The NOKIA Blog

#1) They Look, Feel, and Smell Like A Million Dollars

The Bose QC35 II’s Are Available Via Amazon In A Range of Colors ($349)

Everybody has AirPods these days. AirPods or some other form of earbuds. And that’s fine; each to their own. Personally, I’ve always found AirPods uncomfortable and, more importantly, lacking when it comes to sound quality. I love music and spend a great deal of listening to it during my day-to-day. For this reason, I’ve never had a problem paying large sums of money for headphones. It’s also the #1 reason I don’t like AirPods…

AirPods are expensive. They’re plastic and they don’t sound that good. How’s that work? In my opinion, it doesn’t. Apple just gets away with it because it’s, well… Apple. The thing with these Bose headphones, though, is that, unlike Apple’s AirPods, they do look and feel expensive. Like a big German sedan, they just exude charm and a palpable air of superiority.

As soon as you unbox them, you know where that extra money went.

I’m something of a Bose fanboy, but the reason for my fanatism is based on experience: I’ve had three pairs of Bose headphones over the years, and each has been progressively better and more comfortable than the last. I had the OG QuietComfort headphones, the QC35s, and now the QC35 II headphones. And each iteration was better than the last, adding in improved sound, new features, and better active noise-cancellation. The latest brings both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant into the mix, so you can ask questions, change tracks, and get answers without ever having to touch your phone.

And the design and look of these headphones? I don’t think there is a better-looking pair of over-ear headphones on the market right now. Forget your Beats nonsense, Bose is where it’s truly at when it comes to high-end audio for the masses. Hell, you can even get them in different colors – rose gold, black, and white. Me? I like the black ones. But I can see why plenty of people gravitate towards the white; they look super-smart in that hue.

#2) They’re Exceptionally Comfortable

Looking totally badass is one thing. But what about comfort? Are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones nice to wear on your bonce for prolonged periods of time? In a word: YES – these headphones are, perhaps, the most comfortable over-ear bins I have ever tested and/or owned. And I’ve tested hundreds of sets of earphones over the years.

They don’t squeeze your ears too much, nor do they make the sides of your head too hot. You can wear them for hours/days at a time without discomfort. I wore mine for the entire duration of a flight to Hong Kong (13+ hours) and not only did they NOT run out of batteries, but they also didn’t annoy my head or ears once. Once they’re on and the noise-canceling kicks in, you just kind of forget about them. And this is exactly how headphones should be.

#3 The Sound Quality is Ridiculous (In A Good Way)

Bose has always been associated with good quality audio; that’s basically how the company made a name for itself over 15 years ago. Remember those weird-looking CD player things that used to be advertised inside the TV guide and cost a fortune? That was Bose. Since then, Bose has grown massively. It now makes all kinds of audio equipment, but it has never erred from its roots. Sound quality is at the forefront of all its products. And the Bose QC35 II’s are no different.

Whether you’re listening to jazz or Meshuggah, it matters not. All the frequencies are present and accounted for – from deep bass rumble to high-end timbre. The balance of the sound, to my ears, is near perfect. Even with electronic music, where elements can get lost in cheaper headphones, you get the full gamut of sounds and frequencies.

For me, this is the #1 reason to go with a pair of over-ear headphones instead of something like Apple’s AirPods. The sound is just so much more dynamic, full of life.

If, like me, you’re a fan of metal – bands like TOOL, Melvins, and Pelican – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better pair of cans for this style of music. If you’re into detailed, warm sounds that are full-bodied and totally immersive, thanks to Bose’s market-leading noise-canceling tech, then you won’t want to take the QC35 II’s off. Ever. As noted earlier: I did a full 13-hour flight in mine. It was amazing. Probably the best flight I’ve had in ages. And the reason? Noise-cancelling and epic sound quality. It’s a heady, engrossing combination, especially when experienced in the right setting (like a 13-hour flight to Hong Kong).

#4) They Have Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant Built-In…

To be honest, this isn’t a feature I was all that excited about. I have a Google Home in my kitchen, but I’m not the kind of guy that uses it all the time – just for music and timing my boiled eggs. However, inside the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones, I’ve kind of fallen in love with Google Assistant all over again. For the first time, it feels genuinely useful. For instance, when I’m running and I want to change the music, I can just ask the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones to do it for me. Before, I’d have to take my phone out of my pocket and fumble around with it.

Another example? If you’re walking the dog and you remember something, you can set a reminder – all without touching your phone. It’s also great for communication too, as you can simply ask Google Assistant to make a call and then take it on your Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones. Again, no need to touch your phone. These are just a few examples, but you get the idea. I’ve been using Google Home since it first came out, but it wasn’t until I got a pair of Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones that I ACTUALLY started to enjoy using it.

#5) Battery Life is Incredible

How’s battery life on the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones? Pretty darn good. You’re looking at 20+ hours. Easy. And while that might not seem like a lot, remember: most people only listen or use their headphones for short bursts of time. An hour here, 30 minutes there. You get the idea. In my experience, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones need a charge every several days, depending on usage. If you’re a light user, you could probably stretch them to a couple of weeks.

I use mine every day, whether running or in and around the home. I am a heavy user, and I always have the noise canceling on. I still get solid battery life; I think the most charges I’ve done in a week is three. But that was when I was using them A LOT. If you’re just using them moderately, you will easily get through an entire week without having to top them up.

Isn’t $300+ A LOT To Spend on Headphones Though?

The Bose QC35 II’s Are Available Via Amazon In A Range of Colors ($349)

Yes, it is – it is a silly sum of money. But think about it like this: how often to do you listen to music? How often do you wish you couldn’t hear that idiot on the tube, playing awful music from his phone? How many pairs of headphones have you bought over the years that have simply stopped working? Bose headphones solve all these problems. And make your life, well… better.

And like a fine German automobile, they’re engineered to last FOREVER.

The original Bose QC35’s were magnificent. I was given a pair to test way back in 2015. I wore them pretty much all day long, 24/7 during this period. I was devasted when I had to send them back, so I went out the next day and bought a pair – this is literally how good they were. I couldn’t live without them. Could I afford them? Not really. But I seriously couldn’t go back to my crappy in-ear earbuds after experiencing the QC35’s sheer epicness.

The sound quality and noise-canceling technology literally transport you to another reality. Plane rides are silent, meditative affairs with these things on. No external noise, no distractions. Just the sound of your music in the highest of definition, reverberating around your skull. And I’m not even talking about the new Bose QuietComfort 35 II here; I’m talking about the old ones!

The new Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones have been improved from the ground up. Bose has added full support for Amazon Alexa, improved the sound quality, and even added in support for AR applications, though I’ve yet to try any of these out. Beyond this, Bose now has an application (available for iPhone; coming to Android soon) where you can augment the amount of noise-canceling your headphones do, install updates, and access Bose AR-enhanced experiences.

