Blog

Important: Key Privacy Settings to Activate on Your iPhone

**Boosting Privacy on Your iPhone: Key Settings to Activate**

In a time when digital privacy faces growing challenges, Apple has made notable advancements to equip users with tools that safeguard their personal data. Below are three vital settings that every privacy-aware iPhone owner should activate.

### 1. Disable Cross-Site Tracking

Targeted advertising can improve the online shopping journey by linking users to pertinent products. Nevertheless, this approach often depends on intrusive tracking techniques that jeopardize user privacy. Apple’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) aims to address this concern by using machine learning to block cross-site tracking and hiding your IP address. This guarantees that your online behavior stays confidential.

To check if Disable Cross-Site Tracking is turned on, head to **Settings > Apps > Safari** and confirm that the switch for **Prevent Cross-Site Tracking** is turned on in the **Privacy & Security** area.

### 2. Safeguard Mail Activity

Email tracking is a less recognized tactic employed by advertisers to observe user actions. These trackers can indicate when an email has been opened, how often it is viewed, and even the recipient’s location during the viewing. To protect your email privacy, you can activate the **Protect Mail Activity** feature. This setting complicates the process for senders to gather information about your engagement with their emails.

To enable this feature, navigate to **Settings > Apps > Mail > Privacy Protection** and toggle on **Protect Mail Activity**.

### 3. Lock Screen Configurations

Despite having strong security features like Face ID and complex passcodes, the lock screen can still present a point of exposure. For example, unauthorized individuals can access the Control Center from the lock screen to turn off crucial services like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, impairing your ability to track a lost device.

To bolster security, modify which functionalities are accessible from the lock screen. Access this configuration by going to **Settings > Face ID & Passcode**. After inputting your passcode, scroll to the **Allow Access When Locked** section to control which features are available without unlocking your device.

By activating these settings, you can greatly improve your privacy and protection on your iPhone, ensuring that your personal data remains shielded from unwarranted tracking and access.

Read More
Top New MacBook Offers for August: Prices Beginning at $599

# The Budget-Friendly MacBook Era: An Overview of Apple’s Newest Models

During the Apple Silicon age, MacBooks have become more budget-friendly than ever, with fresh models beginning at just $649. With impending global tariffs, these fantastic deals might soon be a thing of the past. If you’re considering a new MacBook, now could be the perfect moment to buy.

The anticipated macOS 26 update is also rumored to eliminate support for some additional Intel Macs, making it a prime opportunity for those wishing to stay current with the latest software.

## M1 MacBook Air

Apple has released four MacBook Airs since the onset of the Apple Silicon period, equipped with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air maintains a classic wedge shape from the Intel generation, which many users might appreciate.

Even though it’s four years old, the M1 MacBook Air continues to be a fantastic laptop considering its cost. It delivers quick performance with its M1 chip, an impressive Retina display (albeit with bulkier bezels compared to newer models), a superb keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery life. Furthermore, it runs quietly, making it suitable for use in public settings.

The M1 MacBook Air is the least expensive choice on this list, although locating new models with greater than 256GB of storage may be difficult. Nonetheless, it is the sole Apple Silicon MacBook offered in a true Gold hue.

You can purchase the M1 MacBook Air for as little as [**$599 at Walmart**](https://howl.link/15sdnqsr918p4) in Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

– 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: [**$599 at Walmart**](https://howl.link/15sdnqsr918p4)

## M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple launched a revamped MacBook Air with a sleeker design, an enlarged display with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. It also debuted in new Starlight and Midnight colors along with Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was phased out. This new design first appeared with the M2 chip and has progressed with the M3.

M2 MacBook Airs are largely sold out, and similar shortages are occurring with M3 models, though some options remain, especially concerning the 15-inch MacBook Air.

**15-inch models with M3 chip:**

– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [**$1249 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/3R70HaO) ($450 off!)

## M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple unveiled a refreshed MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This version retains many elements from its predecessor but presents a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color, replacing Space Gray.

At present, you can enjoy a $200 discount across all the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly developing a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip, but at these rates, the MacBook Air represents an attractive option.

**13-inch models with M4 chip:**

– 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [**$799 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [**$999 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/42w9DNg)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [**$1199 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/3Rq7exD)

**15-inch models with M4 chip:**

– 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [**$999 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4i8YJ4T)
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [**$1199 at Amazon**](https://amzn.to/4i0icVe)
– 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:

Read More
Indie App Highlight: ‘Scout’ – An All-Inclusive Resource for Monitoring Facebook Marketplace Listings

# Scout: Your Essential Tool for Facebook Marketplace

In the current landscape, economizing on significant purchases is essential for many, and acquiring secondhand items can be an excellent approach to do so. Nonetheless, the task of sorting through endless listings can frequently feel daunting. Introducing Scout, a novel application crafted to optimize your Facebook Marketplace journey and assist you in effortlessly locating the finest deals.

