery Stops Charging at 80: How Your iPhone Protects Its Battery

If your iPhone stops charging at a certain point, there’s like a simple reason for this. You see, Apple introduced Optimized Battery Charging in iOS 13. A means to help users protect their lithium-ion battery, the feature is a way to learn the behavior of a user’s charging habits. Ideally, the best way to take care of a lithium-ion battery is to ensure that it remains in the 30 to 80 percent power range. Having your battery go from zero to a hundred every day can actually be detrimental, which is why Optimized Battery Charging may possibly prevent your iPhone from charging beyond 80 percent. 

Optimized Battery Charging learns the charging habits of your iPhone and then does its best to adapt to the situation. For example, if you’re the type that leaves their device plugged-in overnight to charge, your iPhone will likely wait as long as it can to continue charging past 80 percent. It can often take the entire night. I actually cover this feature even more extensively in this article, in which I also cover Clean Energy Charging. I would suggest reading it if you want to learn about lithium-ion and how to properly take care of your battery.

While it is a good idea to keep Optimized Battery Charging turned on, there is a way to turn it off. This feature is typically enabled automatically on an iPhone. Turning off this feature will allow you to charge your battery however you like, but it will likely come at the cost of faster degradation of your battery.

How to Turn Off Optimized Battery Charging

Battery Stops Charging at 80: Cool Down Your iPhone

As mentioned above, a phone that is too hot will also have issues with charging. Heat is one of the quickest ways to destroy a lithium-ion battery. Your iPhone will not charge if it reaches a certain temperature. It may even stop operating altogether if your device gets particularly hot. There’s really only one solution for this problem, and that is to get your phone back to a proper temperature. 

Keep it out of direct sunlight, and try to place it somewhere room temperature for a while. While some may suggest throwing it in the fridge, I would avoid doing that. It may also be a good idea to take off your case, should you have one. This will help heat dissipate. You can also help your iPhone cool down by closing any resource-intensive apps. 

Battery Stops Charging at 80: Talk to an Apple Repair Specialist

If none of the above issues help your situation, it may be best to contact Apple Support. There may be a larger hardware problem at play, and only a trained professional should be working on your iPhone and/or its battery. 

How Do I Calibrate My iPhone Battery?

If you need to calibrate your iPhone battery, there’s two different methods. If you’re running an iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max, and you are running iOS 14.5 or newer, you actually have a battery recalibration option. You can find it via Settings > Battery > Battery Health > Important Battery Message. If your iPhone doesn’t meet this criteria, there’s another method available. However, do not use this method if your iPhone does have a calibration tool. 

To calibrate an iPhone battery, use the device until the battery drains dead. Do not touch your phone when it shuts off and leave it alone for three hours (preferable overnight). Then plug in your iPhone with its original charger (or Apple-certified charger). Wait for the phone to power on and then turn it off. Leave the phone plugged in until it is fully charged and then turn it on. After the iPhone starts up, perform a restart.

Conclusion: How Do I Charge My Battery From 80 to 100?

Ultimately, there’s few things more vital to your iPhone than a battery that is charging and operating properly. Following the above methods, you can ensure that you’re doing your best to keep your battery as pristine as you can. While I wouldn’t recommend turning off Optimized Battery Charging, this is likely the fastest and easiest way to ensure that your iPhone quickly charges 80 to 100 percent. However, this does come at the cost of your battery’s overall health.

In the end, the health of your battery is largely going to determine the overall health of your device. While you should do your best to follow Apple’s recommendation of keeping your battery between 30 and 80 percent, it’s your device at the end of the day. Of course, if you need further help with your battery, we’ve got you covered. For example, we can give you some tips if your iPhone battery is draining overnight. We can also help if your battery is draining unusually fast. Considering an iPhone can be an investment for many, it’s wise to do your best to keep it working its best for as long as possible. 

F.A.Q.

Tags: battery, featured, iPhone, Lithium-Ion Batteries

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 21:45:00 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_153475 Being a cyclist in a country where the weather is quite unpredictable, the daily forecast provided by the iPhone’s Weather app is a valuable tool. I can attest to how many of my cycling peers rely on the Weather app whenever we are planning a group ride. So, you can just imagine how annoying it could be if there’s a sudden severe weather condition but we don’t get any notifications about it. Yes, believe it or not, this is a prevailing issue. So, read along to know what to do when weather alerts on your iPhone are not working.

How to Set Up Weather Notifications on iPhone

As per Apple, you can receive notifications from the Weather app when precipitation and certain severe weather events are forecasted in your current location. The Weather app can also send notifications for locations on the weather list in selected countries.

How to Turn on Weather Alerts on iPhone for Other Locations on the Weather List

1. Open the Weather app, then tap the Edit Cities button (represented by bulleted points and three lines).
2. Tap the More Options button (three dots).
   
3. Turn on notifications for Severe Weather and Next-Hour Precipitation.
4. Tap Done.

Once you’ve turned both weather alerts for your location and other locations on the weather list, you should receive emergency alerts on your iPhone. This should happen during severe weather conditions. Your iPhone should also alert you about incoming tornadoes and other severe weather disturbances.

What to Do When Weather Alerts are Not Working on iPhone

After enabling weather alerts on their iPhones, some folks still experience weather alerts not working. Of course, this is not acceptable. However, unless Apple can monitor in real-time whether each iPhone user is receiving the weather notifications, your best bet is to do some troubleshooting tips if the alerts don’t work. Below are some possible solutions when a weather alert is not working on your iPhone

Check Whether Your iPhone’s OS Supports Weather Alerts

For those who are not aware, Apple introduced weather alerts starting with iOS 15. Naturally, if your iPhone is still running a version of iOS earlier than 15, then weather alerts won’t be available.

Check Whether You Are In a Location That Supports Weather Alerts

The Weather app notifications feature is available in countries where severe weather information is available. These include Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, Thailand, the United States, and most countries and regions in Europe.

Severe weather information is available from QWeather for China mainland.

Add Your Location in the Weather App

Enabling weather notifications by doing the steps mentioned above is not enough to receive alerts on your iPhone when severe weather conditions happen. You should also add your location and other locations in the weather app.

Follow the steps below to do so.

1. Open the Weather app.
2. Tap the List icon (represented by bulleted points and three lines) on the lower ride side of the screen.
3. On the next screen, tap the search bar, then type the name of the location.
   
4. Tap on the location you want weather results for.
5. When the weather report for that location appears, tap on the Add button to add it to the list of your weather cards.
   

Final Words

That’s it. That’s all you have to do to receive weather alerts on your iPhone. Should you still encounter the issue of the weather alerts not working on your iPhone, you can try some usual troubleshooting tips to make it work again. These include force restarting your iPhone, updating to the latest iOS version, and reinstalling the Weather app.

Tags: featured, iPhone, notifications, weather

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 21:30:00 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_130925 Heart. Scroll and click on Heart Rate Variability. You can view your average daily measurement of HRV as well as the weekly, monthly, every six months, or yearly HRV.  So, now that you can view your HRV as measured by your Apple Watch, the question is how you interpret them to determine your heart health. As previously mentioned, the higher the HRV, the healthier your heart could be. But that's not enough. And until such time that Apple will include an indication or interpretation of the HRV data, you're best option is to use third-party apps to interpret these data which incidentally is related to your physical fitness level. Using Third-Party App To Gain More from HRV While the Apple Watch itself or even your iPhone could not give you a useful interpretation of HRV data especially when you are doing strenuous physical activities, there are third-party apps that can give you more value for the HRV Apple Watch data. Some of these apps include HRV4Training, and Whoop, among others. Using any of these apps and an external heart rate monitor would also give you more useful and valuable heart rate variability data.  You can check out any of those apps if you're serious about making sense of the HRV measured by your Apple Watch. After all, you've spent a good amount of your hard-earned money to buy the watch.  Final Words If you are serious about making sense of the HRV data measured by your Apple Watch, then it would be best to use third-party apps that could interpret them meaningfully until such time that Apple introduces this capability as an Apple Health feature. After all, you've spent a good amount of your hard-earned money to own an Apple Watch, so why not make use of one of its useful features that could help save your life? Finally, if you're experiencing irregular heartbeats or instantaneous heart rates measured in beats per minute, then using third-party apps to interpret them could prevent possible heart problems. Most if not all of these apps could give suggestions on what you can do to prevent dangerous heart issues. Cardiovascular fitness is an important aspect of everyone's health condition, so it's best to be aware of various health metrics that the Apple Watch can provide. ]]> Buried deep within the many features of the Apple Watch and watchOS 10 is a useful Apple health feature that could help you manage your heart’s health. I’m referring to the capability of the Apple Watch to track your heart rate variability. And if you take a closer look into the data generated by this feature based on the actual health of your heart, you will realize how important it is. So for those who are interested to know, read along to find out how to track your heart rate variability with Apple Watch together with your iPhone and Apple Health.

Some Important Things You Need to Know About Heart Rate Variability

As a disclaimer, I’m not a health expert. What I’m going to share with you here is based on what is published and available on the internet related to the Apple Health features of the Apple Watch. For starters, heart rate variability (HRV) is the measurement of time intervals when your heartbeat changes. Measured in milliseconds, HRV can tell you how healthy your heart is.

If you have a higher HRV, as indicated on your Apple wearable device, then you’re in luck. That means your heart is relatively healthier and could very indicate that you are in a happier, low-stress level condition.

If you’ve just finished a heavy exercise, having a higher HRV or faster heart rhythm after a while could mean that you have fully recovered. It goes without saying that having a lower HRV means the opposite of a higher HRV. Knowing your heart rate variability in a specific time frame enables you to customize a training plan based on your heart’s current condition. 

How to Track Your Heart Rate Vulnerability with Apple Watch

The Apple Watch automatically measures the HRV of owners who are 18 years old or older. But you can’t view the daily measurement of your heart rate variability on the wearable device itself. You need to access them through the Apple Health app on your iPhone. 

You can view your average daily measurement of HRV as well as the weekly, monthly, every six months, or yearly HRV. 

So, now that you can view your HRV as measured by your Apple Watch, the question is how you interpret them to determine your heart health. As previously mentioned, the higher the HRV, the healthier your heart could be. But that’s not enough. And until such time that Apple will include an indication or interpretation of the HRV data, you’re best option is to use third-party apps to interpret these data which incidentally is related to your physical fitness level.

Using Third-Party App To Gain More from HRV

While the Apple Watch itself or even your iPhone could not give you a useful interpretation of HRV data especially when you are doing strenuous physical activities, there are third-party apps that can give you more value for the HRV Apple Watch data. Some of these apps include HRV4Training, and Whoop, among others. Using any of these apps and an external heart rate monitor would also give you more useful and valuable heart rate variability data. 

You can check out any of those apps if you’re serious about making sense of the HRV measured by your Apple Watch. After all, you’ve spent a good amount of your hard-earned money to buy the watch. 

Final Words

If you are serious about making sense of the HRV data measured by your Apple Watch, then it would be best to use third-party apps that could interpret them meaningfully until such time that Apple introduces this capability as an Apple Health feature. After all, you’ve spent a good amount of your hard-earned money to own an Apple Watch, so why not make use of one of its useful features that could help save your life?

Finally, if you’re experiencing irregular heartbeats or instantaneous heart rates measured in beats per minute, then using third-party apps to interpret them could prevent possible heart problems. Most if not all of these apps could give suggestions on what you can do to prevent dangerous heart issues. Cardiovascular fitness is an important aspect of everyone’s health condition, so it’s best to be aware of various health metrics that the Apple Watch can provide. 

Tags: Apple Health, Apple Watch, heart rate

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 13:43:47 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_153494 General > Sharing > i button beside the File Sharing > below the File Sharing: On (example: smb://192.011.0.221.)  Once you have this network address, follow the steps mentioned below to share files between Macs using the File Sharing feature on Mac.  1. Open Finder on your Mac.  2. Click the Go option in the menu bar and select the Connect to Server option at the end of the list.  3. Type in the network address and click Connect. 4. Select from the available options on how you want to connect to the primary Mac.  5. If asked, enter your Username and Password and select the Server Volumes or Shared Folders you’d like to access.  How to Share Files Between Mac and Windows Using File Sharing Change File Sharing Settings on Mac The primary requirement to share files between a Mac and a Windows computer is that both of these devices should be connected to the same network. After that, you need to change a few settings in the File Sharing feature on your Mac to allow a Windows computer to access files on your Mac. Follow the steps below to learn how to share files between Mac and Windows using the File Sharing feature.  1. Open System Settings on your Mac. 2. Click on General and select the Sharing option on the right side.  3. Click on the i button beside the File Sharing toggle.  4. Select the Folder you want to share and click the Options button.  5. Now, select the Account under Windows File Sharing. 6. Enter the Password you created, click OK and then click Done to save the changes.  Connect to Mac Using a Windows Computer Once you’ve made these changes, you can share files between Mac and Windows. Also, you will need the network address of the Mac to connect to your Windows PC. You can find the Network Address through System Settings > General > Sharing > i button beside the File Sharing > below the File Sharing: On (example: smb://192.011.0.221.)  Once you have this network address, follow the steps mentioned below to share files from your Mac to a Windows computer.  1. Open File Explorer on your Windows computer.  2. Right Click on the This PC option in the menu bar and select the Map Network Drive option.  3. Now, you must enter the network address of the Mac in the text box beside the Folder option. Ensure that you add “\\” before you type the network address. Also, you must add the name of the Shared Folder. If you miss these details, you won't be able to access the shared folder. Here’s an example, “\\192.178.1.134\File Sharing” 4. Once you’ve entered the correct IP address with the shared file name, click Finish.  5. A Windows Security menu will pop up. Enter your User name and Password and click OK.  6. If the credentials match, you’ll get access to the shared file. It’ll be visible in the File Explorer in the This PC section.  Don’t Let File Sharing Die Enabling File Sharing on your Mac will help you share files without worrying about any third-party apps or tools. We covered everything about File Sharing including the steps to set up the feature and the steps to share files between Macs and Windows computers. It is a free alternative to cloud storage (in certain aspects) and will hopefully turn out to be useful to many.  If you have any doubts about File Sharing on Mac, please let us know in the comments below.]]> If you enable the File Sharing feature on your Mac, it will significantly help improve your ability to share files and collaborate with users on the same network. This guide’ll help you understand what File Sharing is, how to set it up from scratch, and more. Additionally, we will also explore the steps to share files between Macs and also between a Mac and Windows computer. Read along to learn everything about the File Sharing feature. 

What Is File Sharing on Mac

File Sharing has been available on macOS for a while now. It allows you to share files and folders from your Mac with others on the same network. And, you can access this feature through the Sharing option in System Settings on your Mac which we will cover further in the article. 

With File Sharing, you can choose which files or folders you want to share. Then, you can grant access to other users who are on the same network. Moreover, different permissions can be given like Read & Write, Read Only, and Write Only (Drop Box).

There are many scenarios in which File Sharing on Mac turns out to be extremely useful. For example, you can share documents, photos, videos, etc., securely within your Local Network which is quite useful if there are a group of people working together and need access to certain files regularly. Also, you can turn one Mac with the highest storage capacity into a storage unit so everyone on the network can access these files whenever they want. 

Unfortunately, cloud storage replicates the same functionality while being more convenient. Regardless, File Sharing on Mac is still here and it has its positives. You need not upload and download files to any services you don’t trust. So, read along to learn how to set up and use File Sharing on Mac. 

How to Set Up File Sharing on Mac

Now that you’re aware of the File Sharing feature, read along to learn how to set up File Sharing on Mac. 

How to Share Files Between Macs Using File Sharing

After you’ve set up File Sharing on your Mac, and made all the necessary changes, you can share files and folders from one Mac to another. Just ensure that both these devices are on the same network and you’re good to go. 

Also, you will need the network address of the primary Mac to connect to a secondary Mac. You can find the Network Address through System Settings > General > Sharing > i button beside the File Sharing > below the File Sharing: On (example: smb://192.011.0.221.) 

Once you have this network address, follow the steps mentioned below to share files between Macs using the File Sharing feature on Mac. 

1. Open Finder on your Mac. 

2. Click the Go option in the menu bar and select the Connect to Server option at the end of the list. 

3. Type in the network address and click Connect.

4. Select from the available options on how you want to connect to the primary Mac. 

5. If asked, enter your Username and Password and select the Server Volumes or Shared Folders you’d like to access. 

How to Share Files Between Mac and Windows Using File Sharing

Change File Sharing Settings on Mac

The primary requirement to share files between a Mac and a Windows computer is that both of these devices should be connected to the same network. After that, you need to change a few settings in the File Sharing feature on your Mac to allow a Windows computer to access files on your Mac. Follow the steps below to learn how to share files between Mac and Windows using the File Sharing feature. 

1. Open System Settings on your Mac.

2. Click on General and select the Sharing option on the right side. 

3. Click on the i button beside the File Sharing toggle. 

4. Select the Folder you want to share and click the Options button. 

5. Now, select the Account under Windows File Sharing.

6. Enter the Password you created, click OK and then click Done to save the changes. 

Connect to Mac Using a Windows Computer

Once you’ve made these changes, you can share files between Mac and Windows. Also, you will need the network address of the Mac to connect to your Windows PC. You can find the Network Address through System Settings > General > Sharing > i button beside the File Sharing > below the File Sharing: On (example: smb://192.011.0.221.) 

Once you have this network address, follow the steps mentioned below to share files from your Mac to a Windows computer. 

