Image: Pexels

Smartphone Overheating Solutions to Help You Cruise through the Heatwave

Temperatures are rising across the globe from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to India and the UK. While many have joked about the British issuing a heatwave alert at 26°C (78.8°F), the numbers are still a departure from what is normal for the region, which is sufficient cause for concern. Just as people are heating up and turning to AC units and iced coffees to stay cool, our electronics could do with some attention as well. Phone batteries can suffer greatly when they’re repeatedly faced with extreme temperatures, and heat waves are exactly part of that problem, impossible to escape and unbearable when you’re caught in it.

Even if you aren’t being met with the hot fist of the heatwave right now, it’s good to know how to prevent phones from overheating or how to cool them down when it does heat up, considering heat waves aren’t the only reasons their temperature goes up. Some smartphones have a natural tendency to get hot quickly but this is never healthy for your device in the long run. Using it when it reaches that state, for example, by putting the heated device to your ear to answer a call, can be detrimental to your health as well. So, consider experimenting with a few smartphone overheating solutions in advance to ensure you’re ready to handle your gadget efficiently when the time comes.

Avoid Direct Sunlight to Keep Your Phone Cool During a Heatwave

The desire to pull out your smartphone and glance at the screen is instinctual—we do it without pausing to think of where we are and whether it’s a good idea. It is a good idea to start becoming more mindful about where you use your device and try to avoid direct sunlight while you’re at it. Try to look for a sheltered spot to stand under before you use your device in the outside world, and if there aren’t any options close enough, turn your back to the sun and keep the device shaded at least.

Image: Pexels

Avoid Using Your Phone While it Charges

Some older smartphones get a little warm while they charge and using them while they charge adds an additional burden on the processor to keep it running. To prevent your phone from overheating, avoid using the device until you can take it off the charger.

Additionally, another tip in regard to phones overheating is to avoid charging your device if it is already hot. When a smartphone begins to overheat, the best thing to do is put it down for a while instead of powering more energy into it. Wait until the device is back to normal before connecting it to a power source.

Close Open Apps and Pause All Activity 

Smartphone overheating solutions usually start and end with giving the phone a break. If the device begins to heat up, close all the active tabs and apps and turn off any services that you do not need. If you’re in a space where you can turn off the device for a while, then let it cool down on its own. You can turn it back on when closer to normal. If that’s not an option, just switch to airplane mode or the power-saving mode to reduce the activity on the device. 

Move to A Cooler Spot But Do Not Put It In The Freezer

Heading indoors to a cooler spot can help stop your phone from overheating but this does not mean you put the device in a cooler or in the fridge to bring the heat down. Rapid temperature fluctuations are not good for your health and neither is it good for your device. Condensation within a fridge can also ruin the internal components of your device so don’t look to these extreme options for a solution.

You can place the phone under the fan or hold it up in front of the AC vent in your car to help the device cool down, but that’s as far as you should go with the temperature change. 

Give Your Device a Mini Break From The Phone Case—Phone Overheating Tips

Moving an overheated smartphone away from other electrical equipment, taking it out of your pocket and away from your body heat, and letting it cool down in a better-shaded spot are all useful solutions. In addition to this, you could also remove the phone case for a while so the heat can be dispersed easily. The more complex and layered your phone case is with its additional attachments, the more likely it is to heat up and keep the phone warm. Some phone cases are designed to be better at keeping your phone cool, but none of them do anything special enough to invest in them solely for this reason.

If you’re very serious about preventing your phone from overheating, you could also invest in an external cooling system for your smartphone. While these are generally designed for gamers to keep the temperature down while they play demanding, power-hungry games, there’s nothing stopping you from using them when you want. Products like the Oneplus 45w Liquid Water Cooler Fan, Black Shark MagCooler 3 Pro, or ASUS’ Aeroactive 6 are some alternatives you can try, but check their compatibility with your device before you make a purchase. These are not designed for all devices.

These smartphone overheating solutions should be a good start to keep your phone cool during a heatwave but the best way to ensure it is to be mindful of how you use your device. These strategies can be applied to your life in many different ways. For example, avoid putting your phone on the dashboard or under direct sunlight in your car. If you have a habit of watching something while you cook, keep your device as far from the stove as possible. 

Additionally, if you know you’re going to use your smartphone for demanding tasks like gaming, then charge it in advance and not while you play. Finally, reduce how often you allow yourself to doomscroll on your device and you should be able to prevent your phone from overheating on a daily basis. 

The post Too Hot to Handle? Try These Summer Smartphone Overheating Solutions appeared first on Technowize.

If that sounds like it would be a useful guide for you, then let’s dive into some ways to improve your Android battery. Most of these will work on iOS devices too, so maybe you still have something to learn here.

Image: Freepik

Ways to Improve an Android’s Battery Life

There are two situations where you might find yourself wondering about boosting your phone battery life—first, in an emergency situation where you need to make your phone last a little longer until you can get to a charger or, second, when you want to improve the general health of your device and monitor the battery drain. In the first situation, where you need to focus on preserving and extending the Android’s battery life, here are some tips that can come in handy:

• Close any apps that are running in the background
• Turn off the GPS tracker or location services if you do not need it 
• Bring down the screen brightness and turn off the “Always On” mode in your display settings if it’s in use
• If you’re not using your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, turn it off until you need it
• Turn off any additional UI features that are non-essential such as swipe animations, active listening, lift to wake, etc. 
• Turn off keyboard sounds and vibrations and reduce the screen timeout time so the screen doesn’t drain your battery
• If you really need the battery to last longer on your Android, turn on the power saver mode. It will reduce the functionality of your phone significantly, but you’ll still be able to use select apps that are essential to get you home to a charger

It’s a good idea to invest in a power bank or portable battery so you always have a backup battery source on the go. There are days when you might be forced to leave your phone at home and no amount of boosting your phone battery life will be sufficient to get you through the day. In case of such emergencies, a power battery will come in handy—as long as you check it regularly to ensure it is charged. 

Tips to Extend Android Battery Life in the Long Run

To improve your Android battery life, there are a few things you could make in how you use your smartphone. Obviously using your phone less might be a good idea. We are so used to picking up and unlocking our phones every few minutes, even when we have no notifications and nothing particular to check either. The habit can wear your battery down over time. Limiting your screen time is a good tip, both for your device and for your peace of mind. 

Limit the Number of Apps That Run In the Background 

Apps that have permission to keep running in the background are generally not harmful to your device as they use up very little memory and battery. Still, if you want to minimize the drain, go into your battery settings and check which apps are using the most of your battery power. If you don’t need the apps, you can go right ahead and delete them, but that’s going to be unlikely. Instead,  you can then determine if you want those apps to have permission to run in the background or not. 

