Category: Apple and Mac
How to Remove Split Screen in Apple Mail Even When Not in Full Screen Mode
In newer (but not necessarily improved!) iterations of Mac OS, the mail program seems to insist on showing you a split screen view of your email, with the content of the highlighted message shown on the right-hand side, even if you uncheck “prefer opening messages in split view when in full screen” (which “experts” assure you will work when you aren’t in full screen – hint: it doesn’t). Here is how to get your old non-split screen view in email back, as well as how get the split-screen view with the content of the message on the bottom instead of on the right-hand side.
How to Get Back Your Old Email View on Your iPhone After Apple’s Horrendous Update
You may have noticed that starting with iOS 18.3, that your email is all messed up. And by all messed up we mean that it seems Apple is trying to copy Gmail’s wildly unpopular tabs (folders) “feature”. So now Apple, by default, when your iPhone or iPad updates to 18.3 or later, sorts your email into four tabs, Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. Like we said, copying Gmail’s tabs, even though people time and again go back to Gmail’s default inbox. And even though wanted mail is shunted into the Promotions tabs on both Gmail and now iOS mail, where it rots. Here’s how to undo it.
How to Scan a QR Code with Your Phone When the QR Code is ON Your Phone
When somebody texts you a QR code to your phone, are you tempted to say “Hey dummy, how am I supposed to scan this QR code with my phone when the QR code is ON my phone?”? It can be really frustrating. This happens often in the context of someone texting you the info for you to send them a payment, such as through Venmo. However, it may be that they know this trick to scanning a QR code with your phone when the QR code is on your phone.
How to Add New Custom Tapback Emojis to the iPhone Tapbacks
So you’re having a chat conversation and your friend tells you something that makes you want to send a hug, but your tapback options don’t include the emoji for that. Here’s how to add new, custom tapback options to your iPhone! (Note that Apple has said that they are including the option to change and add custom emojis to tapbacks in iOS 18, so we’re including those directions for if/when that happens.)
Cellular Not Working on Your Apple Watch? Here’s How to Test Cellular Calling and Texting on Your Apple Watch
If no matter what you do it seems as if the direct-dial cellular line on your Apple Watch is not able to make calls or texts using your Apple Watch’s dedicated cellular line, here’s how to test whether your Apple Watch is actually hooked up to its cellular connection.
How to Pin a File at the Top of a Finder Window on a Mac
Here’s how to pin a file at the top of a Finder window on your Mac! If you have ever found yourself working within a folder on your Mac, and wanting to quickly access one particular file over and over, this information is for you! Sure you can always do a Spotlight search, but you’re thinking that there must be an easier, better way for this particular situation. And there is!
Miss Your Home Button on Your iPhone? Here’s How to Add One!
Do you find yourself missing your old iPhone’s home button? I know I sure do. The transition to newer iPhone models, without the physical home button, has left many of my friend group unimpressed by technological progress. I know that I often wish for the familiar, tactile experience of clicking a button. If you miss your home button like I do, well, you’re in luck! Here’s how to get it back (sort of).
Apple’s Sideloading Shift: A Tech Game Changer for EU iOS Users
In a pivotal move, Apple, the tech giant renowned for its walled-garden ecosystem, is poised to open the gates. The buzz in the tech community is palpable: sideloading, a term that might sound like jargon, is set to become a household word among iOS users in the European Union. But what exactly is sideloading, and why is it stirring up such a commotion?
Apple’s Strategic Pivot: Removing Blood-Oxygen Sensors from Watches Amid Patent Dispute
In a move that underscores the complex interplay of technology, law, and business, Apple is reportedly planning to remove the blood-oxygen sensors from some of its Apple Watches. This decision, seemingly a strategic sidestep, aims to avoid a looming U.S. ban amidst a heated patent dispute.
How to Open an Installer Package on Mac That Apple Can’t Check for Malware
If you’re a Mac user, you’ve likely encountered a situation where you’ve downloaded an installer package (*.pkg file) only to be met with a message saying, “can’t be opened because Apple cannot check it for malware.” It’s a common hiccup in the Mac experience, especially when you’re dealing with software from smaller developers or less mainstream sources. But don’t worry, there’s a simple way around this that doesn’t involve any tech wizardry.
Decoding the Icons: Your iPad as a Second Screen with Sidecar
Hey there, tech adventurers! Have you ever hooked up your iPad as a second screen using Sidecar and found yourself staring at those tiny icons on the side, wondering what on earth they mean? Well, you’re not alone. Let’s embark on a little exploration to decode these mysterious symbols, shall we? Oh, and don’t worry, there’s also a video guide if you’re more of a visual learner!
Transfer Files and Photos, and Send Messages, between iOS and a Windows PC with Intel Unison
Using an iPhone with a Windows computer can be frustrating, but Intel has now released a new software tool that can make using these together a little more bearable. The new app, named Intel Unison, allows you to transfer photos and files, send messages, sync notifications on your PC, and make a call or view contacts with your PC. This app is currently only available on Windows 11, and despite Intel’s claims that this only works on Intel Evo platform devices, it does work on most Windows 11 machines.
How to Transfer Pictures from One iPhone to Another without a Computer or iCloud
Ever found yourself in the awkward situation of desperately trying to get those cute cat pictures from one iPhone to another, but iCloud or a computer isn’t an option? Or maybe you’re old school and don’t want to hook your phone up to your computer or the cloud. Yep, been there, done that! But worry not friends, AirDrop is here to save the day. And it’s a total game-changer!
Mastering macOS: A Beginner’s Guide to Becoming a Power User
Apple’s macOS is lauded for its intuitive user interface, offering even the most novice users a comfortable and easy computing experience. However, beneath this user-friendly facade lies an extensive ecosystem of features and tools that, when properly utilized, can significantly enhance productivity and streamline workflows. This guide will serve as your roadmap in your journey to becoming a power user of the Mac, providing you with an in-depth look at the strategies and techniques you’ll need to harness the full potential of your Mac.
Midi Touchbar: Finally, A Use For The Touchbar
At the intersection of technology and creativity, there’s a marvelous playground where one can find a multitude of novel applications. One such entrant is ‘Midi Touchbar’, an innovative application crafted by the inventive mind(s?) of Urban Lienert. The brilliance of this application is that it pushes the boundaries of traditional musical composition and performance by reimagining the utilization of our everyday tech gadgets.