1. Open File Explorer on your Windows computer. 

2. Right Click on the This PC option in the menu bar and select the Map Network Drive option. 

3. Now, you must enter the network address of the Mac in the text box beside the Folder option. Ensure that you add “\\” before you type the network address. Also, you must add the name of the Shared Folder. If you miss these details, you won’t be able to access the shared folder. Here’s an example, “\\192.178.1.134\File Sharing”

4. Once you’ve entered the correct IP address with the shared file name, click Finish. 

5. A Windows Security menu will pop up. Enter your User name and Password and click OK. 

6. If the credentials match, you’ll get access to the shared file. It’ll be visible in the File Explorer in the This PC section. 

Don’t Let File Sharing Die

Enabling File Sharing on your Mac will help you share files without worrying about any third-party apps or tools. We covered everything about File Sharing including the steps to set up the feature and the steps to share files between Macs and Windows computers. It is a free alternative to cloud storage (in certain aspects) and will hopefully turn out to be useful to many. 

If you have any doubts about File Sharing on Mac, please let us know in the comments below.

Tags: file sharing, Mac, macOS

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:54:20 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153502 Do you want to set LED flashlight notifications for iPhone calls and messages so that you do not miss anything even when your phone is on silent? People like me, who like to keep their phones on silent mode, are usually reluctant to switch to ring mode even after missing important alerts.

This LED flashlight notification feature will ensure that you miss fewer alerts and more importantly, you are able to locate iPhone even when it is in Silent Mode.

How To Enable LED Flashlight Notifications for Calls and Messages?

Why Are LED Flashlight Notifications for Calls and Messages Helpful?

The iPhone flashlight is bright enough to be located easily during the day. So, in the dark, it makes the job of finding your device even easier. It is so bright you can usually see it through your pockets too.

This feature will come in handy in places where you need to have your iPhone in silent mode, like movie theatres. It would alert you without causing disturbing those around you.

How Do Flash Alerts Work With DND?

If you have iOS 15 and above, the Focus menu helps you with enabling alerts through DND. Let us see how to turn it on for LED Flashlight Notifications.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone and type in ‘Focus’ in the Search Bar. Tap on Focus from the drop-down menu.

2. Select Do Not Disturb.

3. You can add contacts for whose notifications you wish to receive in the People section.

4. You can select the apps that can send you notifications through DND in the Apps section.

5. The Customise Screens section allows you a choice of lock screens to help limit distractions for you.

Create a Shortcut to Toggle LED Flashlight Notifications on and off Easily

What if you must turn off LED Flash Notifications for a certain time period? You can set up a custom shortcut to help you do that.

1. Open Shortcuts on your iPhone and tap on the Plus sign at the top right-hand side of your screen to create a new shortcut.

2. Change its name to ‘Toggle Flash Alerts’.

3. Tap on the Add Actions section.

4. Go to the Search bar and type in ‘LED’. Then select Set LED Flash.

5. Tap on the blue Turn button to open a drop-down menu. Here you can select to turn your Shortcut into a toggle.

6. Tap on the Menu icon on the top right side and select Add to Home Screen to add the Shortcut to your home screen. Then press Done.

You can also turn the toggle on and off through Siri and Backtap.

How To Make Siri Announce Your Calls?

You can make Siri announce your calls so you can decide whether to pick them up, ignore them, or disconnect them. Let us see how to do so.

1. Go to Settings on your iPhone and select Phone.

2. Tap on Announce Calls.

3. Now you will be able to select whether you want to Siri to announce the call Always, Headphones & Car, Headphones only, or Never.

Using LED Flashlights in Silent Mode

Enabling LED Flashlights in silent mode is very helpful. The LED will ensure that you do not miss any more important meetings or appointments. And you can even turn it off easily through a shortcut on your home screen.

If you have any queries regarding this feature, please feel free to reach out and drop a comment.

Tags: iOS, notifications

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 01:09:00 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_153472 Having an issue where your iPhone alarm seems to go off at random? It’s a rather easy scenario to picture: you’re laying in bed sleeping, needing all the rest you can because you get up for work early. Deep in slumber, you hear the familiar sound of the iPhone alarm blaring, causing you to awake. It’s a situation that feels all too familiar, and there’s fortunately something you can do about it. Keep reading to find out more. 

I’m going to show you what you can do about an iPhone alarm that is seemingly going off at random. I cover a multitude of solutions for this problem, and I’ve also taken the time to rank them from easiest to hardest. I also go into several reasons why a user may experience a ghost alarm, including a couple of reasons why it may be happening in the first place. An unwanted alarm is a pesky alarm, so let’s explore how to get rid of them. 

Why Did My iPhone Alarm Randomly Go Off? 

Your iPhone alarm may be randomly going off for a number of reasons. While the sound of an iPhone alarm is sure to get anyone moving, you certainly don’t want to hear it if you didn’t set it. There can be a couple of different reasons why your alarm may be going off seemingly at random. For example, you may be running a beta version of iOS and are experiencing a bug, you may have a setting wrong within the iPhone Clock app, or you may have accidentally enabled a certain feature. I discuss all this and more below. 

How Do I Get Rid of the Ghost Alarm?

If you need to get rid of a ghost alarm on your iPhone, there’s a number of things you can do. Let’s take a look at some solutions. 

Covering the Basics

If you’re experiencing issues with your iPhone alarm randomly going off, there’s a couple of simple things you can try first. While these are not guaranteed to solve your problem, they might. However, it may be a good idea to perform many of these tasks anyway. 

First, make sure your iPhone is up to date. Try your best to stay current with the latest operating system for any device. You can check your iPhone by going to Settings > General > Software Update. If one is available, update your device. 

It’s also a good idea to force restart your iPhone. This may eliminate any ghost alarms occurring on your device. To force restart your iPhone if you have Face ID (no Home button), press and immediately release the volume up button, then press and immediately release the volume down button. Lastly, press and hold the power button until you see the Apple logo. 

For the iPhone 7, you will press and hold the volume down along with the Sleep/Wake button. Wait for the Apple logo to appear. For the iPhone 6s or iPhone SE, you will press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button. Hold until the Apple logo appears. A nice force restart may just do the trick.

Users should also remove any third-party alarm apps until they figure out their problem. You can remove an app by pressing and holding on the app, then selecting Remove App > Delete App > Delete from the pop-up window.

Remove and Reset iPhone Alarms

One of the first things you should check is your Alarms in the Clock app. There may be an Alarm set that you forgot about, or you may have accidentally set multiple alarms. Personally, I would recommend deleting them all and starting over from scratch, but once you know what to do, you can determine for yourself which ones you want to delete.

1. Open the Clock app on your iPhone and choose Alarm from the bottom.
2. To delete an Alarm, swipe left on it and tap Delete.
   
3. You can set new Alarms with the + button in the top-right corner. You can also hit the Edit button at the top to remove Alarms.
   

Disable Bedtime Feature

Some users may forget about this feature, but the Health app does include Sleep options, which also features a setting that allows users to have their device remind them when it’s time to go to bed and when it’s time to wake up. This Sleep setting will play an alarm for each. This may be a setting users should check if they’re experiencing ghost alarms. 

Turn Off Random iPhone Alarms: Reset All iPhone Settings

As a last resort, you can always reset all of the settings on your iPhone. While this isn’t entirely a “going nuclear” option, it is going to erase all of the settings across all of your stock iPhone apps. 

Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings to bring your iPhone settings to default. 

How Do I Stop Ghost Alarms? 

If you’re tired of alarms constantly harassing you throughout your life: whether you’re trying to sleep and a random alarm goes off, or you find they’re going off when you’re doing something important, know that there’s steps you can take to prevent this. For those that need to stop a random or ghost alarm from going off when they don’t want it to, try some of the solutions above to see if they work for you. 

If you need further help with your iPhone alarm, we’ve got you covered. For example, we can show you how to disable the snooze option for an alarm, which can be particularly helpful for some. We can also show you how to shut off an alarm on other people’s phones, which may be extremely useful for those tired of dealing with alarms. 

F.A.Q.

Tags: alarms, Apple, featured, iPhone

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 20:10:00 +0000 Tom Victor tmo_wp_152959 Contrary to popular opinion, Mac owners are not exempt from cybersecurity threats. In fact, they are increasingly becoming a target of phishing, spam, and identity theft attempts. You can arm your Mac against attacks and more by investing in antivirus software, but it’s also important not to cause a slowdown.

Granted, finding an antivirus solution that effectively protects your Mac without compromising its performance can be challenging. Different antivirus approaches, such as signature-based scanning, behavior monitoring, and cloud-based detection, can affect system performance in various ways, notably causing slowdowns.

Fortunately, some leading antivirus options rise to the challenge. Keep reading to discover the best Mac antivirus apps that can effectively protect your computer without causing a slowdown.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Performing Antivirus Solution for Mac

In selecting the best antivirus software for Mac that doesn’t cause a slowdown, we considered the following key criteria:

1. Lightweight and Efficient Resource Usage: The ideal antivirus should utilize minimal system resources, while still providing robust protection. This ensures that your Mac runs smoothly without compromising security.
2. Real-time Protection and Malware Detection Capabilities: Effective antivirus software should offer real-time scanning and detection of malware, including viruses, ransomware, adware, and other malicious threats. Regular updates to the virus definition database are also crucial for staying ahead of the latest threats.
3. User-Friendly Interface and Ease of Use: A well-designed and intuitive interface enhances the overall user experience, allowing for easy navigation, configuration, and management of the antivirus app.
4. Additional Features and Value-Added Benefits: While the primary purpose of antivirus software is to protect against malware, some antivirus solutions offer additional features like desktop cleaning to help your computer run faster, VPN for secure and private browsing, and parental controls to help you protect your children online. Considering these value-added benefits can enhance the overall protection and performance of your Mac.

Top Antivirus Software for Mac That Won’t Cause a Slowdown

Antivirus software packages on the following list were chosen for the best combination of protection and performance. They did not sacrifice protection to reduce their effects on performance. Rather, they have been attuned to utilize minimal system resources while offering the best protection possible. Now, let’s dive into it.

1. Intego Internet Security X9

Intego is unarguably the most recognizable face in the Mac security arena. With over two decades of experience and success defending macOS computers from malware, Intego knows what goes into a Mac-specific antivirus. This is why Intego Internet Security comes in first on this list.

Intego Internet Security X9 combines two key security features from the antivirus provider, VirusBarrier and NetBarrier, to provide robust protection against malware and network threats. VirusBarrier ensures real-time scanning and detection of viruses, trojans, and other malicious software, while NetBarrier offers a robust firewall to safeguard your Mac from unauthorized access.

The software has been optimized to minimize its impact on system resources, ensuring that your Mac runs smoothly and responsively. Unlike some traditional antivirus programs for Mac that can cause a significant slowdown, Intego Internet Security X9 operates efficiently in the background, allowing you to carry out your tasks uninterrupted. It strikes a balance between effective protection and minimal performance impact.

Intego’s Premium Mac Bundle offers a range of other valuable tools and utilities including:

1. Mac Washing Machine, a system optimization and cleanup tool.
2. ContentBarrier X9 for parental controls and online privacy.
3. Personal Backup, a data protection and backup solution.
4. Privacy protection VPN, for an additional fee.

With this bundle, you get a comprehensive suite of security and utility applications to enhance your Mac experience.

Pricing

Pricing for the Premium Mac Bundle starts at $69.99 for a first-year subscription. While the Internet Security X9 bundle starts at $39.99 per year for one Mac.

Pros

1. Works with security regulations that strictly monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic.
2. Will never slow down your Mac, unlike several other antivirus programs.
3. Specially designed to protect macOS.

Cons

1. Becomes slightly expensive after the first year.
2. Has a complex pricing structure.

Intego Internet Security

Get the best antivirus provider without affecting your Mac performance.

Free Trial Visit Website

2. McAfee

With over three decades of dominance, McAfee has established itself as a trusted name in the antivirus industry. McAfee Antivirus Plus for Mac is its Mac-specific option of the cross-platform security giant. Its advanced malware detection technology continuously monitors your system for potential threats and promptly neutralizes them.

McAfee Antivirus Plus for Mac operates seamlessly in the background and uses very little of your Mac’s resources, allowing you to perform your tasks without interruptions or slowdowns. Running full scans can take up more RAM and CPU power; even then, it doesn’t put too much of a dent in your computer’s performance.

McAfee for Mac adds the following utilities to its malware protection:

1. A password manager to securely store and manage your online credentials.
2. A firewall to secure your internet network.
3. Email security.
4. Ransomware protection.
5. Parental controls.

Pricing

McAfee offers protection for up to six devices, starting at $62.99 in the first year.

Pros

1. Strong anti-phishing protection is available.
2. Money-back guarantee for every purchase.
3. Cross-platform security for all devices in your home.

Cons

1. Several features in Windows McAfee are not available on Mac.
2. Insufficient ability to deliver a safe online browsing experience.

McAfee

Safeguard your Mac against anti-phishing with McAfee’s reliable features.

Free Trial Visit Website

3. Norton 360

Norton is another renowned computer security provider. With cross-platform compatibility, Norton 360 provides security for your Mac, as well as up to nine other devices on some plans. Norton is so confident in its anti-malware promise that if your Mac gets a virus that Norton’s team can’t remove, you get your subscription money back.

Norton is optimized to minimize the impact on your Mac’s performance by monitoring usage to determine CPU rush hours and avoid running power-intensive tasks at those times. So, when you’re not heavily crunching away at those numbers or playing Minecraft, Norton takes center stage and does its work.

Norton 360 comes with an assortment of additional features which vary depending on the plan you’re on.

The premium plan, also called the Select + LifeLock plan, can secure up to 10 MacBooks and it offers over 10 features.

With the basic Norton 360 Standard plan, you get:

1. 100 percent Antivirus protection.
2. A secure VPN.
3. Password manager.
4. 2GB of cloud storage.
5. Protection against hacking

Pricing

The most popular package, the AntiVirus Plus plan, is available for $94.99 per year. However, you can get it for $39.99 in the first year. The plan that offers the best value for money is the Deluxe plan, available for $49.99 for the first year. After the first year, a payment of $114.99 is expected for renewal.

Pros

1. Outstanding ability to detect malware.
2. Outstanding Mac cleanup ability.
3. A seven-day free trial and generous discounts are available.

Cons

1. Does not offer protection for earlier versions of macOS.
2. Significant price increase after the first year.

Norton 360

Try an all-in-one AV protection for your Mac and keep its performance optimized.

Free Trial Visit Website

4. Bitdefender Internet Security

Bitdefender Internet Security is another top contender in the antivirus market, known for its exceptional malware detection capabilities and low system resource usage. Since the antivirus is largely cloud-based, most of the heavy lifting of detecting and eliminating threats is done in the cloud, freeing up your Mac’s resources for your use.

Bitdefender Internet Security takes a preventive approach to protect your Mac. It performs ultrafast daily scans without slowing down your computer and notifies you if there are issues that require your attention. The antivirus comes coupled with other superb capabilities such as:

1. Ad blocker.
2. Fast VPN with a 200MB/day bandwidth cap which you can expand for additional fees.
3. Time Machine protection.
4. A safe browsing tool, Traffic Light, is an extension in your browser.

Pricing

Bitdefender is available for $35.99/year for five devices.

Pros

1. Offers a 30-day free trial after download. Provides affordable pricing compared to other antivirus solutions.
2. Delivers outstanding protection against malware, and ransomware
3. Adapts to various hardware specifications.

Cons

1. Several features unavailable for macOS protection
2. Unreliable browsing protection

Bitdefender Internet Security

Let Bitdefender maintain your device safe at all times.

Free Trial Visit Website

5. Avast Premium Security

Avast has been around for a while and has developed a solid reputation amongst the best antivirus providers in the world. Furthermore, the Mac-oriented offering of the computer security outfit, Avast Premium Security for Mac, offers a comprehensive solution that’s also very configurable, so you can tweak settings to meet your needs.

Avast Premium Security has one of the easiest user interfaces to use. While its impact on Mac performance is slightly higher than the other antivirus apps on the list, especially when scanning, it’s still very negligible. Another con is its slow scanning speed while running deep system scans.
Nevertheless, you get:

1. Reliable anti-malware protection
2. Email security
3. A web shield
4. An anti-ransomware shield.

Pricing

The Avast Premium Security bundle starts at $39.99 in the first year for a single owner.

Pros

1. Works with security regulations that strictly monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic.
2. Excellent ability to detect viruses on Mac.
3. Several bonus features are available.
4. Provides protection for other devices in the home.

Cons

1. Less protection is available for macOS than for Windows.
2. Several features require an additional cost.

Avast Premium Security

Get multi-layered security and privacy for your Mac with Avast Premium Security.

Free Trial Visit Website

Comparison of the Top Antivirus Options

To provide a comprehensive overview, let’s compare the top antivirus options based on performance impact, features, and reviews.

1. Performance Impact

1. Intego: Designed with efficient resource usage and then, optimization specifically for Mac systems.
2. McAfee: Negligible slowdowns during scanning and background protection.
3. Norton: Efficient resource usage with a minimal performance impact.
4. Bitdefender: Lightweight and optimized for Mac systems.
5. Avast: Slightly higher impact on performance.

2. Features and Functionality

1. Intego: Comprehensive protection with additional features like parental controls and network security tools.
2. McAfee: Offers password management and secure web browsing.
3. Norton: Includes a VPN and a firewall for enhanced security.
4. Bitdefender: Provides real-time scanning, web protection, and anti-phishing features.
5. Avast: Provides customizable scanning options, email security, and a web shield.

3. Reviews and Ratings

1. Intego: Highly praised for its Mac-specific focus and excellent malware detection, earning consistently positive reviews from customers.
2. McAfee: Known for its user-friendly interface and robust protection, it receives positive feedback from Mac owners.
3. Norton: Customers appreciate Norton’s powerful malware detection capabilities and additional features, leading to favorable reviews.
4. Bitdefender: With its exceptional malware detection and lightweight performance, Bitdefender receives high ratings from Mac owners.
5. Avast: Positive reviews praising its ease of use and efficient performance.