## Key Features of Scout

Scout is designed to elevate your browsing experience on Facebook Marketplace. One of its notable features is the capability to establish tailored notifications for new listings that align with your preferences. In contrast to Facebook, which can be inundated with advertisements and irrelevant offerings, Scout centers on presenting the content you wish to view.

### Tailored Searches and Notifications

With Scout, you can formulate personalized searches utilizing various filters. This empowers you to refine listings by location, price, category, and specific keywords. The app arranges results in reverse chronological order, ensuring that you view the latest listings first.

### Intuitive User Interface

Scout features a more user-friendly interface compared to Facebook Marketplace, simplifying navigation and helping you find what you need. Whether you are in search of furniture, electronics, or collectibles, Scout delivers a smooth experience.

## Acquiring Scout

Scout can be downloaded from the App Store for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, compatible with iOS 18 and macOS 15 Sequoia and later versions. A subscription is necessary to utilize its features.

– **Basic Plan**: At $2.99/month, this plan is perfect for casual users and includes 5 hourly alerts for your searches.
– **Standard Plan**: For $7.99/month, you can benefit from unlimited hourly alerts and up to 5 instant alerts, ensuring you receive immediate notifications when a relevant listing is available.

Scout also provides a 3-day free trial, enabling you to try out its features prior to subscribing.

## Final Thoughts

If you seek a sophisticated tool to assist you in navigating Facebook Marketplace and securing fantastic deals, Scout is a valuable investment. With its user-friendly interface, customizable notifications, and effective search functions, it turns the often monotonous process of purchasing secondhand goods into a more manageable and enjoyable task.

For additional details and to download the app, visit

Read More
Playing Steam Games on Any Chromebook: A Comprehensive Tutorial

affordable testing tools.” That was true a few years back, prior to Google enabling the download of Android applications from the Play Store. The introduction of Steam has been a significant development, allowing users to convert their laptops into gaming devices.

For individuals lacking a contemporary gaming PC or console, a Chromebook equipped with Steam provides numerous opportunities. You can now enjoy nearly any game on a Chromebook. Naturally, what you can access heavily depends on your Chromebook’s specifications. In fact, if your Chromebook isn’t quite up to par, you won’t even be able to download Steam, so keep that in mind before making a purchase. Optimal performance will come from a gaming Chromebook, and despite the speculation that Google discontinued gaming Chromebooks, they are still available and capable of performing admirably.

Currently, to install Steam on your Chromebook, you’ll need at least an Intel i3 or Ryzen 3 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage. You can verify this information by going to Settings > About Chrome OS > Additional Details. Even if your Chromebook has sufficient power to run Steam, that doesn’t guarantee you can play every available game. However, you can access some, albeit with reduced graphical quality if you only meet the basic hardware requirements.

Play Steam games on your Chromebook

Caution Regarding New Gmail Scams: Google Will Never Reach Out to You by Phone Concerning Your Account

Local 12, users of Gmail have indicated they are receiving phone calls from individuals who assert they work for Google, even showing a caller ID that reflects this claim. Once engaged, the caller informs them that their Google account has been breached in some manner.

The fraudsters then propose to send a verification code or reset link to the user’s phone, stating that it will rectify the compromised account. Often, these links can closely resemble the genuine links you might receive from legitimate technology companies when addressing account concerns. However, it’s crucial not to trust them, as clicking on them and signing in grants the scammers unrestricted entry to your Gmail account. Similar attempts to infiltrate consumer accounts have also been observed on Apple devices.

Google is highly unlikely to ever reach out to you

Fresh Update in iOS 26 Passwords App Greatly Improves Functionality

Passwords application with iOS 18.

Although the application is quite simple, it ranks among the most essential Apple applications available right now, particularly if you opt out of third-party solutions like 1Password. However, after you verify your identity using Face ID, the Passwords app allows you to sift through all your passwords, passkeys, codes, Wi-Fi settings, and security notifications.

Apple notifies you if you are repeating a code or if it has possibly been exposed in a data breach. When iOS 18 was released, we observed it lacked the feature to save credit card details, which is now accessible in the Wallet application in iOS 26. Apple also resolved another matter in iOS 26 that may seem trivial but will provide a significant benefit once users update to the latest software.

Preserve the login version history of your passwords in iOS 26

Underused CarPlay Applications That Improve Your Driving Experience

Nothing compares to driving along the road and jamming to your top tracks through your vehicle’s audio system. In recent years, the realm of automotive infotainment has progressed swiftly, with major players like Apple and Google seeking to participate. If CarPlay is a new concept for you, it’s Apple’s attempt at integrating iPhone functionalities and controls suited for vehicles. Launched with iOS 7.1, CarPlay enables you to replicate several key user interface components of your iPhone, including applications, messaging, and navigation, on your vehicle’s infotainment display.

