When someone blocks your number, they’ll no longer receive your calls or texts. On iPhones, even your iMessage and FaceTime won’t get through. How can you tell if someone blocks your number? Here are a few signs that may clue you in, including how many rings you’ll hear when you call and a message you could hear. Plus, get tips for what to do if you suspect you’ve been blocked but want to be sure.
5 ways to connect when you’re apart for the holidays
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Christmas Eve is here. It’s a time for joy, laughter and cherished moments with loved ones. I know how busy this day can get, but a little bit of tech-savvy can help make it even more special.
Here are five quick and simple ways to use technology to connect with family and create memories without taking up too much time.
1. Share a quick video call
Even if you’re rushing between cooking, wrapping and organizing, a video call makes you feel close to distant loved ones. Apps like FaceTime, Google Meet or Zoom make it easy. I text in advance to agree on a time since folks are running around today.
- Pro tip: Set a timer for 10 minutes to say hello, show off your tree or share a quick holiday toast.
2. Snap and share holiday photos
Capture candid moments of your Christmas Eve fun and share them with family using Google Photos, Apple’s Shared Albums or even a private Facebook group.
- Pro tip: Use apps like Canva to create quick, festive photo collages. It’s fun and you’ll be happy to look back on them later.
- Facebook tip: Create a private group to upload and comment on photos throughout the night. It’s a fun way to be “together” from afar.
3. Send a digital holiday card
If you haven’t sent cards this year, it’s not too late! Hit up Canva (free), Adobe Express (30-day trial) or Paperless Post (about 25 cents per card). Choose a template, whip up a greeting and send it in just a few minutes — no printing or trip to the post office required.
- Why it works: A quick note of love and holiday cheer can mean the world to someone who may not expect it.
4. Watch a movie together from anywhere
AI salary bumps, China sinks data center & email marketing pro tips
Plus, Amazon’s slashing seller fees to rival Shein, and I look into a pill that tracks your health internally. Quick tip: disable this iPhone feature on FaceTime. I’ll also share unspoken email etiquette and clever tech hacks to reduce holiday stress, including how to avoid Amazon spoilers and capture great family photos.
No FaceTime or Skype? No problem. Try WhatsApp for Mac when you want to include Android pals, too. You can add eight people to a video call or 32 for audio-only. Hit this link for the Windows version.
Turn off this FaceTime feature now
Need to make an important video call? Be sure to take off this embarassing feature.
Digital Life Hack: Android users can now use FaceTime
Are you ready to start using FaceTime from your Android? Listen now for the steps you need to follow.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Digital Life Hack: How to look good on video calls
Are you embarrassed by the way you look on video? Listen now for a few easy ways to improve the way you look on Zoom, Google Hangouts, FaceTime and other webcam calls.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watch out for the new prank that targets your phone
If you use an iPhone or iPad, a new prank is spreading. You answer your phone or see a text from iMessage. You’ve been added to a FaceTime call with a group of people who you don’t even know. Here’s why that can be dangerous.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices