Technology

Every time I see a flat-panel TV installed without a soundbar, I ask myself, “Why?” They’re sleek, relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and far more powerful than built-in TV speakers. However, while most sound good right out of the box, your soundbar can perform much better with just a few quick adjustments. While a soundbar…

I’m not ashamed to admit it—I’d literally be lost without a navigation app. Living in a bustling, crowded metropolis, roads often make little sense. Asking for directions is usually futile, signposts can be confusing, and construction frequently blocks and diverts thoroughfares. As an Android user, I am faced with two popular options: Google Maps or…

One of the hardest lessons I learned shortly after I started my Plex server was to never ignore organizing your library. It’s one of those tidbits you wish someone would tell you before you start using Plex, but live and learn, right? Having a good foundation beforehand is important and will literally save you hours,…

You probably tap your phone’s search bar dozens of times a day, but if you are only doing that to find and open apps, you’re missing out. If you have a Samsung phone, that app drawer search bar can do much more than just launch apps. It can help you jump straight to YouTube videos,…

I always thought journaling was something other people managed to keep up with. I’d start off motivated, scribbling in a paper notebook or jotting quick thoughts into my phone, but it never stuck for more than a week. Nothing gave me a reason to keep coming back. But that changed the moment I tried Day…

While digital crafting and 3D printing make it easy to create impressive products from your home, I’ve found something I like even better. This incredible machine takes my crafts from looking homemade to professional quality in a matter of seconds. HTVRont is a competitive Cricut alternative It’s not as well-known, but it is as good…

With the right tools and a smart approach, you can use lighting to transform how any space looks. I did just that without the complexity or mess of traditional methods. Why lighting makes all the difference In my case, I had two primary goals. First, I wanted the items in my display tower to feel…

Act now, act fast. That’s what I’m telling you to do if you want to scoop up what’s actually quite the bargain. That is, Paramount+ Essential or Paramount+ Premium for half the price of a regular subscription. NAR by Gavin I know, I know, “Gavin,” you’re saying. “The football season started on September 5.” And…

My weekends used to disappear into household maintenance. Between vacuuming, laundry cycles, and chasing my escaped black lab Bella through neighbors’ yards, I felt like a full-time house manager. Smart home automation changed everything—not difficult overhauls, just targeted solutions for my biggest time drains. These simple fixes have given me back about 5–10 hours weekly….

All of us finish a great book and wish we could ask the author just one question. What did they really mean? How would they apply their advice today? With ChatGPT, I found a way to make that a reality. By uploading a book as a PDF or ePub and setting a few simple prompts,…

Dolby’s latest HDR evolution promises smarter TVs, but as is the case with everything else these days, it crams AI into its feature set. Your content might look great with Dolby Vision 2, but the tech behind its Content Intelligence system is rather invasive. Dolby Vision 2 will get more out of your TV Hannah…

I love books, but I rarely finish them these days. My attention span is losing out to 300-page nonfiction doorstoppers. So, to keep learning, I snack on book summary apps and websites. They distil the key ideas in minutes. Saikat Basu/MakeUseOf Littler Books is one of the simpler and smaller players. Instead of sprawling libraries,…

Google features a lot of jokes and fun little secrets, collectively known as Easter eggs, around its products. While you might be familiar with Easter eggs in video games, they’re also present in software and other tech sources. These Google Search Easter eggs don’t have any practical use, but they’ll make you chuckle when you…

There’s no shortage of third-party apps and tools that can enhance your Windows experience. But among them, a few stand out as absolute essentials for me because they streamline my workflow, save time, and make daily tasks much more efficient. 6 QuickLook One of the first things I install on any PC is QuickLook. If…

When I first noticed that my laptop was running hot, I panicked, thinking it was due to malware, like cryptojackers use the device’s CPU and GPU to mine for crypto. Laptops react differently depending on the type of malware they contract, but a common symptom of a virus is the device lagging and overheating. I…

ChatGPT isn’t perfect, but it has several features that genuinely make it more useful for everyday tasks. Rather than replacing my workflow entirely, these tools complement my existing work process. 4 Study and Learn Makes ChatGPT a friendly tutor I like ChatGPT’s study feature as it doesn’t simply answer but acts more like a tutor….

Many of the devices we treat as harmless have a hidden side that most people never consider. Once you start pulling at that thread, it’s surprising how much they are quietly paying attention to us. 6 Smart TVs Smart TVs have carved out a permanent spot in our living rooms. We stream on them, browse…

I’m proud of the sheer amount of information I’ve built into my Obsidian vault and how well I’ve managed to keep it organized over the years. What frustrates me, though, is how little of that “second brain” ever makes it back into my biological one. Turns out, the fix was hiding in an Obsidian plugin…

Many common household problems can be easily fixed with basic hand tools and a little know-how, saving both time and money. You can confidently tackle simple fixes without ever needing to plug in a power tool. Remove your home’s tiny annoyances I’m not good with tools. In fact, the tools I have in my home…

I’ve never been one for media servers, as I always found the setup to be confusing at best. However, I recently discovered Jellyfin, and its extensive features and plugins convinced me to make the switch. 5 Free remote streaming Years ago, I used Plex. And while I found it really useful, I didn’t really stick…

While most people replace their tech every few years, my 2015 iPad Pro keeps proving its worth. Even though I own the newest model, I find myself reaching for this aging tablet more often than you’d expect. Why I haven’t retired my ancient iPad Pro My iPad collection is simple: there’s the original Pro 12.9-inch…

Every group photo tells a story, but not everyone wants their face in it. With Markup, you can keep the memory while protecting privacy. Markup: The easiest way to protect someone’s privacy Group photos often capture the best moments, but there’s always a chance someone in the frame doesn’t want their image shared. Cropping throws…

Some default iPhone behaviors can be more frustrating than helpful. But there’s no need to put up with them. A few quick adjustments in Settings are all it takes to remove those annoyances and make your iPhone far more enjoyable to use. 7 Too many control center pages By default, the iPhone’s Control Center stretches…

Manual calendar management feels like playing Tetris with my time. Reclaim AI changed that by automatically protecting my focus hours and rearranging everything when life inevitably gets messy. This AI actually gets smart scheduling right I used to spend Sunday nights curating the perfect week, then dreading the experience knowing there would probably be some…

Tech is full of half-truths, clever marketing lines, and myths that just refuse to die. Some of them sound logical, companies push some to sell you products you don’t need, and others are just plain outdated. Whatever the source, they end up draining people’s wallets. 7 Expensive cables improve quality Walk into a big-box store,…

Animated films are a fan-favorite at my house—it doesn’t matter if it’s 2D or 3D. We just really love the medium and the unique art styles, but these movies in particular are among our favorites. They’ll win over mom, dad, and the kids! 5 K-Pop Demon Hunters Watch K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix To the…

A measuring tape is one of those tools that always seems to be missing when you need it most. What you do have, though, is your phone, and its camera can actually serve as a handy substitute for a tape measure. How AR measurement works on your phone AR measurement, short for augmented reality measurement,…

Any good suspense movie has me frustrated, stressed, and sitting at the edge of my seat with the rare moment of levity. But a great movie filled with suspense and intrigue will have me thinking about it long after the credits roll. 5 Beau is Afraid Watch Beau is Afraid on HBO Max and Paramount+…

We’ve somehow arrived at this strange cultural reflex where the word upgrade is practically synonymous with progress. The assumption is that newer must be better, and if you dare to question that, you risk sounding like some curmudgeon still pining for the days of rotary phones. But honestly, the truth feels a lot less flattering….