Conclusion

Protecting your Mac from malware and cyber threats does not have to become a toss between security and performance. Hence, this list was designed to help you choose the best antivirus solution for With resourceful options like Intego Antivirus, you can enjoy reliable protection while keeping your Mac running smoothly.

For convenience, many have suggested that using the same antivirus solution for all your devices and opting for a one-time subscription makes a lot of sense. If you’re interested in learning about the best antivirus solutions for your Mac, iPad, and iPhone, I recommend reading Arnold Zafra’s article available here.

Tags: Antivirus, Mac, performance

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 14:31:28 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153383 Do you often get a ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ pop-up? What is that? Why does it keep happening?We will explain what the ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ pop-up is all about. Then, will look at easy fixes to make it go away.

What Does ‘Your SIM Sent a Text Message’ Mean on iPhone?

Whenever you get the ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ pop-up on your iPhone, it usually means that your iPhone’s SIM is trying to contact your wireless carrier but cannot. There can be many reasons why this is happening. Inactive cellphone number, incorrect SIM card setup, outdated carrier settings, and corrupt network services are a few of the reasons why this pop-up appears.

And if you try and dismiss it, it would reappear soon. Sometimes even after a minute. Before you go ahead and contact your wireless carrier services provider, here are a few easy fixes that you can try yourself to resolve the issue. Work your way through them from the top down.

Enable and Disable Airplane Mode

This is the best fix for the ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ issue. Doing this will reconnect your SIM to its carrier network and will resolve any minor network issues.

Restart Your iPhone

If turning Airplane modes on and off doesn’t work, the next step would be to restart your iPhone. You can do this by pressing the power and volume-up buttons. Or, you can also restart your iPhone via Siri.

In most cases, the ‘Your Sim sent a text message’ issue will get sorted by these two methods. In case, it doesn’t, do not worry. We have a few more tricks up our sleeves.

Check for Updates in Carrier Settings

Sometimes, faulty or outdated Carrier Settings might be the root cause of the issue.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone and go to General.

2. Go to the About section and scroll down to the Physical SIM section.

3. Now wait for 30 seconds. If a prompt shows up about the Carrier Settings update, tap Update.

Reset Network Settings to Factory Default

Sometimes resetting your Network Settings to factory default can solve the ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ pop-up issue. But please note that doing this will delete all your cellular, APN, VPN, and Wi-Fi settings.

1. Go to Settings on your iPhone and open General.

2. Now select Transfer or Reset iPhone.

3. Then select Reset.

4. Now select Reset Network Settings.

Update iOS

If all the methods mentioned above fail, you might have an issue with your iOS version. So, it is best to check whether there are any updates pending.

1. Open General in your iPhone Settings.

2. Now tap on Software Update.

3. If you have any update is available, you will find a Download and Install button. Tap that to start the update process.

Turn off Automatic Network Selection To Resolve ‘Your SIM Sent a Text Message’ Issue

In default mode, your iPhone is instructed to switch networks based on the strength of the cellular signal. This, however, sometimes ends up causing issues. So, let us see how to turn it off.

1. Go to Settings on your iPhone and open Mobile Service.

2. Select Network Selection.

3. Turn off the toggle beside the Automatic option.

Eject and Reinsert the SIM Card

Sometimes ejecting the SIM card and reinserting it might help solve the issue. Before putting the SIM card back in after ejecting it, wipe it with a microfiber cloth. If you use an eSIM, do not delete it without talking to your carrier first.

Call Carrier Services To Fix ‘Your SIM Sent a Text Message’ Issue

If none of the above fixes work for you, then it is time for you to call your carrier services. There must be some issue elsewhere that is making the ‘Your SIM sent a text message’ pop-up appear. Your carrier services will then advise you on how to proceed after assessing your situation.

If your issue does get fixed by any of these solutions, do let us know which one did the trick for you.

Tags: Apple, iPhone, SIM Cards

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 11:48:30 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153400 General > Software Update. If there are any updates available, tap Download & Install. This should solve the iPhone 12/13 freezing and restarting issue. Additionally, check out how to download and install iOS 17 on your iPhone. 3. Reset All Settings If you suspect that incorrect settings may be causing the issue, you can reset all settings without losing data. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. Select Reset > Reset All Settings. 4. Factory Reset Your iPhone As a last resort, you may need to factory reset your iPhone. Be sure to back up your data before proceeding. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. Select Erase All Contents & Settings and follow the on-screen instructions. If all else fails, it’s time to seek professional help from Apple Support. There may be a hardware issue that needs inspection by professionals. Why Does My iPhone Keep Freezing and Then Shutting Off? If your iPhone keeps freezing and then shutting off, there might be various underlying reasons causing this behavior: Software Glitches or Bugs: Sometimes, software updates or certain apps might have bugs that can cause the iPhone to freeze and shut down. Overheating: If your iPhone gets too hot, it might freeze and eventually shut down to prevent hardware damage. Insufficient Storage: When the iPhone's storage is almost full, it can slow down the device and cause it to freeze and shut off. Corrupt Apps: A third-party app or even a system app that has become corrupted can cause instability in the system, leading to freezing and shutting down. Battery Issues: A failing battery can sometimes cause the device to shut down unexpectedly, especially if the battery can’t hold charge properly. Hardware Problems: There could be an internal hardware issue, such as a faulty component, which is causing the iPhone to freeze and shut down. Operating System Issues: Sometimes, the iOS itself can have errors or corruptions that can lead to this kind of behavior. In such situations, it is recommended to try some troubleshooting steps such as force restarting the iPhone, uninstalling suspicious apps, updating iOS, or resetting the iPhone to factory settings. For detailed solutions check out our guide on what to do if iPhone 14 is not turning on. Conclusion An iPhone that keeps freezing and restarting can be immensely frustrating, especially when you need to use it urgently. The causes can vary from software bugs to hardware issues. With the information and solutions provided in this article, you are now armed with the knowledge to tackle this issue head-on. However, if the problem persists despite trying all the solutions, it’s wise to consult Apple Support to ensure your device receives the appropriate care and attention. For further reading, check out what you can do when your iPhone screen stops responding to touch input. Why is my iPhone turning on and off with the Apple logo? When your iPhone repeatedly shows the Apple logo, it means that the device is trying to boot up but is encountering problems. This could be due to corrupted files, an unsuccessful software update, or hardware issues. How do I fix a stuck Apple logo endless reboot? You should try to perform a force restart. For iPhone 8 and later, quickly press and release the volume up button, then try the same with the volume down button, and finally, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo reappears. Does hard reset delete everything on iPhone? A hard reset, often known as a force restart, does not delete any data from your iPhone. It simply forces your phone to power off and restart when it's not responding. However, if you perform a factory reset, that will erase all data and return the iPhone to its original settings.]]> If you’ve found your way here, chances are you are grappling with the recurring issue of your iPhone freezing and subsequently restarting. Many iPhone owners have reported experiencing this, and it can be especially frustrating if your device is relatively new. This article delves into the possible causes and effective solutions to this problem.

Why Does My iPhone Keep Freezing and Restarting Itself?

Before diving into the solutions, let’s analyze the possible culprits behind your iPhone’s erratic behavior. Knowing the causes can help you target the problem more effectively:

• Software Bugs – Although software updates are supposed to enhance your iPhone experience, sometimes they may be the root cause of the issue. Beta versions are especially notorious for having bugs. However, even stable updates can sometimes create problems. For instance, iOS 16 was criticized for causing battery drain issues in some iPhone models.
• Storage issues – An iPhone with an overloaded storage capacity can struggle to perform even basic functions. Always ensure that there is enough free space for the system to save temporary files and operate effectively.
• Conflict with third-party apps – Installing apps from unofficial sources can result in compatibility issues and even malware. These apps may not have undergone the rigorous testing that apps in the App Store do and can wreak havoc on your device’s performance.

Can a Virus Cause a Phone To Keep Restarting?

Yes, a virus or malware can cause your iPhone to keep freezing and restarting. These malicious programs can affect system files, causing instability and performance issues. The safest way to solve this issue is by using a strong antivirus solution like Intego VirusBarrier.

It will scan your iPhone and catch malware and malicious threats, further getting rid of all their traces to keep your device safe and prevent them from affecting it in the future.

➡️ Get Intego VirusBarrier

How To Fix iPhone Keeps Freezing and Restarting by Itself

Before moving on to more complex solutions, follow these preliminary steps:

• Restart your iPhone – Sometimes a simple force restart can do wonders. It refreshes the device’s memory, clears the cache, and reloads apps. Thus, tap the volume up button and immediately let it go. Tap the volume down button and instantly release it. Then press and hold the side button. Once the Apple logo shows up, let go of the side button. Alternatively, you can restart your iPhone with Siri.
• Check the error logs on your iPhone – Checking log reports can give you insights into backend processes. To check logs, go to Settings > Privacy > Analytics & Improvements.
• Clear up the storage – If your iPhone is near its storage capacity, try deleting unnecessary files or apps to free up some space. Go to Settings > General > Storage. You can see what’s taking up the most space and decide what to delete or offload. Additionally, check out how to delete your iCloud storage.

If none of the above solutions work, proceed with the following:

1. Uninstall Third-party Apps

If you have installed any 3rd party apps from unofficial sources recently, try uninstalling them. Additionally, check your apps list for any unfamiliar apps that may have been installed without your knowledge.

2. Update iOS

Additionally, check out how to download and install iOS 17 on your iPhone.

3. Reset All Settings

If you suspect that incorrect settings may be causing the issue, you can reset all settings without losing data.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
   
2. Select Reset > Reset All Settings.
   

4. Factory Reset Your iPhone

As a last resort, you may need to factory reset your iPhone. Be sure to back up your data before proceeding.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
   
2. Select Erase All Contents & Settings and follow the on-screen instructions.
   

If all else fails, it’s time to seek professional help from Apple Support. There may be a hardware issue that needs inspection by professionals.

Why Does My iPhone Keep Freezing and Then Shutting Off?

If your iPhone keeps freezing and then shutting off, there might be various underlying reasons causing this behavior:

• Software Glitches or Bugs: Sometimes, software updates or certain apps might have bugs that can cause the iPhone to freeze and shut down.
• Overheating: If your iPhone gets too hot, it might freeze and eventually shut down to prevent hardware damage.
• Insufficient Storage: When the iPhone’s storage is almost full, it can slow down the device and cause it to freeze and shut off.
• Corrupt Apps: A third-party app or even a system app that has become corrupted can cause instability in the system, leading to freezing and shutting down.
• Battery Issues: A failing battery can sometimes cause the device to shut down unexpectedly, especially if the battery can’t hold charge properly.
• Hardware Problems: There could be an internal hardware issue, such as a faulty component, which is causing the iPhone to freeze and shut down.
• Operating System Issues: Sometimes, the iOS itself can have errors or corruptions that can lead to this kind of behavior.

In such situations, it is recommended to try some troubleshooting steps such as force restarting the iPhone, uninstalling suspicious apps, updating iOS, or resetting the iPhone to factory settings. For detailed solutions check out our guide on what to do if iPhone 14 is not turning on.

Conclusion

An iPhone that keeps freezing and restarting can be immensely frustrating, especially when you need to use it urgently. The causes can vary from software bugs to hardware issues. With the information and solutions provided in this article, you are now armed with the knowledge to tackle this issue head-on. However, if the problem persists despite trying all the solutions, it’s wise to consult Apple Support to ensure your device receives the appropriate care and attention. For further reading, check out what you can do when your iPhone screen stops responding to touch input.

Tags: iOS, iPhone, reboot, virus

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 07:39:45 +0000 Mahit Huigol tmo_wp_47465 Apple products have a reputation for lasting longer than others. No matter what, eventually, you will have to upgrade to a newer machine. But what if your iMac is still working? We will explain how to repurpose your old iMac as an external monitor. All you need is an old iMac that supports Target Display Mode. Apple added the feature on iMac’s sold after 2009.

The caveat is that Apple retired the Target Display Mode with Retina Displays. However, there is a nifty workout just for this. We have listed the basic system requirements and multiple ways to use the old iMac as an external monitor.

System Requirements for Using Your iMac as a Secondary Display

If you are looking to use your iMac as a secondary display, you will need a few things to prepare your entire setup. What are those things?

The source Mac must be running macOS Catalina (10.15) or earlier.

• The 27-inch iMacs, which are Display mode-compatible, usually feature a Thunderbolt port or a bi-directional Mini Display port. So depending on which port is present in your iMac, you will need the Thunderbolt or the Mini DisplayPort cable to facilitate the connection between the two Macs.
• The macOS on the iMac should be High Sierra (10.13.6) or earlier.
• The source Mac must be running macOS Catalina (10.15) or earlier.

List of Compatible Macs

The iMac models released over the years 2011 and 2014 are all compatible with functioning as a secondary display. 

• 2009-2010 27-inch Mac -that has a Mini DisplayPort
• 2011-2014 iMac – that has a Thunderbolt port. 

Set up an Old iMac as an External Monitor Using Target Display Mode

The Target Display Mode feature (TDM) allows specific iMac models that have Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort interface to function as an external secondary monitor for another Mac. The latter Mac models do not have this feature because the power and port sustainability was becoming an issue with an increase in display quality.

Steps to Set up Target Display Mode

Let me show you how to enable Target Display Mode and use your iMac as a secondary display. 

How To Control Brightness and Sound on the Display Mac?

There are two easy ways in which you can control the brightness and sound of your display Mac. 

1. Move your mouse cursor on the screen of the display iMac and then press the keyboard buttons for adjusting brightness and sound. 

2. Use the sliders on the menu bar item to control the sound and brightness of the second display Mac.

Fix Target Display Mode is Not working

If your Target Display Mode is not functioning properly, there is no need to panic. Here are some solutions which you can try out to fix the issue. 

1. Instead of Command + F2, use Command + Fn + F2. This solution might help for some specific keyboard types. 

2. Check and ensure that the Thunderbolt or the Mini DisplayPort cables are connected properly. 

3. If you have already logged into the iMac that you intend to use as a secondary display, log out and come back to the login screen. 

4. Booting up the display iMac from a Windows volume also might cause the issue. In that case, you will have to restart it from a normal Mac startup drive. 

5. Some third-party keyboards create an issue while sending the Command + F2 prompt. In that case, it is advised to use a different keyboard or the keyboard that came with the Mac. 

How To Use iMac as an External Monitor With Airplay?

The AirPlay feature allows you to receive audio, videos, and other content from nearby Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac). AirPlay is supported on Macs which run macOS 12 or later. If you wish to learn about the system requirements for the continuity of AirPlay across devices, you can go through Apple’s Support Guide.

Note: If your Mac is enrolled in an MDM (Mobile Device Management) system, the AirPlay Receiver may be unavailable on your device.

Set Up iMac To Become an AirPlay Receiver

Here is how you can set up your iMac as an AirPlay receiver. 

1. Go to the Apple menu on your Mac. 

2. Open System Settings and go to General in the sidebar. 

3. Click on Airdrop & Handoff on the right side to turn it on. 

You will find three options –

• Current user: Only the devices in which you are signed in with your own Apple ID can be used to stream content on this Mac. 
• Anyone on the same network: Any nearby Apple device which has AirPlay enabled can stream content to this Mac. 
• Everyone: Any nearby iPhone, iPad, or Mac can use this monitor to stream content. 

4. If you wish to keep your iMac password protected, turn on Require Password and enter the password in the text field. Sometimes AirPlay might become sluggish. In such a scenario here’s how you can fix lagging AirPlay.

When Should You Use iMac as a Monitor?

If you need a second display monitor temporarily or on an urgent basis, using your iMac as a second display monitor is a great option. But if you are looking for a more permanent solution then I will advise getting a separate monitor for your requirements. 

If you continue using an iMac as a secondary monitor for prolonged period, you will be wasting both power and the computing abilities of the iMac. 

Old iMac Gets a New Lease of Life

Old iMac monitors are decent and good for a non-demanding workflow. The iMac will serve well as an external monitor instead of scrapping it as e-waste. Do note that we don’t recommend using newer iMacs as external monitors. Since it is better used as a standalone computer.

Tags: iMac, MacBook

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 23:52:34 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_153363 Find that your Mac is slow after an SSD upgrade? Worry not, for a solution is near. While some Macs allow users to swap or expand their memory, there can sometimes be an issue where users find that their machine is running slower after the upgrade. While this can certainly cause a headache, there’s a number of things one can do to give their device some speed. Even better, virtually all of the solutions are super easy and straightforward. 

With that in mind, I’m going to take a look at several solutions if a user finds their Mac to be slow after an SSD upgrade. While there are a number of answers that a user can try, I’ve done my best to keep them in an order from easiest to hardest, meaning users should start at the top of the solutions and work their way down. I also cover a couple of reasons why a user’s machine may be running slower, so be sure to read everything to ensure you’re covering all your bases. 

Why is My Mac Slow When I Have Plenty of Storage? 

There could be a number of reasons why a user is experiencing performance issues after upgrading the SSD. As I mention a bit below as well, there may be compatibility issues with the SSD and your Mac. Covering hardware, it may also just be something as simple as the SATA cable needing replaced as well. 

On the software side of things, there can be a number of reasons why a user is experiencing slow down. Virtually all of the solutions below cover the software side of things, so each solution can offer a bit of explanation as to why a user is experiencing slowdown. This can be from needing a software update, to making sure Active Garbage Collection is doing what it needs to do. 