And while competition is very stiff in the headphone space right now, I honestly cannot think of another pair of headphones in this price bracket that I would rather own. For styling, features, overall sound quality and performance, it is kind of impossible to fault the Bose QuietComfort 35 II – for me, these headphones are literally in a league of their own. If I lost mine today, I’d be reordering them tomorrow on Amazon. That should pretty much tell you everything you need to know about the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and whether they’re worth $349.

The post 5 Reasons The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Are Totally Worth $349… appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL – Main Differences…

The Google Pixel 2 XL and the Google Pixel 2 XL were Google’s attempt at shaking up the top end of the phone market. Designed to compete with the likes of Apple’s iPhone X and Samsung’s Galaxy S10, the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 3 XL are both fantastic phones. They have brilliant cameras, amazing software, and solid battery life.

The Google Pixel 3 XL – An Amazing Phone With A Stunning Camera & Beautiful 6.3in OLED Display (Click For Latest Deals) 

I used both phones – extensively – and, while the Pixel 3 XL is a superior phone, the Pixel 2 XL is still well worth a look in 2019 if you’re after value for money. Both handsets will run Android 10 and the next big update from Google (Android 11) and both have truly remarkable camera technology packed into them. But how are they different? Let’s review…

• Display – Google got a lot of flack for the Pixel 2 XL’s OLED display, so it went to massive lengths to ensure that the OLED panel used inside the Pixel 3 XL was better. It worked. The Pixel 3 XL’s OLED panel, whichever way you slice it, is a dramatically better panel than the one inside its predecessor. It’s also larger at 6.3in versus 6in on the Pixel 2 XL. Key updates include better viewing angles, improved brightness, more colors, and enhanced detail.
• Internal Specs – Internally, the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 3 XL are remarkably similar. Both have 4GB of RAM, come with either 64 or 128GB of storage, are IP67 water-resistant. Where things change is with respect to the CPU; the Pixel 3 XL uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845, while the Pixel 2 XL uses the Snapdragon 835. The 845 is a more modern, powerful, and efficient chipset, so if you want the best performance, the Pixel 3 XL has the edge here.
• Cameras – Google makes the best cameras in the business right now. The Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 3 XL use similar setups (8MP, f/1.8, autofocus, 75-degree lens) but the Pixel 3 XL manages to pull more performance from Google’s machine-learning Pixel Visual Core, resulting in better low-light performance, sharper overall images, and all-round better performance. It’s not night and day, but the Pixel 3 XL is the better of the two when it comes to imaging. Again, this is to be expected – Google is ALL about its camera technology.

Which To Get?

There are two, key factors at play here – price and performance. If you’d rather have value for money than a slight increase in performance and imaging capabilities, then the Pixel 2 XL is the one to go for. It is a solid phone that’s getting Android 10 and will handle and perform as good as any of its competitors inside the next couple of years. You can pick one up for less than $500 too, making it great for those that into SIM-only deals.

The Pixel 3 XL is more expensive (around $899) and is a better phone, but only just. It has updated internals and a slightly better camera. The Pixel 3 XL’s main difference, for me, is the display – it’s larger and much better than the Pixel 2 XL’s. The camera is also better too, as is the overall performance of the handset, thanks to Qualcomm’s newer Snapdragon 845 CPU.

The Google Pixel 2 XL – A Stunning Handset With A Brilliant Camera. If You Want Value For Money, This is The One To Go For (It Retails For $254!)

However, I don’t think three is a $400 difference at play here.

The Pixel 2 XL, in this respect, is impossible not to recommend. It’s cheaper, a great performer, and it will still be kicking ass well in 2021. If you want value for money, I’d go with the Pixel 2 XL. Need performance? Get the Pixel 3 XL or wait for the Google Pixel 4 range.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL: Specs

Here are the specs for the Google Pixel 2 XL:

• Display: Fullscreen 6in display, QHD+ pOLED at 538ppi
• Dimensions: 157.9mm x 76.7 mm x 7.9 mm
• Storage: 64GB or 128GB
• Memory: 4GB LPDDR4x RAM
• Processors: Qualcomm Snapdragon 835
• Front camera: 8 MP, 1080p video
• Rear camera: 12.2 MP, Optical + electronic image stabilization, 4K video
• Battery: 3520 mAh
• Colors: Just Black, Black & White

And here are the specs for the Google Pixel 3 XL:

• Display: Fullscreen 6.3in display, QHD+ flexible OLED at 523ppi
• Dimensions: 158mm x 76.7 mm x 7.9 mm
• Storage: 64GB or 128GB
• Memory: 4GB LPDDR4x RAM
• Processors: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845
• Front camera: Dual-lens 8 MP, 1080p video
• Rear camera: 12.2 MP, Optical + electronic image stabilization, 4K video
• Battery: 3430 mAh
• Colors: Just Black, Clearly White, Not Pink

As with their smaller siblings, from an internal spec perspective, the phones are pretty identical. Google didn’t boost the type or amount of RAM between generations. Both have 4GB LPDDR4x RAM. The storage options also stayed the same at 64GB or 128GB.

What did change is that Google upped the processor from a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 to a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845. What’s that mean for you? The Pixel 3 XL should see about a 15-30% speed boost depending on your usage. It’s an improvement, but nothing to write home about.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL: Display & Design

There is a very noticeable change in the design of Google’s latest XL, however. The Pixel 3 XL now features an iPhone X-like notch design. This means the screen Google can cram into the body, which is almost identical in size to the Pixel XL 2 is now 6.3in, versus the 6in Pixel 2 XL display. Annoyingly, however, is the fact that despite the display being larger in the Pixel 3 XL, it’s got a slightly less pixel density at 523ppi versus the Pixel 2 XL’s 538ppi.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL: Battery

The Pixel 3 XL also has an inferior battery. It’s smaller at 3430 mAh than the Pixel 2 XL’s 3520 mAh. But keep in mind, it’s not smaller by much and you should expect the same amount of battery life from both phones thanks to software and hardware optimizations in the Pixel 3 XL.

One place where the Pixel 3 XL clearly wins over the 2 XL is in wireless charging–the 3 XL features it, a first for a Google Pixel phone, whereas the 2 XL does not. In other words, if you want to be future-proof in the power department, you’ll want to upgrade to the Pixel 3 XL.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL: Cameras

For all intents and purposes, Google left the rear camera pretty much the same in the Pixel 3 XL as in the Pixel 2 XL. The hardware is almost exactly the same: a 12.2 MP lens with optical + electronic image stabilization, that shoots 4K video. The Pixel 3 XL does feature some software improvements in the camera, but that doesn’t change the hardware specs.

What has changed with the Pixel 3 XL is the front camera, which is now hidden in the notch. It now features two lenses instead of the one found in the Pixel 2 XL. While both the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 3 XL features an 8 MP front camera that shoots 1080p video, the Pixel 3 XL adds another lens in the form of an 8MP wide-angle lens with a 97º field-of-view, compared to the 75º field of view for the normal portrait camera. This means you can squeeze more people into your selfies.

Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL: Verdict & Cost

So should you upgrade to the Pixel 3 XL if you have a Pixel 2 XL already? My recommendation would be to only do it if you want the slightly bigger screen and wireless charging. Besides those features, there aren’t that many differences between the two models. And the Pixel 2 XL is massively cheaper…

The post Google Pixel 2 XL vs Google Pixel 3 XL – What’s The Difference? appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Please note: not all of these issues (or even most of them) affect the majority of iPhone X handsets in circulation. The iPhone X problems listed below are all the known issues –  past and present – that have been reported to date…

MORE:

• iPhone X Review: The First (And Cheapest) OLED iPhone
• iPhone 11 Reviews: The Best iPhone In Years…
• Best Value iPhone? It’s Not Apple’s Current Flagship

iPhone X Problems – Things To Watch Out For

1) iPhone X Problems – Hair Pulling

Multiple people have been complaining online – Reddit, for instance – that Apple’s iPhone X likes to pull hair a bit too much.

According to the myriad of reports, the iPhone X has a habit of trapping hair (facial and head-stuff) in between its bezels, and this can cause some painful issues when ending a call.

2) iPhone X Problems – The Display Can Become Unresponsive

The iPhone X is ALL ABOUT that OLED panel.

But the tech is new for Apple, and there is definitely a learning curve.

Multiple users have noted that the display will often become unresponsive to touch, usually when there is a call coming in, and the only way to fix it is to perform a reboot.

Apple’s looking into this issue right now, so expect a fix in the very near future.

3) iPhone X Problems – Incoming Call Delays

You get a call, you want to answer it. That’s what happens normally.

But with the iPhone X, users are reporting delays in the call registering on the display. The iPhone X rings, but nothing is displayed on the screen for 5-10 seconds. Odd. And annoying.

4) iPhone X Problems – FACE ID Hackability

Apple says FACE ID is super secure.

No one can hack it, but you and your beautiful face.

However, multiple users (and YouTube people) have proved this is not exactly the case. This goes double if you have a twin or an evil doppelgänger.

Apple has also warned parents not to let their young children use their iPhone X handsets.

Why? Because the kid’s face is still developing and could be confused for its parent’s by FACE ID. Hence why I prefer the ol’ fingerprint method.

5) iPhone X Problems – Battery Life

This one was noted by KYM’s Mike, AKA the only iPhone X user on our team.

According to Mike, the iPhone X battery life is OK, but nothing special. He was apparently expecting more in this regard from Apple’s. Furthermore, after using a Pixel 2 XL for a week, Mike was blown away by the difference.

The Pixel 2 XL lasts FOREVER were his exact words, I believe.

6) iPhone X Problems – Buzzing Speaker

Bus w**nkers aside, listening to stuff through your phone’s speakers is often necessary (unless you’re on a bus or public transport), and to do this properly you need decent speakers.

The iPhone X has two front-facing stereo speakers. And they tend to get the job done.

MORE: Best iPhone Case Brands: The #1 Options For Style & Protection

But there have been plenty of issues about buzzing from the speakers at certain volume settings, as well as distortion whenever volume exceeds 50%.

Apple’s iPhone 8 had a similar issue which was fixed with a software update, so let’s hope Apple can do the same thing for the iPhone X.

7) iPhone X Problems – Green Line of DEATH!

Some iPhone X users have reported a weird green line appearing on their display.

Apple hasn’t officially acknowledged this one just yet, but it’s likely an issue with the OLED panel itself – they can be pretty finicky in this regard on account of their composition.

8) iPhone X Problems – Some iPhone X Units Are Faster Than Others

Apple uses two suppliers for its modems: Qualcomm and Intel. And word on the street (and reports too) have shown that the Intel modems are faster, which means the Intel iPhone X units feel faster when you’re using them.

However, a contrary report found the exact opposite – that Qualcomm’s were actually faster.

Either way, people are finding performance discrepancies between certain iPhone X models. And the worse part? You have no say in which model you get when you buy one.

I call this Modem Roulette.

Things To Keep In Mind…

Apple’s iPhone X costs A LOT of money. It was the first iPhone to push the $1000-mark. In 2019, Apple launched the iPhone 11, a $699 entry-level iPhone alongside the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max – the more expensive OLED options. But this is good news for the iPhone X. Why? Simple: because it is now the cheapest way to get an OLED iPhone.

There are quite a few iPhone X issues listed above, but as I said in the introduction – these issues are sporadic and do not affect all iPhone X handsets. The iPhone X is still a great handset, even by today’s standards. Its camera isn’t quite as good as the iPhone 11/11 Pro’s but it is still very impressive, nonetheless.

The iPhone X does have a better display, however, compared to the iPhone 11. The iPhone X’s OLED panel is very impressive, in all contexts, and it beats the iPhone 11 in pretty much every quantifiable metric. And the iPhone X is now fairly cheap (for an iPhone) – you can get one via Amazon for $654 (down from $1100).

Chuck in the fact that Apple’s iOS platform will run on the iPhone X until the mid-2020s and beyond, and the iPhone X – if you want an OLED iPhone – starts to make a lot of sense. It’s around the same price as the newer iPhone 11, it has a better display, and the design is more or less identical to the iPhone 11 Pro.

What more could you want?

The post iPhone X Problems: The #1 Most Common Issues (#1’s Weird AF) appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Whenever a new iPhone launches, two things happen. First, it is proclaimed as The Best iPhone EVER by tech sites the world over and legions of Apple lovers.

Shortly afterward, the various minor (and sometimes major) problems associated with the hardware come out of the woodwork, gaining considerable column inches in both the specialist and mainstream press.

MORE: Find Out What The #1 Best iPhone is Right Now (For Value For Money)

If you’ve got yourself a beautiful iPhone XS – and you’ve spent a ton of money on it – it is very annoying when things go wrong. Apple makes great phones. But even the iPhone XS range has its problems. And right now, the three biggest problems affecting iPhone XS handsets are as follows.

iPhone XS Problems: The Most Common Issues Affecting XS/XS Max Models

#1) iPhone XS Charging Issues

First, we have perhaps the most irksome problem – iPhones that won’t charge when plugged into a Lightning cable. Some users are saying their phone will begin charging if woken, while others are reporting that the phone won’t charge with the cable at all.

Given the tender age of the iPhone XS – and the fact that this issue seems to be random when it comes to impacting different users – there’s a high chance it could be related to a software bug.

Even so, it’s hardly the kind of ‘feature’ you want when you’ve just spent £1000 on a new phone.

#2) Antenna + Wonky 4G & WiFi Connections

Another BIG issue affecting the iPhone XS is to do with reception. Specifically, owners are getting worse reception than they did with their previous model; some are even saying that their connection drops out entirely at points where previously it was rock-steady on an older device.

MORE: iPhone X Review: Apple’s First (And Now Cheapest) OLED iPhone… 

We’re even seeing people complain that WiFi connectivity is impacted, which might suggest a design fault. However, it’s perhaps too early to say if this is hardware or software-related.

#3) Beauty-Gate (STATUS: FIXED)

At the minor end of the scale, users are finding that the iPhone XS’ camera appears to have some kind of skin-smoothing effect applied that makes people look super-youthful.