I have always loved Obsidian, primarily because it is not dependent on the cloud. However, I constantly had to use Notion simply because its databases were unmatched. Well, things may have changed recently. I tried Obsidian’s Bases, and I now get the sense that my time with Notion may be coming to an end. 1…

I thought I was having a quick chat with ChatGPT about my computer setup, but I accidentally shared my Windows PIN and other deeply personal info. How I Accidentally Handed My PIN to an AI When ChatGPT finally made the advanced voice feature available on my phone, I immediately set it as my default voice…

In a tool as feature-packed as Notion, sometimes there are underrated features that slip by your radar. Notion’s Feed view feature is one of them, and if you haven’t started using it already, you need to start now. What’s a Feed View in Notion? Imagine scrolling Instagram, but instead of social media posts, you see…

When it comes to Windows, it’s always handy to know a couple of tricks for those moments your computer starts acting out. This exact scenario happened to me recently, and I brought my machine back to life with this super simple startup trick—it can be the difference between pulling your hair out and getting back…

If you use a Samsung phone, you may already be familiar with many of the Gallery app features. But there’s a hidden menu in the app—Gallery Labs—that packs even more features you may not be aware of. What Is Gallery Labs, and How Do You Access It? Gallery Labs is a hidden menu in Samsung’s…

Technology has always shaped the stories we tell, and some of the best movies and shows put it right at the center. These picks capture the thrill and the warning signs of our digital age. 6 Black Mirror (2011–2025) Watch Black Mirror on Netflix Think about the apps, gadgets, and screens you already use every…

Google search works great for general queries, but there are dozens of specialized alternatives that do things Google can’t—or won’t. These five tools search through archived websites, scan code repositories, find exposed devices, and aggregate results without tracking you. Shodan is often described as “Google for computers.” Instead of crawling websites, it maps the devices…

The truth is, even the most powerful Windows 11 system can slow down if you don’t give it some attention. From clearing temporary files to keeping software up to date, there are simple and effective ways to keep your PC running like it did the day you got it. 7 Scan for Corrupt System Files…

I’ve always used Excel for quick calculations and simple tables. But aside from common formulas and basic data manipulation techniques, I never felt the need to learn extra Excel functionalities—until my projects started getting complex. The Problem That Made Me Finally Pay Attention Due to several market factors and import duties, buying PC components in…

My watchlist goes up and down, depending on the week and month. This week, I have some absolute corkers to get stuck into on Disney+—none of which you’ll want to miss. Amanda Knox’s part in the murder of Meredith Kercher enraptured global news outlets in 2007; it didn’t end when she was (wrongfully) convicted alongside…

Another weekend, another binge session with Netflix, and this time I’ll be catching up with a lot of animation, some drama, and comedy. If you’re settling down to a weekend of watching too, here is what I recommend. I’ll admit my initial reaction to Wednesday being centered around her in school gave me Monster High…

At first, AirPods seem just like any other true wireless earbuds. And that was my impression too, until I discovered a couple of little-known features. Notably, Conversation Awareness and Live Listen have become game-changers in my daily routine. Stay Aware of Conversations Without Removing AirPods When you have your AirPods on, you probably just want…

My smart TV turned into a digital stalker, collecting data about every show, movie, and video I watched. After discovering it was profiting from my habits, I took back control by installing four apps—without sacrificing any features. 4 SmartTubeNext to Watch YouTube as a Visitor With No Ads Screenshot by Jayric Maning –no attributions required…

Switching to Samsung felt like opening a box of hidden treasures. And while the default setup was good, a few quick settings tweaks turned my phone into one I can’t put down. 7 Unlock Crisp Visuals Using QHD+ Resolution The first aspect I noticed when switching to a Samsung phone was the display. It already…

I used to open my laptop and immediately ignore my tasks. Out of sight, out of mind. But once I put my to-dos on the Windows 11 widget panel, they started staring me down every morning—and suddenly, skipping them wasn’t so easy. I relied on pen and paper for a long time to keep track…

You don’t need a massive workshop full of fancy gear to tackle most home projects. With just a few well-chosen power tools, you can handle repairs, upgrades, and creative projects on your own like a pro. 5 Router The Unexpected Key to Craftsmanship If you’ve ever struggled to make perfectly flush edges or wanted to…

I’ve used an iPhone for years, but pairing it with a Mac completely changed how I use it. There’s a whole layer of features that only reveal themselves when the two devices work together. 5 Sideload Apps on Your iPhone Not many people realize this, but you can sideload apps on your iPhone using AltStore…

Carrying your entire OS around on a flash drive can come in handy, especially if you don’t have a laptop. But don’t think this functionality is limited to Linux distros—it’s time to try cloning your Windows setup. Get to Know WinToUSB Hasleo’s WinToUSB isn’t just a USB formatting tool. Apart from letting you make bootable…

I enjoyed college so much that I went back for a second round. I used Canva throughout both college experiences, and it really helped make college easier, smoother, and more successful. 8 Printed From the Canva Print Shop Need Printed Projects? Canva’s Got You Canva’s integrated print shop lets you print your designs on all…

One of the most disorganized places in most people’s homes is the junk drawer. I finally said “enough”, and have some recommendations for replacing it if you’re in the same spot. Enough Was Enough It’s hard to say when it happened, but at one point, the junk drawer in my home was born. While it…

Grammarly is one of the most popular writing assistant programs on the internet, but it’s not without its flaws. For me, the flaws have started outweighing the benefits to the point where I can’t recommend it anymore. 1 It Takes the Personality Out of Your Writing Grammarly’s grammar suggestions are often helpful. However, it suggests…

You don’t need a lot of space to grow edible plants. With some easy-to-grow plants and a bit of care, you can harvest fruits, vegetables, and herbs right from your balcony or windowsill. 6 Tomatoes Tomatoes come in all sizes and shapes, from tiny and perfectly round cherry tomatoes to big and oddly shaped heirloom…