To boost your phone battery life, you can also swipe close all your apps before you put your phone down every time.

Turn Off Unnecessary Features To Boost Phone Battery Life

Smartphones come with a lot of features that make your device more fun to use or they add a touch of style that can make you feel like you’re using a truly premium device. Again, these features don’t necessarily demand a lot of power from your smartphone, but they do stack up over time. Haptic feedback and keyboard tones while typing are a nice detail for some, but if you’re very serious about monitoring battery drain, turning these features off may help. Other features like swipe animations, screen time-out durations, and always-on screens are always non-essential so you get to decide what stays and what goes.

Turn On Adaptive Brightness or Manually Lower It When It’s Not Necessary

To improve your Android battery life, turn on adaptive brightness on your device so the screen brightness is automatically reduced as you move in and out of different settings. If the adaptive feature doesn’t work too well on your device, you can manually turn it down yourself when you don’t need to be blinded by your screen or aren’t outdoors. Using darker themes or using dark mode on your apps may also be marginally helpful.

Image: Freepik

Don’t Overcharge Your Device—Prime Tip to Extend Android Battery

Many of us have a habit of using our smartphones until the last second of being awake, waiting until our eyes droop shut to plug our phones in to charge overnight. It might feel convenient to put your phone on charge and wake up with it ready to go the next stay, but unfortunately, this only hurts your battery in the long run. Under ideal conditions, it is best to charge your device up to around 80 percent rather than taking it up to 100 percent every time. 

Even if you charge it to 100 just to be sure it lasts you through the day, it’s better to do it before you go to sleep or finish charging before you leave for work in the morning. Leaving it to charge overnight means the device constantly fluctuates between 99 and 100 all night as it remains plugged in, wearing the device down. You can also try and avoid using your smartphone when it is charging. It isn’t inherently dangerous or bad to do it, but the phone may heat up and charge slower when you use it as it charges, so it’s best avoided. 

Turn off Any Unnecessary Connections

To improve your battery life, turn off and disconnect any services that you do not need. If you’re not using your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, turn it off. If you don’t have any need to connect with a nearby device, turn the scanner off so your device doesn’t waste energy searching for alternate connections. Similarly, if you don’t frequently rely on Google Assistant, turn the voice common, “Always listening” setting off. 

Update Your Apps Regularly and Avoid Downloading Shady Files

Updated apps mean more optimized apps, which means they might be better for the overall health of your device. Try to update your apps regularly to boost your phone battery and this will bring additional benefits like battery security and optimization. Additionally, just like you would with your laptop, avoid clicking on any links you don’t recognize or downloading files from untrustworthy sources. Malware and viruses are always sly battery drainers that you can’t identify easily and avoiding them entirely is a good strategy.

These simple ways to improve your Android battery may require you to make some lifestyle changes but if you’re consistent with them, you could end up with a longer battery on Android—or iOS if that’s what you use.

The post Improve Your Android Battery, Make The Most of Your Money appeared first on Technowize.

How to Fix a Slow Browser and Get Back to Your Work

Before you try to make Chrome or any other browser run faster, the first step is to check whether there is an issue with the internet connection. Both Wi-Fi and mobile internet networks are not always reliable and they slow down your access to the internet regardless of which app you’re using. You can always check first, by opening up a few other apps and services and checking if you’re able to access the internet without issues. If those apps fail to load, then you have an internet problem on your hands and should check with the service provider to see what is wrong.

A smarter and more reliable way to check is to run a speed test on your device and make a note of the numbers. A speed test measures the speed between your device and a test server, assessing how quickly data is sent and received, or uploaded and downloaded, across the connection. A speed of 20-40 Mbps (megabits per second) is sufficient for most streaming and searching needs but anything lower could require addressing before you fix the slow browser. 100 Mbps or anything higher is necessary for large, demanding games so if that’s what you’re trying to run, check to see if the speed matches up. Speedtest by Ookla, PCMag’s tester, or the Chrome browser’s very own speed test in connection with its Measurement Lab are some platforms you could run the test.

Update Your Device and Browser to Make Chrome Faster

Again, you may not have to fix a slow browser but a slow device instead. Check to make sure your device is up-to-date with the latest features to assure yourself that it isn’t the reason your browser is bothering you. Laptops that are constantly on with an opportunity to shut down and complete their updates frequently slow down or start to lag. 

Once you’ve checked the device, go to your Chrome settings via the three dots on the right corner of your browser. Find the “About Chrome” page on the bottom of the left panel and you can check if your browser is up to date. If it isn’t, the browser will start updating automatically and you can see how fast the update is moving. When the update is complete, close all the browsers you have and open the page again to speed up Google Chrome.

If these precautions don’t fix a slow browser, you have some underlying issues that need to be addressed and eliminated to pick the pace back up. 

Fix a Slow Chrome Browser by Closing Additional Tabs

Your browser may slow down when it is overloaded with traffic from your device or from your area overall. If you have many unnecessary tabs open right now like I do, bookmark those that you need for later and close any tabs that you do not need. Many pages have ads and videos that constantly run in the background and take up unnecessary bandwidth when they don’t need to. Moving your cursor over the tab name will open up a box that tells you just how much memory is being consumed by the tab. Even if it’s a negligible amount, it may be getting in the way of your connection. 

Google’s memory saver mode is also available to deactivate tabs that you aren’t using. When you click on the tab the next time you need it, Google will reload the page for you and treat it like an active tab instead. If you have apps running in the background, it doesn’t hurt to close those as well to allow our device to focus on the browser page you need to load. 

Get Rid of Unnecessary Extensions to Improve Chrome’s Performance

Extensions make life easier and allow you to integrate many capabilities that your browser doesn’t offer itself. Whether you still use Teleparty to stream shows with your buddies or you have an ad blocker to stop ads from running, extensions are a great addition to your browsing experience. However, they may be slowing your browser down. These rely on your internet to stay running and some of them aren’t fully optimized to stay out of the way of your browsing. These extensions also use some of the memory to stay running constantly. 

Browser extensions are also not as well regulated and include code that might make your device more vulnerable to malware. Virus and malware could be another reason why your laptop is slow. To fix a slow browser and make Chrome faster, disable extensions you don’t currently need and delete those you don’t see yourself using anytime soon. Click on the puzzle piece box icon that should be close to your address bar in the top right corner. This should give you a list of the extensions you currently have pinned or that you use regularly. Choose the manage extensions button at the bottom of the menu for the full list of extensions. Clicking on the three dots next to each one will give you the option to “Remove from Chrome.”

