Want to Avoid Upgrading Your iPhone? Here’s How to Maximize Your Battery’s Life Span

Check out this advice straight from Apple on how you can make your iPhone battery last as long as possible.
While some Apple fans have been going wild for the brand-new iPhone 15 series, there are still some of us out here just trying to make our older iPhones last as long they can. If you want to keep your current iPhone going for as many years as possible, one of the best things you can do is to protect the life span of your iPhone’s battery.
Battery life span, not to be confused with your battery life, is the length of time your battery has before you need to replace it. The rechargeable battery in your iPhone should work at optimal capacity for (hopefully) a couple of years at the very least, but that depends on a variety of factors, like environmental temperatures, how you charge your battery, drop damage or a faulty battery. (“Battery life,” on the other hand, is the amount of time your battery can power your phone before it needs to be recharged.)


If you aren’t quite sure what to do to help prolong your iPhone battery’s life span, who better to advise you than Apple?

Below you’ll find a few tips directly from the company that’ll help keep you from having to replace your battery sooner rather than later.
And while we’re on the subject of your phone, here are a couple of other CNET stories you’ll want to peruse: Find out everything we expect to be announced at the 2023 Apple Wonderlust event, and check out rumors that the iPhone 15could support faster charging speeds. 

And now, on to the battery tips…
First, make sure Optimized Battery Charging is enabledThough you can’t overcharge a battery, you can put your battery under a bit of stress when you charge up to 100%. To help limit that strain, your iPhone has a setting that learns from your daily charging routine (say you always plug in your phone right before you go to bed and then unplug it in the morning). It then waits to finish charging past 80% until right before you need it, instead of just quickly charging the battery all the way to 100%. 
This can help reduce battery aging, and though the setting should be enabled by default, it’s still good to check if it’s on. In Settings, go to Battery > Battery Health & Charging and make sure that Optimized Battery Charging is toggled on.

Setting on the iPhone to optimize battery charging

The setting should be on by default, but it never hurts to look and confirm.Nelson Aguilar/CNETKeep your iPhone away from extreme temperaturesThe life span of your iPhone battery can be affected by extreme temperatures. A higher temperature increases the speed of chemical reactions inside the battery, which forces the battery to work harder and faster, thus also causing it to degrade faster. 
According to Apple, it’s important to avoid exposing your iPhone to temperatures higher than 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) to avoid permanent damage. Fortunately, the fix is ​​simple — keep your iPhone out of hot temperatures. If you’re at the beach, don’t leave your iPhone on your towel in direct sunlight. Instead, toss it into a bag or put a shirt over it for protection. Also, don’t leave your iPhone in the car for an extended period of time, especially if it’s a hot day.


Apple does have a few settings to prevent overheating and damage, like disabling your phone or preventing further charging when your phone is too hot, but you don’t want to rely on these features to save your phone’s battery health. It’s better to take preventative actions than wait for your iPhone to overheat.

You may need to take your iPhone out of its caseIf your iPhone gets hot any time you charge it, you may need to take off your case before doing so. Certain cases, especially the bulkier and more protective ones, can trap heat and make the iPhone overheat, affecting the Cell Phone battery life span.
Apart from removing the case, consider avoiding processor-intensive apps, like games, when your phone is charging. Using these apps while charging could also cause your phone to overheat.


The Otterbox Free case for iPhone 14 is fully waterproof and dust-proofSome cases may trap warmth and cause your iPhone to overheat when it’s charging.David Carnoy/CNETTake these steps to protect iPhones in long-term storageMaybe you got a new phone and want to stash your old iPhone for a bit. If you want to maintain the battery’s life span, you should do the following before putting it away:


Keep the charge at around 50%. You don’t want your battery to be full or empty before you turn it off, or else it could stop holding a charge (if full) or lose capacity and have a shorter life span (if empty ).Turn your iPhone off. This prevents your phone from using up more apple battery.Store your phone in a cool and moisture-free environment. Ideally, the temperature should be less than 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).

If you’re putting your iPhone away for longer than six months, turTurn it on and charge it to 50% every six months.If you store your iPhone for an extended period of time, your iPhone battery may be in a low-charge state, which means you may need to charge it for 20 minutes before you can turn it on.

How to turn on 80% charging limit on the iPhone 15 to save battery health

Apple may have just fixed its biggest iPhone battery problem, and iPhone 15 users get first dibs. Here’s how and when to use it.