Offered in over 800 vehicles through a wired USB connection or wireless assimilation with your iOS device, Apple CarPlay has rapidly established itself as a fundamental aspect of contemporary driving. However, today, we wish to explore some lesser-known applications, especially to introduce you to some CarPlay apps that might not be on your radar. Some of this software provides sheer entertainment, while other applications carry more utilitarian value. Whether you’re driving a Honda or zooming in a BMW, here are five CarPlay applications you could be overlooking in 2025.

Simple Radio

Are you fed up with depending on the same playlists, albums, and performers to accompany you during your work commute? With Simple Radio, the goal is to “cast a wide net,” particularly when it comes to global radio stations. This remarkable CarPlay application provides access to over 90,000 live AM and FM stations from around the globe, showcasing a variety of content including music, news, live sports, and talk radio.

The user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation to

Read More
Evaluation of ShiftCam’s Fisheye Lens for iPhone: An Innovative Approach for Expansive Photography Images

# Discovering the ShiftCam LensUltra Fisheye Lens for iPhone

The iPhone has consistently proven to be an impressive device for photography, with its sophisticated camera technology undergoing remarkable advancements over the years. Since the launch of the iPhone 11 Pro, users have benefited from the flexibility of a triple camera configuration, which includes ultrawide, wide, and telephoto lenses. Nevertheless, for individuals seeking to broaden their creative options, third-party lens alternatives like the ShiftCam LensUltra Fisheye lens present thrilling new opportunities.

## Summary

The ShiftCam LensUltra Fisheye lens is specifically crafted for use with the iPhone’s wide-angle lens, delivering an ultrawide viewpoint with improved image clarity. This lens creates a distinctive distortion effect akin to that of a 360-degree camera, enabling photographers to record scenes in a manner that contrasts with the standard lens of the iPhone.

Accompanying the lens is a fabric pouch for convenient carrying, a cleaning pen, and a polishing cloth. To fix the lens to your iPhone, users will require a compatible ShiftCam case, which blends style with practicality.

## Taking Photos

After mounting the lens, users can start capturing images that highlight the broadened perspective it offers. The following pictures depict the variance between employing the iPhone’s built-in ultrawide lens and the ShiftCam Fisheye lens.

– **iPhone 16 Pro Ultrawide**: This image presents a typical ultrawide scene, demonstrating the abilities of the iPhone’s native lens.

– **iPhone 16 Pro Wide + ShiftCam Fisheye**: This image showcases the increased field of view provided by the Fisheye lens, resulting in a significantly wider scene with richer colors and a distinctive style.

The Fisheye lens encourages greater creativity in photography; however, users should be mindful of the potential for unintentionally capturing their fingers in the shot, a frequent obstacle with wide-angle attachments.

## Conclusion

The ShiftCam Fisheye lens is priced at $129.99 on Amazon, while the required ShiftCam cases are available for $49.99. Although the cost might be seen as high for an external accessory, the lens delivers a delightful and unique approach to enhancing photography, particularly for those dedicated to the #ShotOniPhone lifestyle.

ShiftCam also offers a range of additional lenses for iPhone users, making it worthwhile to investigate their products for anyone keen on broadening their photographic equipment. The Fisheye lens particularly shines as an enjoyable choice, ideal for both casual photographers and enthusiasts alike.

Read More

Cook: Apple has faced similar circumstances previously

Evaluation of the LG Smart Monitor Swing

The LG Smart Monitor Swing is an exceptional and innovative device that distinguishes itself through its cohesive design and practical versatility. The monitor is designed to look like a single entity, featuring a white plastic back that blends seamlessly with the stand and base, yielding a sleek and contemporary appearance.

Setting up the Smart Monitor Swing is simple, as the base comes largely pre-assembled. Users only need to insert the power brick into the base, secure the arm with four screws, and cover the base. The monitor clicks into position on the arm, and the power cable, built into the arm, connects the monitor to the power brick located in the base.

After assembly, the monitor provides considerable flexibility in placement. It can be moved forward or backward, swung side to side, tilted up and down, and adjusted in height. The monitor can also alternate between vertical and horizontal positions, although it only rotates in one direction to avoid cable entanglement.

This monitor necessitates a power outlet connection via a cable that extends from the base, as it does not include an internal battery. This design means it needs to remain stationary during operation, in contrast to other models like the StanbyME.

Although the white plastic material may not convey a high-end feel, it is sufficient, with slight alignment imperfections on the monitor’s edges being easily dismissed. The overall construction is robust, accompanied by smooth-operating wheels that guarantee stability.

The back of the monitor features several ports, including three USB-C ports (one providing 65W power delivery), two HDMI ports (one equipped with eARC), and a magnetic pogo pin port for an optional webcam. A remote control, also made from white plastic, is included, offering essential software controls and quick access to streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Sling. While this remote is not the Magic Remote, the monitor is compatible with it, though it must be acquired separately.

In summary, the LG Smart Monitor Swing merges considerate design with functional practicality, establishing it as an attractive option for users in search of a flexible and stylish monitor solution.

Read More