Amazon Prime Video is rammed full of amazing movies and shows—but some of the best ones fly under the radar. That’s why I dig down past the suggested titles and find the best hidden gems for you to binge-watch this glorious weekend. The Night Manager, featuring Hugh Laurie, Tom Hiddleston, and Olivia Colman, is a…

Scary movies in the fall make sense, but horror has roots in the summer, too. How about Friday the 13th and I Know What You Did Last Summer? In some of my favorite horror movies, you can’t help but feel the heat of summer. 8 Midsommar Watch Midsommar on Amazon Prime Video Midsommar might be…

Anyone who’s worked on a lengthy Google Docs document knows how quickly formatting can get out of hand. The Paint Format tool in Google Docs offers a fast way to replicate styles instantly, so you can maintain consistency without wasting time on repetitive manual adjustments. What Is Paint Format in Google Docs? Paint Format lets…

Carrying a USB stick loaded with portable Windows tools is like having a digital Swiss Army knife. No matter where I am or which computer I’m using, I’ve got everything I need to work, troubleshoot, and stay productive. 8 Everything Windows search has come a long way, but it still has a reputation for being…

Slow lookup formulas can kill productivity when working with large datasets. To cope with that, I’ve tested Excel’s optimal lookup functions and their combinations for building lightning-fast formulas that handle even massive spreadsheets with ease. 4 XLOOKUP Is My Go-To Functions It’s Much Better Than VLOOKUP I have used VLOOKUP for a long time, but…

I don’t unquestioningly trust default settings when it comes to privacy. Windows 11 is no exception, as it often oversteps by collecting data. However, these specific tools can effectively restrict Windows telemetry without breaking functionality. 3 O&O ShutUp10++ Disable Hidden Telemetry Settings You won’t find Windows privacy options only on the surface. It also has…

Switching from iPhone to Android usually means losing access to Apple’s exclusive features. Despite this, I’ve found a way to enjoy iMessage (one of the best parts of the Apple ecosystem) without giving up my Android phone. OpenBubbles Is the Answer You’ve Been Looking For Sending texts via RCS on an iPhone isn’t perfect, so…

OpenAI says GPT-5 is their “smartest, fastest, and most useful model yet.” If putting expert-level brains in everyone’s pocket was the goal, they might’ve just cracked it. What Makes GPT-5 Different? GPT-5 is much smarter across the board compared to its predecessors, especially in math, coding, visual perception, and health. OpenAI claims that it’s also…

Spreadsheets have come a long way since the days of manually dragging formulas and copy-pasting data as if your life depended on it. Let’s just say there’s a newer, smarter approach, and it starts with one surprisingly powerful function. 5 You Can Brainstorm Directly Inside a Cell The first time I used Google Sheets’ AI…

Sometimes, I can’t find my external hard drive when I need it most. After losing important files a few times, I found simple and reliable ways to back up everything, even when my hard drive isn’t available. 6 Email Myself Important Files Whenever I need to back up Word documents, spreadsheets, or smaller PDFs, I…

Your PC’s antivirus software might be able to tackle malware, but some infections require more powerful solutions. If you’re dealing with a nasty malware infection that you just can’t shift, a USB drive might just save the day. 5 Use Specialized Antimalware Programs If you can still boot into your OS and use your PC,…

Apple doesn’t make it easy for Android users to play nice with its ecosystem, and the Apple TV streaming box is no exception. However, despite Apple’s tight ecosystem, I’ve managed to turn my Android phone into a reliable remote for my Apple TV. There’s No Official Apple TV Remote App for Android One of the…

Picking the right web browser is no easy task, but most people just stick with what they know—which is why Google Chrome is the world’s most popular browser. But it’s time for you to leave Chrome’s memory-sapping ways behind and embrace something new and much better. 1 Zen Makes Browsing Simpler One of the first…

Windows has a built-in Credential Manager, but it’s not what you think—and certainly not a replacement for your password manager. What Windows Credential Manager Actually Does As the name suggests, Credential Manager is a built-in password manager, but one focused on system-level credentials. It stores usernames and passwords for things like network shares, Remote Desktop…

Can a show about what happens when 140 million people vanish overnight be uplifting? It can when it’s The Leftovers, a show I had been avoiding until recently, and now it’s one of my favorites. Why I Skipped The Leftovers When I’m looking for a new series to start, I always consider the yuck factor….

Freeing up storage on a Windows 11 PC doesn’t have to mean deleting or transferring your important files. Between temporary files, outdated backups, duplicate data, and unused apps, there are plenty of ways to reclaim space without touching your personal files. 8 Empty the Recycle Bin Clearing out old files and downloads might feel productive,…

I used to rely on separate apps just to scan QR codes. Then one day, I opened my Samsung camera and saw it highlight a link the moment I pointed it at one. It was subtle, but enough to make me wonder what else the camera could do. 6 Record Video Without Killing the Music…

Before the advent of streaming services, summer was a quiet time on the TV series front, but not anymore. Today, there are numerous new and returning series seeking viewers. These are the best of the bunch. 8 The Bear (Season 4) Watch The Bear on Hulu and Disney+ FX Season three of The Bear wasn’t…

Flowers are the easiest subjects to photograph. At the same time, it’s also challenging to capture a unique flower photo that stands out. But not anymore. Taking stunning flower photos with your phone is easy with just a few simple tricks. 6 Use a Shallow Depth of Field You may have heard the benefits of…

AI is creeping into more parts of the internet, answering search queries, recommending downloads, and even deciding what emails deserve your attention. But just because it sounds helpful doesn’t mean it always knows what it’s doing. Gemini Linked Me to Download Sites Notorious for Spreading Malware I was looking for apps to record my screen…

A smart TV is usually all about streaming, but even without Wi-Fi, your smart TV is far from useless. With a little effort, you can use it to play offline media, showcase photos, mirror your phone, act as a second PC screen, and more. A smart TV without the internet is still a TV, which…

Five years ago, I took a leap and got my first Pixel phone, not knowing if it was worth its price tag. After using three Pixels in a row, I know for a fact they are worth every penny. 5 Google Does Android Better Than Anyone I was not a fan of Android taking over…

My five-year-old Google TV was crawling through apps and driving me crazy. I almost replaced it, but a few quick tweaks gave my 2020 smart TV a whole new life.