The iPhone 15 series is officially available, and whether you already have a device in hand or are anxiously waiting for one, a recent feature discovery should be at the top of your initial set-up agenda.
The feature is called “80% Limit” and is hidden within the deeper end of the iPhone 15’s Battery settings. When toggled on, the iPhone will limit its charging capacity to 80% instead of the normal 100%. 


Also: Want the fastest iPhone? Choose this model on this network
While Apple doesn’t actually explain why this feature exists, it’s safe to assume that the charging cap is a direct response to the recent comments about the iPhone 14’s battery degradation. These aren’t fan theories, unfortunately; it’s just the nature of lithium -ion ​​batteries found in iPhones and other devices, with the maximum capacity slowly degrading every time it completes a charge cycle.
Capping the iPhone 15’s charging to 80% reduces the likelihood of battery degradation, though it may not always be in your best interest to have the feature turned on. More on that later.


How to turn on 80% Limit on the iPhone 15

What you’ll need: At the time of writing, 80% Limit is only available on the iPhone 15 series, which includes the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. 
Also: Your Apple device may be eligible for a major software update. How to check and download


The feature is clearly not processor-exclusive, as the non-Pro models operate on an A16 Bionic chip versus the A17 Pro on the more expensive iPhones. Therefore, the chances of Apple extending the feature to older models are still likely.
1. Access apple Battery Health & Charging settingsFirst, open up the Settings app and scroll down to the Battery tab. Then, tap on Battery Health & Charging.

iPhone 15 Optimized Charging
2. Toggle on 80% LimitNow tap into Charging Optimization and you’ll be presented with three options: 


Optimized Battery Charging: Prompts the iPhone to trickle charge up to 80% overnight and then tops up to 100% as you’re about to wake up.80% Limit: Caps the charging at 80%. Apple says the iPhone will occasionally charge to 100% in order to maintain a more accurate battery state-of-charge estimate.None: Keeps the iPhone’s charging capabilities flexible.Tap on 80% Limit to turn it on.

While you’re on the  iPhoneBattery Health & Charging screen, you’ll also find the maximum battery capacity of your iPhone, which, if it’s an iPhone 15, should be at 100%. If your device shows a lower value, reach out to Apple support as there may be a potential defect with your battery.
When you should (and when shouldn’t you’t) use 80% LimitYou should use 80% Limit if…


You want to preserve the battery health of your iPhone, whether it be for longevity’s sake or better resale value.You’re able to get through a day of average to high usage without battery concerns. This is mostly the case with the larger iPhone models, iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max.You shouldn’t use 80% Limit if…
You’re concerned that iPhone 15 battery 80% battery is not enough for a day’s use. Perhaps you’re traveling and access to power sources is limited or need to use more power-intensive tasks like video capturing, GPS navigation, and gaming.

The best Samsung Galaxy phones right now (and which foldables you should buy)

Shopping for a new Samsung phone battery?ZDNET’s tested and rounded up the very best, including foldables, ones with styli, and options for the budget-minded.
Of all the Samsung phones batteries manufacturers, Samsung’s lineup of handsets may be the most robust, Want a phone that has a built-in stylus? You’ve got that. Want a phone that can expand into a tablet? You’ve got that too.

Basically, finding the best Samsung phone for you boils down to your personal needs, use cases, and design preferences. Trust me, you’ll have plenty of options laid out below, and not every one of them will be the right fit for you. 
To make the shopping process easy, we’ve personally tested most, if not all, the latest Galaxy phones that Samsung has to offer, and assembled a catalog of the top options for your choosing, including the more recent Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series, the value-driven A-series, and our top pick right now, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The best Samsung phones in 2023Samsung Galaxy S23 UltraBest Samsung phone overall

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Display: 6.8 inches | RAM/Storage Options: 12GB RAM with 256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 10x optical, 10MP 3x optical | Battery: 5,000mAh


In the grand calculus of the Samsung multiverse, the Galaxy S23 Ultra reigns supreme. It’s arguably the most no-frills smartphone that you can buy on the market, let alone from Samsung, which puts it at the top spot on our list.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a beefy 5,000mAh battery that can last you as long as two days, a customized Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor to keep things running efficiently, and the sacred Samsung S Pen — ideal for jotting down notes, graphics designing, or even signing PDFs.
I tested the Galaxy S23 Ultra earlier this year and called it “one of the most complete handsets you can buy this year — whether you like and need the excessive amount of features or not.”