Covering the Basics

If you’re having issues with your Mac performance after an SSD upgrade, there’s a couple of things you should do before continuing with other solutions and measures. Before trying anything else, make sure to check your Mac for any available software updates. Keeping your device up to date is one of the more important things you can do to ensure that everything is running smoothly. Simply go to System Settings > General > Software Update and see if a software update is available for you. 

Another important thing to do is ensure that the new drive you are using for your Mac is actually compatible with your system. This may require some online sleuthing, but some drives have been known to not work well with certain Macs. Perform an online search for the name of your drive to try and check for compatibility. 

Users may also want to try reinstalling macOS. We’ve got a guide on how to do that here.

If Mac is Slow After SSD Upgrade: Select the Right Startup Disk

After replacing the SSD on your Mac, one thing a user should do is ensure that the new drive is set up as your device’s startup disk. While rare, it’s not a guarantee that a Mac is always going to automatically make the switch to the new disk. 

Check Activity Monitor 

Checking Activity Monitor on your Mac can be a great way to determine what’s eating up resources on your machine. This app comes preinstalled on every Mac device, and can be great to make sure that your machine is running as it should. Not only are you able to check to see what apps are using what resources, but you can also force close any apps that are giving you problems directly from Activity Monitor. 

If you want to force close an app through Activity Monitor, or just check your resources, simply follow these steps. 

1. Go to Activity Monitor. It can typically be found in Applications > Utilities.
2. To close an app, choose one from the Process Name list, then click the X at the top of the app. You will then have the option to Quit the app or Force Quit the app. Quitting will close the application as it normally would, allowing you to save things. Force Quit will kill the app instantly.
   
3. You can also organize the list of apps depending on what resources they are using the most. For example, you can click CPU% to list what apps are using the most of your CPU either in ascending or descending order. 
   

If Mac is Slow After SSD Upgrade: Get Active Garbage Collection Running

Users should also make sure that their SSD is receiving Trim commands. Concerning SSDs, Trims can help keep your drive efficient, as the feature can help manage data on a drive. This is also why many crucial SSDs have Active Garbage Collection, which helps with this process when Trim is not properly functioning. If your SSD isn’t receiving Trim commands, or if Active Garbage Collection never runs properly, this can likely create issues for users.  

Therefore, if you notice some performance issues and replacing your SSD, it may be a good idea to let Active Garbage Collection run for 6 to 8 hours to see if that delivers functionality and performance. Ideally, you will want your Mac to be in Startup Manager to engage Active Garbage Collection. On an Apple silicon Mac, simply continue to hold the power button as you are starting up your device. You can release the power button when you see your startup disks and a gear icon. For Intel-based Macs, hold the Option key during startup. As mentioned, let your Mac idle for several hours to activate Active Garbage Collection.

If Mac is Slow After SSD Upgrade:Run Apple Diagnostics

Users can also run Apple Diagnostics to see if there are any issues with the SSD. Using this app, users are able to check to see if there are any hardware issues with their device. That way, you can find if the drive is working as intended. 

Before running the test, make sure that your machine is up to date, there’s connection to AC power and that external devices are disconnected (except for keyboard, display and mouse). You should also ensure that the device is on a flat surface with proper ventilation. You will then need to determine if you’re running Apple silicon or an Intel-based processor. If you don’t know, you can find this information from the Menu Bar by going to Apple > About this Mac. 

Depending on your processor, you will perform the test via the following steps:

• On Apple silicon: Turn off your device. Then, press and hold the power button on your device. While you hold the power button, wait for your Mac to turn on and load the startup options. Release the power button when you see these options, then press and hold Command and D on your keyboard.
• With Intel-based processors: Turn on your Mac, then immediately press and hold the D key as your machine starts. You will then release the key when you see the progress bar. You may also be asked to choose a language. If the D key doesn’t work, you can also try pressing and holding Option and D. 

You will then see the results of the test. If you receive an Apple Diagnostics reference code, you can check them here. After the test, you can press R to restart your device, or S to shut it down. 

Conclusion: Why is My SSD Not Giving Full Speed? 

While replacing the SSD in your Mac can ultimately be beneficial, it’s the most beneficial when working properly. Whether you’re replacing your disk because you want more storage, or you’re replacing it because the original was damaged, getting your Mac working its best is typically priority number one. Fortunately, if you’re experiencing slowness after replacing the SSD in your Mac, the solution is rather easy. In just a couple of steps, you can get your machine where you want it, and you can go back to enjoying your machine. 

If you’ve got problems, we’ve got solutions. While Apple users typically flock to the platform for its reliability, no system is perfect. For example, should you need it, we do have a guide on how to install macOS using Internet Recovery Mode. We’ve also got you covered if you need to know what to do if macOS gets stuck during the installation process. While some problems can no doubt cause a user to panic, more often than not,a solution is just right around the corner.

Tags: featured, Mac, SSD, upgrade

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:40:50 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153244 GIF or (Graphic Interchangeable Format) is a great way of expressing ourselves and lighten the mood. Did you know you can directly convert videos into GIFs on iPhone? The Shortcuts app on your iPhone helps you to convert your videos into GIFs. You no longer have to download any third-party app for this purpose.

In this article, we will learn how to convert videos into GIFs using the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. We will also learn how to share the GIFs.

What Do You Need To Convert a Video Into a GIF on Your iPhone?

Everything that you need to change your videos into GIFs is already present on your iPhone. You do not need to install any third-party app to do so. The Shortcuts app, which is one of the pre-installed apps, is quite reliable in terms of creating GIFs out of your videos. All you need is a video to convert into GIFs.

How To Convert a Video Into a GIF on Your iPhone via the Shortcuts App?

Do You Wish To Share the GIF on iPhone?

Once you have created a GIF, it will automatically appear in your iPhone gallery.

1. Open Photos on your iPhone.

2. Select the GIF from the library.

3. Select the Share icon from the bottom left side of the screen. Now choose the app and contact through which you wish to share the GIF.

How To Turn a Live Photo Into a GIF?

Turning your live photos into GIFs have become really easy with the Loop and Bounce features available in the Photos app. Learn how to create GIFs from your live photos with the help of our comprehensive guide.

Wrap Up

According to a recent survey, the newer generation admitted to using GIFs more than emojis, stickers, or typing out the actual message. So, make your own GIFs today and blend in seamlessly in any conversation.

If you need any help with converting videos into GIFs, do let us know in the comments. We will reach out to help you in any way we can.

FAQs

Tags: GIF, iPhone, shortcuts

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 14:28:17 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153297 Your name > Password & Security and clicking Change password. Enable two-factor authentication on iCloud: go to Settings > Your name > Password & Security on your iPhone, and tap on Two-Factor Authentication. Follow the prompts to enable it. After securing your account, it is advisable to get in touch with Apple Support. Explain the issue of random notes appearing in detail and ask them to look into it. This step is important as Apple Support can analyze the issue at a deeper level. iCloud keeps asking for a password? Check out how to fix this pesky error. Why Are There Duplicate Notes on My iPhone? Duplicate notes can be a result of syncing issues between iCloud and your iPhone or having multiple accounts (like Gmail) syncing notes. To address this issue: Consolidate Accounts: Go to Settings > Notes and check the accounts that are syncing with Notes. Choose one account for syncing. Toggle Syncing Off and On: Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud and toggle off Notes. Wait a few moments and toggle it back on. Why Does My Notes App Keep Opening a Note? If your Notes app keeps opening a note unexpectedly, it could be due to a software glitch, or in some cases, it might be syncing issues with iCloud. Here are a few steps you can try: Restart your iPhone: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches. Update your iOS: Make sure your device is running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can cause unexpected issues. Check iCloud Settings: If your Notes app is synced with iCloud, check the settings to make sure that everything is in order. How Do I Find Hidden Notes on My iPhone? If you suspect that notes are being hidden or saved in a different folder: Check All Folders: In the Notes app, ensure you check 'All iCloud' and any other folders that may be syncing with the app. Search for Keywords: Use the search function in the Notes app to find specific notes. Conclusion Random notes appearing in the Notes app is indeed a puzzling issue. It's important to ensure your device is secure and up to date. If you have tried all the steps outlined above and the problem persists, it might be worthwhile to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance. For further reading, check out how to link notes in the Apple Notes app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. How do I get rid of locked Notes? To delete locked notes on your iPhone, first, you need to unlock them. Tap on the locked note, then select "View Note" or the lock icon and enter your password, Face ID, or Touch ID. Once the note is unlocked, you can delete it by tapping on the trash icon. Are Notes on iPhone secure? The Notes app on iPhone can be fairly secure, especially if you use the available security features. By default, notes are not encrypted, but you can choose to lock specific notes with a password, Face ID, or Touch ID. Additionally, if you sync your notes with iCloud, they are encrypted during transit and while stored in iCloud. However, like any other digital data, there is always some level of risk, so it's important to use strong passwords and exercise caution. Can hackers get into your Notes app? Yes, it is possible for hackers to gain access to your Notes app if they can compromise your Apple ID, guess your password, or exploit a security vulnerability. To minimize this risk, it’s essential to use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, keep your iOS updated, and be vigilant about phishing attempts or any suspicious activity related to your Apple account.]]> Have you ever opened your iPhone’s Notes app to find strange, random notes that you don’t remember saving? Well, rest assured that you’re not the only one facing this issue, and interestingly, this glitch can also manifest in the opposite manner, leading to notes disappearing from the Notes app. In this article, I will address this common complaint and explore the possible reasons behind it, along with potential solutions. Follow along to find out how to fix random notes appearing in iPhone’s Notes app.

Random Notes Appearing in iPhone’s Notes App

Some people have reported an unusual occurrence on their iPhone Notes app. Random notes with no apparent connection to each other or to the owner have been mysteriously appearing. These include CD keys, internet memes, news articles from various countries, and even text that resembles spam messages. The user confirmed that they have taken precautionary measures, such as logging out of all devices, changing passwords, and scanning for malicious apps, but the problem persists.

Can iPhone Notes Be Compromised?

Yes, like any other app or service, iPhone Notes can be compromised if your Apple ID is hacked. However, in the case of the iPhone owner complaint, it seems unlikely since there were no 2FA login requests and they changed their passwords.

iCloud keeps asking for a password? Check out how to fix this pesky error.

Why Are There Duplicate Notes on My iPhone?

Duplicate notes can be a result of syncing issues between iCloud and your iPhone or having multiple accounts (like Gmail) syncing notes. To address this issue:

1. Consolidate Accounts: Go to Settings > Notes and check the accounts that are syncing with Notes. Choose one account for syncing.
2. Toggle Syncing Off and On: Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud and toggle off Notes. Wait a few moments and toggle it back on.

Why Does My Notes App Keep Opening a Note?

If your Notes app keeps opening a note unexpectedly, it could be due to a software glitch, or in some cases, it might be syncing issues with iCloud. Here are a few steps you can try:

1. Restart your iPhone: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches.
2. Update your iOS: Make sure your device is running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can cause unexpected issues.
3. Check iCloud Settings: If your Notes app is synced with iCloud, check the settings to make sure that everything is in order.

How Do I Find Hidden Notes on My iPhone?

If you suspect that notes are being hidden or saved in a different folder:

1. Check All Folders: In the Notes app, ensure you check ‘All iCloud’ and any other folders that may be syncing with the app.
2. Search for Keywords: Use the search function in the Notes app to find specific notes.

Conclusion

Random notes appearing in the Notes app is indeed a puzzling issue. It’s important to ensure your device is secure and up to date. If you have tried all the steps outlined above and the problem persists, it might be worthwhile to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance. For further reading, check out how to link notes in the Apple Notes app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Tags: Apple Notes, iCloud Syncing, Notes, syncing

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:31:37 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153246 Settings. Next, go to Installation, and under Default Install Location, change whatever option is selected to the other option. Restart your Mac then try to install the font again. 2. Clear the Font Cache Open Finder then hold down the Option key and click on the Go menu. Then select Library. Now, locate the Caches folder and open it. Within the Caches folder, find folders named com.apple.FontRegistry and com.apple.ATS. Move these folders to the Trash then empty the Trash. Restart your Mac to finish clearing the font cache. 3. Update macOS Please make sure to back up your important files before performing these operations, especially before updating macOS, as updates can sometimes cause issues with compatibility or data loss. Validate and Resolve Conflicts Sometimes, there could be conflicts between fonts. Font Book has a feature to validate fonts before installation. Open Font Book. Select the font you want to install. Go to File > Validate File. This will check for conflicts or issues with the font. If there are any issues, you can resolve them through Font Book by following the on-screen instructions. How Do I Enable TTF Fonts on Mac? TrueType fonts, or TTF fonts, are one of the most commonly used font formats. Here’s how to enable them on your Mac: Locate the TTF font file. Double-click on the file to open it in Font Book. Click Install Font. By following these steps, you should be able to fix the issue of fonts not installing or not working on your Mac. For further reading, check out how to access the macOS emoji keyboard. Is TTF compatible with Mac? Yes, TrueType (TTF) fonts are compatible with Mac. macOS natively supports TTF files, along with other formats like OpenType (OTF). If a TTF font is not working, it could be due to font file corruption, a conflict with another font, or a system setting. How do I force a font to install? First, ensure the font is in a format compatible with Mac (like TTF or OTF). Open the Font Book app, go to File > Add Fonts, and locate your font file. Click Open to install. If macOS blocks the font due to validation issues, you can try disabling font validation by going to Font Book > Preferences and unchecking Validate fonts before installing. How do I clear the font cache on Mac? Open Finder on your Mac, and while holding down the Option key, click on the Go menu. From the dropdown, select Library. Once inside the Library folder, look for the Caches folder and open it. Within the Caches folder, search for folders named com.apple.FontRegistry and com.apple.ATS. Move these folders to the Trash. Afterward, empty the Trash to remove these files from your system. Lastly, restart your Mac to complete the process of clearing the font cache.]]> If you’re a Mac owner, you know that customizing your computer to suit your taste and needs is one of the best things about owning a Mac. But sometimes you might run into an issue when trying to install new fonts. If you’ve experienced this, don’t worry. In this article, we will discuss why you could not install fonts on Mac, and solutions to resolve this issue. Follow along!

Why Are Fonts Not Installing?

There could be several reasons why Font Book won’t install fonts on your Mac such as the following:

• Font File Corruption: The font file you’re trying to install could be corrupt.
• Incorrect Format: The font format might not be supported on Mac.
• Permission Issues: Sometimes, Mac’s system permissions prevent new fonts from being installed.
• Font Conflict: A font already installed on your system might be conflicting with the new one.
• System Glitch: It could be due to a temporary glitch in the macOS.

Why Are Fonts Not Working on Mac?

If you have successfully installed fonts but they are not working, it could be due to the following:

• Application Limitations: The application you are using may not support the particular font type.
• Font Cache Issue: Sometimes the font cache becomes corrupted.
• Incompatibility with macOS Version: Some fonts might not be compatible with the version of macOS you are using.
• Font Conflict: Similar to the installation issue, conflicts with other fonts can cause fonts not to work properly.

How Do I Manually Install Fonts on Mac?

It’s possible that you could not install fonts on Mac because you were not following the right steps. Thus, before moving on to the troubleshooting steps, we recommend checking out how to properly install and validate fonts on your Mac.

How To Fix Could Not Install Fonts on Mac

1. Change the Default Install Location

2. Clear the Font Cache

1. Open Finder then hold down the Option key and click on the Go menu.
   
2. Then select Library.
3. Now, locate the Caches folder and open it.
   
4. Within the Caches folder, find folders named com.apple.FontRegistry and com.apple.ATS.
5. Move these folders to the Trash then empty the Trash.
6. Restart your Mac to finish clearing the font cache.

3. Update macOS

Please make sure to back up your important files before performing these operations, especially before updating macOS, as updates can sometimes cause issues with compatibility or data loss.

Validate and Resolve Conflicts

Sometimes, there could be conflicts between fonts. Font Book has a feature to validate fonts before installation.

1. Open Font Book.
2. Select the font you want to install.
3. Go to File > Validate File.
   
4. This will check for conflicts or issues with the font. If there are any issues, you can resolve them through Font Book by following the on-screen instructions.

How Do I Enable TTF Fonts on Mac?

TrueType fonts, or TTF fonts, are one of the most commonly used font formats. Here’s how to enable them on your Mac:

1. Locate the TTF font file.
2. Double-click on the file to open it in Font Book.
3. Click Install Font.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix the issue of fonts not installing or not working on your Mac. For further reading, check out how to access the macOS emoji keyboard.

Tags: Fonts, Mac

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:22:28 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_153141 We all know that our Apple IDs are keys to the Apple ecosystem. But what if you wish to change the email id? Changing your Apple ID email through a few quick steps is possible.

In this article, we will learn how to change the email address of your Apple ID. We will also learn how to update iCloud details after changing the email. Lastly, we will be looking at how to change the Apple security notification email.

Is It Possible To Change Your Apple ID Email?

Your email address is one of the first things that gets linked to Apple ID. But it can be changed. Once changed, you can use this new email id to log into iTunes, iCloud, App Store, and all other Apple services and apps.

You will retain your old purchases and apps. Just that everything will now be linked to the new email address that you have provided.

How To Change the Email of Your Apple ID?

And Congratulations! You have finished changing the email address. Now you can access your Apple ID using the new email.

How to Update Your iCloud Details on Your iPhone?

Now that you have successfully changed the email address, how would you update it on your iCloud? Let us find out.

1. Open Settings and tap on your name at the top of the screen.

2. Scroll down to the bottom and select Sign Out.

3. Enter the password to your Apple ID when prompted.

4. Now, sign in again using your new Apple ID email address.

Once done, you will have no issues while syncing your data with iCloud.

When Should You Change Your Apple ID Email?

There are a number of reasons why you might need to get a new Apple ID email.