If you are sure you want to get rid of them, click remove to get it out of the way. If you want to be more thorough with which extensions are demanding the most of your browser so you can eliminate them first, go to the task manager to check and remove those first. 

Clear Your Browser Cookies, Cache, and Browsing History

Another way to fix a slow browser is to clear your cookies and cache data out. This can be a pain to do because clearing your cookies will mean logging back into every website you visit regularly. These cookies are data files that are transferred between your website and browser, in order to store data relevant to your visit to those websites. This includes your login details, recently searched terms in the website’s search bar, and categories of information that you look at, in order to advertise to you better. You should make it a habit to reject unnecessary cookies when you visit a new browser to limit the exchange of data and reduce the amount that gets stored about you.

Unfortunately, not all the cookies can be rejected so you should try and clear them out regularly to speed up Google Chrome and prevent any unnecessary connections with browsers you don’t want saving your data. This can also eliminate any malware that is stored with the cache files. You can click on the three-dot menu to find the “Clear browsing data” menu or press Control, Shift, and Delete to find the “Clear History” page.

Scan Your Device For Malware and Viruses

Installing a good antivirus should be your first move the moment you buy a new device. Running scans to search for any “bad” files and viruses regularly can save you from having your system hijacked by those who intend to misuse your information. You might have viruses downloading in the background without realizing it, which needs to be addressed to fix your slow browser and save you from facing problems that are far worse. You can also upgrade Chrome’s security to set checks in place and fix a slow browser. The “Enhanced Protection” feature can provide some assistance in keeping your data safe and checking your internet activity to detect any anomalies. 

To fix a slow browser, try to ensure you aren’t trying to load a website that has its own problems loading or one that your browser recommended you do not visit. Certain website have their own ways of slowing down your browser and keeping you waiting with the tab open for longer, and they can harm your device in the long run. Avoid visiting shady websites and clicking on random links if you can help it. 

Regularly clearing unwanted files on your device, running scans and disk defragmenters, checking the permissions on websites, clearing your cookies, and updating all of your software systems can make sure you don’t have to fix a slow browser. It will make Chrome fast, keep your data safe, and promise you a smooth, uninterrupted experience online. 

The post How To Fix a Slow Browser That’s Interrupting Your Time Online appeared first on Technowize.

Laptop Buying Guide: How to Choose a Laptop That Won’t Let You Down

If you’re in a rush to buy a new laptop to keep up with your responsibilities whether that’s college classes or your 9-to-5, the pressure to pick quickly without overspending can be burdensome. A laptop buying guide may not have all the answers, but it should be able to help you determine what to prioritize and how to choose a laptop that can serve your needs. Before you get into narrowing down your laptop selection criteria, you may have to set a clear vision of how you plan to use the device.

For graphic designers, digital artists and those who work with 3D computer models, a good display will be paramount, but a powerful CPU is just as essential to support all the demanding rendering work that will go into their tasks. A larger RAM will also be beneficial to handle the many data-heavy projects. If you’re a writer and don’t want too many distractions—you just need a cheap device that you can carry everywhere, a low-priced Chromebook could be sufficient for your minimalistic needs. Pondering over complicated laptop features is unnecessary for you.

Understanding your requirements is the first suggestion in this laptop-buying guide. Make a list of all the reasons you will be using the laptop in order of priority, and then you can look at the specs that meet your preferences. Any additional features after that are just a reward. Now if you have your list ready, here are some tips on how to choose a laptop:

• Determine which operating system works best for you
• Make a note of how much storage you require with RAM consideration
• Understand processors and how they tie into your requirements
• Explore your graphics needs with the GPU
• Assess whether you require multiple external drives and connectivity options
• Ask yourself if a touchscreen is a “want” or a “need”
• Check battery life if you’re likely to use it for long hours without a power source
• Compare sizes and see what works best for you—bigger is not always better
• Consider all your other miscellaneous preferences like audio and camera quality

1. Laptop Buying Tips: Start with Choosing the Right OS

A laptop is just a fancy brick without its operating system. Choosing the right OS can make your purchase worthwhile but getting it wrong can cause you to struggle with a lot of relearning and breaking into software that isn’t designed for your device. If you’re familiar with using MasOS devices and know your way around it well, there’s no hard in opting for another Apple device just to make things easier for you. If you don’t mind switching between operating systems, the next thing to consider is the compatibility with the software you intend to use. 

Final Cut Pro is a great video editing app but it is exclusively available on Mac devices. If you’ve become an expert on using Pinnacle Studio, then you will find that it does not work on MacOS devices. If you are aware of the software you need to use, check compatibility and ease of transfer to ensure your work is not interrupted. 

WindowsOS: Offers the largest range of devices to choose from as the majority of PC makers design laptops that ship with Windows OS.

MacOS: Provides a premium quality experience and has its own efficient collection of apps and software but restricts you from purchasing an Apple product which is generally more expensive.

LinuxOS: Open source OS that requires a lot of experimenting with tech to perfect but is believed to be superior to other operating systems in terms of security. Many apps and services require additional layers to support compatibility.

ChromeOS: A Linux-based cloud-first OS that does not support major apps or create room for game downloads, but gives you the cheapest laptops or “Chromebooks” on the market.

These aren’t the only operating systems available for laptops but other OS available online require a keen understanding of technology to install and use. Corel Linux, MenuetOS, and Haiku are examples of operating systems that you can install yourself on your devices.

Image: Dell Inspiron

2. Understand RAM and Storage Options

RAM or Random Access Memory refers to the short-term memory of your system. It refers to the space available on your device to process tasks as you go. The larger it is, the better it is for you as it clears up space for your laptop to keep up with your 30 tabs and multiple applications running in the background. 8GB RAM is standard on most devices and is sufficient for a majority of tasks. 

If you intend to use your laptop for attending meetings and working on Excel sheets, 8GB is sufficient for your needs. For gaming and other applications that have high demands on your laptop and its processor, it’s better to choose a device with 16 GB RAM, or 32GB if you’re willing to spend on more expensive alternatives. If you don’t work with heavy applications, going overboard with the RAM will only be wasteful.

Again, you can consider these laptop-buying tips and go back to the software and games you plan to run on the device and see if they have any specifications mentioned for a smooth experience. Adobe After Effects, for example, requires 16GB RAM but recommends 32GB or higher for 4K videos. DDR4-type RAM memory modules are preferred for most tasks and applications and should be the standard that you look out for.

Also, Check the Storage Option For All Your Files and Applications

Consider the storage options as well to decide how much you’re going to be storing on the device. The Adobe After Effects program requires 8GB of space constantly in order to download the application. Without it the software won’t download onto the device. Our smartphones now offer 128GB and 25GB as standard storage and a laptop usually needs more than that to perform well so a 512GB storage minimum is your best bet and 1TB is a good place to stop. 