Being the latest and greatest also means that the S23 Ultra comes equipped with Samsung’s newest advancements in camera technology, including a 200-megapixel main lens that’s capable of capturing the highest-resolution images we’ve seen on any Galaxy phone. There’s also 8K video recording at 30 frames per second if you’re into that.
All this is to say that the Galaxy S23 Ultra is our pick for the best Samsung phone overall.


Review: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S23 PlusBest Samsung phone for most peopleGalaxy S23 Plus on a table.Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | Display: 6.6 inches | RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM with 256GB/512TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto| Battery: 4,700mAh
Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Plus is not as flashy as its Ultra sibling but remains a formidable pick-up for shoppers eyeing a meaningful upgrade. In fact, the core experience of the Ultra model is present on the Plus, including the OneUI software, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, 256GB of base storage, and a flexible camera system. 


In fact, I’d argue that the Plus-sized Galaxy S23, in some ways, is an even better phone to buy for some users. For example, it has a slightly smaller 6.6-inch display that makes it easier to manage with one hand, the panel is flat along the edges so it’s less susceptible to damage (and easier to repair), and the camera system doesn’t look like a tarantula staring back at you.


Alright, that last point might not be the best reason to buy the Plus model over the Ultra, but perhaps the $200 price difference is. At a starting price of $999 — less if you wait for the holiday shopping season right around the corner – – the S23 Plus is the best Samsung phone for those who can live without all the Galaxy bells and whistles. And according to ZDNET reviewer, Jason Cipriani, “as far as the S23 Plus is concerned, you’re getting your money’s worth.”Samsung Cell Phone batteriesZ Fold 5Best Samsung foldable phone


Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 tech specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Main display: 7.6 inches | Cover display: 6.2 inches | RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM with 256GB/512GB/1TB internal options | Cameras: 12MP ultrawide, 50MP wide angle, 10MP 3x telephoto, 10MP cover screen, 4MP under main display | Battery: 4,400mAh 
The 2020 Galaxy Z Fold 2 set the bar for foldable devices that also serve as mini tablets. The Z Fold 3 improved on that phone with two of the most highly requested features from Fold users (S Pen support and IPX8 water resistance), while the Z Fold 4 improved the rear cameras and form factor of the phone. 
And now, with the Z Fold 5, you’ll get an upgraded processor in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which should improve the phone’s overall performance, from battery efficiency to camera capture. This year’s model is also notably thinner than the last, and thanks to the no-gap hinge mechanism, ZDNET’s Jason Hiner said in his review that “the Fold 5 feels like the way foldables always should have been.”
The Android 13 software found in the Z Fold 5 gives the phone battery some serious productivity upgrades, especially in terms of multi-app usage thanks to the improved Taskbar and wider support for gesture navigations that ease the transition from multiple active windows.


Like the Z Fold 4, the Fold 5’s cameras are not quite as good as the S23 Ultra’s suite, but the hardware is clearly superior to any foldable predecessor, and the competition. And it certainly helps that the Z Fold 5 is not as heavy and bulky as its predecessors.What is the newest Samsung phone?The newest Samsung phone is the Galaxy S23  battery FE, which features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, and a triple camera system at the rear. 

Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max Review: Overshadowed by Controversy

Despite the initial controversy around this year’s Pro iPhones, is the newer design, 5x telephoto camera, and A17 Pro worth the higher entry price?
Apple released its 2023 iPhone lineup to the masses, and with it comes the new iPhone 15 Pro Max, packing the best hardware that Apple has to offer for users who want it. This year’s Pro iPhone brings subtle but impactful design changes, a new processor with a pro moniker, multiple camera improvements, USB-C, and a few other nifty features.


A New Titanium DesignThe Pro iPhone models offer a new material that replaces the stainless steel from before: titanium. This material has shown up on other Apple devices, such as the Apple Watch Ultra and the titanium Apple Watch Edition (but is no longer available to buy).
Aside from the different feel, the biggest improvement the new material brings is reducing the phone’s weight. If you own an iPhone 13 Pro Max or 14 Pro Max, you will notice the difference with this year’s model since it’s about 19 grams lighter.
Along with the new material, the phone now features contoured edges. Apple says that this design change makes the iPhone more comfortable to hold.

Since the iPhone switched to a squared-edge design with the iPhone 12, the edges have been sharper and less comfortable to hold than rounded-edge iPhones. You’ll feel the difference right away with the contoured edges of the 15 series.
Additionally, the bezels on the iPhone 15 Pro Max are slightly slimmer, making the phone look a little more modern.
When it comes to color choice, the iPhone 15 Pro Max comes in four colors: Black Titanium, Silver Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Blue Titanium. I chose Natural and Blue, and both look fantastic.
At Apple’s reveal event, the Blue Titanium color seemed to resemble the Pacific Blue color that was on the iPhone 12 Pro. However, when you see Blue Titanium in person, it is more of a navy blue, which I prefer. I hope both Natural Titanium and Blue Titanium stick around on future iPhones.


, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is slightly shorter than the previous 14 Pro Max. While it is minimal on paper, it is somewhat noticeable when you hold the phone. It seems to make it easier to use Apple’s larger model.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max’s design feels like what the 14 Pro Max should have been, since that model was the final version of the iPhone 12 cycle. Regardless, I like the 15 Pro Max’s design a lot. It may very well be one of my favorite smartphone designs ever. It almost makes me want to go without a case, but I’m not that bold.
The DisplayThe iPhone 15 Pro Max features the same display as its predecessor. It’s a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2796 x 1290. The display can reach 2000 nits of peak brightness when the phone is outdoors, making it easier to view in sunlight. Since this is a Pro iPhone, the 15 Pro Max also includes up to a 120Hz adaptable refresh rate.


iPhone 15 Pro Max display
Therefore, you can enjoy smooth animations when swiping between home screen pages, scrolling, and more. The iPhone 15 Pro Max still features Dynamic Island, Apple’s version of a hole punch display cutout, which remains unchanged this year. Although there are no changes to the display this time around, it’s still excellent, so no complaints here.
The Action ButtonThe physical Silent Mode switch has existed on every iPhone since the start. But smartly, Apple decided to replace that switch with the Action button. This button is customizable, allowing you to map it to a specific action (even Silent Mode, if you can ‘t live without it!)
It initially showed up on the first-generation Apple Watch Ultra and has now made its way to the iPhone.


Only on the Pro models, the Action button can be used to open the camera, turn on the LED flash, enable a Focus Mode, and more. But you can also configure it to any Shortcut (read our beginner’s guide to Shortcuts on the iPhone ), which lets you do things such as open a specific app or even lock and unlock a Tesla. To trigger an action, you have to press and hold the button instead of just clicking it once.
I think this was a smart decision. The Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra only needs to be momentarily pressed for it to activate, which has led to accidentally triggering the flashlight, in my experience. Having to press and hold requires more intention.


It’s puzzling that Apple didn’t replace the physical Silent switch sooner. I always have my phone on mute, so the switch has been useless to me for years. The Action button is an excellent addition to the iPhone, since it’s multipurpose and adds a bit of customization. I’m interested in seeing if it will come to the standard iPhone models in 2024.The A17 Pro Chip2 Images15 Pro Max Geekbench CPU results15 Pro Max Geekbench GPU scorePowering the iPhone 15 Pro models, you’ll find a new chip: the A17 Pro. The A17 Pro is the first 3nm chip in any smartphone, which translates to better performance than a chipset built on a larger nanometer process.Apple claims the A17 Pro has a 10 percent faster CPU and a 20 percent faster GPU. It features a new Neural Engine that’s twice as fast as the A16 Bionic, as well as a 6-core CPU and a 6-core GPU; that’s one additional GPU core compared to the A16. Lastly, there is now 8GB of RAM, up from 6GB.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 14: What Changed?

Apple’s incremental changes make it hard to spot the differences between the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15. So, let’s compare the two and see what’s new.
The iPhone 15 is simply a slightly improved version of the iPhone 14. While most cutting-edge features have been directed toward the more expensive iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, the standard iPhone 15 has received notable upgrades.
So, if you’re considering purchasing a new device and can’t decide, we’ll help you choose between the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15.


Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t made any major display changes to the standard iPhones since the iPhone 12. Besides adopting the iPhone 14 Pro’s Dynamic Island, the iPhone 15 looks almost identical to its predecessor.
Both models have a 6.1″ Super Retina XDR Display and share the same dimensions. However, the iPhone 15 can deliver 2,000 nits of peak brightness, compared to 1,200 nits offered by its predecessor, making it better for outdoor use.
While both models sport an aluminum frame with a glass back, the iPhone 15 ditched the glossy back for a matte textured finish. It also features slightly contoured edges, making it more comfortable to hold.