• You should stop using your old email address.

• There might be some security concerns with your old email account.

• You might face issues while logging into your old email (forgotten password, storage full, etc.)

• Someone might have access to the old email address so you want to reset your security.

Whatever the reason may be, you will now be able to change your email address whenever you want.

Wrapping Up

There can be a number of reasons why you may need to change your email address. Although you will require a PC setup to change the email address of your Apple ID, the process to change the email is relatively easy.

In case you have any more doubts or queries regarding changing your email, please let us know in the comments. We will be happy to help you out.

Tags: Apple ID, iOS, iPhone

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 14:31:48 +0000 Arkaneel Khan tmo_wp_152955 If you use Mac for business purposes, investing in the best antivirus on the market is often wise. Despite what most Mac users believe, your Mac is not immune to threats. And while running a business, you do not want to keep anything up for chance.

So, to ensure that your system is protected from all kinds of external and internal threats, we have curated some of the best Mac antivirus solutions for businesses.

How To Choose the Best Mac Antivirus Solution for Your Business?

There are a few aspects of an antivirus solution that makes it a good fit for business. Let us see what those are.

• Virus Protection Rates: Antivirus solutions should offer proper protection against zero-day malware along with web and email threats. Look for independent testing lab results to verify the workings of an antivirus solution.

• Impact on the performance of the device: While running a business, you do not want your Macs to slow down. If an antivirus slows down machines to the point of hampering business productivity, there is no point in getting that antivirus. So, research the antivirus solutions beforehand to understand better how they affect your system’s workings.

• Security features: There are certain features that all antivirus solutions have like Malware scanner, virus protection, network protection, etc. But, the best Mac antivirus solutions for business stand out through the extra security features (like Password Manager, VPN service, Mac Firewall, etc.) they offer apart from the usual ones.

• Price range: You must have a budget for your antivirus. You should try and stay within your budget while getting an antivirus solution. But, if you do have to, it is worth spending a few extra bucks here to ensure the security of your Mac.

• Customer support: Having 24X7 customer support is of great help, especially in the case of businesses. In the event of a ransomware attack, customer support personnel can provide you with useful tips or even just answer technical questions.

1. Intego

Intego, from its very advent, has catered primarily to Macs. It has dedicated itself to the protecting Apple devices for nearly two decades. Intego X9, the latest antivirus solution offers a slew of great Mac antivirus for business.

Features

• Blocks 100% threats and has been verified by a number of independent lab testings.

• The VirusBarrier feature offers real-time protection by scanning programs and files as and when they are accessed.

• As its name suggests, Mac Internet Security secures all your Internet activities. It works in the background to protect you from phishing attempts from malicious websites, outgoing efforts from rogue data, etc. It also lets you run a number of scans to test your device’s security and integrity.

• Comes with an advanced Mac firewall. It helps you by being location-aware and keeps the device safe from unauthorized access. This feature is especially handy if you are a traveler or a backpacker.

• The Washing Machine is another standout feature of this antivirus. It helps you keep your laptop clean by getting rid of accumulated junk and duplicate files.

• Intego is capable of detecting dormant Windows and Linux viruses which are dormant in your Mac,

Best For

Businesses that have a large work-from-home customer base. The Firewall feature guarantees extra protection against unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Pricing Details

Mac Premium Bundle X9 – $146.99 for 5 devices for 1 year

Additional VPN service – $19.99.

Free Trial

Intego has a 7-day trial period available for all of its services. Apart from that, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Norton 360

The Norton 360 is a very safe choice of antivirus solution for a Mac. It offers tons of features that make it a very reliable choice for enterprises using Mac. Furthermore, it is also helpful for freelancers and consultants using Mac for their businesses.

Features

• Offers all-around protection against fraudulent and malicious websites.

• Has a VPN service with no limits on bandwidth.

• Reliable and Robust

• Offers a Dark Web Monitoring feature that allows you to shield yourself from the unwanted sides of the Dark Web.

Best For

Businesses that use both MacOS and Windows-based systems.

Pricing Details

Norton 360 Deluxe – $25.62 for 5 devices for 1 year

Free Trial

There is a 7-day free trial period. And, there is a 60-day money-back guarantee.

2. Bitdefender Total Security

Bitdefender Total Security is one of the most reliable antivirus solution brands for Macs in the market. It uses innovative technology to shield you against spyware, viruses, malware, etc.

Features

• Provides excellent device-level security.

• Does not slow down your system even when it works in the background.

• Has a trustworthy mechanism against browser hijackers.

• It has state-of-the-art anti-phishing protection that blocks malicious websites from accessing your financial data or credentials.

Best For

Best for businesses that require high computing power. As it does not choke the system speed, it can work efficiently with minimal resources.

Pricing Details

Bitdefender – $179.99 for 10 devices.

Free Trial

Has a 30-day free trial period.

3. Avira Prime

Avira Prime is not just simple antivirus software, it is a security suite. A subscription to Avira gives you access to the pro version of all the apps and tools from Avira’s stable. Pretty nice, right?

Features

• Includes premium licenses to all its apps and tools, including apps that are yet to be released.

• Excellent real-time virus scan feature.

• Has a VPN service but it only offers 500MB of data a month.

• The Junk Remover feature helps declutter your Mac.

Best For

Businesses that do not require VPN services or extensive internet security.

Pricing Details

Avira Prime – $99.99 per year for 5 devices.

Free Trial

Does not have a free trial but does have a free version that can give you a glimpse of the antivirus solution.

4. TotalAV

TotalAV is a reliable antivirus solution that is making quite a name for itself these days. Its comprehensive security features and reliable virus scans make it a proper option to consider.

Features

• The real-time engine scans and detects threats when you download or open files.

• There is a Smart Scan feature that does a regular security routine to ensure the safety of your Mac. This ensures total protection from all kinds of real-time threats.

• Has VPN services and a built-in Password Manager tool.

• It has an exemplary malware-catching ability.

Best for

Businesses that require real-time scanning to check for threats.

Pricing Details

TotalAV – $19.00 for 6 devices for the first year.

Free Trial

Does not have a free trial but has a 30-day money-back policy.

5. Clario

The Clario antivirus for Mac is a good fit for enterprises because of its user-centric approach. Instead of stuffing the antivirus solution with features that aren’t of use to customers, the developers focus on what the users actually need. Clario is one of the most reliable, simple, and user-friendly antivirus solutions available.

Features

• Offers a fully-integrated Mac VPN service that is powered by Nord VPN, one of the respectable names in the business.

• The Mac app is very user-friendly.

• Has identity theft protection and secure browsing.

• There are anti-tracking countermeasures to protect your device from online threats.

Best For

Small businesses can benefit from the user-friendly nature of this antivirus solution.

Pricing Details

Clario – subscriptions start from $149/year.

Download

Our Choice of Mac Antivirus For Business

While all the antivirus solutions on this list can protect your Mac, I would personally go for Intego. It did well in lab tests regarding virus scanning and network protection. Its prompt customer support and reliable VPN services are added bonuses.

Tags: Antivirus, Mac, macOS, Security

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 13:04:58 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_153151 With only a few gigabytes remaining on my Mac’s SSD (thanks to the size of the system files), I’ve often encountered the message “Your disk is almost full.” So, what I usually do is randomly select files to delete to free up some space and get rid of the annoying pop-up message. But then, it never really resolved the issue. So, what I did was to really take some time and carefully follow these four ways of finding large hidden files on my Mac. Read along if you have the same problem of running low on storage space on your Mac.

1. Delete Unnecessary Files on Your Mac’s Downloads Folder

Believe it or not, the most obvious place where you should look for large hidden files is in your Mac’s Downloads folder. That’s where most, if not all, of the files that go into your computer are saved. Whether browsing the web or sending files via AirDrop, files go into the Downloads folder.

So, for the best results, we suggest you try a comprehensive cleaning tool like Intego Washing Machine to erase all unnecessary files and other large elements that clog your Mac’s space, further visibly optimizing its performance.

➡️ Get Intego Washing Machine

2. Use Finder to Find Large, Hidden Files on Your Mac

Another way that you can find large hidden files is to use the Finder app on your Mac.

Although this is a proven method for your Mac to pinpoint large hidden files, it also has a downside. And that is, it will not tell you relevant information about the files. So, you are not sure whether it is safe to delete a large hidden file or not.

3. Use Your Mac’s Storage Manager to Find Large, Hidden Files

Aside from the Finder app, you can also use your Mac’s Storage Manager to find large files. For those who are not aware, your Mac has a built-in Storage Manager. See below for the steps to use it.

1. Click on the Apple Menu.
2. Click About This Mac > More Info.
   
3. Click Storage Settings.
   
4. From here you can see the different file categories and the storage size it takes up from your Mac.
5. Click the “i” icon opposite the Category. to find large, hidden files that you no longer need and delete them.
   

4. Use the Terminal App to Find Large Files on Your Mac

For those who are adept at using the Terminal app, you can also use it to find large hidden files. See the below steps to do so.

1. Launch the Finder app, then click Applications.
2. Click Utilities > Terminal.
3. Type the following on the command prompt: find ~/ -type f -size +(specify a file size limit), then press Return.
4. To delete the large file, type: find -type f -name *.avi -size +(specify a file size limit) -exec rm {}, then press Return.

Final Words

There you have it. Some simple steps that you can do to check for large, hidden files on your Mac. By finding these files, you’ll be able to determine which of them you still need and which can be deleted to free up some space.

If you don’t want to go through the hassle of doing the abovementioned steps, you can always use third-party software that can scan through your Mac and automatically clean up files you no longer need. One of the most popular and effective is Intego Washing Machine X9.

Tags: featured, Finder, Mac, terminal commands

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 12:08:40 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_153143 The iPhone, like any other electronic gadget, can run into issues. One of the problems that iPhone owners dread is the Green Screen of Death. It’s a term that refers to the iPhone screen turning green, usually unresponsive, and sometimes followed by the device shutting down. Yes, Black Screen of Death is not the only one you should be fearful of. In this article, we will delve into understanding what causes this, how you can fix the Green Screen of Death on your iPhone, and what it implies for the device. Follow along!

What Does It Mean When Your Phone Screen Turns Green?

When your iPhone screen turns green, it signifies that there is a problem with the display. The Green Screen of Death issue is most prevalent for iPhone X, 12, and 13. This can be due to a temporary software glitch, a hardware failure, or physical/water damage. It is essential to diagnose the issue properly to understand the appropriate course of action.

What Causes the Green Screen of Death on iPhone?

There are various factors that can lead to the Green Screen of Death:

• Software Glitches: Sometimes, software bugs or corrupt files can cause the display to malfunction and the iPhone not to turn on.
• Hardware Failure: This could be a malfunctioning screen, loose internal connections, or a faulty graphics processing unit.
• Physical Damage: Dropping your phone or exposing it to physical stress could damage the screen or internal components.
• Water Damage: Exposure to water or excessive moisture can cause the iPhone’s screen to turn green. This is common when the phone isn’t given enough time to dry or hasn’t been properly cleaned after water exposure.

Can the Green Screen on iPhone be Fixed?

Yes, the green screen on iPhone can often be fixed. However, the approach to fixing it depends on the underlying cause. For software glitches, a hard reset or restoring the iPhone from a backup might fix the issue.

In cases of hardware failure or damage, parts like the screen or other internal components might need to be replaced. This is best handled by professionals at an Apple Store or AASP.

How Do I Fix the Green Screen of Death on my iPhone?

1. Check for Temporary Glitches

If you’re iPhone has booted successfully but the screen is not responsive to touch, check out our dedicated guide to further address the issue.

2. Inspect for Physical or Water Damage

Check if there are any signs of physical damage or if the device was recently exposed to water. If you get a Green Screen of Death on your iPhone after water damage, make sure the device is powered off and leave it in a dry place for at least 48 hours.

3. Seek Professional Help

If the green screen persists, it’s likely a hardware issue. In this case, schedule an appointment with an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) for an inspection. You can find a nearby location through Apple’s Location Selector.

Interested in wiping your iPhone when the screen is black or broken? Take a look at our guide to find out how to do it.

Conclusion

The iPhone’s Green Screen of Death can be an alarming issue, but understanding its causes and knowing the steps to fix it can be invaluable. If necessary, seek professional assistance to ensure that your iPhone is back up and running. Keep in mind that preventive measures such as using a protective case and avoiding exposure to water can significantly reduce the risk of encountering this issue. For further reading, check out how to fix a blurry iPhone Home Screen.

Tags: hardware, iPhone, screen

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 07:28:43 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_3037 Are you tired of accessing the System Settings and fiddling with a bunch of options to mirror your Mac’s display? Want to learn how to mirror your Mac to your monitor within the blink of an eye? In that case, there’s a keyboard shortcut that can help you. Read along to learn the shortcut for display mirroring on macOS. 

Many of us working from home use our MacBooks as desktop computers by attaching an external monitor and other peripherals. Moreover, you might at sometimes connect your Mac to a TV or Projector for a presentation, etc. No matter what your use case scenario is like, here’s how to use a keyboard shortcut to use your Mac’s display on an external monitor. 

What is the Keyboard Shortcut to Display Mirroring on macOS?

The keyboard shortcut that allows you to mirror Mac display to an external monitor quickly is Command + F1. All you have to do is press Command and F1 simultaneously and your Mac’s display will mirror onto the monitor, TV, Projector, etc. Also, you can press the Command + F1 combination again to return the external display to its original orientation. 

It is just an easier way to change the extended display settings. The need to access the System Settings and then change the Display Settings from the Main or Extended Display to Mirror Display is eliminated. But what if you still can’t mirror your Mac’s display using the Command + F1 shortcut? 

Command + F1 Display Mirroring Keyboard Shortcut Not Working on Mac

If the Command + F1 shortcut does not work, you should try the Command + FN + F1 shortcut. Pressing these keys simultaneously will mirror your Mac’s display. Also, pressing the Command + FN + F1 keys once again will return the display to its original state. 

Now, you might be confused as to why you need to press an extra fn key to get the same results. Well, it’s because you have enabled the “Use F1, F2, etc., keys as standard function keys” feature.

Mirror Mac Display to an External Monitor

We hope this article helps you use Mac’s display on an external monitor using the keyboard shortcut. If you’re facing any issues regarding the Command + F1 shortcut, do let us know in the comments. Also, note that screen mirroring to an externally connected display is different from Wireless AirPlay from Mac. 

Tags: display, keyboard, Mac, macOS, System Preferences, tips

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:29:39 +0000 Jeff Butts tmo_wp_16712 Public Wi-Fi is pretty easy to find for most folks. You just go to your local Starbucks or even Whole Foods, and you can surf the web. Some of these Wi-Fi portals just let you log on without any hassle, but many of them have login pages. These serve up ads, notify you of the terms of conditions, and occasionally ask for you to pay to play. What do you do, though, when the Wi-Fi login page is not showing up on your iPhone? You follow this Quick Tip and force the right screen to appear.

Why Is My Wi-Fi Login Page Not Showing Up?

The problem is more common than you might think. You connect to the public Wi-Fi and then try to open a web page. Instead of seeing the site you’re trying to visit, Safari tells you it isn’t connected to the internet. What do you do then?

Public Wi-Fi hotspots that require you to log in will restrict your access to secure websites until you authenticate somehow or acknowledge that you agree to their terms and conditions. From the iPhone’s point of view, it just doesn’t have access to the internet, because most web pages you might try to visit are not secure. That’s why all you see is the notification that you aren’t connected to the internet.

Quick Tip

Intego Internet Security is a great choice for iPhone owners tapping into public Wi-Fi, as these networks can expose your device to cyberattacks. Intego shields your iPhone with sturdy antivirus software, a potent firewall, and real-time scanning to secure personal data.

Furthermore, Intego seamlessly integrates with iOS and flaunts a user-friendly interface. Its specialized features optimize your iPhone’s performance and security, enabling a stress-free and efficient use of public Wi-Fi networks.

Intego Internet Security

Guard your home network and shield on-the-go browsing with robust antivirus and firewall protection.

Free Trial Visit Website

How To Trigger the Wi-Fi Login Page on iPhone

To force the hotspot to log you in, you need to attempt to visit a non-secure website. It’s actually what the login screens are supposed to launch in, however, when this doesn’t happen, here’s what you need to do:

How To Open the Wi-Fi Login Page on iPhone

However, if this doesn’t solve the issue, check to see if other people around you are having problems. It could be that the wireless router needs to be reset. Most of the time, though, this little tip will do the trick, and you’ll be back to surfing on someone else’s dime.

How To Force the Wi-Fi Login Page on iPhone

You can force the Wi-Fi login page to show up on your iPhone by forgetting the network and reconnecting to it. Follow these steps to achieve this:

1. On your iPhone go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
   
2. Tap on the i icon next to the network you’re having issues with.
   
3. Tap Forget This Network.
   
4. Lastly, go back to the Wi-Fi settings and select the network from the available options. The Wi-Fi popup not working on iPhone issue should be resolved.

Conclusion: iPhone Won’t Connect to Internet

Encountering difficulties in accessing the Wi-Fi login page on a public hotspot with your iPhone is not uncommon. To overcome this issue, try visiting a non-secure website like captive.apple.com to trigger the login screen. If this doesn’t work, forget the network in your Wi-Fi settings and then reconnect. These methods will usually resolve the problem, helping you access the internet through public Wi-Fi efficiently and effectively. For further reading, we recommend checking out what to do if your iPhone personal hotspot is not working.

Tags: iOS, iPad, iPhone, public wi-fi

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:46:46 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_153074 Malwarebytes is an antivirus software that also offers VPN and Browser security features. Unfortunately, many users are complaining about Malwarebytes not working on their Macs. A similar issue surfaced back in October 2022 and was due to a bug in macOS Ventura. Regardless of the issue, we’ll help you fix Malwarebytes not working on Mac in this article.