Considering the storage type on the device is also recommended if you’re looking at this laptop buying guide for clarity. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are faster and more efficient than Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) but you can get a higher capacity HDD for cheaper. Again, a 512GB SSD is a good place for most people so you can choose to stop right there unless you specifically have files and games that you know will take up more space. 

Check if your laptop has slots for memory upgrades or if you can upgrade the internal drive. Such laptops give you room to increase the storage—at a cost of course—at a later date.

Image: Lenovo LOQ 12th Gen

3. Check the Processor Options

Processors are the brains of the laptop that keep things running and any laptop buying guide will tell you that they are one of the most critical components to consider. You will usually encounter an Intel chip, Apple M-series chip, or an AMD chip and the version of the chip will tell you how new that particular processor is. The newer the process, the higher the specs and the more able it is to match up to the latest tasks you set for it. 

The number and naming chips on the chip take some deciphering and it can get difficult to determine what to pick for yourself. When it comes to Intel, an i3 7th gen chip is enough for basic everyday use, but for more demanding tasks, it is better to look for a device with an Intel i5 8th-generation processor or higher. An Intel i7 chip promises the most comfortable experience of the lot. 

Similarly for AMD, the Ryzen 9 is the best for ultimate gaming performance, but a Ryzen 5 chip should be sufficient for casual gamers or those who don’t have too many demanding needs. It can be tempting to shoot for the “best” categories, but those versions mean more expensive laptops that may stray out of your budget.

4. Does a Graphics Card Feature in Your Laptop Selection Criteria?

For the most part, everyday users don’t have to focus on a graphics card in their laptop. Some version of a GPU comes integrated and you can watch movies and play basic games just fine without delving into the specs. However, a dedicated graphics card is essential for graphic-intensive tasks, especially with visually demanding games with high-quality specs. 

According to Lenovo, “It accelerates the graphics processing capabilities of your computer, enabling you to enjoy smooth and high-quality visuals in games, videos, and other graphics-intensive applications. The graphics card works with the central processing unit (CPU) to process and output visual data.” AMD and Nvidia are the main powerhouses you need to look out for, more specifically their Radeon RX and Nvidia RTX chips. 

5. Prioritize Connectivity Among the Many Laptop Features

Internal storage is one thing but external hard drives also make life easier. The more slots your laptop has for USB connections, the easier it is to manage your connected devices. Especially if you intend to use a Bluetooth mouse for extended periods of work, you will find one USB-C slot permanently occupied. If you use a laptop-powered USB-C ring light during your meetings, that’s an additional port that you have to keep open. Connecting an external monitor is also a set-up factor you need to consider, so keep in mind the kinds of ports that you need on your device, otherwise, all the accouterments will have to fight for a spot on your device. 

Additional slots like an HDMI port or a DisplayPort will make it easier to set your presentations up if you travel to different locations to present and need to connect your laptop to projectors regularly. Headphone jacks are still available on many laptops if that is a priority for you. An SD or microSD card reader could also be useful if you regularly need to download data off these cards. 

Image: HP ZBook Studio

6. Ask Yourself If a Touchscreen Is a Want or a Need

If you were considering a touchscreen laptop before you looked up this laptop buying guide, then you need to ask yourself if you really need a touchscreen. These touch devices offer great flexibility in how you use your device and they’re very convenient to move things around when you don’t want to constantly use a mouse. The intuitive interface is fun to use and it can guarantee a smoother workflow when you need to zoom in and out of things repeatedly. 

The major drawback of a touch screen laptop is that they are usually more expensive, and repeatedly touching the screen can drain the battery faster while also affecting the device’s lifespan. Some reports indicate touch laptops are heavier but there are lighter alternatives available if you’re inclined to look. 

Unless the touch laptop feature is something that ties into how you work, you’ll find the feature going unused most of the time, especially when you have your hands on the keypad typing away as you work. For a better touch experience, an iPad with a magic keyboard is often more convenient, so if you’re just in pursuit of a device you can draw and type on alternatively, you might as well buy a tablet instead. That may not be what you had expected to hear in a laptop-buying guide, but that’s the way to go.

7. Don’t Forget to Count That Battery Life among the Laptop Selection Criteria

Laptops require a lot more power to function compared to smartphones so they rarely guarantee a full-day battery life. If you work with your device plugged into a power source at all times, the battery life will hardly matter and it doesn’t have to be a laptop feature you prioritize. But if you work in public spaces frequently or have to move between locations, reliable battery life is essential so you don’t get interrupted halfway between reading through important files.

Check the battery life if you’re likely to use it for long hours without a power source. A 21-hour battery charge is the longest we’ve seen with the Apple MacBook Air 16 but a 10-11 hour average is doable with many of the devices on the market. How to choose a laptop? Determine how it can work for you. 

8. The Laptop Size Can Make A World of Difference

Traveling around with a heavy, large-screen laptop can get cumbersome after a while. However, giant screens make it so much easier to enjoy a video or work with a split screen. Depending on your comfort levels and priorities, considering the size of the device is another laptop buying tip to keep in mind. A 14-inch laptop is a comfortable in-between that you could opt for, or scale higher or lower depending on how and where you intend to use the device.

The last few considerations in this laptop buying guide are elements like the audio and camera quality. The emphasis on these sorts of elements doesn’t have to be as considerable since you will likely use earphones or an additional speaker to listen to audio and you already know that the camera will never be “good.” If the camera on the device doesn’t satisfy your needs, a webcam purchase can resolve the issue if you consistently find it underperforming in comparison to your expectations.

The design and style of the laptop could also be considered but be forewarned that a majority of budget laptops have very basic designs that do not spark joy. If you want to add some pizzazz to it, you could always cover it with stickers or slap on a nice laptop skin. Take all of these elements into your purchase consideration, prioritize the laptop features that matter to you higher on your list, and Voila! You now know how to choose a laptop.

The post A Laptop Buying Guide to Help You Pick the Perfect Work Partner appeared first on Technowize.

Image: Freepik

How to Password Protect a PDF

The easiest way to password-protect a PDF document is through the Adobe Acrobat Program but it comes at a cost. If you want to subscribe to the Acrobat Standard plan, then it costs $12.99 USD per month for an annual, monthly-paid plan. The annual prepaid plan adds up to $155.88 USD per year. The monthly subscription to the same service is priced at $22.99 USD per month. There is the Acrobat Pro plan available that is more expensive and comes with more features, but you do not need to subscribe to it just for the password protection feature.