Camera configurationiPhone 15 on a tableImage Credit: Apple
The iPhone 14 features a dual-camera system, with a 12MP primary camera and an ultra-wide lens. On the other hand, the iPhone 15’s main camera takes a leap forward because Apple has bumped the resolution to 48 megapixels. This means you can capture pictures with immaculate detail and more accurate and realistic colors, with the flexibility to shoot at both 24MP and 48MP.
The iPhone 15’s 12MP ultra-wide camera, however, remains unchanged from its predecessor. You can capture great selfies with both devices, though, since both feature the same 12MP selfie camera.


However, Apple has introduced next-generation portraits on the iPhone 15, allowing you to take portrait shots in the default camera mode that you can tweak later on in the Photos app.
Pricing, Colors, and Storage Optionsiphone 15 and 15 plus colorsImage Credit: AppleAfter the launch of the iPhone 15, Apple dropped the starting price of the iPhone 14 to $699. The base 128GB model of the iPhone 15 retails for $799, the same as the iPhone 14 did at launch. Both models come in three different storage variants : 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.

The iPhone 15 comes in five different colors: Yellow, Green, Blue, Black, and Pink. Besides the Black option, all the colors appear muted this time. So, if you’re struggling to decide on a color, make sure to check out which iPhone 15 color is best for you.
On the other hand, the iPhone 14 is available in six bright color options: Blue, Purple, Yellow, Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED. The iPhone 15’s Black color option no longer carries the subtle navy blue visible in the Midnight iPhone 14.


Performance and Battery LifeUSB-C port on the iPhone 15Image Credit: Apple/YouTubeThe iPhone 15 is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the same processor that shipped with the iPhone 14 Pro models. The iPhone 14, on the other hand, features the same A15 Bionic chip that Apple introduced alongside the iPhone 13 Pro models. Apple claims the A16 chip consumes 20% less power than the A15.

Given the 4nm architecture of the A16 chip, you can expect better performance than the 5nm A15 chip. All in all, the iPhone 14 is equipped with all the power you need for daily use. However, upgrading to the iPhone 15 might be a good idea if you plan to use it for several years.


Apple has also ditched the Lightning port for USB-C on the iPhone 15. While this change does mean that you can use one cable to charge all your devices, there are no improvements to data transfer and charging speeds.


When it comes to battery life, both devices boast up to 20 hours of video playback and 80 hours of audio playback, according to Apple’s claims. This is surprising, considering the iPhone 15 packs a slightly larger battery. The charging speed remains the same for both devices—up to 50% charge within 30 minutes using a 20W adapter or higher.
Unless you want the slight performance advantage and all the perks USB-C brings to iPhones, you’ll likely notice no improvements if you choose the iPhone 15 over its predecessor.


Is Upgrading to the iPhone 15 Worth It?

You may be wondering if minor design tweaks, similar battery life, and slight performance improvements justify upgrading to the iPhone 15. When deciding whether the upgrade is worth it, you must consider the specific features that matter to you most.


If you want a newer device that’ll support iOS updates for slightly longer, the iPhone 15 is a no-brainer. However, if you simply need a device for daily use at a cheaper price, the iPhone 14 won’t disappoint.
Finally, if you already own an iPhone 14, it’s better to skip the iPhone 15 altogether and save your hard-earned money, as there’s no point upgrading to a new iPhone every year.

How to Turn Off Sleep Mode on Your iPhone

Learn how to turn off Sleep mode on your iPhone to start receiving notifications again if you get up early.


Sleep mode (or Sleep Focus) is a feature in your iPhone’s Health app to help you get better quality sleep. But sometimes, you might need to turn off Sleep mode on your iPhone.

Why Turn Off Sleep Mode on Your iPhone?

Sleep mode is one of the iPhone features that helps improve your health as it aids in creating better sleeping habits. Based on the bedtime you scheduled, Sleep mode then dims your screen brightness, hides Lock Screen notifications, and only allows calls from specific people to come in (as per your Focus preferences).
But it’s not possible to always follow the sleep schedule you have set for yourself. So, to continue using your device as usual without these changes, you’ll have to turn off Sleep mode on your iPhone.


How to Turn Off Sleep Mode via Your iPhone’s Control CenterThe fastest way to turn off Sleep mode is through your iPhone’s Control Center. Here’s how:
Access the Control Center. The method may differ depending on your iPhone model. If you’re not sure, refer to our quick guide on how to open your iPhone’s Control Center.Tap on Sleep (the bed icon) to turn off Sleep mode.If this opens a list of Focus modes, tap the active mode to disable all of them.