After Arc’s slow fade into maintenance mode, I was curious to see what The Browser Company would do next. I was hoping for the next great browser, but what I got instead was something far less exciting. What Is Dia? Dia is the brand-new Chromium-based browser from the same people who built Arc, and it’s…

The Apple TV offers one of the best streaming device experiences. But as much as I love my Apple TV, it’s hard to ignore how Apple continues to overlook a few glaring issues. 4 Still No Shortcut Buttons on the Apple TV Remote Apple TV is all about minimalist design and a fast software experience,…

Apple has unveiled a new plan, called AppleCare One, which extends AppleCare+ coverage. If you’re invested in Apple’s ecosystem, AppleCare One is worth checking out—especially if you tend to break your devices. What Is AppleCare One? AppleCare One is Apple’s all-in-one subscription plan that combines multiple AppleCare+ coverages into a single, convenient package. Instead of…

I always look to save money when I can, especially with tech, but I shouldn’t have bought a budget 4K smart TV. It took no more than a year for it to become outdated—but on the positive side, I now know what I’m looking for next time. How My Budget 4K Smart TV Forced Me…

You already use the Play Store on your Android phone or tablet—but it’s not just for browsing and installing apps. It’s packed with powerful features that let you share digital purchases with family, free up storage easily, and keep your device secure. 8 Keep Your Device Safe With Play Protect Downloading apps from the Play…

Somewhere between the messages, the endless feeds, and the silent scrolls, I thought I was staying on top of things. Then I checked Digital Wellbeing on my Samsung phone and saw how much of my day I’d lost to my phone. I Opened Digital Wellbeing Out of Curiosity (And Got a Reality Check) I wasn’t…

Setting up my soundbar was relatively straightforward: I simply connected it to the TV via Bluetooth, and it worked right away. However, to achieve the best sound, I found that it needed to be optimized to suit my TV—and one setting is especially crucial. ​​The One Setting That’s Affecting Your Soundbar Audio Quality Jack Mitchell/MakeUseOf…

Budgeting for a physical media collection is so much simpler when you know where to find the best deals, because they’re not always the best in stores. Instead, you have to look between the buildings of your community. 5 Stick to Blu-ray and DVDs I love the sharpness and resolution of 4K as much as…

Want to enjoy streaming TV and movies while keeping your personal data to yourself? You do not have to trade privacy for great entertainment. These apps and devices help you keep your habits private every time you stream. Stremio stands out as a privacy-focused streaming app that puts privacy back in your hands. This open-source…

Amazon Prime Music has the chance to be the best music streaming service of all—but it’s held back by a confusing mixture of limitations, design flaws, and other general irritations. But if it could fix these problems, there would be no stopping it from overtaking Spotify, Apple Music, and any other competitors. 5 Skip Limits…

Windows File Explorer provides a ton of options to change how you view your files. What you might not know is that a critical option is disabled by default, despite being vital to your system’s safety. File Extensions Are Important File extensions are three or four-letter suffixes that appear after the final period of a…

The point of getting a 4K TV was to enjoy the sharpness and depth of a higher resolution, but Blu-ray and UHD come at a premium. I’ve come up with a solution that involves Fandango at Home, a service closer to you than you think. Say Hello to Fandango at Home (Formerly Vudu) As someone…

I switch phones quite frequently. My current favorite is the OnePlus 13 because in addition to packing exceptional hardware, it also offers a decades-old feature: an IR blaster. I find this indispensable and think it should be available on more Android phones. What’s an IR Blaster? An IR blaster, short for infrared blaster, is a…

Among all of the streaming and entertainment services vying for your attention, there is one you’ve overlooked. That’s right; Apple One actually offers an almost unparalleled level of entertainment, and you’ve been missing out all this time. What Is Apple One? Introduced in 2020, Apple One is a subscription service that bundles multiple Apple services,…

After recently being in the market for a used iPhone, I came across several devices with deal-breaking defects that aren’t easy to catch at first glance. It’s more important than ever to know what to look for when buying a pre-owned iPhone. 5 Check the Battery Health Using a Proper Diagnostics App Before buying a…

Whenever it comes to buying a new device with a display, we usually gravitate toward OLED screens, as they offer the best-in-class experience. But that’s not the whole truth—there are some real issues you’ll want to know before spending the big bucks. 5 Burn-In Is Still a Real Concern With OLED Displays Hamlin Rozario/MakeUseOf You’ve…

The software features on Pixel smartphones are one of the best reasons to buy them. However, depending on what you want, there’s a good chance you can get a suite of Pixel-exclusive features running on the Android device you already own. 6 Google Camera Functionality The crown jewel of Pixel devices is the Google Camera…

I used to blame my internet provider for sluggish speeds—until I realized the problem was right in my living room. After making a few simple adjustments, my internet went from frustrating to fast. 6 Keep My Router Software Updated Just like your phone or computer, your router runs on software that needs regular updates. These…

Windows File Explorer does the job, but just barely. No quick previews, clunky cloud access, and tedious bulk operations mean daily file management is harder than it needs to be. These free add-ons fix that. 6 Listary I have tried numerous File Explorer search hacks over the past decade, but they’ve still been disappointing for…

Letting guests onto your main Wi-Fi network is like handing them the keys to your digital life. However, if you properly lock down your guest Wi-Fi, you can share your internet with anyone who comes over, without sharing anything else. My Main Network Is Hidden One of the first things I do when setting up…

Short URLs are handy for cleaning up long links, but they also hide the true destination. If you want to avoid malware or a phishing scam, blindly clicking that link isn’t your best bet—there are better and safer options! Why Short URLs Are a Security Nightmare The biggest problem with short URLs is simple: you…

Of all the items you carry around with you, your phone is one of the easiest to steal. And while Android and iOS both have device-tracking measures in place, there’s still plenty a thief can do to stop you from tracking your phone once they’ve taken it. 5 Airplane Mode to Disable Tracking One of…

Getting your phone stolen is one of the most frustrating experiences you can have. And while you may not be able to get your old device back, there are ways to recover your data. 4 Secure Your Phone The first action to take when you realize your phone is gone is to secure it. Google’s…

Google Sheets can do a lot—but with Apps Script, it does everything. I’d been using Sheets for years without touching this feature. Once I did, I started automating the chores I didn’t even realize were slowing me down. Automating Boring Tasks If you’re tired of repeating the same task over and over again in Google…

After using an iPhone as my daily driver for years, I decided to switch to a Samsung phone for my next upgrade. And while I’ve been enjoying the experience for the most part, there are still a few bits that fall short. 4 App Quality Is Much Better on iOS Ruby Helyer / MakeUseOf The…

Group photos are chaotic enough without your phone sabotaging the moment. Turns out, my phone had the right tools all along. I just didn’t know where to look. 6 Clean the Lens Before You Do Anything Before you even launch the camera app, take a second to clean your lens. Phones spend most of their…

While our phones’ screens are their main draw, phone backs have many tricks of their own. In fact, you have plenty of reasons to look at the back of your phone other than cleaning fingerprints. 7 Turn It Into a Secret Button If you’re using a modern iPhone (iOS 14 and up), you can double-…

One of my rules is never paying for something that’s free. I won’t buy a battle pass for a free-to-play game, nor will I subscribe to the premium tier of a free app. It’s just how I am. But last year, I made an exception—and twelve months later, I couldn’t be happier that I did….