This isn’t a new feature by any stretch of the imagination; many Chinese phones come with this functionality. However, iPhone XS users are complaining that this is happening without any kind of warning, and some are assuming it is related to the phone’s new Smart HDR feature.

It is believed that this function – which takes several exposures and overlays them for better contrast – is the reason why flesh looks so darn smooth. However, the video below appears to contest this and states that the smoothing happens no matter what you do. Eek.

When Will These iPhone XS Problems Be Fixed?

We’d imagine that all three of these issues will be dealt with sooner rather than later, as Apple is usually pretty good when it comes to tackling these kinds of problems.

But then again, there are some issues that simply cannot be fixed with an update – remember the iPhone 4 and AntennaGate?

Hopefully, this is simply a case of multiple problems stacking up all at once, rather than a serious flaw with the way the iPhone XS is made. As of right now, the only issue that has been totally fixed is the one that was affecting the iPhone XS and iPhone XR‘s selfie cameras; the over-smoothing issue was fixed in the iOS 12.1 update.

As for the antenna issues and wonky charging, well… we’re still waiting.

The post iPhone XS Problems: The #1 Biggest Reported Issues appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

How To Switch On Reddit Night Mode

1. Open Reddit And Click On Your Profile (Top Right Corner)
2. A Bunch of Settings Should Appear
3. See The Night Mode one? Click It.
4. Congrats, You’re Viewing Reddit In Dark Mode

Night Mode For Reddit – AKA The #1 Most Requested Feature

Twitter introduced Dark Mode way back in 2017 and Reddit fans have been clamoring for it ever since. Reddit eventually gave in and introduced Night Mode for Reddit in 2018, though implementing it wasn’t exactly easy…

“Before starting work on Night Mode, we had to fix the way that we handled colors in our application. We needed to update our system of colors to be more unified across the site, removing ad-hoc colors, providing access to the colors in every product surface, and setting up the website to support multiple color themes,” said Reddit via a blog post.

It added: “This effort touched more than 5000 lines of code and allowed us to remove a net 1500 lines of no longer necessary code! This will also make changing colors going forward a lot easier since we only have to update them in one place.”

Night Mode? Dark Mode? It’s All Good (For Your Eyes)

The main reason why more and more applications and mobile platforms are doing Dark Mode isn’t just because it looks cool. No, the main reason is to make browsing and consuming media less harsh on your eyes. Bright white pages can be fairly nasty, especially in low-light, so dark mode, now available on Android and iOS, makes viewing content and apps more comfortable.

And if you have a phone with an OLED display – like the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max – it will save you battery life. How? Simple: dark pixels don’t require any power on OLED displays, so when 70% of the display is black, you can save quite a bit of battery life throughout the day.

The only downside is that you need an OLED phone to harness the battery-saving benefits of dark mode.

The post How To Enable Dark Mode In Reddit (Simple Method) appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

How To Turn On Dark Mode In Android 10

Turning on Dark Mode inside Android 10 is super-easy; just follow these steps to enable Dark Mode:

• Go To Settings, Then Tap Display
• Scroll Down To The Bottom, Find Toggle For Dark Mode
• Switch It On & Embrace The DARKNESS…

That’s literally it; all it takes to enable Dark Mode in Android 10 is a few scrolls and a couple of clicks. Once Dark Mode is enabled, it will run across the entire Android 10 UX, as well as inside all Google Apps, all currently-supported applications like Reddit and Google Discover.

MORE: Our #1 Picks For The Best Android Phones Right Now

The ONLY Google app Dark Mode doesn’t work in by default is Gmail; here, you have to enable Dark Mode manually. To enable Dark Mode in the Gmail app, follow these steps:

• Open Gmail App, Then Tap Hamburger Menu (Top Left)
• Scroll To The Bottom of The List, Then Tap Settings
• Next, Click General Settings & Then Click Theme
• Click Dark Mode and/or Default (If You’ve Already Enabled Dark Mode)
• Gmail is Now Dark.

Android 10 Dark Mode Benefits

Why are Apple and Google pushing Dark Mode inside Android and iOS? For one, it looks awesome. But that’s not the real benefit. No, the real benefits of Dark Mode are myriad, ranging from the fact that it is better for your eyes to the fact that it uses less battery. The #1 Dark Mode benefits are listed below:

• Dark Mode is Better For Your Eyes – People use their phones A LOT. Up to 11 hours every day. And this puts your eyeballs through a veritable grinder of stress and torture. Dark Mode is designed to be kinder to your eyes, lessening strain and helping to reduce things like Digital Eye Fatigue, headaches, nausea, and dry eyes.
• Dark Mode Saves Battery Life – On OLED phones, because black pixels don’t require any power, Dark Mode introduces a ton of battery savings. This is why Google and Apple are pushing it hard; you will get more battery life without increasing the size of the battery. This effect only really comes into play on OLED phones, however, and is not as pronounced on LCD handsets.
• Dark Mode Boosts Melatonin – Looking at bright, white lights messes with your bodies natural circadian rhythm. When it gets dark outside, your brain produces melatonin. If you look at displays constantly when its dark, melatonin production drops and this makes it harder to sleep at night. Dark Mode helps with this be reducing your exposure to bright, white light, which in turn bumps up your natural melatonin production.
• Dark Mode Just Looks Better – Last but not least, Dark Mode just looks totally badass. On iOS and Android, Dark Mode looks stunning, as you can see below.

Why OLED Phones Benefit Most From Dark Mode

OLED panels, when showing black pixels, don’t use any power. This means that when your phone is Dark Mode, huge portions of the display and UX are using ZERO battery power. This is a specific benefit of Dark Mode that is exclusive to OLED phones like the Google Pixel 4, the OnePlus 7 Pro, and Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max. How much battery do you save with Dark Mode enabled on an OLED Phone? Quite a lot; perhaps as much as 30% in some cases. But you HAVE to have an OLED panel to reap these rewards. Dark Mode has NO impact on LCD phone’s battery lives. All pixels are powered on LCDs, white and black.

This is why it is important that more and more laptops start embracing OLED displays. Combined with Dark Mode, the benefits are enormous. Imagine getting around 30% more battery life from your laptop or tablet? It’d be awesome and, in most cases, justify the extra money it’d cost to buy (OLED products are more expensive).

As OLED becomes more common on ALL computing devices, expect to see big shifts in battery performance on devices like tablets, hybrid laptops, laptops, and even things like PC monitors.

The post How To Enable DARK MODE In Android 10 (The #1 Easiest Method) appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Best iPhone XR Case Brands

BRAND	RATING	BEST PLACE TO BUY
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Our #1 Picks For The Top iPhone XR Cases

As with most things in life, with iPhone XR cases – and phone cases in general – you tend to get what you pay for. iPhones aren’t cheap, so you’ll want to ensure that yours remains in good condition while you use it. And for this, you will need a case.

The main reason for using a case for your iPhone XR is simple: it’ll keep the handset protected from drops and scratches. And this will help you get more money for it should you decide to sell it one day. No one will pay top dollar for a scuffed and scratched iPhone. No matter how old it is.