How to Turn Off Sleep Mode in Your iPhone’s Health AppIf it’s annoying to manually turn off Sleep mode on your iPhone every time it’s activated, the other method is to prevent it from turning on automatically. Here’s how to disable your iPhone’s Sleep mode through the Health app:


In the Health app, select the Browse tab.From the list, select Sleep.Scroll down to the Your Schedule section. Tap Full Schedule & Options.Toggle off Use Schedule for Sleep Focus.3 Imagesbrowse tab in iphone health appsleep settings in heath appfull schedule sleep settings in health app Use Your iPhone to Improve Your HealthDue to work and other responsibilities, you occasionally have to sacrifice some sleep, stay alert, and turn off Sleep mode on youriPhone.The two methods to turn off Sleep mode on your iPhone are via the Control Center and the Health app.

Can Macs get viruses? Here’s how to protect your Apple laptop.

Can Macs get viruses? Here’s how to protect your Apple laptop.
Can Macs get viruses? The answer is yes. Macs have been deemed as one of the safer options on the market, and they deserve that reputation thanks to their strong protections and on-the-pulse updates.


But they’re still vulnerable to malware. Cybercriminals are opportunists, and they’re taking advantage of the rising popularity of Macs to find new ways to infect devices and steal or damage users’ data.
Find out about how to get rid of viruses on your Mac now.Are MacBooks safe from viruses?Macbooks are not entirely safe from viruses. Viruses are a type of malicious code — aka malware — which is an umbrella term for code that infects your device and destroys, damages or steals data. There are many different types of malware, and all of them have the potential to affect Macs.
These include adware, which causes unwanted ads to pop up on your device, and spyware, which effectively transfers valuable data to another device.

Ransomware typically denies you access to your own data unless you pay a ransom, and Trojan horses are malicious programs that are embedded within software. Phishing scams are a type of malware, too. These emails or messages appear to be sent from reputable companies or people , but often have malicious content hidden within links and attachments. Finally, zero-day threats are emerging threats that are so new, there aren’t proper solutions in place to tackle them yet.


As for how to check if your Mac has been hacked, slow or lagging performance, unsolicited ads and emails you don’t remember sending are major red flags.

The lowdown on Macs’ built-in securityThere’s a reason why Macs have historically been seen as the “safest” devices: the built-in protections in the operating system (OS) and hardware are excellent. These are some of the features that help prevent you from accidentally downloading a virus onto your device:
Anti-phishing technology in Safari. Identifies and blocks websites that contain malicious content, like files and links. Safari also lets you know if your passwords have been compromised, or if they’re easy for a hacker to guess.

Find My service. Apple’s “Find My” feature might have helped you find your phone once or twice, but it has a deeper use. If a criminal manages to get hold of one of your devices, you can use this app to either find your stolen Mac, or erase any data so it can’t be accessed by an unauthorised person.FileVault. Part of macOS, FileVault encrypts your data to keep it safe and secure.

Gatekeeper. Stops software that hasn’t been approved by Apple from running on your device, and only allows you to download apps by certified, reputable developers.XProtect. Apple’s antivirus for Mac program works in the background to automatically scan each app you try to install for malware. Apple has a list of malicious apps it keeps tabs on, and Mac users can’t successfully download these onto their device.

Sandboxing. Separates apps from critical components your Mac needs to run smoothly, and prevents them from influencing other apps you may be using at the time.Security updates. Apple frequently releases patches to fix flaws and address new bugs, and it usually responds quickly — even to zero-day threats. Plus, users have the ability to switch on auto-updates so they always have the latest protection in place. 
How to protect your Mac in 5 easy steps


Built-in features aside, there are a few things you can do to boost your Mac’s security and reduce your chances of falling victim to viruses (or a similar cyber attack).
#1 Activate multi-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is good, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is better. MFA requires you to provide your username, password and one more piece of information, like a code sent to your phone or email , before you can log into an account.

#2 Avoid any announcements about Flash. Adobe’s Flash player was an issue for many Mac users prior to 2020 when it was discontinued. Before then, hackers were known to create fake Flash programs to trick people into downloading malware on their device. But with Flash out of the picture, it’s important to ignore any unsolicited pop-ups instructing you to install or update the program.
#3 Don’t take the bait. Phishing scams are common, and it’s important to stay vigilant and carefully assess every message you get — even if your email spam filters are switched on. Some of the key signs of a phishing email are poor spelling or grammar, odd turns of phrase, panic-inducing content or an offer that’s too good to be true. If you receive an email or message from someone you don’t know or trust, avoid opening it. If you do open it, don ‘t click on any links or attachments. 
#4 Maintain two backups of your data. It’s a good idea to back up your data regularly, like every couple of weeks. That way, if you are susceptible to malware, you’ll be able to bounce back quickly and mitigate any losses to your data. Aim to keep two backups: one on an external hard drive or flash drive, and another on the cloud.
#5 Never skip a macOS update. As tempting as it is to ignore these notifications, especially since they pop up so often, it’s crucial to accept all software updates. Along with your operating system, this applies to any other software you have installed, such as third-party antivirus software.