Your phone’s battery is one of the first components to show its age, but it doesn’t have to wear out so quickly. While there’s no magic fix, small changes in how you charge, use, and care for your device can make a big difference in slowing down battery degradation. 6 Ignoring Battery Protection Features Primakov/Shutterstock…

I was patting myself on the back for remembering all three of my chargers and accessories when I packed for my last trip. That feeling of accomplishment lasted until I was on the road and realized I’d forgotten some of the most important essentials. 5 Download Entertainment Before You Lose Connectivity I’ve learned this lesson…

Quick Links What Does Each Map Color Mean? Roads, Railways, and Underground Tunnels Google Maps is great for getting around—not only because of its simplicity, but also its color-coded topography that helps you discern forests from roads. Unfortunately, Google Maps doesn’t outright explain what each color means, so let me be your map key. What…

Art made by robots doesn’t have to be soulless—sometimes it’s just plain fun. If you haven’t dabbled in AI art yet, or you have but don’t know what to do with it, there are some surprisingly practical and fun ideas to get you started. 9 Print and Frame for Wall Art If you’ve ever found…

Need an extra monitor but don’t want to buy one? Your phone or tablet is already the perfect second screen—you just need the right app to make the most out of it. Meet GlideX and Set It Up GlideX is a cross-device utility that lets you connect your Android device, iPhone, or iPad to a…

Claude is the best alternative to ChatGPT, but it’s still missing some key features that could make it truly compete with the platform. I’ve used both extensively and know that if Claude had these extra features, it would be better than ChatGPT. 7 Projects for Free Mode Claude has a Projects feature in its paid…

I’ve finally done it—sold my smart TV. Now, I’m completely done with smart TVs, and any other TV for that matter, and it could just be time for you to do the same. 8 Too Much Space I’ve become more of an essentialist over the past few years. I don’t think full-on minimalism is the…

A good laptop doesn’t have to break the bank. That said, if you’re not careful, you might end up purchasing something flimsy and slow, all to save a couple of hundred dollars. These simple checks can help you avoid making that mistake. 6 Pick a Quad-Core Processor (at Least) Serder Basak/Shutterstock When shopping for a…

My smart TV has plenty of streaming apps for my entertainment, but did you know there are heaps of apps you can install that aren’t about watching movies and shows? You can get so much more out of your smart TV with these apps. 6 Capsule Podcasts I listen to podcasts on my smart TV…

Canva is rarely mentioned in conversations with professional video editors, who often prefer the advanced features of Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Adobe Premiere Pro. However, Canva manages to slip in genuinely clever video features that I wish showed up in the expensive “pro” tools. Once you try these, you’ll miss them everywhere else….

ChatGPT remains the go-to AI chatbot for many, but it’s by no means the only one to consider. If you’re looking for something new, Claude is the perfect alternative for all kinds of projects. 6 Better Initial Prompts ChatGPT occasionally gives you initial prompts. You’ll often see these when using Custom GPTs, which are arguably…

I tried Poe out of curiosity, thinking it was just another AI hub. To my surprise, it turned out to be the most practical way to blend text, images, and audio across multiple models, without managing a tangle of subscriptions—and it’s time you made the switch. The AI App That Lets You Use GPT-4o, Claude,…

There are certain settings you can implement to prevent your email from being hacked. However, this one setting, if left disabled, can make a hacker’s day—while ruining yours. A Password Isn’t Enough: How MFA Protects You From Hackers Believe it or not, passwords are the bane of the internet. Memorable passwords that an average person…

Google Calendar, Notion Calendar, Outlook Calendar, and some more. I’ve tried all the major calendar apps, as well as some lesser-known ones; despite their many great features, none keep me on schedule in the same way that Apple Calendar does. 6 Better App Syncing on Mobile One of my favorite things about using Apple Calendar…

AI-generated artists are gaining popularity on streaming services, to the point that you’re probably listening to AI artists without even realizing it. Thankfully, however, there are ways to spot AI artists. AI Bands Such as The Velvet Sundown Are Increasing in Popularity In case you missed it, a band called The Velvet Sundown has been…

You’re probably already using HDMI or DisplayPort to connect your monitor, but did you know you can use its USB ports? The often-overlooked monitor USB ports can power your devices, reduce cable clutter, and even unlock features you might not know your monitor offers. 7 Charge Your Devices and Power Accessories Pankil Shah / MakeUseOf…

If you’re unsure whether a multi-monitor setup is right for you—or just want to make the most of your smart TV between movie nights—converting it into a second display is an easy win. And the best part? It’s simpler than you might think. Connect Your PC or Mac to Smart TV Using an HDMI Cable…

You may already know how to use a USB port on your computer or smart TV, but what about the one on your router? It can turn your router into a media hub, a personal cloud server, a backup machine, and more. 6 Turn a USB Drive Into Network Storage Sharing files with family members…

With every Android update, Google adds a host of new features and optimizations to the platform. And while Android 16 hasn’t introduced any major changes (yet), it does bundle several important new security features that you should take a look at ASAP. What Is Advanced Protection in Android 16? Sanuj Bhatia / MakeUseOf With Android…

The truth is finally out: everyone’s favorite new Spotify band is absolute generative AI, just as most of us had suspected all along. Who or What Are The Velvet Sundown? If you’ve still not heard about The Velvet Sundown, they’re a new musical group taking Spotify by storm, racking up a truly astonishing one million…

Spotify Premium makes your music experience better, but the price tag stings. So if your wallet is feeling the burn or you want to save some extra dollars, there are a few smart ways to keep Spotify’s tunes rolling without paying the full amount. 6 Try Free Trials That Most People Miss Spotify offers new…

Creative ruts are sneaky—they show up just when you need to get things done. After trying every trick in the book, I’ve found these five AI prompts are the only ones that reliably jolt me out of a standstill and get me making things again. 5 Brainstorm for Creative Ideas When I’m going through writer’s…

I was a longtime fan of the Google Chromecast, having owned one since the first iteration in 2013. However, its 2024 discontinuation forced me to move over to Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K—and it’s been a surprisingly great upgrade! 6 An Intuitive and Feature-Rich Interface Jack Mitchell/MakeUseOf Having not owned an Amazon streaming device since…

Image editing on mobile has always been a compromise—either you settle for basic tools or wrestle with apps that are too clunky for a phone. Adobe’s new Firefly app flips that on its head. It comes with a feature that makes image editing faster, simpler, and surprisingly fun. Adobe’s New AI App Brings Generative Fill…