This is why cases matter. And right now, the following iPhone XR case brands are the ones we use, trust, and love the most.

• MOUS (View Deals) – MOUS is perhaps the coolest and most well-known iPhone case maker right now. It makes a range of premium, brilliant-looking cases for the iPhone XR, as well as Apple’s other iPhones. If you want the best quality case possible, made from the best materials, with the best technology inside it, MOUS is where you go.
• Casetify (View Deals) – Casetify makes a range of awesome iPhone XR cases. They all look great and work brilliantly. Casetify is fast-becoming one of our preferred brands for iPhone cases. And the reason is simple: it makes high-quality, well-priced cases that not only look amazing but completely protect your iPhone for damage.
• Urban Armor (View Deals) – Looking for insane-levels of protection? Urban Armor is where you go. Designed for those that like their sports extreme, Urban Armor makes iPhone cases that could probably survive a meteor strike. On top of this, its cases look and feel great. If you’re into extreme sports, Urban Armor is the one to go for.
• Otterbox (View Deals) – Otterbox makes stylish iPhone cases of all shapes and sizes. Its specialty is the depth of options it gives to – Otterbox does everything from minimalist cases to rugged, water-proof ones and everything else in between. Premium, well-made, and lots of options. What more could you want?
• Incipio (View Deals) – Incipio has been around since 1999, and in that time it has sold millions of cases and won plenty of awards. It makes a ton of awesome iPhone cases, offering a huge selection of different styles and types. The big idea here is choice; whatever your budget or style preference, Incipio has you covered.

How To Design Your Own iPhone XR Case

What if you want something truly unique? Did you know that you can design your own iPhone XR case? Casetify now offers a service, whereby you can design your very own iPhone XR case from the ground-up. And best of all? It only costs $35 and includes free shipping!

You have loads of customization options too; Casetify lets you pick the color, add text, change the patterns – basically, whatever you fancy. The end result is totally bespoke and unlike anything else out there, so if you want something original-looking protecting your iPhone XR, then this is definitely worth a look. Check out the custom iPhone XR case builder here. 

It’s not just for iPhone XR though. Casetify’s phone case designer works on all iPhone models – from the iPhone 8 to the iPhone 11 Pro Max. So whatever iPhone model you’re using, Casetify will let you design a bespoke case for it, giving you market-leading protection and totally unique styling in one package.

Our Current #1 Favorite iPhone XR Case?

The Awesome MOUS iPhone XR Clear Case – Easily The #1 iPhone XR Case You Can Buy Right Now.

MOUS iPhone XR Clear Case ($54.99/Amazon)

• #1 For Protection & Keeps Design Visible
• Qi Charging
• UV-Resistant, Won’t Bleach In Sunlight
• Lightweight
• Best Place To Buy? Amazon – $54.99

Because we’re talking about the iPhone XR here, and because the iPhone XR’s whole deal is being available in a range of color options, I kind of have to go with a clear case option, so you can still see its colored back-panel and Apple logo.

And that case? Simple: the MOUS iPhone XR Clear Case. It’s a beautifully designed iPhone XR case that protects but doesn’t hide all of the XR’s core design elements – including its color. The use of advanced, premium materials ensures the finish is as clear as water. Up close, you won’t be able to tell it’s even there.

The MOUS iPhone XR Clear Case features AIROSHOCK, which dampens the shock from drops and falls. This will ensure that no cracks or dents happen, should you accidentally fumble your iPhone XR. On top of this, the case also features built-in Qi charging which is compatible with all Qi chargers and MOUS accessories.

You know how clear cases can sometimes go off-color and a bit, well… yellow? MOUS has developed a technology to stop this from happening. The built-in anti-yellowing UV protection layer means that even if you spend your days wandering the desert, your iPhone XR case will never discolor. This case is also available for the iPhone X/XS and iPhone XS Max, as well as the iPhone XR.

The post Best iPhone XR Cases: The #1 Definitive Guide (All Styles & Budgets) appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Here’s a list of some of the hidden features Apple’s packed into its AirPods that will make you think they’re the best earphones you’ve ever owned…

#1) The Easy Way To Pair With Your iPhone

Apple has several ways you can pair your new AirPods to your iPhone, but most people look over the easiest. Simply make sure they are charged and inside the charging case. Then place the charging case with your AirPods inside right near your iPhone. Open the case and the iPhone will automatically detect the nearby AirPods. It will ask you to tap a button on the iPhone screen to pair them. That’s it.

#2) Easily Check Out How Much Battery Life Is Left

Again, the tip here involves using the case right near your iPhone. Simply open the case and a battery status menu will appear on your iPhone telling you how much juice each AirPod has left.

#3) Pair AirPods With Android Phones

While the big wireless feature of the AirPods is Apple’s new Apple W1 chip, which is how it connects to iOS devices, the AirPods also have your standard Bluetooth technology. This means that they can connect to any device that supports Bluetooth audio technology—like Android phones and Windows PCs. To do this, open the charging case and then press and hold the button until the indicator light blinks white. Now on your Bluetooth device, go into Bluetooth settings and tell it to connect to the AirPods via Bluetooth.

#4) Charge Your AirPods From Other Devices

You normally charge the AirPods by placing them in the charging case and then plugging in a Lightning cable into it and a power source. However, you can also give juice to the case by docking it in other Lightning charging devices like iPhone docks and wireless speakers with built-in dock slots.

#5) Change The Name Of Your AirPods

You can name your AirPods anything you want. While this is kind of pointless if you only have one pair, it’s helpful if you have more than one pair—so you can distinguish between the two—or if you live in a household where everyone has their own pair. To change the name of your AirPods on the iPhone go to Settings > Bluetooth and then tap your AirPods from the list of devices. On the next screen type in any name you want.

#6) Disable Automatic Ear Detection

AirPods are smart enough to know when they are in your ears and turn on. However, you can disable this feature by going to Settings > Bluetooth and then tap your AirPods from the list of devices. Now set automatic ear detection to “Off”.

#7) Change The Double Tap Settings

The AirPods also have features that let you tap them to activate Siri, so you don’t need to take your iPhone out of your pocket to do so. But you can change the action a double-tap initiates. On the iPhone go to Settings > Bluetooth and then tap your AirPods from the list of devices. Now tap the double-tap setting and choose between a double-tap initiating Siri or Play/Pausing music. You can also disable the double-tap feature by setting it to “Off”.

#8) Assign The Mic To A Specific AirPod

Each AirPod has a built-in mic and the devices are smart enough to know which mic to enable if you only put on AirPod in your ear. However, if you want to disable this feature for some reason go to Settings > Bluetooth and then tap your AirPods from the list of devices to find the option to turn it off.

Are Apple AirPods Worth It? 