If you want to secure PDF documents in the present and have no immediate plans for reusing the feature, you can use the 7-day trial of the Adobe Acrobat standard plan to get access to the service for the next week. As long as you cancel the plan within the next few days, you should not have to incur any costs for password-protecting your PDFs. If you already have a paid Adobe Acrobat account, you can directly get started with the PDF encryption process.

• Open the document you want to add password protection to
• Click on the Menu option in the upper left corner of your screen
• A box will appear and ask “Requires users to enter a password for Viewing, Editing.” This will let you select whether the password will be requested on opening the document or when the user tries to modify it
• Once you choose between the two options, type a strong password into the field provided
• Re-type the password and select Apply
• You’re document should now be password protected but you can reopen the document to verify it just in case

Alternatively, when starting the process, you can also click on the tool option below the Menu tab. As you move down the menu, the “Protect a PDF” option should also help you with PDF encryption.

Creating a PDF Password Online

If you don’t have a paid account and do not want to go through the hassle of getting a subscription, then you can just learn how to encrypt the PDF online. The downside to this is that the document does have to be uploaded to the server online, so there is a minor risk of exposing it to the very online players you’re trying to protect the document contents from. If you find the risk to be too small to cause worry, then the Adobe Acrobat Password Protection Online service is entirely free to use.

• Open up the website and click on the menu in the left corner
• Click on “PDF & E-Signatures,” then “Online Tools,” and finally find the “View All Tools” option
• Scroll down to the “Sign & Protect” option and click on the “Try now” button under Protect PDF
• there should be a prompt on your screen to upload a file
• Drag and drop the PDF into the space provided or click on “Select a File” to locate the PDF
• An icon with your document should be visible on the screen along with space to add a password
• Type out a password and reconfirm that you have it written correctly
• A bar at the bottom should be visible to indicate how strong the password is to ensure that it turns green
• Then click on “Set Password” to complete the process of adding a PDF password online

The document should be saved in your system, and anyone who tries to access it will need a password to do it. These documents may still be vulnerable to some decryption methods so it is still essential to transfer the document from one person to the next carefully. 

Tools like PDFEncrypt and Smallpdf.com also give you the option of securing your PDF document, but the legitimacy of such services is difficult to determine—consider using them at your own risk. Proton Drive, Sookasa, NordLocker, and other encrypted storage services allow you to store files on the cloud and create links that you can share selectively with those who need to access them. While this doesn’t specifically add a password to the document itself, the sharing of the file can be monitored more easily, providing you with a way to preserve sensitive information.

 Now that you know how to encrypt a PDF, you should be able to exchange confidential documents without breaking a sweat.

The post Better Protected Than Sorry—How to Password Protect a PDF appeared first on Technowize.

Apple’s AirTag tracker safety was one of the concerns that held up the release of the feature, but reports suggest that the upcoming iOS 17.5 update has the necessary security features that Google was waiting for. With time and preventive advances in competitor technology, Google finally seems ready to move forward with the release.

Image: Google’s interface for the Find My Device feature

Google Launches The Find My Device Network in the U.S. and Canada

The Android vs iOS debate is one that has been dragged on for years but one area where the former had perhaps been a little weak was the quality of the offline trackers for Android devices. Google already had a “Find My” feature on its devices but this relied on an active internet connection to make the tracking possible, which impaired how effective the tracking could be. The current Google Find My Device rollout will rely on a Bluetooth connection that utilizes a crowdsourced device-locating network to triangulate the location of a missing device. Security appears to have been the main roadblock for the release of the Android Find My Device feature and the company reportedly worked with privacy and advocacy groups to gather feedback on their protocols.

“We developed multi-layered protections across three main areas: data safeguards, safety-first protections, and user controls. This approach provides defence-in-depth for Find My Device users,” the company stated in a blog post. The Find My Device network works by relying on the connections of nearby devices to identify the Bluetooth tag of the device you’re trying to locate. “When the owner realizes they have lost their keys and logs into the Find My Device mobile app, they will be able to see the aggregated location contributed by nearby Android devices and locate their keys,” the Google Security blog states.

The issue with crowdsourcing the location reports was the fear of all nearby users having their identity revealed to those trying to locate their device on the network. This would leave them vulnerable and exposed to those who could potentially misuse the information. To address this, Google guarantees end-to-end encryption of the data they collect, only providing them with the location of their missing item and no other details about nearby devices. If the device is close enough that it can be found connecting to the user’s own gadgets, then the crowdsourced report is discarded entirely. Google launched the Find My Device network after putting sufficient safety protocols in place.

5 Ways to Use the New Offline Tracker for Android Devices

The Find My Device network will be available on all devices that used Android 9 or any version that came after, so if you’ve upgraded your smartphone since 2018, your device is most likely eligible to use the feature. Explaining the new Android feature and how you can use the Google Find My Device service, the company showcase five situations where the new feature might come in handy:

1. Locating offline devices: You can now track your missing device when it isn’t connected to the internet. Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices can be tracked even if the device has been turned off.
2. Using Bluetooth tags: Devices that don’t inherently have a Bluetooth connection can be attached to tracker tags from Chipolo and Pebblebee. These can be linked to the Find My Device app. Jio, eufy, Motorola and a few other services should come out with compatible tags soon.
3. Finding nearby devices: Even when you know your device is close by but can’t locate it, the “Find nearby” button will help you locate the tracker-tagged items
4. Home Nest: Once you create a list of devices connected to your home base, the proximity indicator can be viewed to identify where devices are in reference to each other.
5. Building an ecosystem of devices with others: Shared devices can be linked once the owner shares permission with their friends, family, or roommates, making it so that you and your sibling can both locate the car keys that each of you claims the other lost.

How to Use Google Find My Device Service

If you’re looking for a “Find My Device” setup guide, the first detail to check will be your device’s Android version. It’s almost guaranteed that your device is running on Android 9 or later versions but you can go into your settings to check just in case. You then need to ensure that your location sharing and Find My Device settings are turned on. 

• Open up your settings Menu, search for Location, and check that it is turned on
• Go back to your settings menu, search for Google, scroll down to All services, and check that your Find My Device setting is turned on

The Find My Device app by Google LLC is available for download through the PlayStore and the same can be used to set up your connection of devices. You will be prompted to sign into your Google account so ensure you enter the correct password and log in. You should now have the option to add your devices here and set a lock for the device that will be used to confirm that the device is yours. 

For now, only users in the U.S. and Canada will be able to use the upgraded feature to add additional devices. Starting in May, the Google Find My Device rollout will include the Bluetooth tracker tag connections, which will allow you to link other items you’re prone to losing. TechRadar has stated that Google might launch its own tracker tagger codenamed “grogu,” but there are no official confirmations on that detail yet.