Secure your Mac with ESET Cybersecurity ProESET Cybersecurity Pro is a reliable antivirus, anti-spyware and anti-phishing software for Macs. It offers a multilayered defense against all types of malware, as well as other viruses and identity theft. It also boosts your security with a personal firewall and parental controls, which is key if your children aren’t constantly supervised online. The software also increases your protection if you have to jump onto public WiFi networks, which is sometimes inevitable.Questions, or want to learn more about how to remove viruses from your Mac? Connect with our team today, and we’ll be happy to guide you.

When To Replace Your Cell Phone Battery

Did you know that the average cell phone battery only lasts two years? But just because your battery is slowing down or won’t hold a charge doesn’t mean you need a completely new phone. 


You might be able to simply replace the phone battery in Warsaw, Indiana, and get another 2-3 years out of your phone!
Signs Your Battery Needs To Be ReplacedYour phone battery won’t usually just stop working with no warning. There are signs you can look for in order to plan for a replacement.


Sluggish PerformanceYou might start noticing that your phone is responding slower to taps or prompts. Do apps take longer to launch than they used to?
Increased Battery DrainIf your phone’s power isn’t lasting as long as it used to, that is a sign that your battery needs to be replaced. If you need to charge your phone more than once a day, it’s definitely time to bring it into The Lab.


Won’t Hold A ChargeHas your phone stopped powering up to 100% or shuts down unexpectedly? If this keeps happening, especially if it’s paired with your phone overheating, it’s a sign that your battery should be replaced.
Tips For iPhone UsersIf you have an iPhone 6 or newer, you can use the Battery Health feature to check in on your battery.

Photo provided by digitaltrends.comThis iPhone feature gives you crucial information about your battery’s performance. “Maximum Capacity” shows you how well your battery is performing compared to when it was brand new. 
While a slightly lower percentage is lower as your phone ages, it should still retain about 80% of the capacity at 300-500 charge cycles. If it starts dropping below 80%, it’s time for a battery replacement.
Tips For Android Phone UsersMost current Android phone models provide a battery usage setting similar to the iPhone. If your Android phone doesn’t offer that setting, try looking for a third-party app in the Google Play store that can help.

Photo provided by digitaltrends.comWith Android devices, you still want to keep your phone’s battery at 80% and above percentage the same way you would with an iPhone. 
When It’s Time To Get A New Cell Phone Battery In WarsawIf you have a new phone that you’re using the way a typical phone would be used, your battery should work at 80% and above for 2-3 years.


You can keep your battery lasting even longer by keeping it protected from extreme cold and heat and charging it appropriately.
Replacing cell phone batteries is one of the most common repairs we do at The Lab. Replacing the battery in your smartphone is often much cheaper than recycling it and purchasing a new device.


Check out the estimated battery replacement costs on our Phone Repair page and bring your phone into The Lab today! Our expert repair technicians can get your battery replaced and your phone back in your hands fast.

Life Hacks: Make Your Phone Work Better For You

We love a good life hack here at The Lab, especially the ones that make our iPhones and Android devices work better for us. How many of these phone hacks are you already using and which ones are you ready to try?


iPhone Hacks & TricksQuick Edit A ScreenshotAfter you take a screenshot, take a shortcut by tapping it to make edits.
Move Your Cursor

Did you know you can move your cursor using the space bar while you’re typing?

Give up trying to tap all over the screen and just use that space bar instead!
Locate An AppCan’t find an app you downloaded? Just drag one finger down anywhere on your iPhone’s screen to search for it.


Undo & Redo TypingAll you have to do is undo your last text edit is double-tap with 3 fingers or swipe left. If you want to restore your last edit, just swipe right with 3 fingers.
Add A Home Button

Want to add the home button function to your iPhone? Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch >AssistiveTouch. On iOS 12 or older, go to Settings > General > Accessibility. When AssistiveTouch is on, a gray dot will appear on the screen. Just tap it to access your Home button.