Chrome on Android is a great browser out of the box, but you can make it so much better. These tips and features will supercharge how you browse. 11 Unlock Experimental Features With Chrome Flags While you may already be familiar with many of Chrome’s great features, there are plenty of lesser-known ones hidden under…

If you’ve ever suffered the burden of not knowing whether to pack your DSLR or just take your smartphone on a big trip, Adobe’s Project Indigo can put that burden to rest. I’ve used it for a couple of days, and I’m very impressed. It’s like having a DSLR in smartphone size. Adobe’s Project Indigo…

Your 5GB of free iCloud storage probably didn’t last long; even with a paid iCloud plan, you can find your storage filling up faster than you expected. As it turns out, some of your iPhone’s default settings are to blame for this. 6 Backups From Messages While keeping your old conversations backed up is a…

Trusting what is and isn’t real on the internet has become harder than ever. With AI everywhere, the lines have become blurrier when determining what is and isn’t a real voice. Thankfully, a few certain signs can give away everything you need to know. 6 No Natural Pauses In some cases, no natural pauses are…

Windows 11 may look pretty, but Microsoft’s design choices often frustrate rather than make your life easier. These free mods address those shortcomings, turning a barely functional system into a productive powerhouse. 8 Fences Stardock A cluttered desktop can slow you down and make your computer feel overwhelming to use. While organizing files into folders…

All-in-one productivity apps promise to be the solution to your problems with keeping track of everything. The idea sounds great in theory, too. But in reality, they just don’t work the way they should. 5 They Feel Bloated When using all-in-one productivity apps, you get access to a whole host of features. These tools have…

On top of Android, Samsung’s One UI adds its own layer of software and services, each with separate settings, permissions, and default data-sharing options. So even if you’ve already tightened the Android’s core privacy controls on your Samsung phone, there’s still more to do. 6 Turn Off Samsung’s Diagnostic Data Collection By default, Google collects…

When every task screams for your attention, the key to cutting through the noise is deceptively simple: follow one rule, stick to it, and take action. I stopped overthinking and started executing—one prioritized task at a time. The Priority List Rule Create a list of your tasks ranked by importance, then complete them in that…

If you still think a powerful PC means a giant tower under your desk, think again. Modern mini PCs are nothing like their older counterparts, which means it’s time to say goodbye to those big, old tower PCs. 4 Mini PCs Are Powerful Enough for Most Tasks Don’t let their small size fool you; modern…

When I canceled my subscriptions to big streaming services, I braced for boredom. Instead, I ended up with a more streamlined setup and found myself actually enjoying what I watched. Letting go of the streaming giants made me realize what platforms and services I truly value. Why I Opted Out of Netflix, Prime Video, &…

When your PC encounters a problem, seeing how everything is running can help you troubleshoot the issue. And when all is well, this information can also help you optimize your system. It’s all available in the Task Manager’s Performance tab—as well as a more advanced option. What Is the Performance Tab in Task Manager? The…

Windows has powerful built-in command-line troubleshooting tools, but remembering all those commands is tough when you don’t regularly use them. Windows Maintenance Tool simplifies everything by consolidating these tools into one easy menu. Windows Maintenance Tool Lets You Repair Any Windows Problem Windows Maintenance Tool is a free and open-source all-in-one maintenance toolkit for Windows….

Sometimes, it can feel like ChatGPT is trying to be your biggest cheerleader rather than offering balanced opinions. While sometimes nice, this can cause problems when trying to plan something or trying to get an unbiased response. To combat this, I made ChatGPT as brutally honest as possible. 6 Speaking to ChatGPT Like I Would…

Microsoft Office has been around forever, so you’d think there’d be no surprises left. But these features feel like secret backdoors by cutting hours of effort with just a few clicks. They make work so much easier that it almost feels like cheating. 8 Pop Out Panes (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) When you work with long…

I’m sure I’m not alone in often struggling to make decisions. It’s not just the big decisions, such as whether to move house or change jobs, but also everyday minutiae, like what to eat for dinner or what to watch on TV. Our lives are all punctuated by a never-ending succession of decisions, both big…

A newly disclosed set of Bluetooth vulnerabilities in Airoha-powered audio devices could allow attackers to eavesdrop on users, hijack connections, and extract sensitive information—all without the victim’s knowledge. What Is the Bluetooth Headphone Vulnerability? Security researchers at ERNW revealed the flaws, highlighting serious authentication issues in both Bluetooth Classic and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) services…

Lately, I’ve caught myself looking at my current smartphone and realizing how far we’ve come from what was once my favorite device, back in 2009. I used to rely on a BlackBerry Bold 9700, and the contrast between that focused, utilitarian experience and today’s everything-in-one devices has become hard to ignore. I Miss the Tactile…

My web browsers used to look chaotic at best. A random website open in one tab, Google Docs in another, and perhaps a video to listen to while I worked with some extra tabs involving research pages. Eventually, I got fed up with working like this, and some simple tweaks changed everything. 7 Adopting a…

WhatsApp just got a shiny new trick: Meta AI will now peek at your unread messages and spit out a quick summary. Meta is pitching it as an optional feature that lives in the cloud but somehow stays private thanks to “Private Processing.” Sounds neat, but it also means Meta AI is technically reading your…

Juggling work, personal projects, and entertainment can clutter your browser window, requiring you to sift through the tab strip to find and switch tabs, which can ultimately disrupt your workflow. Tab Groups help keep things tidy and save you valuable hours every day. What Are Tab Groups in Chrome? Tab Groups is a tab management…

Google Earth now lets you step back in time at street level, thanks to the launch of historical Street View imagery. The feature arrives for the platform’s 20th anniversary and brings new AI-powered tools for professional users (like urban planners) in the U.S. Explore the Past in Google Earth Google Earth has always helped everyone…

People think you need a telephoto lens and a camo tent to photograph wildlife. I thought so too—until I started getting my best shots with nothing more than a smartphone. 7 Have Clear Expectations While it is possible to take gorgeous wildlife pictures with your phone, it is essential to know its limitations, too. When…

Windows Security does more than just basic virus protection. It guards against phishing, blocks ransomware, and prevents malicious apps from running. However, these features aren’t easy to spot—they’re hidden behind layers of menus. Protect Sensitive Files from Ransomware Downloading files or opening unknown attachments always carries some risk, especially if one turns out to be…

For the longest time, I thought the dark web was an impenetrable, tangled mass of secret websites frequented only by hackers and criminals. I certainly didn’t know that there are several ways you can actually search the dark web for specific websites and types of content—but that’s now changed. How to Search the Dark Web…

Testing your internet speed is a smart way to check you’re getting what you pay for. But if the results seem slower than expected, don’t rush to blame your ISP—testing mistakes could be skewing your numbers. 1 Running Other Apps or Devices Simultaneously One of the most common mistakes when testing internet speed is leaving…