The Find My Device network should be a helpful upgrade considering the usefulness of the “Find My” feature already available on iOS devices. We’re hoping the security measures put into place hold up once the feature is more widely used—a flurry of upgrades and patches will follow in any case once it is more globally implemented.

The post Take Two: Google’s Find My Device Network Gets An Upgrade appeared first on Technowize.

There are a few free password managers available online but it is often harder to track who gains access to the data through those services. Investing in a secure password manager is the ideal way forward and so far, NordPass remains one of the best password managers we’ve seen so far. 

Image – NordPass

Best Password Managers for 2024

A secure password manager is the top feature to look out for in any password protection software you use, but it isn’t the only consideration. Apart from its security protocols, a password manager should be able to support cross-platform logins, offer cloud storage, multiple users in case it’s for a business or family, etc. Additional services like VPN features or dark web security do not hurt either. Depending on how much time you spend online and the kind of content you access, you might have a greater need for additional security features that come with your password manager. 

These password managers are quite efficient at what they do and provide a comprehensive solution to the threats of the online world. These tools have free plans available for those only looking for the most basic management services on one device so you could look at signing up for a free plan as well. Let’s take a look at some of the best password managers in 2024. 

Best Password Manager Overall: NordPass

Price: Starts at $35.88 for a one-year plan (currently $23.88 for the first 1 year)

Family Plan: Starts at $71.88 for a one-year plan that supports 6 premium user accounts (currently $44.28 for the first 1 year)

Business Plan: Starts at $1.99 per user per month (10-user pack)

Free Trial: Free Access available for limited features/30-day premium trial

Encryption: XChaCha20

Nord as a company has long been known for its reliable security services and the online threat protection that it provides. NordPass, one of the many elements of the Nord services, is a mid-priced password management software that allows even beginners to have an easy time wrapping their heads around these services quickly. If you’re unfamiliar with password protection software but want to get started with securing your online presence, then NordPass is the best place to start with its easily navigable UI. 

Its range of biometric logins and multi-factor authentications provide decent layers of protection when presented with the risk of data theft but at the same time, the company’s zero-knowledge policy ensures the staff isn’t accessing your information at the back end either. The free password manager only takes care of storing passwords and auto-filling information but additional features remain off-limit. The premium plan of the password management software detects weak or reused passwords and scans the web, in general, to check for any data breaches, which is quite a helpful precautionary tool. NordPass is a great tool to consider for those who want to have their family covered as well.

Best Password Manager for Businesses: Keeper

Price: $34.99

Family Plan: $74.99 for 5 private vaults

Business Plan: Starts at $24 per user billed annually (5-10 users)

Free Trial: Limited Free Version/30-Day Keeper Unlimited Free Trial of Premium features

Encryption: 256-bit AES encryption

Similar to NordPass but perhaps more efficient at it, Keeper’s security features are quite comprehensive and include multi-factor authentication and biometrics as well as a zero-knowledge policy that can put you at ease. The features are quite easy to navigate through. What’s most interesting about Keeper is its efficient system for sharing passwords and logins with both those who do and don’t use Keeper as well. This makes it a very useful tool for businesses that need to provide access to different levels for specific employees or even contract workers who might need limited access. Its offline mode is also quite effective in allowing you to access the vault of data without internet access. Overall, Keeper is one of the best password managers you could invest in, in 2024.

Best Password Manager for Families: Bitwarden 

Price: $10 (for 2 users)

Family Plan: $40 per year for up to 6 users

Business Plan: Starts at $4 per month per user (up to 10 users)

Free Trial: Free plan available as well as a 7-day free trial for premium plans

Encryption: AES 256-bit

Bitwarden Is one of the best password managers to consider due to its low price and its six-user family plan. The entire collection of health reports in addition to its emergency access contact feature make it a good solution for those who want to ensure their family’s accounts are protected without breaking the bank. Its internal family organization feature makes data sharing quite easy without compromising on each user’s private vaults. While the user interface is slightly outdated, it is quite up-to-date with its security measures, and its open-source code making its credentials easy to crosscheck. 

Unlike other free password managers that offer the bare minimum on their services, restricting either or both the number of passwords you can store as well as the number of devices you can use it on, Bitwarden offers more freedom. Even users of the free plan can store unlimited passwords on an unlimited number of devices, and while other features are still restricted, it is one of the best free password managers. 

Best Form-Filling Capabilities: RoboForm

Price: $23.88 per year

Family Plan: $47.76 per year for 5 users

Business Plan: Starts at $33.95 per user per year (up to 10 users)

Free Trial: Free version available/14-day trial to test the paid version

Encryption: AES256 bit encryption with PBKDF2 SHA256 

Just like the other password protection software in this article, RoboForm is very good at what it does. Its form-filling abilities are some of the best we’ve seen, which essentially means the manager is able to intuitively fill in your data whenever you need, for example when you’re signing up for a new service and need your details added in automatically. The local-only mode allows you to store your data on-device rather than on the RoboForm servers, and the secure sharing feature allows data transfers to other users of the platform. 

You can also store additional information on the RoboForm Safenotes tool which you don’t need through the login feature. According to the company, this can be used to store safe pins, ATM pins, financial data points, medication lists, insurance details, software activation codes, and our personal favorite, secret family recipes. The free password manager service by RoboForm is also quite good in case you don’t feel ready to invest in a paid plan just yet. The user interface of RoboForm is also quite well-designed, making it a very beginner-friendly option.

Most Well-Rounded Password Manager: Dashlane

Price: $39.93 per year

Family Plan: $59.88 per year for 10 members

Business Plan: Starts at $20 per month for 10 members

Free Trial: Limited-feature free version available as well as a 30-day premium trial

Encryption: AES 256-bit

Dashlane is something of a fan favorite when it comes to the list of bests, and this password manager is so celebrated for good reason. The password management software provides more advanced services in comparison to the other platforms and it does so without increasing the difficulty of use. The downside to that is its comparatively higher price but if you need one tool to handle all of your online safety needs, then it should be worth the expense for you. Dashlane’s host of services includes monitoring the dark web for any evidence of your data as well as a VPN service from Hotspot Shield that could cost you quite a bit if you paid for another service separately. For family use, Dashlane is only ideal for large families as the plan is quite expensive and covers 10 people for the amount you pay. 

Depending on your budget you could choose between any of these offerings as they are all some of the best password managers available right now. While NordPass has the benefit of being the most well-loved service, especially when paired with NordVPN, a service like Bitwarden might be a good place for its free services, following which you can make a much more informed investment on the paid plan for your family. With the number of malicious attackers out there, it might be a good time to have your passwords organized and update them regularly to ensure your data is well protected.