How Apple’s AirPods Took Over The Headphone Market (In Record Time) 

Perhaps Apple’s biggest hit product of 2016 was also one of its smallest. While 2016 saw lackluster updates to the Mac, iPhone, and iPad lines, which disappointed many, the company’s new AirPods earphones were praised by both consumers and the press, leading to a BOOM in the number of truly wireless earbuds on market. The best of which are listed inside our Best Apple AirPods Alternatives (For iPhone & Android) and in the table below:

And if you think Apple’s flagship is the best iPhone you can buy right now, think again! Apple makes quite a few iPhones now, and the best one isn’t always the flagship – check out our Best iPhone Guide for more information. You don’t need an iPhone to make AirPods work, but it is definitely advisable in order to take advantage of all the latest features packed inside them.

Google joined the fray as well with its Pixel Buds as well. The verdict? They suck, actually. They’re so bad we only gave them one star out of five. It’s a real shame, as the concept was very promising, but Google’s made some massive mistakes with its first set of wireless headphones and compared to Apple AirPods they pale in comparison.

You can read our full review here to find out why, but the long and the short of it is they’re extremely uncomfortable, have poor sound quality, and the star feature of real-time language translation is pretty naff. They also have crap battery life and cost a fortune for what they are.

So for now, Apple’s AirPods maintain its leadership position. And for the price, $179, they are a tad expensive – but, then again, hundreds of five-star Amazon reviews can’t all be wrong, can they!

What’s Next? Apple’s AirPods 3: Coming To An Ear Canal Near You in 2020? 

The true successor to Apple’s original AirPods will land sometime in 2020, according to Bloomberg. Unlike the updated 2019 model, the Apple AirPods 3 will feature a raft of new features, including noise-canceling technology and water resistance.

Beyond this, the following new features and abilities are expected to feature inside Apple’s AirPods 3 are as follows:

• Active Noise Cancellation
• Water-Resistance
• Advanced Fitness Tracking Abilities
• Big Improvements To Battery Life
• Improved Design & Fit

Leaked patents for future Apple product designs also highlighted some of the potential improvements we’ll see inside the AirPods 3. EKG sensors, impedance cardiography sensors, and more fitness-tracking technology are all present and accounted for, opening up a raft of potential possibilities for AirPods users’ in 2020 and beyond.

Check out the latest deals on Apple’s AirPods via Amazon, if you fancy treating yourself to a pair in the meantime.

The post Apple’s AirPods Have TONS of Cool Features You Might Now Know About appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

Apple’s newest flagship is the iPhone XS Max. The XS Max is the successor to 2017’s iPhone X and with it, Apple has discontinued the iPhone X. But is it worth it for current iPhone X owners to upgrade to the new iPhone XS Max?

It’s a tough call. Let’s take a closer look at both phones below.

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X Quick Comparison

Design

• iPhone XS Max – The iPhone XS Max has a 6.5in display, features Apple’s biometric authentication system called Face ID. It’s industrial design feature an all-glass back and a stainless steel frame.
• iPhone X – The iPhone X, from a design perspective, looks exactly like the iPhone XS Max, but the Max is just larger. The new iPhone XS Max also has an additional gold color option.

Winner? iPhone Xs Max – Both phones look identical, but the Max just has more…everything.

Displays

• iPhone XS Max – The iPhone XS Max features an edge-to-edge OLED display that is 6.5in and has a 2436×1125-pixel resolution at 458ppi. Without a doubt, the iPhone XS Max’s display wins the day here.
• iPhone X – The iPhone X features a 5.8-inch OLED display with a 2436×1125-pixel resolution at 458ppi.

Winner? iPhone XS Max – Its Display Is Bigger And More Beautiful.

CPU/Processor

• iPhone XS Max – the XS Max features the A12 Bionic chipset. This A12 is a 7nm chip with 6 cores, which is absolutely INSANE. The CPU is almost twice as fast as the A11.
• iPhone X –  the iPhone X features Apple’s A11 Bionic chipset. The A11 isn’t any slouch, but it pales in comparison when it comes to the A12.

Winner? iPhone XS – It’s 50% More Powerful Than iPhone X.

Camera

• iPhone XS Max – The iPhone XS features a 7MP front-facing camera. But the killer benefit is in the rear camera. The iPhone XS Max features a dual-lens 12MP rear camera complete with a wide-angle and telephoto lens and dual optical zoom. It also supports advanced photo features like portrait photography. The iPhone XS Max also features depth control AFTER you take a photo.
• iPhone X – The iPhone X features the exact same camera setup too: a 7MP front-facing camera as well as a dual-lens 12MP rear camera complete with a wide-angle and telephoto lens and dual optical zoom. It also supports advanced photo features like portrait photography.

Winner? iPhone XS Max – But barely, and just because of that after-pic depth control.

Storage Options

• iPhone XS Max – 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB
• iPhone X – 64GB & 256GB

Battery Life

• iPhone XS Max – The iPhone XR’s battery will get you about 13.5 hours of battery life with mixed usage. It also features wireless charging.
• iPhone X – The iPhone X’s battery gets you about 12 hours of battery life with mixed usage. It also features wireless charging.

Winner? iPhone XS Max – It Has Better Battery Life Than iPhone X.

Price

• iPhone XS Max – The 6.5in iPhone XS Max will cost £1099 (64GB), £1249 (256GB), or £1449 (512GB).
• iPhone X – No longer sold by Apple.

Verdict?

So, if you are already an iPhone X owner, should you upgrade? Honestly, probably not. The improvements to the XS Max are there–a better processor and slightly better camera tech–but they don’t scream “must-have” upgrade. That is, of course, unless you want that MUCH larger display.

Another option worth considering, however, is picking up a newer refurbished iPhone – something like the iPhone X or iPhone XR, which you can get for 40% less than retail via Gazelle, our #1 pick for refurbished iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and iMacs.

Full iPhone XS Max and iPhone X Comparison

The first update to Apple’s iPhone X has been announced. It’s called the iPhone XS (no surprise there) and comes in two sizes this year (the larger of which is dubbed the XS Max). When the iPhone X came out last year it was a radical redesign of the iPhone–jettisoning the Home button in favor of Face ID.

This week Apple introduced its successor–but how does it stand up? In this article, we’re going to take a look at how the new 5.8in model compares to the original. Let’s dive in.

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X: Specs

Here are the specs for the iPhone XS Max:

• Display: 6.5-inch OLED display with a 2688×1242-pixel resolution at 458ppi
• Dimensions: 157.5mm x 77.4mm x 7.7mm
• Weight: 208 grams
• Storage: 64, 256, or 512GB
• Processors: A12 Bionic
• Front camera: 7 MP photos and 1080p HD video.
• Rear camera: Dual-lens 12MP wide-angle and telephoto cameras, Dual optical image stabilisation, Optical zoom, 4K video
• Battery: Up to 13.5 hours battery life mixed usage.
• Other: Face ID, NFC, Wireless charging, 3D Touch, IP68 waterproof
• Color options: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold

And here are the specs for the iPhone X:

• Display: 5.8-inch display with a 2436×1125-pixel resolution at 458ppi
• Dimensions: 143.6mm x 70.9mm x 7.7mm
• Weight: 174 grams
• Storage: 64 or 256GB
• Processors: A11 Bionic chip
• Front camera: 7 MP photos and 1080p HD video
• Rear camera: Dual-lens 12MP wide-angle and telephoto cameras, Dual optical image stabilisation, Optical zoom
• Battery: 2716 mAh. Up to 12 hours battery life mixed usage
• Other: Face ID, NFC, Wireless charging, 3D Touch, IP67 waterproof
• Color options: Silver and Space Gray

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X: Display & Design

There’s no denying it–these phones are VERY similar from a design perspective. Almost identical in fact. The biggest design change is that the iPhone XS Max now comes in a third color–Gold. And of course, it has that MUCH larger display.