Android Phone Hacks & TricksCharge Your Phone FasterThe best way to charge your phone faster is by switching it to airplane mode before plugging it in.
Use Two Apps Side By SideDid you know you can run two apps side-by-side in a split-screen style? Just tap the Overview button and choose which of your recently used apps you want to see. 


Hold and drag it to the top or left and then choose another open app to appear beside or above it.


Personalize Your Default AppsYou can set up defaults exactly the way you want them! Go to Settings > Apps then tap the cog icon in the upper right corner. Select any of the categories to see a list of installed apps that have the option to be set as your default .
Make Your Phone One-Hand FriendlyGoogle’s custom keyboard (Gboard) on Android phones has a one-handed mode you can switch to using a shortcut. Once you open the keyboard, tap and hold the comma key. Drag it up to the right-hand icon to switch over to one -handed mode.


Save your dataAndroid phones come with a built-in backup system. It does vary per model, so make sure you know how your specific backup system works. Most Android phones have switched from Google Photos (since it’s no longer free) to One Drive or Samsung Cloud .
Need Help With Your Phone In Warsaw?Whether you need help setting up a new device or have a phonethat needs to be repaired, we’re here for you! 

Is Your Child Ready For An iPhone?

Being responsible for their own cell phone can help your child become more independent. It can also connect them with their friends and family. With the rise of virtual learning and social events, is your child ready for a phone in Warsaw, Indiana?


According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), developmental and health concerns continue to exist for young children if they excessively use any form of digital media. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare your child to safely and responsibly use digital devices as they grow older.

The AAP suggests creating a Family Media Plan, and revising it as your child grows. Practical ways to limit your child’s screen time appropriately can include:
Create unplugged spaces and times of day in your home where devices aren’t used.Stay up-to-date on the latest apps and digital technology and how they can interact with and affect your child’s developmentSet limits for when your child’s device will be turned off at the end of the day.

Using digital devices close to bedtime can inhibit their sleepTalk to your pediatrician about the best choices for your child’s access to digital devices as they growHow To Get Your Child Ready For A Smartphone Common concerns most parents have about getting their child a smartphone are usually related to safety. Making sure you have the right filters, parental controls, and apps to ensure your child accesses age-appropriate content is important. However, there are a few other things to consider as well.


Is your child responsible for their own belongings?

Being able to remember to keep their phone charged, avoid damaging it, and remember where they left it are key indicators that your child is ready to have their own cell phone. 
If your child finds it more difficult to remember to bring their belongings home from school or regularly loses them, you might want to wait a little longer before giving them their own device.


Do you have time to set and help them understand the “ground rules”?

Before handing your child their own cell phone, it’s important to establish rules and expectations. Talk about what apps they’re allowed to download and use. Discuss which contacts are appropriate for them to add (friends, family members, extended family, etc. ). Be clear about time limits for using their phone throughout the day.
If you need help setting boundaries around your child’s cell phone usage, this blog post can get you started.

Will a smartphone help your child navigate their daily life?

Sure, your child wants their own phone, but do they really need one yet? There’s not only the financial price tag of adding a smartphone to your child’s life to consider but also the questions of necessary access. 
If there’s a different device that could meet their needs if you’re concerned they’re too young to have full access to a cell phone, that could be the better choice.

 Does your child just want to FaceTime with their friends?

 They can easily do that from their iPad, as well as access tons of games and apps with your approval. 
If you’re concerned about being able to know their whereabouts and allowing them to communicate with a limited number of people, a Smart GPS Watch could be the best choice for younger children.

Is your child prepared to navigate digital communication?

It’s easy to be misunderstood via texts, social media posts, and emails. Emojis and GIFs can help provide tone and context, but your child should also be able to both communicate and understand written messages well. 
If your child has their own smartphone, they won’t just be texting their friends and family. They’ll be using email, apps, games, and platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. 


What will they do if they see harmful or offensive messages? How will they handle seeing cyberbullying or if they’re bullied themselves? Do they know how to see the signs and tell a parent or teacher?
Navigating the digital world of communication can be overwhelming for both adults and children. Be sure to consider the best ways to help your child interact safely online before handing them a smartphone.

Your Child’s Phone Is Your Responsibility…Are You Ready?

As a parent, you are ultimately responsible for your child’s cell phone usage. From setting it up properly to locking down privacy settings and evaluating their app requests, it all comes back to you.


Are you ready to enforce screen time limits, educate yourself about texting acronyms, your child’s digital footprint, and how to set strong passwords?
When it comes down to it, you’ll need to know more about smartphone technology than ever before so you can empower your child to use their own technology safely.