The post Better Safe Than Sorry: Take a Look at Best Password Managers to Invest In appeared first on Technowize.

According to The Washington Post, the Facebook posts have come from police departments in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oklahoma, and other locations, where warnings regarding the automatically-enabled NameDrop setting have caused quite a stir. Similar to Wired, ABC News, and other outlets, the Post has also confirmed that excessive panic over this iPhone NameDrop feature is unnecessary.

Image credit – Apple

What is the iPhone NameDrop Feature?

If you haven’t previously paid attention to the NameDrop feature on iPhones, then you might now be curious about what the feature is and if you should truly be alarmed by the cautionary news reports. Essentially, the iPhone NameDrop feature allows two compatible iPhones that are next to each other to share contact details and other information with each other. 

For those already familiar with Apple’s AirDrop feature, it is a lot easier to understand what the NameDrop feature is on the iPhone. The new feature serves as an upgrade from the AirDrop capabilities, making sharing much quicker without requiring any manual setup or exchange. The feature already exists in Apple devices and as such, should not cause any more panic than AirDrop has all these years. It merely simplifies what iPhones can already do. 

The caution advised by regulatory authorities is good to keep in mind, as the sharing can become too simplistic and children might mistakenly share information that isn’t ideal to pass around, however, the amount of precaution that needs to be taken is just as much as any other technology access that should be allowed for children. Considering that devices need to be right next to each other and both devices have to approve sharing and receiving information, data cannot be stolen or misused any more easily than through existing services and applications. If the devices are moved away from each other or the screen is locked before the transfer is complete, the NameDrop process will stop at once. 

However, if you do not think you want to take a chance and are wondering how to turn off NameDrop on your iPhone, then it is simply enough to disable.

How Do I Turn Off NameDrop on My iPhone?

The NameDrop feature on the iPhone is automatically enabled with the iOS17.1 software update and allows users to share contacts with an iPhone or Apple Watch that is nearby. To turn off NameDrop on your iPhone, you need to follow a few basic steps:

• Open the Settings page on your iPhone
• Tap the General category
• Click on AirDrop
• Find the “Start Sharing By” section 
• Tap on “Bringing Devices Together” to turn off the NameDrop feature

Technology can be intimidating and it is always good to have a healthy dose of caution and skepticism in equal amounts when it comes to understanding new features. The iPhone NameDrop tool is designed to simplify a pre-existing process and make iPhone-to-iPhone sharing a much smoother experience. Additional features like the SharePlay session, which allows you to listen to music with someone you know, fall in line with the same goal. 

However, safety does come first and if you have people around you panicking at the news asking “How do I turn off NameDrop on my iPhone?” then use these steps to guide them through the process. 

The post iPhone NameDrop Feature Stirs Up Trouble appeared first on Technowize.

(Image Courtesy – Technowize)

If you’re stuck with how to shift from Android to iPhone, you might want to walk through the step-by-step process of switching from Android to iPhone. In this detailed guide, Technowize discusses the tools and apps that can help you transfer your data seamlessly, address common concerns and questions, and provide you with valuable insights to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Why Is Switching from Android to iPhone A Level-Headed Choice?

When all’s said and done, the archaic debate of ‘Is iPhone better than Android’ has always elicited a mixed response. Between Apple or Android, there is indeed much to look forward to, but it’s wiser to go in realistically rather than dreaming of a rosy picture. Before we clink glasses on successfully switching from Android to iPhone, let’s briefly touch upon the reasons why you might consider it and nod along if you fit the bill. 

Albeit both operating systems have their strengths and weaknesses, there are certain aspects of the iPhone ecosystem that attract Android users.

• Ecosystem Integration: Apple’s ecosystem offers a seamless integration between its devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. If you already own other Apple devices or are looking for a cohesive experience across all your gadgets, switching from Android to an iPhone can be enriching.
• Ease of Use: iPhones are known for their user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation. Apple’s iOS offers a consistent and polished user experience, making it easy for anyone to pick up and use an iPhone.
• Privacy and Security: One of the answers to which is better, iPhone or Android, that tips the scale in favor of our tech giant is Apple’s reputation for prioritizing user privacy and security. iPhones are equipped with advanced security features, regular software updates, and stringent app review processes, offering users a safer environment for their personal data.
• App Store Quality: The Apple App Store is known for its curated selection of high-quality apps. Developers often prioritize iOS app development, resulting in a wide range of well-designed and optimized applications for iPhone users.

While these reasons may sound compelling as to why the iPhone is better than Android, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and requirements before making the switch. Now, let’s explore the step-by-step process of switching from Android to iPhone.

Preparing for Switching From Android To iPhone: Apple Or Android?

Before you start the migration process, it’s crucial to ensure that you have everything in order. Prepare for a smooth transition by going over 4 steps that will guide you through all the things you’ll notice whilst switching from iPhone to Android as well.

Backup Your Android Device

To avoid the risk of losing any data during the switch, it’s essential to back up your Android device. Android offers various backup options, including Google Drive, which allows you to save your contacts, photos, videos, apps, and other data to the cloud.

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to the “System” or “Backup and Reset” section.
3. Select “Backup” or “Backup and Restore.”
4. Enable the backup options you wish to utilize, such as Google Account backup or automatic backup.

Update Apps and Operating System

Before you begin the switch, make sure that all your apps and the Android operating system are up to date. This ensures that you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches installed.

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Tap the menu icon in the top-left corner.
3. Select “My apps & games” from the menu.
4. Tap the “Update All” button to update all your apps simultaneously.

Gather Necessary Information

Before you initiate switching from Android to iPhone, make a note of the following important information.

• Wi-Fi network names and passwords.
• Email account login details.
• Social media account login details.
• Any other login credentials for online services or apps.

In switching from Android to Apple, be sure to not miss any exclusive features. (Image Courtesy – Google Keynote)

Having this information readily available will make the transition smoother and ensure that you can quickly set up your new iPhone with all the necessary accounts.

Using the Move to iOS App: Is iPhone Better Than Android?

If you wonder why the iPhone is better than Android, it’s because Apple has developed a dedicated app called “Move to iOS” to simplify the process of transferring data from an Android device to an iPhone. Follow these steps to use the app.

Set Up Your iPhone

Power on your new iPhone and proceed through the initial setup process until you reach the “Apps & Data” screen.

Download Move to iOS

1. On your Android device, open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for “Move to iOS” and download the app developed by Apple Inc.

