10 tech tricks you're not using now but you should
How well do you know the phone in your pocket? How about the computer you’re using or the browser you’re reading this article with? Despite the best efforts, many people don’t know the gadgets and software they use half as well as they should.
And why would they? With services like Apple’s Genius Bar available to answer questions, there’s always a temptation to put our brains on autopilot when it comes to tech gear. Tap or click here to see how to make a Genius Bar appointment.
There’s a lot more going on with most of your tech than you realize. Developers put all kinds of secrets, shortcuts and hidden tricks in the gadgets you own that can make your tech more fun and productive. Here are some of our favorite hidden tech gems.
1. Master the ‘back tap’ on iPhone
Did you know you can teach your iPhone new tricks? Thanks to iOS 14, you can now tell your phone to perform a range of new commands with the help of the back tap gesture.
When this feature is turned on, your phone interprets taps on its back like the push of a button. But unlike the old home button, back taps can do much more than lock your screen. You can customize the gesture to open your Wallet app, mute volume, snap a photo and much more.
Back taps are only available on iPhone 8 models and newer with iOS 14 installed. Here’s how to set it up:
- On your iPhone, open Settings, followed by Accessibility.
- Tap Touch.
- Scroll to the bottom and choose Back Tap.
- Tap Double Tap or Triple Tap to pick an action. You can have up to two back tap gestures assigned at one time.
Tapping the back of your phone twice will activate the Double Tap gesture you assigned. Tap it three times and the Triple Tap gesture will activate. You can switch the assigned gestures at any time by following the same steps.
2. Beautify your Zoom calls
Daily Zoom meetings can be a drag — especially if you’re not confident about how you look on a webcam. Fortunately, Zoom gives the option to do away with poor lighting and blemishes: Touch Up My Appearance.
Turning Touch Up My Appearance on gives you an “airbrushed” look during video calls. It’s also free, so there’s no need to upgrade your Zoom account. Here’s how to set it up:
Apple will now come to your house to fix your broken iPhone
Got an iPhone or Mac that isn’t working? You’re in luck! Unlike many of the other gadget manufacturers out there, Apple gives its users several ways to get the support they need. Just follow the company’s instructions and you’ll have your device up and running again in no time.
Apple is offering a free fix for these faulty accessories
Apple gets a lot of criticism for its high prices and unusual release strategies. But one thing critics and fans can both agree on is the company’s dedication to customer service and support.
That’s why when your phone breaks, you don’t feel completely screwed over. Visiting an Apple Store for repairs might feel overwhelming at first, but if you know what you’re doing, the process can be smoother than you might expect. Tap or click here to learn how to get repairs done at the Apple Store.