While Samsung’s One UI is already the most feature-packed Android skin available, its Good Lock app unlocks advanced tools and tweaks. From deep UI customization to gesture control and multitasking enhancements—if you thought you knew your Galaxy device, Good Lock will show you just how much more it can do. 6 Home Up Transformed My…

If you’re spending way too long on repetitive data tasks in Google Sheets, you’re not alone. I used to lose hours every week to the same old steps—until I stumbled on a single function that did the heavy lifting for me. Let me introduce you to the QUERY function. 5 Automated Sorting That Updates Itself…

YouTube is the most popular “TV channel” in the whole country; most of us just can’t get enough of hitting the big red play button, and I’m absolutely one of them. But among the documentaries, music videos, and viral creators, YouTube has been dropping off hard in recent years, and it’s becoming harder and harder…

I’m a big fan of Apple and its software. I have an iPhone and a MacBook, and use Apple’s huge range of excellent apps because, let’s face it, why wouldn’t you? But there is one issue among Apple’s fantastic hardware and software: Safari. 1 Extensions Not Working as They Should Perhaps my biggest gripe with…

Most people buy a motherboard and only scratch the surface of what it can actually do. However, your motherboard has untapped potential features that boost performance, enhance audio quality, and extend the life of your system. It’s time to stop leaving these capabilities on the table. 4 Memory Overclocking Will Boost Your System’s Performance Jhet…

Most modern apps often track your activity, location, and even habits. The best way to stop this is to switch to privacy-first alternatives that don’t harvest your data. User tracking and data collection have become the standard for most modern apps, even if you don’t always agree to it. 6 Tor Browser Tor Browser is…

The best part about Android is its flexibility, with a big part of this being how easily you can change the default apps on your phone. Despite this, most of us stick with the pre-installed default apps. I used to rely on Google Chrome as my main browser, but not anymore.

NVMe SSDs offer blazing-fast performance that makes the computing experience faster, but sometimes, we don’t tap their full potential. With a few tweaks and adjustments to settings, your SSD can deliver improved performance and a longer lifespan—so, don’t settle for less than what your hardware can deliver. 6 Update the Drivers and NVMe Firmware Outdated…

Most of us are digital hoarders. Even though search engines can find any information, I allowed my bookmarks to pile up—and chaos followed in its wake. I finally experimented with ChatGPT to bring order to my messy bookmarks and build a system that saves time and hassle. Why I Need a Clear Bookmark Management System…

Ancestry services can tell you a lot, but you also have to hand over some very sensitive personal data to them. Your genetic data being sold on the dark web is no joke, and thanks to this ancestry service’s data breach, that’s exactly what’s happening. Your Genetic Data Is Being Sold Online DNA testing firm…

None of us admits to a phone addiction. Neither did I, until I checked my iPhone’s Screen Time report. The number of hours lost to social media scrolling, endless app hopping, and distractions made me do a double-take. So, I decided to use these cold, hard, shocking stats to take back control with some tiny…

Curious about online anonymity, I ditched my usual browser and spent a week exclusively using the Tor Browser. While its privacy protections are impressive, I didn’t expect how much it would change my perception of the internet itself. What Tor Changed About My Browsing Tor is easy to set up and use, just like Chrome…

Did you know that most of the emails you receive have a sneaky, secret tracking pixel designed to snoop on you? Whether spam, marketing, or otherwise, these tracking pixels can send information back to the send—unless you install one of these handy tracker pixel blocking extensions. PixelBlock is by far one of the easiest tracker-blocking…

Asking ChatGPT general questions works well for basic queries, but I got tired of being left in the dark when I needed something more complex. That’s where ChatGPT’s special tools for image creation, web search, research, and coding are super useful—and I know just when to use them. Creating an Image ChatGPT’s ability to create…

Feeling overwhelmed with different apps for emails and your tasks? Spike lets you combine the two. But is this tool actually worth using, or will you get another gimmicky app that promises the world and delivers nothing? Creating and Customizing To-Do List Tasks in Spike Though not initially intuitive, creating a to-do list of items…

If you only use burner emails for spam, you’re missing out. They’re surprisingly useful for testing apps, managing free trials, protecting your identity on public Wi-Fi, and keeping your inbox focused on what actually matters. 6 One-Time Account Verification Writing software reviews means I’m constantly downloading and testing new tools, sometimes even 10 or 15…

Do you also look at AirTags and wish there was an Android equivalent? Google’s recent efforts into the Find Hub are finally paying off as this tracker gets AirTag-like accuracy with Ultra-Wideband support. Motorola’s Flagship Tracker Finally Gets UWB Support A year after launch, the Moto Tag, Motorola’s flagship tracker, now supports UWB tracking. This…

Hotel Wi-Fi often limits the number of devices, shared networks are insecure, and the signal can be weak or come with bandwidth restrictions. If you travel with several gadgets or work on the go, these solutions could save you a major headache. Use a Travel Router to Create a Secure Network Gavin Phillips/MakeUseOf A travel…

You shouldn’t need five steps to clean a column. Or a script. Or a headache. Excel’s new TRIMRANGE function quietly solves a huge pain point. And if you work with imported or user-entered data, this one’s a lifesaver. What Is the TRIMRANGE Function? Imagine you just imported a dataset into Excel and noticed that there…

Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update promises more than just a visual refresh with its sleek new Liquid Glass look. It’s also playing catch-up, finally adding some of the best features Android users have had for years. 6 Call Screening If you’ve ever been caught off guard by a call from an unknown number, only to…

Recently, I embarked on a real-world experiment with Gemini Live that completely reshaped how I record information for work and play. Let me walk you through my process of harnessing voice-based AI tools for note-taking. On-the-Go Information Capture I’ve been using my smartphone for quickly jotting down notes, adding photos and audio recordings along for…

Installing Brave was meant to be a weekend experiment. Now, it’s my daily driver. It’s like trying a free sample and ending up with a lifetime subscription, and you should make the switch, too. Privacy-First, Always Most browsers claim to protect your privacy, but Brave actually does. From the moment you install it, it blocks…

If you’re only using Gmail’s search bar to look up names or subject lines, you’re missing out. It’s packed with features that can do more than you think. Why the Gmail Search Bar Deserves More Credit Most Gmail users stick to the basics. They type a name, a subject, or a vague keyword and scroll…

This week, my Mum messaged me asking if a message she’d received from a delivery service was real or not. Now, I’m lucky that she’s pretty savvy when it comes to spotting scams and knows what to look for. It’s just useful to have a son who’s the Security Editor for a leading tech website…

Buried in your Gmail app is a swipe gesture that can cut through inbox chaos and save you serious time. Most people don’t know it’s there, but once you start using it, there’s no going back. What the Swipe Gesture Does You’ve probably swiped on an email in the Gmail app before—maybe to archive it,…