Start the Transfer Process

1. Open the Move to iOS app on your Android device.
2. Tap “Continue” on the Move to iOS welcome screen.
3. Select “Agree” to accept the terms and conditions.
4. On your iPhone, tap “Continue” on the “Apps & Data” screen, then select “Move Data from Android.”

Enter the Code

1. On your Android device, tap “Continue” and wait for a code to appear.
2. On your iPhone, enter the code displayed on your Android device.
3. Once the devices are connected, you can choose the specific content you want to transfer, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, and more.

Wait for the Transfer to Complete

1. Allow the transfer process to complete. The time required will depend on the amount of data being transferred.
2. Once the transfer is complete, you can proceed with the setup process on your iPhone, including signing in with your Apple ID and customizing your device settings.

Setting Up Your New iPhone: Which Is Better, iPhone or Android?

After the data transfer is complete, it’s time to set up your new iPhone to your liking. Here are some essential steps to follow.

Sign in with Your Apple ID

If you already have an Apple ID, enter your credentials to sign in. If you don’t have an Apple ID, you can create one during the setup process.

Customize Your Device Settings

• Set up Touch ID or Face ID for secure unlocking and authentication.
• Choose your preferred language, region, and time zone settings.
• Enable or disable features like Siri, Find My iPhone, and iCloud.

The Apple interface: iOS. (Image Courtesy – Apple)

Install Apps and Services

• Open the App Store on your iPhone and browse through the available apps.
• Install the apps you previously used on your Android device, or explore new options optimized for iOS.

Transfer Music, Books, and PDFs

• To transfer music, books, and PDFs, you’ll need to manually transfer them from your Android device to your iPhone.
• Connect your Android device to your computer and copy the desired files to your computer.
• Connect your iPhone to your computer and use iTunes or Finder to sync the music, books, and PDFs to your iPhone.

Adjustments and Adaptation

Switching from Android to iPhone involves adapting to a new operating system and interface. Here are some adjustments you might need to make.

Learn the iOS Interface

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the iOS interface, including the home screen, Control Center, and the App Library. Explore the settings menu to customize your device to your preferences.

Sync Your Email and Social Media Accounts

To stay connected, add your email accounts and social media profiles to your iPhone. Open the Settings app, navigate to the respective sections, and enter your login credentials to sync your accounts.

Explore the App Store

Discover new apps and explore the App Store’s curated collections. Browse through different categories, read reviews, and download apps that cater to your interests and needs.

Familiarize Yourself with iCloud

Take advantage of Apple’s iCloud services for seamless synchronization of your data across devices. Enable iCloud Backup to automatically back up your iPhone, and explore iCloud Drive for cloud storage and file sharing.

Switching from Android to iPhone may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Follow the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide to ensure a seamless transition and make the most out of your new iPhone.

Remember, the decision to switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of both operating systems and choose the one that aligns with your needs and enhances your mobile experience.

The post Master Switching From Android To iPhone: A How-To Guide appeared first on Technowize.

From MagSafe for Mac to MagSafe for iPhone, Technowize dives deep into the ins and outs of MagSafe charging, the different implementations of Apple’s charging technology, and its compatibility with iPhone 15 and other devices.

What Is A MagSafe Charger? Apple’s Charging Technology

 MagSafe first made its debut in 2006 as a magnetic power charger for MacBooks. It provided a secure connection to the charging port while still being easy to unplug, preventing accidental damage to the device. However, Apple phased out this technology in favor of USB-C charging. 

Apple’s MagSafe charger has been one of the Apple ecosystem’s USPs. (Image Courtesy – Apple)

MagSafe championed a comeback in the 2021 MacBook Pro lineup, offering a magnetic charging solution. How does MagSafe technology work for Macs and iPhones?

MagSafe Charger for Mac

MagSafe for Mac is a magnetic charging technology that ensures a safe and secure connection between the charger and the MacBook. It uses magnets to attach the charging connector to the charging slot, allowing for easy disconnection if the cable is pulled. The latest iteration, MagSafe 3, provides faster charging speeds and higher power delivery, offering up to 140W charging capability for the 16-inch MacBook Pro.

MagSafe 3 charging capabilities are currently available for the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models introduced in 2021. The MagSafe 3 charging cables are not compatible with older Macs that used MagSafe 2.

How Does MagSafe Technology Work for Mac? 

MagSafe for Mac features a small rectangular magnet-topped charging connector that fits into the five-pin charging slot on the MacBook. The magnets ensure a secure fit, preventing accidental disconnections. The charging cable’s other end has a USB-C port that plugs into a power adapter to provide power to the MacBook.

MagSafe Charging for Mac allows for higher charging power compared to USB-C cables. The 16-inch MacBook Pro can be charged at up to 140W when paired with a MagSafe to USB-C cable and a 140W USB-C Power Adapter. This charging speed is not achievable with USB-C cables alone. The 14-inch MacBook Pro also utilizes MagSafe charging, with different power adapter options depending on the model.

MagSafe for iPhone

MagSafe for iPhone is a different implementation of the technology. It involves a ring of magnets built around the Qi-based wireless charging coils in the iPhone. This allows for a close fit and faster charging speeds. The magnets enable compatibility with a range of MagSafe accessories, expanding the functionality beyond just charging.

The iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 models feature a ring of magnets underneath the wireless charging coil. This magnet ring enables the iPhone to connect with various MagSafe accessories that utilize magnets, such as chargers, mounts, and cases.

Apple’s MagSafe Charger is designed to snap onto the back of an iPhone using the built-in magnets. It aligns the charging coil in the charger with the one in the iPhone, ensuring efficient charging. The charger consists of magnets, an internal charging coil, and a circuit board that manages the charging process.

MagSafe charging offers faster charging speeds compared to standard wireless charging. The iPhone 12 and later models can charge at a maximum of 15W with the MagSafe Charger. However, the iPhone 12 mini has a slightly lower maximum charging speed of 12W. Charging speeds can vary depending on the temperature of the iPhone and the power adapter used.

MagSafe Accessories and Cases 

MagSafe technology enables compatibility with a wide range of accessories and cases. Apple and third-party manufacturers offer a variety of MagSafe accessories, including chargers, wallets, and mounts. MagSafe-compatible cases provide a more secure magnetic connection to the iPhone.

MagSafe for Mac provides a safe and secure magnetic charging experience, while MagSafe for iPhone allows for fast and reliable wireless charging with the help of built-in magnets. With a wide range of MagSafe accessories available, users can enhance their charging and usage experience with these innovative technologies. 

By combining the power of magnets and advanced charging capabilities, MagSafe continues to revolutionize the way we charge and interact with our Apple devices.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Apple’s MagSafe Technology appeared first on Technowize.