Why is Malwarebytes Not Working on Mac

The most common reason for Malwarebytes not working on your Mac might be that you’ve recently updated to macOS Ventura. Apart from this, if you don’t grant certain system-level permissions, Malwarebytes won’t be able to run smoothly. It is also possible that the Malwarebytes app files are corrupt leading to the app crashing or not working on Mac. 

No matter what is causing the issue, we’ve listed a few steps below that will help you fix Malwarebytes not working on Mac. 

Quick Tip:

If the Malwarebytes error keeps occurring, you can opt for other reliable antivirus apps and we think Intego would be the best to go for.

It offers a wide set of features to enhance your Mac security and online safety while increasing its performance as well.

Intego Mac Internet Security

Locate the best antivirus protection on your Mac with the Intego solution.

Free Trial Visit Website

How to Fix Malwarebytes Not Working on Mac

1. Grant Full Disk Access to Fix Malwarebytes Not Working on Mac

Malwarebytes requires Full Disk Access on your Mac to detect viruses, malware, etc., within your files and function smoothly overall. Most of you, who’ve been using Malwarebytes for a long time, must’ve already granted Full Disk Access in the past. Unfortunately, updating to macOS Ventura revokes this access and you need to change these settings manually. Read along to learn how to grant Full Disc Access to Malwarebytes on Mac.

You’ve successfully granted Full Disc Access to the Malwarebytes app on your Mac. Now, relaunch the Malwarebytes app and check if it works as intended. In most cases, this should fix the issue. 

2. Force Quit and Restart Malwarebytes

Temporary bugs are a common occurrence. You’ll encounter such bugs on most platforms. The easiest solution to counter these bugs is to restart the app. In this case, a software conflict or a temporary bug might be the reason Malwarebytes is not working on your Mac. 

To solve this issue, we recommend force quitting all active antivirus and malware apps and relaunching Malwarebytes. There won’t be a software conflict if only one app (Malwarebytes) is active. And, a restart also fixes temporary bugs within apps. 

1. Open Malwarebytes on your Mac. 

2. Click the Apple logo at the top left corner of the menu bar. 

3. Here, click the Force Quit Malwarebytes option. 

4. In the small Force Quit Applications window, select Malwarebytes and click the Force Quit button. 

5. Confirm your selection by clicking the Force Quit button on the next pop-up window. 

6. Wait a few minutes, open the Malwarebytes app again, and check if it’s functioning properly. 

3. Restart Your Mac to Fix Malwarebytes Not Working on your Mac

At times, force quitting and relaunching an app might not fix the temporary bug. Why? Because the bug might not be in the app but rather in the operating system software. So, the next step to fix Malwarebytes not working on Mac is to restart your Mac. 

Moreover, many of us don’t shut down or restart our MacBooks at all (ever since the incredible battery backup of M1 and M2). However, it is a good practice to restart your devices occasionally. With that said, follow these steps to restart your Mac. 

Click on the Apple logo at the top left corner > select the Restart option > and click Restart to confirm your selection. Alternatively, you can also press and hold the Power button until your Mac shuts off and then press the Power button again after a couple of minutes to restart your Mac. 

4. Reinstall Malwarebytes

One of the final steps to try and fix the Malwarebytes app not working on your Mac is to reinstall it. Often, apps begin to malfunction because they’re incompatible with the software version running on your device. The best course of action, in this case, is to uninstall the app and then install a fresh file with the latest version of the app. This has worked wonders for me in the past and will hopefully fix the Malwarebytes app on your Mac. 

1. Open the Malwarebytes app on your Mac. 

2. Click the Help option in the menu bar at the top. 

3. Select the Uninstall Malwarebytes option. 

4. Click Yes on the “This will completely remove the Malwarebytes software” pop-up.

5. Enter your Mac’s password and click OK to confirm your selection. 

6. Now, go ahead and install Malwarebytes from the official website.

5. Update macOS to the Latest Version to Fix Malwarebytes Not Working on Mac

Yes, a recent software update might be the issue Malwarebytes is not working on your Mac. However, if you haven’t updated macOS in a long time, it might be why the Malwarebytes app is not functioning properly. 

Since we can fix the issue where updating to macOS Ventura changes the permissions, we recommend you update macOS to the latest version and check if Malwarebytes starts working normally on your Mac. Follow the steps mentioned below to update macOS to the latest version. 

1. Click on the Apple logo at the top left corner in the menu bar and open System Settings (or System Preferences) on your Mac. 

2. Now, click the General option from the sidebar and select the Software Update option. 

3. Here, click the Update Now button to download and install a software update and enter your system password to proceed. Your device displays the Update Now button only when a software update is available. 

Protect Your Mac With Malwarebytes

We hope this article helped you fix the Malwarebytes app on your Mac. Do let us know which step resolved the issue for you in the comments below. Also, if you’re aware of any other method that helps fix Malwarebytes not working on Mac, please let us know in the comments.

Tags: Mac, macOS, Malwarebytes

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 07:23:46 +0000 Darryl Dsouza tmo_wp_152914 VST stands for Virtual Studio Technology, and VST plugins are software modules used within Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) by audio professionals. In this guide, we’ll help you understand what VST plugins are and their types, how they work, and how you can use VST plugins on your Mac. 

What Are VST Plugins

Simply put, VST plugins replace for hardware devices like musical instruments, compressors, equalizers, etc. VST plugins eliminate the need to buy, store, and operate these audio devices and also help cut costs for many users. All you have to do is add a VST plugin to your DAWs, which will emulate a hardware device’s functionality. 

The primary purpose of VST plugins is to enhance audio projects. The tools in VST plugins help professionals shape audio creatively and produce the best results. Also, VST plugins come in different formats, including the VST2 and VST3, and are further divided into three categories. 

Types of VST Plugins

A quick search on the internet and you’ll come across thousands of VST plugins. However, all of these are divided into three categories. 

1. VST Instruments 

The VST instrument plugins generate audio like traditional instruments such as guitars, trumpets, drums, etc., or hardware devices like synthesizers or samplers. Many of these plugins also sound, look, and have the UI of traditional popular instruments or synthesizers, discontinued ones. 

Since VST instrument plugins are here, you no longer have to go out and buy any of these instruments or hardware devices. This translates into thousands of dollars of savings and you need not worry about storage space, maintenance, etc. Everything fits in your Mac and you can carry it in your backpack wherever you wish to go. 

2. VST Effects 

Unlike VST instrument plugins which generate audio, VST effects plugins modify and process audio. So, the audio files you create through VST instrument plugins can be further modified using the VST effects plugin. 

Most DAWs offer audio processing features, however, dedicated VST effects plugins take it up a notch. In short, VST effects plugins cannot create new audio files but add effects like EQ, reverb, phasers, etc. Some of these VST effects plugins can also help you monitor audio through visual feedback. 

3. VST MIDI Effects 

MIDI in VST MIDI effects plugins stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. These plugins work independently or together with other VST plugins. The VST MIDI effects plugin allows you to connect a physical instrument like a guitar, keyboard, etc., to your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). 

How to Install and Use VST Plugins on Mac

When we come to the topic of installing and using VST plugins on Mac is where things get a little complicated. The process to install and run VST plugins will vary from DAWs to DAWs. Nonetheless, we’ll list the general steps for installing and using VST plugins on Mac. 

1. Download the VST Plugin you wish to install. It can be a free plugin or a commercial plugin. Make sure that you check if the plugin is compatible with macOS and your DAW or production software. 

2. Now, open Finder and click the Applications option in the sidebar. 

3. Here, right-click/control-click on your DAW or production software folder and select Show Package Contents option from the list. 

4. Once you’re in the package contents of your DAW, navigate to the Plugins or VST folder. The name of this folder will depend on the DAW or production software. 

5. Copy the VST plugin file which you downloaded earlier and paste it to the Plugins or VST folder in the package contents of your DAW. You can even drag and drop the plugin file here. 

6. In case your DAW is already open, force quit and restart the DAW or production software.

7. The DAW or production software will automatically scan for new plugins during restart and they will appear in the plugins list. 

In some cases, you might need to configure the plugin paths. You must refer to your DAWs documents or website to check the steps to configure plugin paths. Also, if you’re using a commercial (paid) VST plugin, you might have to activate or authorize it using the license or activation keys. Again, we recommend you refer to the website of the installed plugin for more information regarding this. 

Where to Find VST Plugins for Mac?

Just a piece of advice, if you’re just beginning out, you should consider going through all the VST plugins in your DAWs and trying them out. They might not be perfect but will give you a general idea of how things work. After you’re done with the basics, you can move on to the free VST plugins that are available in abundance on the internet. 

The reason we have commercial/paid plugins is that they’re better than their free counterparts in certain areas. Once you get serious about music production, etc., you will eventually go out and buy these paid VST plugins as they certainly offer good value. 

To get started, you can check out the free VST plugins on Splice and Plugin Boutique. Most of these plugins are compatible with macOS and you won’t have trouble finding one that best suits your needs. 

Tags: Mac, macOS, VST Plugins

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 07:09:58 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_100803 If you’re an iPhone user, you may want to know how to add a countdown widget to the Home screen of your device. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a big day, or simply want to watch the time fly, there is a way to get this going in thanks to iOS 14. Since the original introduction of widgets, this feature has only grown more expansive, allowing users to get the most out of their gorgeous iPhone screen. Even better, creating widgets is extraordinarily easy, you just need to know the right place to look. Let’s get started.

Knowing the facts, I’m going to show users how they can create a custom countdown widget and place it directly on their iPhone Home screen. While users will need to find a countdown app, I make a suggestion toward my personal preference, and I go into detail and where you can get it and how you can use it. I’m also going to show a bonus way of creating a more traditional timer if users are looking for a different countdown style. If you’re looking to get excited about an event in your life, here’s what you can do to start counting down. 

Can You Put a Countdown on Your iPhone Home Screen?

Yes, you can put a countdown on your Home screen. First, you’re going to need to create a countdown widget if you want to add it to your Home screen. While iOS 14 did introduce widgets, a countdown widget is not baked directly into the iPhone operating system. Unfortunately, the default calendar app simply does not have a countdown widget option. While there are numerous countdown apps out there, I’m going to be using Eventime for the purposes of this how-to.

Why Eventime Works

While there are plenty of applications that can create countdown widgets from calendar events, I like Eventime for its simplicity, though it does also have premium features that make it a rather powerful countdown app thanks to in-app purchases. Users can also customize their countdown widget through Eventime via pictures from their Photo Library. This can be great for those that like a nice screen aesthetic. You can also find other countdown widgets by exploring the Apple App Store. 

With that said, let’s take a look at how to create a countdown widget. 

1. Download and install Eventime.
2. Once installed, open the app, and then select the + icon in the top-right corner. This will create a new countdown. 
   
3. On the next screen, enter the information for your countdown. This includes the date, time, details and more. You can also choose a widget photo or color theme from this screen. 
4. When you are finished, click Add in the top-right corner. 
   
5. Your countdown will now appear in Eventime.

That’s all there is to it! In just five steps, you’ve got yourself a countdown widget that’s ready to go to your Home screen. You can always add more calendar items, including calendar items with time, by repeating the above process. There are also options for calendar notifications within Eventime as well. 

How Do I Put a Timer Widget On My Home Screen?

Things to Note

From here, you’re good to go! You now have a beautiful countdown widget on your Home screen. Of course, you can also add unlimited countdown widgets to your Home screen by repeating these steps. This is yet another reason why I went with Eventime for this how-to, as it does allow for great countdown customization, or users can even create a basic countdown widget, without a real need for the premium version. Of course, remember that there are other options available in the Apple App Store. There are a lot of cool countdown apps available, with Eventime just being one of the more efficient countdown widget apps. 

How Do I Set Siri Shortcut Timer?

Of course, not every event needs a countdown timer. While you may want to add a widget to your Home screen for larger events, there are also times when you may just need a simple timer to get you moving. Whether you’re cooking, or maybe putting a child in time-out, knowing how to create a simple countdown timer is super easy in thanks to Siri. 

To start a timer with Siri, all a user needs to do is engage Siri and say “Start a timer for X minutes”. Users can engage Siri either by pressing and holding their Power button or by saying “Hey Siri”.  After that, users will have a timer counting down on their screen. 

Conclusion: Does iPhone Have a Countdown Widget?

No. Your iPhone does not come with a preinstalled countdown widget. But there are countdown widgets available from the App Store. If you’re in need of an event countdown notification app, I did make my recommendation above, and you can always search the Apple App Store for alternatives. Don’t forget, there’s also plenty of other widgets available on iPhone that can offer several unique features to make a user’s life simpler. Now that you know how to add a widget to the Home screen, take a look at the other widgets available on your device to give yourself the full iPhone experience. 

Of course, if you need further solutions, we’ve got you covered as well. For example, if you’re in need of timers, we can show you how to set up multiple ones thanks to iOS 17. We can also show you how to create a timer using Spotlight, which can be quite useful. While there’s certainly a lot to get excited about in life, that doesn’t mean a user has to stress. Thanks to widgets, creating a countdown timer can be incredibly easy, meaning users can go back to the things they enjoy. 

Tags: iOS 14, widgets

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 20:03:25 +0000 Mahit Huigol tmo_wp_153004 Apple recently unveiled the iOS 17 at the WWDC. The latest iOS iteration heralds a slew of new features, some of which are centered around safety. Check In is one such feature. It lets you update family and friends when you are traveling alone. It is similar to Facebook Check In but restricted to your close ones.

What is Check In Feature on iOS 17?

Sometimes traveling alone in an unknown place or late at night could be dangerous. It is always better if our near ones know where we are. My partner messages me whenever she reaches a particular place or when she hails a cab. The Check In feature makes sharing your current location effortlessly using the Messages app. 

Now you might what is new? Well, the Check-In feature is not just for sharing locations. You can set the destination, choose a mode of travel, select the type of location data to be shared and much more. The feature will automatically inform recipients once you reach the destination. If the transit takes too long, the recipient will get a notification containing your current location, route, iPhone battery level, and cellular network strength. 

Apple assures top-notch privacy as the Messages are end-to-end encrypted. 

How to Setup and Use iOS 17 Check In Feature

The feature is only available on iOS 17. In other words, both you and the recipient device should be running iOS 17. 

Quick Disclaimer- iOS 17 is still in the early beta stage. We don’t suggest installing early beta versions on the primary device. Eager to try out iOS 17? Wait for the Public Beta release to happen next month. 

Choose the Extent of Data to be Shared

Now, you must choose the data you want to share. The location data is sent only when you don’t arrive at the destination within the stipulated time. iOS 17 Check In notifies the person before sending the location data to their contact. 

1. Limited- The mode includes current location data, network signal, and battery data. Limited mode is useful when sharing details with someone, not in your inner circle. 

2. Full- Includes the entire route traveled from the time Check In is activated. Other details include the location where the iPhone was last unlocked, iPhone, Apple Watch battery, signal strength, and more. Full mode is good when sharing a location with close family and friends. Tap Continue

3. When ready tap Send a Check In.

4. Tap Edit to add destination, mode of transit, estimated time required for the transit, and Check In Data. 

Messages will notify if you do not reach the destination in time. Before sending, you will get a notification like the one below. If you are stuck in traffic or delayed due to any reason, you can override the notification. 

Safety of Your Near Ones Without Invading Their Privacy

More often than not, parents take the brunt for tracking Child’s location. In fact, intrusive parenting is often termed “helicopter parenting.” Countries like India and the US are seeing an uptick in missing persons cases. iOS 17 Check In helps share your location only in dire circumstances. In extreme cases, it will help law enforcement authorities to locate the missing person swiftly. 

Many of us are so caught up, we forget to update our loved ones when we reach a destination. Check In takes care of this. It automatically sends a message upon reaching the destination. Lately, Apple has been focussing on safety features, with the latest ones being Check In and Sensitive Content Warning. 

What are your thoughts about iPhone Check In feature? Let us know in the comments below. 

Tags: iOS, iOS 17, iPhone, Messages

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 15:38:20 +0000 Mahit Huigol tmo_wp_46682 It has been a few years since Apple debuted Face ID with the iPhone X. It marked a significant improvement over existing face detection technology. But what if multiple people use your iPhone? Do you have to unlock it every time? Thankfully, no. You can add up to two users on the same device. Apple terms it as an ‘alternate appearance.’

Initially, I presumed the feature was meant for people with different appearances, and I was not wrong. However, the alternate appearance feature can be used to add another person to the system. Once done, both can unlock the device using your face. This is akin to sharing your password with another person. 

Let us look at how to set up and add another Face ID on any iPhone.

How to Add Another Person to Face ID

You can add a maximum of two people across all iPhones supporting the feature.

Kudos! You have now added another person. A word of caution, facial recognition is used to authenticate personal things like banking transactions or access to Google Photos. Only add people you trust the most to the system. And always remember they have complete access to your device and the associated apps. 

Useful Face ID Settings

iOS offers a lot of flexibility and control over Face ID. You can choose where it can be used and for what purpose. For instance, Face ID can unlock certain apps or authenticate App Store transactions. 

Use Face ID for

iOS lets you control facial recognition access. Use the toggle to allow/disallow an app from using the feature. Select Other Apps and control access to all third-party apps as well. If needed, you can deactivate facial recognition for banking and other financial apps.

Face ID with a Mask

During the pandemic, iPhone users were hassled by the Face ID. One had to remove the mask to authenticate themselves. Soon enough, Apple tweaked the feature to work with masks. If you wear a mask, enable this option instead of using a passcode. 