However, the iPhone XS Max also has improved waterproofing. It’s now certified as IP68, meaning it can withstand submersion up to two meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone X was IP67 certified, with submersion protection limited to one meter.

And as you can tell from the specs, the displays of each iPhone are identical. However, the iPhone XS Max, Apple boasts, is the company’s “most durable display” yet. They haven’t elaborated on that, but it makes it sound that the iPhone XS Max is more drop-proof than the X was.

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X: Camera

Not that much has changed with the camera systems either. The front TrueDepth camera system is still 7MP, however, Apple says it’s improved the facial recognition sensors, which means Face ID is a bit faster on the XS Max than on the X.

When we get to the rear camera, the hardware between the X and the XS Max is almost identical too. Both series features a dual-lens 12MP system with wide-angle and telephoto cameras, dual optical image stabilisation, 2x optical zoom, and 4K video recording. The only minor difference is the camera sensor features deeper, larger pixels. That means you’ll get even better low‑light photos.

Apple has added a number of software camera improvements to the XS Max too, however. The XS Max features Smart HDR pictures, which brings more highlight and shadow detail to your photos. The XS Max also features a new depth control function that allows you to change the background focus of a picture AFTER you’ve taken it. That’s something that is INSANELY cool–and something the iPhone X didn’t offer.

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X: CPU, Battery, and Storage

As far s the CPU is concerned, the new XS Max has a better processor than the iPhone X. The XS Max features the A12 Bionic chipset–and upgrade over the X’s A11 Bionic. The new A12 is a 7nm chip with 6 cores. The CPU is 15% faster and 40% more energy efficient than the previous A11. The GPU now has 4 cores and is 50% faster. Finally, the Neural engine now has 8 cores for machine learning and is almost 10x faster. Apps launch 30% faster on the XS Max and Machine Learning runs nine times faster on 1/10th the energy. In other words, the A12 Bionic absolutely flies.

Battery life is also a bit improved on the XS Max. You’ll now get about 90 minutes more battery life on the XS Max than on the X. And as for storage, the XS Max series offers more: 64, 256, or 512GB compared to the X series 64, or 256GB options.

iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X: Cost & Verdict

So, if you are already an iPhone X owner, should you upgrade? Honestly, probably not. The improvements to the XS Max are there–a better processor and slightly better camera tech–but they don’t scream “must-have” upgrade. Again, unless you want that larger display Make no mistake about it: the iPhone XS Max is an AMAZING phone and a terrific upgrade–for anyone who has an iPhone older than the X. But if you got the X last year, rest assured there’s no need to rush out and buy the new one. The changes aren’t that pronounced beyond the display.

The iPhone XS Max will cost £1099 (64GB), £1249 (256GB), or £1449 (512GB). The iPhone X is no longer sold by Apple.

The post iPhone XS Max vs iPhone X – How To They Compare? appeared first on Know Your Mobile.

The new iPhone XS and iPhone XR are hands down the best iPhones Apple have ever made. Much of that is due to the brilliant display and radical edge-to-edge redesign of the device.

That’s not to mention the incredibly accurate Face ID, which completely replaced the fingerprint reader and physical home button. But because the iPhone XR & XS is such a departure from iPhones of old, it also means that there are a ton of new tricks to learn–many of which aren’t completely obvious just from holding the device in your hands.

Apple has completely changed the way you interact with the handset. From gestures to getting around menus, pretty much everything to do with the handset has changed. And it’s worth learning too. Do you know what the best iPhone is right now? Funnily enough, it’s not actually the flagship model – not when you’re talking about value for money. Check out our Guide To The Best iPhone for more details.

How To Use The iPhone XR & XS – New Controls, New Gestures & New Features

ALL iPhones will look and function like the iPhone XR & XS in the coming years, so you might as well get used to it now, as this design isn’t going anywhere.

Here’s twenty of the top secret iPhone XR & XS tips and tricks I’ve discovered.

1) How To Force Restart Your iPhone XR & XS

The lack of a home button means that many of past iPhone’s functions have been remapped to other hardware or software controls on the iPhone XR & XS.

The ability to force restart the iPhone XR & XS is among those.

To force restart your iPhone XR & XS now you need to press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, and then press and hold the Side button.

2) How To Trigger SOS on iPhone XR & XS

SOS is a mode on the iPhone that allows you to quickly call emergency services.

To trigger SOS hold the Side button and either Volume button for six seconds.

Alternately you can press the Side button five times in succession to trigger SOS.

3) Control What Apps Face ID Unlocks

Face ID replaces the way you unlock your iPhone.

Now you simply look at the device instead of placing your finger on the now-gone Home button.

But Face ID can also be used to make purchases in the App Store and in apps, authenticate Apple Pay payments, and autofill forms in Safari.

However, you don’t need to allow Face ID to do all of these things if you don’t want.

You can toggle each Face ID feature on or off by going to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.

4) Always Show Notification Preview Inside iOS 12

A cool feature of the iPhone XR & XS is that notifications are automatically hidden and will only display their content if you are looking at the device.

This ability means other people who have access to your phone can’t see the details of the notifications you receive on your lock screen.

But you can disable this if you want to.

To do so, got to Settings > Notifications > Show Previews and choose Always, When Unlocked, or Never.

5) Customize iOS 12’s Control Center

Control Center got a major overhaul in iOS 11.

Actions are now much easier to implement and have a better layout.

But you can also further customize Control Center on your iPhone XR & XS if you wish. To do so got to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls.

Here you can add, subtract or rearrange controls in Control Center.

For example, if you don’t use the Flashlight a lot, you can remove its button from Control Center and replace it with an app you do use a lot–Notes, for example.

6) How To Use iPhone XR & XS One-Handed Keyboard

Both the iPhone XR & XS has a seriously large screen, which sometimes makes one-handed use a bit hard if your hands are on the smaller size.

To combat this, Apple has built-in a one-handed software keyboard.

To access it, simply tap the emoji keyboard icon in any app that uses the keyboard and then select the left or right-handed keyboard icon to shift all the keyboard keys to one side.

7) Bring Back The Home Button on iPhone XR & XS

Okay, you can’t obviously really bring back the physical Home button, but there is a way you can kinda of replicate it using software in iOS.

To do this go to General > Accessibility > Assistive Touch and toggle it on.

You’ll now see a virtual Home button on your screen that you can customize to activate shortcuts.

8) How To Force Quit Apps on iPhone XR & XS

With no Home button it might seem like you can’t force quit apps anymore–but you can.