Vivaldi browser might not be the first to come to mind when you’re looking for the best browsers on the market. But after switching from Arc and giving it a proper try, I’m officially hooked. Vivaldi is packed with features, making it one of the most underrated browsers available today. 1 Unmatched Customization One of…

If you’re using an iPhone, Apple Mail isn’t just the default—it’s the better choice. While Gmail piles on features, Apple Mail delivers where it counts. 4 Stronger Focus on Privacy Apple has made privacy a cornerstone of the iPhone experience, and that commitment shows up clearly in Apple Mail. From blocking invisible tracking pixels to…

The dark web is rammed full of illegal and dangerous content—but chances are you won’t encounter it unless you go looking. However, even if you’re not actively looking for trouble, there are still plenty of risks you need to avoid. 7 Accidental Exposure to Disturbing or Illegal Content insta_photos/valterdesign/Shutterstock Exploring the dark web with good…

We spend a lot of time agonizing over the perfect smart TV. However, when the box is finally opened and it’s time to set it up, the question of where to place it often becomes an afterthought. But there are more than a few places you might want to think twice about before plopping up…

You don’t need a fancy app or pro camera to make your photos stand out—just a setting buried in your phone’s menus. Most people never touch it, but it’s the quickest way I’ve found to go from bland to eye-catching in seconds. What Spot Color Actually Does and Why It Works Spot Color is a…

When shopping for a new TV, you face a wide range of screen technologies, making it confusing to pick the best option. But if you’re looking for the best value for your money, a 4K QLED TV is the smartest choice. QLED vs. OLED: What’s the Difference? The two mainstream display technologies in modern TVs…

After 17 years of service, Pocket, the beloved popular read-it-later service, will cease operations on July 8, 2025. As such, you must migrate your data to another read-it-later or bookmarking service. While there are plenty of apps to choose from, these are your five best Pocket alternatives. 5 Instapaper Instapaper is one of the best…

The FBI has issued a warning that BADBOX 2.0 malware is surging through residential consumer electronics, infecting millions of internet-connected devices. The malware, often preloaded onto inexpensive streaming hardware and IoT devices, can steal your data and provide backdoor access to the device—and is extremely difficult to remove. The BADBOX 2.0 Botnet Is Back BADBOX…

One of the primary reasons not to pirate software is that hackers often upload legitimate software with malicious malware attached. There is a similar malware circulating, targeting video games this time. Your Pirated Game Comes With a Side of Malware GamesBeat reports that security researchers have discovered a new infostealer malware called Myth Stealer. This…

While there are plenty of streaming devices, Google TVs are a leap ahead, mainly due to the Android-based OS running behind the scenes. However, the default setup doesn’t always deliver the best experience, and there are a few Google TV settings I always change for a better viewing experience. 6 Manage Content Recommendations During the…

Samsung is looking to clean up the list of inactive accounts under its belt. The company recently sent out a notice to customers with a Samsung account that hasn’t been used in 24 months, noting that any inactive accounts will be deleted come July 31,2025. 8 Weeks Left to Save Your Samsung Account There was…

If you’re like me, you’ve embraced eSIM technology for its convenience—no physical card, quick switching between carriers, easy setup, and perfect for heading on holiday. However, eSIMs aren’t entirely secure, and there are still a few ways they can be hacked. QR Code Scams PeopleImages/Velvector/Shutterstock When setting up your eSIM, you often scan a QR…

Android security updates are important, and you should install them as soon as they’re available. If you’re using a Samsung phone, even the government is asking you not to ignore this latest update. Google has consistently been hard at work improving Android with new security features every now and then. Samsung is doing its best…

Autofill is a lifesaver—until it’s not. Microsoft Authenticator will soon stop saving your passwords, meaning it’s time to switch to Edge or move on to better alternatives. Say Goodbye to Password Autofill in Microsoft Authenticator If you use Microsoft’s Authenticator to autofill passwords on your phone, you’ll soon see a warning to export your passwords…

Out of the box, your Android phone leaves way too many doors open for data collection. The good news is it only takes a few minutes to change that and start protecting your privacy without affecting how your phone works. 7 Hide Notifications on Lock Screen You probably don’t think twice when a notification pops…

Circle to Search is a nifty search tool that lets you quickly look up what’s on your phone’s screen without leaving the current app. While you may already be aware of and use Circle to Search for many things, let’s dive in to explore some clever use cases. 1 Fact-Check Claims Misinformation and disinformation are…

I hate typing “procrastination” or even “productivity” repeatedly. Then, I often misspell “accommodate.” If you’re tired of tedious typing or other typing misadventures, Text Blaze for Chrome can save you hours every week. Use this text expansion tool to mow down your everyday annoyances. What Is Text Blaze and How Does It Work in Chrome?…

You can find a smart TV in almost any price range imaginable. But after recently purchasing an inexpensive model, I’ve found some handy tweaks that make the picture look even better. 7 Select the Right Picture Mode Oluwademilade Afolabi / MakeUseOf Instead of having to worry about finding the exact best settings for each and…

The moment you unbox your smart TV and start setting it up, you’re hit with a barrage of menus, suggestions, pop-ups, and confusing default settings. While you’re probably keen to swat these menus away, it’s worth taking a moment to check what they’re asking—they could make a huge difference to your smart TV experience. 5…

More than 9,000 Asus routers were silently hacked, and if you own one, there’s a chance yours is on that list. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for things to go south to find out. Over 9,000 ASUS Routers Compromised in Ongoing Attack A cybersecurity firm, GreyNoise, claims to have identified an “ongoing exploitation campaign”…

That email you planned to skim later? Gemini probably already did it for you. Google’s AI is now dropping summary cards right at the top of your inbox. No clicks, no prompts. Just unsolicited AI-generated CliffsNotes for your emails, baked right into Gmail. AI Summaries Are Taking a Front Seat in Gmail Google Google has…

I’m willing to bet you shot a quick look over at your TV the moment you read the title. Yeah, you read right; your smart TV could have a camera, and here’s how you can figure out where it’s hiding. Smart TVs With Built-In Cameras Are Inherently Not Bad Hold on; just in case you…

Ever since Apple moved to its own silicon, support for Intel Macs has slowly been dropping. With the upcoming macOS 26, even more Intel-based Macs are being discontinued, so if you’re still using one, it’s time to consider upgrading. More Intel Macs Kick the Bucket AppleInsider reports that the latest macOS version, currently called macOS…

One of the best ChatGPT alternatives is getting even better. Anthropic, the developer behind Claude, has announced the arrival of Voice Mode to its mobile apps. This should give you even more ways to interact with Claude from your phone. You Can Finally Talk to Claude on Your Phone Voice Mode is still rolling out…