Reset Face ID

What if you want to delete a person’s face from the system? Well, this can be done using the reset feature. Do note that once reset, there is no way to recover. You will have to set it up fresh. One caveat is that you cannot delete individual access. The only way is to delete all the profiles at once. On the bright side, setting up a new Face ID doesn’t take much time or effort. 

Other Useful Face ID Features

Attention-aware feature ensures that the device unlocks only when you are directly looking at the phone. The TrueDepth camera offers a layer of details for this feature to work. Attention-aware is very useful when someone forces you to unlock it or even when you are asleep. 

The expiry Passcode feature will forcibly retire the old passcode once it is changed. Otherwise, iOS 17 has a feature wherein the old passcode is valid for 48 hours after being changed. Check out our guide on how to use Previous Passcode Expire feature on iOS 17. 

Add Second Person to Face ID on iPhone

Multiple Face ID is useful when two or more people use your device. Furthermore, you can control which apps can use facial recognition. We suggest using passcode for sensitive apps like banking, financial, and Photos.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Tags: Face ID, iOS, iPhone, tips

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:48:39 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_152957 Utilities > Terminal. Type sudo ifconfig awdl0 down on the command prompt. Try connecting to your Wi-Fi network and see if the issue has been resolved. Delete Network Preferences For those who are unaware, old network preferences can become outdated or corrupted. This can cause Wi-Fi issues on your Mac Mini M2. You can delete network preferences and allow your device to establish a new network preference then can solve the issue at hand. Time needed: 2 minutes. Follow the steps below to delete old preferences on your Wi-Fi network. Click anywhere on your Mac Mini's desktop. Click Go > Go to Folder. Enter the path below in the text box:/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ Delete the following files: com.apple.airport.preferences.pliscom.apple.network.identification.pliscom.apple.Wi-Fi.message-tracer.plisNetworkInterfaces.plist Restart your Mac Mini M2 to reflect the changes, then reconnect to your Wi-Fi network. Check for Interference Another probable cause of the Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi issue is when there is interference that's preventing it from connecting to the Wi-Fi network. These interferences could either be other devices or wireless networks using the same frequency band of your Wi-Fi router. Try checking for Wi-Fi interference to resolve the issue. You can do so by using third-party Wi-Fi analyzers such as NetSpot and Wi-Fi Explorer. Split Your Wi-Fi Network By default, you can let your Apple devices including your Mac Mini M2 select which band to use. The problem with this is that it depends on how far you are from the Wi-Fi router when the issue occurred. And most probably, your Mac Mini M2 used the 2.4 GHz band. When this happens, the 2.4 GHz tends to get crowded causing the Wi-Fi issue. To resolve this, you can split your Wi-Fi network based on the two bands. This entails telling your network to treat each band as separate SSIDs. Once you've done this, you can try putting your Mac Mini M2 into the 5 GHz SSID and your iPad into the 2.4 GHz band. Doing so would automatically let your Mac Mini connect to the 5 GHz network band while all your other devices to the 2.4 GHz band. This way, your device won't be bothered by other devices. The question now is how do you split your Wi-Fi network? Unfortunately, it would depend on whether the router you are using allows this. If you can access your router's settings, try looking for an Advanced option where you will find the settings to split the SSID of your Wi-Fi. If you're in luck and your router allows it, you can split the SSID and assign each to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. Final Words If you don't want to bother yourself going through the different steps outlined above, your best option would be to have your Mac Mini M2 checked at the Apple Service Center. If it's still under the 14-day return/replacement coverage, consider yourself lucky. Apple should replace it. You should not be suffering from such an issue after paying it with your hard-earned money. For further reading, check out how to fix macOS Ventura Wi-Fi issues.]]> There has been an ongoing discussion about the Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi issues. Folks who have experienced it have been looking for fixes for the said issue. If you’re one of those who experienced the issue, read along to learn how to fix the Mac Mini M2 Wi-fi issues.

M2 Mac Mini Unable to Connect to Wi-Fi Properly

Interestingly, when Apple released the first version of the Mac mini, the problem didn’t happen at all. Or if it did, it could have been some isolated issues. Also, it’s important to know that the issue did not happen with the first Mac Mini M1 that Apple released several years ago. To refresh your memory, Apple started shipping out the Mac Mini M2 only in January of this year.

The discussion about the issue started in the same month when Apple released Mac Mini M2. And even now, some folks continue to ask why their Mac mini keeps dropping its Wi-Fi connection. This even prompted some to wonder whether the Mac Mini 2 has Wi-Fi.

To put it simply, you’d know that your M2 Mac mini is having the same issue if it continues to drop packets when connected to your Wi-Fi connection.

One Wi-Fi Router, 2 Frequencies/Bands

By default, Wi-Fi routers have two frequencies, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. I will not dwell on the technicalities of both frequencies here but it’s enough to know that 5 GHz is high data speed frequency while 2.4 GHz is slow speed.

So, when it comes to Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi issues, your Wi-Fi router could be experiencing the issue when connecting your device to any of the two frequencies. It would have been fine if only one of the frequencies keep dropping when your Mac Mini M2 is connected, but most if not some of those who complained experienced Wi-Fi dropping at both frequencies.

How to Fix Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi Issues

If your Mac Mini M2 keeps dropping its connection from your Wi-Fi router, you can try some troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. Also, in case you’re not aware, the Mac Mini M2 also supports Wi-Fi 6E but only if you’re in a country where it is supported. Now, let’s get on to troubleshooting the Wi-Fi dropping issue.

So, when it comes to resolving the issue, you can do the usual troubleshooting steps that many folks do when trying to resolve system glitches and bugs. These include restarting your Mac Mini M2, updating it to the latest macOS, resetting your Wi-Fi connection and router, resetting the SMC, and forgetting and re-adding your Wi-Fi network. If none of those resolve the issue, then you can proceed with some more specific steps that you can see below.

Connect Your Mac Mini M2 to 2.4 GHz

By default, when you connect your Mac mini to your home Wi-Fi, it will the router will use the 5.0 GHz frequency. So, if you encounter the issue, you can try connecting to the 2.4GHz network. Those who encountered the issue confirmed that it occurred with Wi-Fi 5.0 GHz and Wi-Fi 6E.

Disable Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL)

Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL) is a low latency/high-speed Wi-Fi for peer-to-peer connection. This is used for transferring files through AirDrop across Apple devices. And some folks reported that by disabling AWDL, the Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi with regards to the 5G network has been resolved.

Follow the steps below to disable AWDL.

1. Launch the Finder app on your Mac.
2. Click Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
   
3. Type sudo ifconfig awdl0 down on the command prompt.
   
4. Try connecting to your Wi-Fi network and see if the issue has been resolved.

Delete Network Preferences

For those who are unaware, old network preferences can become outdated or corrupted. This can cause Wi-Fi issues on your Mac Mini M2. You can delete network preferences and allow your device to establish a new network preference then can solve the issue at hand.

Check for Interference

Another probable cause of the Mac Mini M2 Wi-Fi issue is when there is interference that’s preventing it from connecting to the Wi-Fi network. These interferences could either be other devices or wireless networks using the same frequency band of your Wi-Fi router.

Try checking for Wi-Fi interference to resolve the issue. You can do so by using third-party Wi-Fi analyzers such as NetSpot and Wi-Fi Explorer.

Split Your Wi-Fi Network

By default, you can let your Apple devices including your Mac Mini M2 select which band to use. The problem with this is that it depends on how far you are from the Wi-Fi router when the issue occurred. And most probably, your Mac Mini M2 used the 2.4 GHz band. When this happens, the 2.4 GHz tends to get crowded causing the Wi-Fi issue.

To resolve this, you can split your Wi-Fi network based on the two bands. This entails telling your network to treat each band as separate SSIDs. Once you’ve done this, you can try putting your Mac Mini M2 into the 5 GHz SSID and your iPad into the 2.4 GHz band.

Doing so would automatically let your Mac Mini connect to the 5 GHz network band while all your other devices to the 2.4 GHz band. This way, your device won’t be bothered by other devices.

The question now is how do you split your Wi-Fi network? Unfortunately, it would depend on whether the router you are using allows this. If you can access your router’s settings, try looking for an Advanced option where you will find the settings to split the SSID of your Wi-Fi. If you’re in luck and your router allows it, you can split the SSID and assign each to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.

Final Words

If you don’t want to bother yourself going through the different steps outlined above, your best option would be to have your Mac Mini M2 checked at the Apple Service Center. If it’s still under the 14-day return/replacement coverage, consider yourself lucky. Apple should replace it. You should not be suffering from such an issue after paying it with your hard-earned money. For further reading, check out how to fix macOS Ventura Wi-Fi issues.

Tags: featured, Mac mini, router, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi 6

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:03:06 +0000 Arnold Zafra tmo_wp_152784 Although Apple claims that iOS is one of the most secure mobile operating systems, it’s still not 100% secure from virus and malware attacks. Thankfully, in my many years of using one, I’ve never encountered my device getting attacked by viruses or malware. But still, you’ll never know when these threats will hit your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. So, it would be best to have antivirus software installed on them. Thankfully, there are many options that you can choose and I’ve rounded up five of the best antivirus solutions for Mac, iPad, and iPhone to help you choose which one to use on your Apple devices.

Intego Mac Internet Security X9

When it comes to choosing the best antivirus software for your Apple devices, it’s better to choose antivirus software that works seamlessly on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. There’s no point in using different antivirus software for each of your devices.

Although Intego doesn’t have a native iOS app, the VirusBarrier app for Mac still scans your iPhone or iPad in real-time when the devices are connected to your Mac via Bluetooth.

If not having a native mobile app is not an issue for you, you’ll be glad to know that VirusBarrier for Mac is one of the best, if not the best, antivirus products available on the market. VirusBarrier has constantly scored high in various virus detection tests conducted by AV-Comparatives. This means that Intego VirusBarrier can detect most online threats that might infect your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Some notable features of VirusBarrier include its quarantine section where infected or suspicious files are stored, and its trusted files section which stores files that the program shouldn’t scan.

The Mac Internet Security X9 also has a NetBarrier Firewall feature which monitors all incoming and outgoing web traffic on your Apple devices. Its Safe Browsing feature lets you search the Internet safely on both your Mac and mobile browsers.

If the basic Mac Internet Security X9 doesn’t answer your needs, Intego has other antivirus packages. For instance, the Mac Premium Bundle aside from having VirusBarrier and NetBarrier comes with additional features. These include the Mac Washing Machine, Personal Backup, and ContentBarrier.

Availability: Mac Internet Security X9 is available for a $39.99 first-year subscription covering one Mac.

Pros

• Loaded with many features and functions.
• High virus detection rate.
• Real-time scanning.
• Integrated firewall feature.
• Scans iOS devices.

Cons

• A bit expensive.
• No native iOS app.

Intego Mac Internet Security

Scan your Mac in real time and prevent viruses from damaging its state.

Free Trial Visit Website

TotalAV

TotalAV is another good antivirus software for your Mac, iPhone, and iPad. But since iOS devices have built-in security protection from viruses, the TotalAV iOS app doesn’t have virus scanning features. But instead, you’ll get various tools that include, a data breach checker, device locator, system security, secure search browser, photo manager, WebShield, and Private Connection VPN.

The TotalAV antivirus software for Mac comes with lots of useful features. These include virus scans, ransomware protection, VPN, and a password manager.

When it comes to security features, you can rest assured that Total AV provides the highest level of security for your Apple devices.

For its scanning features, TotalAV offers various options. Total AV is also simple to use and will get you started as soon as you set it up on your devices.

Availability: TotalAV Total Security package is available for $49. for a first-year subscription; Total AV Mobile Security & Private VPN is available for free with in-app purchases.

Pros

• The desktop app is very good.
• Offers a free basic version.
• Features optimization tools for your devices.

Cons

• The browser extension isn’t useful.
• Safe search doesn’t always work.
• The premium package is expensive relative to its competitors.

TotalAV

Secure your online activity with TotalAV’s WebSHield.

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Norton 360

When it comes to virus and malware protection for various devices, Norton is one of the most widely used. The Norton 360 Deluxe package provides cross-platform security, hosted online backup, and a plethora of security features including unlimited VPN and parental control.

To extend protection to your iPhone or iPad, you simply need to send a link through email or by scanning a QR code. This code can be generated using the My Norton application installed on your Mac. Once enabled, Norton 360 can provide security, identity, and privacy protection on your iOS devices.

But aside from the integrated protection, you can also opt to get Norton Security for the iOS app. This offers a pretty slick user interface that is enough to use even by the novice in mobile security software. The Norton Security for iOS filters spam text messages that may contain phishing threats. In addition, the app also warns you of unsecured Wi-Fi networks and patches various mobile device vulnerabilities.

When browsing on your iPhone or iPad, Norton Mobile Security features web protection that prevents you from browsing infected and malicious websites.

Availability: Norton 360 Deluxe is available for $29.99 for a first-year subscription and covers up to 5 devices; Norton Mobile Security for iOS is available for $14.99 for a first-year subscription.

Pros

• Spam filter features
• Provides real-time protection
• Features integrated VPN
• Has data breach checker

Cons

• Lack of unlimited free version.

Norton 360

Provide full protection for your devices and use Norton 360.

Free Trial Visit Website

Avira

Avira offers a cloud-based antivirus scanner plus other security features for your Mac, iPhone, and iPad. What’s worth noting about this antivirus software is the fact that its free version provides various features that other free software doesn’t provide. These include real-time protection, ransomware protection, password management, and many others. And if the features of the free version are still not good enough for you, you can always upgrade to the premium version at a relatively lower price than its competitors.

When it comes to mobile security features, you’ll be glad to know that the Avira mobile app is lightweight enough so as not to burden your iPhone and iPad too much. Although the Avira mobile app is not as feature-rich as the desktop version, you can rest assured that it can provide your iOS device with ample protection against various threats. The app features a minimalistic, clean, and yet easy-to-use interface. It also comes with a VPN service that protects your device from an unsecured network and detects other devices that may connect to your home network.

Availability: Avira is $41.99 for the first year subscription; Avira Mobile Security is a free download but offers in-app purchases.

Pros

• Offers unique privacy features.
• Public Wi-Fi protection.
• Also comes with a software updater for your iOS devices.
• Features file backup.

Cons

• The free allowance of 100/day for VPN is very limited.
• May report false positives.

Avira

Get unique privacy features and strong protection with Avira.

Free Trial Visit Website

Bitdefender Total Security

The last antivirus software for Mac, iPhone, and iPad on our list is BitDefender Total Security. Bitdefender is also a top-notch antivirus solutions provider that has been around for quite some time now. It’s a feature-rich solution that features hassle-free protection for all your Apple devices, parental controls, and extensive privacy protection features.

Bitdefender also has a built-in VPN service, webcam and microphone protection, password manager, multi-layer ransomware protection, and best of all a free trial version that you can use for 30 days.

When it comes to its mobile solutions, the Bitdefender Mobile Security app provides an excellent anti-spyware solution for your iPhone and iPad. The free version of Bitdefender Mobile Security scans network connections and automatically blocks anything that it deemed suspicious. It also comes with VPN with a 200MB limit per day. If you need additional features, the Bitdefender Mobile Security app premium version offers web protection for your iOS devices, and parental control, among other features.

Availability. Bitdefender Total Security is $45 for a first-year subscription; Bitdefender Mobile Security is free with in-app purchases.

Pros

• High virus detection rates.
• Provides real-time protection.
• Features data breach checker.

Cons

• A bit pricey.
• macOS is supported only in the premium version.

Bitdefender Total Security

Try one of the best antivirus apps with high detection scores and complete security.

Free Trial Visit Website

Final Words

Note that the antivirus software listed above are just five that we deemed the best when it comes to features for your Mac, iPhone, and iPad. There are many others that you can find if in case you don’t prefer any of the software on this list.

Interestingly, while most of these antivirus products support multi-devices if you get the desktop applications, the separate mobile versions could also be enough if you just need security and protection for your iOS devices. However, since most have desktop counterparts, it would be best to get them instead of the free mobile versions. That way, you don’t have to pay for additional costs if you decide to get the premium version of the mobile app. For further reading, we recommend taking a look at the best antivirus for an old Mac.

Tags: Antivirus, featured, Mac, Malware

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:48:15 +0000 Tom Victor tmo_wp_152322 Technology has revolutionized the way we do many things today. We can access information on the most sensitive issues with just a click. While I appreciate technology, my love for my children surpasses it. It would be a personal failure if my child were to be exposed to adult content and other self-destructive addictions while under my supervision. Which is why the parental control setup on Mac is so important.

Unfortunately, millions of children worldwide have unrestricted access to adult content, questionable associates, and corrupting influences on the internet. The rise of cyberbullying and sexting further compounds these concerns. On the flip side, computers have become integral to modern learning.

Parental control is an effective means of monitoring and regulating your children’s computer activities. But what if you’re unsure about setting up parental controls on your Macbook? Continue reading to discover how parents can safeguard their children by implementing restrictions on app usage and blocking access to certain apps.

Why Parental Control Won’t Work on Mac?

Note that if you are trying to set up parental control as it was done in earlier macOS versions, it won’t work. More recent versions of macOS have a different method of setting up parental control. In previous versions of macOS, the Parental Control option could be found in System Settings. However, with the introduction of macOS Monterey, this feature has been replaced by the new Screen Time feature.

Setting up Parental Control on Mac

Apart from tracking the duration of app usage, Screen Time offers additional functionalities. These include setting time limits for your child’s Mac usage and restricting their access to certain applications and websites. To utilize Screen Time for parental control purposes, you need to follow these steps:

1. Create a dedicated account for your child on your Mac.
2. Activate the Screen Time feature within the System Settings.
3. Proceed by logging into your child’s account and establishing specific limits and a passcode.

Ok, so let’s start with the first step.

1. How To Set up a Child Account on Mac

To ensure proper usage of your Mac by your child, I’ll recommend that you set up a separate account for them if you share the device. Likewise, if your child has their own Mac, it is advisable for you to have an account on that device as well. In both cases, you should have an admin account while your child utilizes a standard account. Follow the steps below to set up a child account in macOS:

Once you have successfully created the child account, the next step is to enable Screen Time on your Mac.

2. How To Turn On Screen Time in macOS

To begin utilizing the parental control tool, it is necessary to enable Screen Time. Follow the steps below to accomplish this:

1. Go to System Settings and choose Screen Time.
   
2. Next, toggle on the Screen Time option as shown below. You can also enable the Share Across Devices feature.
   
   

 Additionally, check out how to get parental controls in Chrome on Mac and other devices.

Setting up Screen Time in Your Child’s Account

Once you have successfully created an account for your child on Mac and activated Screen Time, you can proceed with the parental control setup on Mac.

1. Setting a Passcode for Screen Time

It is crucial to protect Screen Time limits by setting up a passcode, as it would be counterproductive if your child could easily modify or disable the restrictions. Follow these steps to establish a passcode for Screen Time:

1. Log into your child’s account using the previously set up details.
2. Access Screen Time through System Settings.
3. Click on Options and choose Use Screen Time Passcode.
4. Enter a four-digit passcode.
5. Confirm the passcode by re-entering it when prompted.
6. Optionally, you can set up passcode recovery by entering your Apple ID and password, then clicking Next. If you prefer not to set up password recovery, simply click Skip.

With the passcode in place, your child will need to enter the current passcode to modify Screen Time settings or disable it.

2. Setting Downtime on a Mac

In simple terms, downtime refers to the period when your child is unable to use their Mac or specific apps on their Mac. The decision regarding downtime is entirely up to you, as you are best equipped to determine the appropriate level of exposure to certain apps or the amount of time your child should spend on the Mac. To set up downtime, follow these steps:

1. Log into your child’s account and access Screen Time, then select Downtime.
2. Go to Scheduled and enable it by clicking on Turn On.
3. If you want the same downtime schedule for every day, choose Every Day and set the desired time. Alternatively, select Custom to set different times for each day.

3. Letting Apps Run In Downtime

If you wish to grant your child unrestricted access to certain apps, such as those needed for homework or communication with you, you can add them to the Always Allowed list. This ensures that your child can use these specific apps even during scheduled downtime. Follow these steps to set it up:

1. In your child’s Screen Time settings, locate and click on Always Allowed.
2. Select the desired apps that you want to allow your child to access during downtime. Please note that you may be prompted to enter your passcode for the first app.
3. Once you have finished selecting the apps, exit the Screen Time settings.

By following these steps, you can enable your child to use designated apps without restrictions, even during downtime periods.

4. Setting up App Limits in macOS

As mentioned earlier, there may be instances where you wish to restrict your child’s access to specific apps. For example, you might want to prevent them from using social networking sites after 10 PM. In such cases, you can set up app limits as part of the parental control feature. Follow these steps to establish app limits:

1. Access your child’s Mac account and navigate to the Screen Time settings. Click on App Limits and enable it by selecting Turn On.
2. Choose the apps for which you want to set a time limit. Decide whether the limit should apply every day or follow a custom schedule.
3. Select the option Block at End of Limit and click Done.
4. You can now proceed to choose additional apps that require limited access. You have the flexibility to remove or modify their time limits as needed.

By following these steps, you can effectively set up app limits as part of your parental control measures.

5. Blocking Websites on a Mac

With Screen Time, you can now leverage macOS to automatically block your child’s access to adult websites. This feature enables you to specify which websites to allow or block, as well as restrict access to certain websites altogether. To set up content restrictions on your Mac, follow these steps:

1. Go to your child’s Screen Time settings and click on Content & Privacy in the sidebar.
2. Select the Content tab and click on Limit Adult Websites.
3. If you desire even greater control, click on Customize. This will allow you to manually allow or block specific sites.
4. Another approach is to click on Allowed Websites under Content & Privacy, then select Customize to add the sites your child is permitted to access. All other sites will be blocked.

By following these steps, you can effectively configure the parental control setup on Mac, granting you control over your child’s access to adult websites and other specific web content.

Another Way to Protect Your Kid: Intego ContentBarrier X9

Intego ContentBarrier X9 is an excellent parental control solution for Mac owners, providing reliable boundaries to ensure the safety of your child while exploring the internet. Here are some key features of Intego ContentBarrier X9:

1. Safe internet environment: Block objectionable websites and create specific lists of allowed websites while blocking the rest.
2. Network time restrictions: Set time limits for your child’s network access, allowing you to manage their online time based on activities like dinner or homework.
3. Keystroke logging and screenshots: Capture screenshots and record keystrokes within applications to ensure your child does not encounter inappropriate content.
4. Chat session monitoring and filtering: Monitor your child’s internet chats to prevent inappropriate conversations with strangers. The software can also detect specific terms and automatically shut down the chat session, notifying you of any concerning activity.

Intego ContentBarrier X9

Monitor and protect your kids’ activity with the most powerful AV tool.

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Conclusion

Configuring the parental control setup on Mac is essential for ensuring a safe and secure digital environment for children. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively monitor and restrict your child’s access to age-inappropriate content, manage screen time, and promote responsible online behavior.

The built-in parental control features offered by macOS provide a convenient and user-friendly solution, allowing parents to customize settings according to their child’s needs. By implementing these measures, you can strike a balance between embracing technology and safeguarding your child’s well-being in the digital realm. For further reading, check out Tom Victor’s additional tips on how to protect your child from online predators on a Mac.

Tags: Mac, Parental Controls, Security

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:11:00 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_152864 Certain Apple Watch users claim they’re experiencing battery drain after the watchOS 9.5.1 update, and fortunately, there is a solution for this. Arriving two weeks after the launch of watchOS 9.5, the update is a means to fix certain issues with 9.5. However, it seems like certain users are having more problems than solutions. While this can be a bit frustrating, users should know that they have options when it comes to seeking an answer. 

With this in mind, I’m going to take a look at some potential solutions if users are experiencing battery drain after installing the watchOS 9.5.1 update. While taking a look at some ideas, I’ll also cover some reasons why a user may be experiencing battery drain in the first place. Explanations will cover reasons possibly involving the 9.5.1 update, as well as overall reasons a battery may be draining in the first place. There are measures users can take to protect their battery, so let’s explore some options. 

Why is My Apple Watch Dying so Fast After Update?

There may be a number of reasons your Apple Watch is dying after an update. Specifically, for those that made the update to watchOS 9.5.1, some users are experiencing potential battery drain issues. While some are saying that it’s not watchOS causing it, rather, it is being caused by iOS 16.2, there is no official explanation from Apple concerning the potential cause of this battery drain. However, there are still many reports from users online that their Apple Watch isn’t lasting nearly as long after installing the 9.5.1 update. I also talk a lot about Lithium-Ion batteries in this article, so I would suggest giving it a once over to get a better idea.

How to Fix Apple Watch Battery Drain

Covering the Basics

Before starting, there’s a couple of things users should try before moving into the more particular solutions for their battery drain issue. The first two major things a user should do is check their Apple Watch for updates and restart their device. 

To restart your Apple Watch with watchOS 9, simply press and hold the side button until you see the power button emerge in the top-right corner of your display. Select this button, and then drag the Power Off slider to the right. You can then press and hold the side button to power the Watch back on. 

To check for an update, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update. You can find Settings in your list of apps, or you can ask Siri to go to Settings. Considering there are now versions of watchOS that are beyond 9.5.1, updating your watchOS installation is likely to fix a user’s battery drain issue. 

Unpair and then Re-pair Your Apple Watch

Another good idea may be to simply disconnect your Apple Watch from your iPhone and then reconnect the two. Considering your iPhone needs to constantly “talk” to your Watch, this can help potentially restore that connection, providing a difference in battery life.

Force Restart Your Apple Watch and iPhone

There are some users that are reporting that the Battery Drain issue isn’t caused by the 9.5.1 update, but rather the iPhone iOS 16.2 update. Many argue that even if they are on watchOS 9.1 they are experiencing battery drain due to their iPhone running iOS 16.2. If that’s the case, force restarting the Watch and your iPhone may be a solution. 

On your Watch, press and hold the side button and the Digital Crown for 10 seconds. You can release both buttons when you see the Apple logo. 

While this is occurring, you can force restart your iPhone by pressing and quickly releasing the volume up button, pressing and quickly releasing the volume down button, and then pressing and holding the side button until you see the Apple logo. 

Turn off Walkie Talkie App

Some may forget that the Apple Watch features a Walkie Talkie app: a rather cool feature that lets you send quick bursts of messages to another Apple Watch. While this is a great way to make you feel like a spy, it can be a battery drain if you forget to turn it off. This is likely because “Always Available” is the default setting for Walkie Talkie, meaning your Watch is constantly using additional power. 

Navigate to the Walkie Talkie app in your list of Apps by pressing the Digital Crown on your main screen. Then, ensure that Walkie Talkie is set to Off. 

Turn On Low Power Mode On Apple Watch

Users experiencing battery drain can also consider engaging Low Power Mode. This mode allows users to reduce the amount of power their device uses, while still receiving activity monitoring and certain notifications. However, Low Power Mode will turn off background heart rate measurements and heart rate notifications, and may interrupt connections to Wi-Fi. Low Power Mode will also have an impact on Siri, Background App Refresh and animations. Consider these facts before engaging this mode. 

1. Swipe Up on your Apple Watch to access Control Center.
2. Select the Battery Percentage icon. It’s what shows the level of your Watch battery.
   
3. Underneath Battery Remaining, you will see the option for Low Power Mode. Engage it. You will see a warning explaining what Low Power Mode does. You will then have the options to Turn it On or Turn it On for a certain period of time. 
   
   
4. You can turn off Low Power Mode by repeating these steps. 

Turn off Background App Refresh

Another way to conserve battery life on an Apple Watch can be to disable Background App Refresh. This feature helps your device check new content and updates when you’re not using it. This can be helpful, but it can also drain the battery. Note that this may have an impact on your notifications. 

You can find Background App Refresh by going to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. This section allows you to turn it off totally, or you can turn this feature off for individual apps. You will need to scroll down if you want to disable individual apps. 

Does the New Apple Update Drain Your Battery Faster? 

No. At least, not intentionally. It’s also not that likely. Follow the steps above to see if this helps with your potential battery drain issues. Users should do their best to ensure that their Apple Watch, and any device, is always up to date. This will almost always be the best way to ensure that you are getting the most out of any device, Apple Watch included. 

Why is My Apple Watch Battery Draining so Fast? 

There’s a number of reasons why an Apple Watch battery may drain faster than what a user typically expects. One of the largest reasons can be the age of your device. As Lithium-Ion ages, it also becomes weaker. Additionally, extended or prolonged charging, or even improper charging, can also cause a Lithium-Ion battery to degrade. However, even with proper charging, an Apple Watch battery is going to naturally degrade with use. 

Pending updates for watchOS can also cause battery drain. Considering many software updates provide bug fixes and optimization that can improve battery health and efficiency, ignoring software updates can be an issue. There’s also the fact that too many background apps may be running on a user’s device, and brightness level can also have an impact on an Apple Watch. 

Stay Up To Date: What To Do About Battery Drain on Apple Watch After Update

There’s a wealth of benefits when it comes to owning an Apple Watch. From being able to track your exercise routine, to answering messages and even using Siri, there’s a reason an Apple Watch is one of the most popular choices for users around the world. However, it can only be so useful as its battery, which is why ensuring that the battery is performing optimally is so important. Remember to properly charge your Apple Watch, ideally with official Apple products. Taking proper care of your Apple Watch will no doubt improve longevity of the device. 

If you’re having an issue with your Apple Watch, or any device for that matter, a solution typically isn’t too hard to reach. Concerning the Apple Watch, not only do we have a solution if you’re experiencing battery drain, but we can also help you if you’re experiencing other issues as well. For example, we can show you how to ping your Apple Watch directly from Control Center on your iPhone in thanks to iOS 17. We can also show you what to do if your Digital Crown is stuck. Just because there’s an issue with a device doesn’t mean it has to cause issues with your life, just remember that a solution isn’t too far behind.

Tags: Apple Watch, battery, featured, watchOS

]]> Thu, 29 Jun 2023 21:05:50 +0000 Nick deCourville tmo_wp_64704 Folks may want to know how to convert High Efficiency Image Container files, or HEIC, to JPG on their iPhone. For those that don’t know, Apple introduced their own HEIF file-type variant, known as HEIC, alongside iOS 11 in 2017. While the file format is great for photographers for a variety of reasons, it may not be suitable for everyone’s needs. Fortunately, there is a way to convert HEIC files to JPG, and even to PDF if necessary. The steps are also rather straightforward, with multiple options for users. 

Keeping it all together, I’m going to show users how they convert HEIC files to JPG on their iPhone with ease. I’ll offer a couple of different solutions for this conversion process, while also showing users how they can change a certain setting so that the Camera app always takes JPG photos. I also want to take a look at the differences between HEIC and JPG to allow users to determine for themselves which file format they prefer. I also briefly answer some additional questions. Let’s get started. 

How to Convert HEIC to JPG on iPhone: Three Ways

While there are many benefits to keeping your photos in the HEIC format, users may want to keep their photos as JPGs anyway. While there is a solution to ensure that photos you capture through the Camera app will save in the JPEG format, you can also go back and change old photos from the HEIC file type to JPG image format as well. Even better, this can be done using the built-in features on your iPhone. 

• The quickest way to convert a HEIC file to JPG would be to email your HEIC photos to yourself. This way your iPhone will automatically convert them to JPG. Simply send an email through your preferred email app using your email address as the recipient and attach the HEIC photos to convert them to JPG. Save the images when you receive the email. 
• You can also AirDrop the Files to your Mac and use the macOS Preview app to convert the HEIC photos to JPG. From your iPhone, click on a photo from the Photos app, hit the Share icon, and then select AirDrop. You’ll then choose your Mac. Once the photo is on your Mac, you can then open it in preview and select File > Export from the Menu Bar. You can then choose whatever file type you would like.

If you still want some conversion tools, I’d recommend the HEIC to JPEG Image Converter. Not only is it free and available on the Apple App Store, but it is also designed for iPad. It’s a pretty useful third-party app, though I would personally recommend just following the methods available directly from your iPhone. If you need to convert a HEIC photo to JPEG format, this app can be particularly beneficial, and you will still have quality photos whether you use the app or the tools on your iPhone. 

How to Take JPG Photos on Your iPhone Instead of HEIC

Fortunately, if you need to convert HEIC to JPG on iPhone, the solution is available directly in the Settings App of your iPhone. Users should also be aware that they are able to change this setting on an iPad as well. Once you change this setting, JPEG will be the default photo file format for your Camera app.

And there it is! Your Camera app will now save photos as a JPG rather than a HEIC file. Note that regardless of what setting you choose, screenshots will always save as a PNG file. 

Additionally, users should also know that if they have the option, this Setting is also where you could begin using Apple ProRAW, which is a 12-bit photo format file that implements Linear DNG format, which helps keep more information and dynamic range within a photo. Give it a try if you have this feature to check out the quality of your iPhone camera. 

Is it Possible to Batch Convert HEIC Images to JPG on My iPhone?

Yes, it is possible to batch convert HEIC images to JPG on an iPhone. There are apps available on the Apple App Store such as Image Converter – JPG PNG HEIC, or you can also use the Files App method.

1. Open the Files app on your iPhone and click Browse at the bottom. Then select the three dots in the upper right corner. Click New Folder. Name the folder whatever you want.
   
2. Next, go to the Photos app and select the photos you want to convert.
3. Go back to the Files app, long click within the Folder and select Paste. This will paste your photos to the folder as JPG files.
    

How to Convert iPhone Photos to PDF

If you need to convert iPhone photos to PDF, there are format options available. While PDF can be a good format for photos, converting iPhone photos to PDF is actually really easy. It’s essentially the same way you easily make a Microsoft Word doc a PDF: by printing as a PDF. 

1. Open your Photos app on iPhone.
2. Go to Albums at the bottom and choose an album. Then, tap Select.
3. Choose the photos you want to convert to PDF and then tap the Share button. 
4. Select Print. 
5. When looking at the Print options, use two fingers to drag the photo so that it is prominent on the screen. Hit the Share icon again, and this will allow you to save the image as a PDF.

The photo will retain its actual size and there’s no need for a converter app. However, if you want to use an app, Photo PDF: Scanner Converter is a nice free app. 

HEIC vs. JPG

Remember that HEIC is just Apple’s way of labelling HEIF files. HEIC is essentially a HEIF, or High Efficiency Image Format, though HEIC is just Apple’s way of labelling it. 

The major difference between HEIC and JPG is that JPG is the most popular image format, in that JPG files are accessible for virtually all devices, whereas HEIC is available only on Macs running macOS High Sierra or later, or any iPhone that is iPhone 7 or later. Essentially, HEIC files are Apple exclusive. However, HEIC files will have overall better image quality over JPG files. HEIC will also have 16-bit colors, lossless edits, wide dynamic range and more detailed information. 

When it comes to image files, HEIC may be better overall for quality images since it is a high-quality image format, but JPG is going to be more accessible, and is likely a more familiar format for users. So while there may be a host of advantages with HEIC files, users may prefer JPG due to the major advantage of being more adaptable when using other devices.

At the end of the day, choosing which file format you prefer for your Camera app is ultimately up to you. That’s only one of the many benefits the iPhone Camera provides. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Tags: iPhone, Photography

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