To do so on the iPhone XR & XS you need to bring up the app switcher. Do this by swiping up and holding on the home bar from the bottom of any screen.

Once the apps appear, swipe to the one you want to force quit and then simply swipe up on the app to force quit it.

9) How To Activate Apple Pay on iPhone XR & XS

With the jettisoning of the Home button, many people are wondering how to bring up Apple Pay on the iPhone XR & XS. Apple has made this easy. Simply double-press the home button and the iPhone XR & XS will bring up your default card and authenticate you using Face ID. Now just hold your iPhone XR or XS by the NFC reader to pay.

10) How To Open The App Switcher on iPhone XR & XS

How about bringing up the app switcher now that there’s no Home button? Again, it’s simple: swipe up on the Home bar at the bottom of any screen, but hold it in place once you get about an inch up the screen.

You’ll see other apps populate your iPhone’s display as if they were cards in the deck. This is the App Switcher and from here you can quickly jump to another app or force quit one.

11) How To Take A Screenshot With iPhone XR & XS

Many people find it confusing how you take a screenshot on the iPhone XR & XS. It actually very simple. Just hold down the Side button and the Volume Up button at the same time. You’ll hear the familiar camera shutter sound and then see a thumbnail of the screenshot you just took in the corner of the display.

12) Quickly Edit A Screenshot

Once you’ve followed the steps above, the screenshot will be saved to your Photos app (once the on-screen thumbnail disappears. But before that happens, you can tap the thumbnail to bring up screenshot edit mode.

In this mode, you’ll find tools that allow you to mark up the screenshot or crop it–and additional tools for sharing it. It’s a great feature that makes screenshots all the more useful.

13) How To Force Reset Your iPhone XR & XS

If your iPhone XR or XS ever freezes, you can force reset it, which will force it to shut down and restart. To do this is easy: simply follow the next steps in order. First, press and release the volume up button. Second, press and release the volume down button. Third, hold down the Side button.

This will cause the iPhone XR & XS to restart. You’ll see the Apple logo show up again after it’s cycled down after pressing the button sequence above and restarted.

14) How To Rearrange Apps on iPhone XR & XS

We all know that you press and hold an app icon until it wiggles to enter your iPhone into app delete or rearrangement mode. But after you’ve made your changes how do you exit this wiggling mode now that the Home button is gone?

It’s hard to miss the first time, but Apple has added a small “Done” button in the right-hand notch of the screen in wiggle mode. Tap it and all the app icons will stabilize and you’ll exit the app arrangement mode.

Alternately, simply swipe up on the Home bar at the bottom of the screen and you’ll exit wiggle mode. This can be done instead of tapping the Home button.

15) How To Slide Between Recent Apps on iPhone XR & XS

I LOVE this feature. While you can use the app switcher (see above) to toggle through your apps, there’s a much quicker way to move from one app to the next. Simply swipe left or right on the Home bar at the bottom of the iPhone’s screen and you’ll progress forwards or backward in the line of apps you’ve recently opened.

16) Control Your Apple TV With iPhone XR & XS

The Control Center on the iPhone XR & XS has a cool trick: it allows you to control your Apple TV if you have one. As long as your iPhone XR or XS and Apple TV are on the same wireless network, it’ll work. Simply go into Control Center and then look for the Apple TV button that appears. Tap it and begin controlling your Apple TV.

17) How To Quiet iPhone XR & XS Alarms With Your Face

A really cool feature of the iPhone XR & XS is Face ID. It allows you to unlock your phone just by looking at it. Face ID also has some other cool features–like this one. When your iPhone XR or XS alarm goes off, you can quiet it simply by picking up your iPhone and looking at it. This tells your iPhone you know about the arm and it will quiet it.

18) How To Send Animojis As Stickers on iPhone XR & XS

Animojis are the animated faces the iPhone XR & XS allows you to create thanks to the Face ID camera. They are really fun ways to send audio text messages. But you can also use Animojis as stickers in messages if you don’t want to send animated ones.

To do this, open up the Animojis app inside of messages and then make the face you want to. Instead of pressing the record button to record a short Animoji clip, simply tap the Animoji face itself and it will be inserted into the text box as a sticker in the text box.

19) How To Enable USB Restricted Mode on iPhone XR & XS

Apple just built a powerful new security feature into the iPhone XR & XS with the latest version of iOS. This introduced what is known as USB Restricted Mode to the iPhone XR & XS. In recent months companies have been making boxes that can be plugged into an iPhone’s USB port and crack an iPhone’s passcode.

To protect against this, Apple has introduced USB Restricted Mode. USB Restricted Mode disabled data sharing between an iPhone and a USB device if the iPhone has not been unlocked for more than an hour. This effectively renders the iPhone cracking boxes useless as they can take hours or days to crack a locked iPhone.

By default USB Restricted Mode is enabled in iOS. But just in case you want to disable it–or make sure it hasn’t been disabled–go to the Settings app and tap Face ID & Passcode. Enter your passcode and then swipe down until you see a section titled “Allow Access When Locked”.

The last toggle in this section will be a field that says “USB Accessories”. The toggle next to this should be switched to OFF (white). This means USB Restricted Mode is enabled and devices can’t grab or share data from/to your iPhone if the iPhone has not been unlocked for more than an hour.

20) How To Slow Down The Double Click Needed For Apple Pay

Now that the iPhone XR & XS jettisoned the Touch ID sensor, you confirm your Apple Pay payments by using Face ID and double pressing the Side button. By default you need to double press the Side button fairly quickly–but you can actually slow this down.

To do so go to Settings > General > Accessibility. Now scroll down to Side Button. On the Side Button screen, you can select between default, slow, or slowest. Choose the speed that works best for you.

21) Tap To Wake

With the Home button gone, there’s one less way the iPhone XR and XS has to wake itself up. Yes, you can still press the side button–but many people think that’s it. Not so, however. Apple has built a tap to wake function into the iPhone XR’s and XS’s display. Simply tap it once to wake it up.

22) Reachability Is Still There

When Apple introduced the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus they added a feature called Reachability that lets the user drop the screen down on the iPhone’s display so they could more easily tap buttons at the top that may be just out of reach of their thumbs. Many had thought this feature was nixed on the iPhone XR and XS–but that’s not so. First, you do need to enable it, though. Go to Settings > General > Accessibility and under the Interaction section toggle on Reachability. Then from inside any app just swipe down on the new home bar (about half an inch above it) and your entire screen will slide down so you can reach the top elements.

23) Dim Your Screen When Not Looking At It

Since the iPhone XR and XS knows when you are looking at your display or not, it has the ability to instantly dim your screen the second you look away from it and it also automatically returns the brightness to your standard settings once you look at your screen again. This is great for saving battery life.

24) Quickly Disable Face ID

Depending on where you live, the police may be able to legally insist you unlock your smartphone on the spot via its facial recognition features. For some reason, facial biometrics aren’t protected in the way fingerprints and passcodes are in some localities. That’s why Apple has built in a feature that lets you quickly disable Face ID in a pinch without going into your settings. Just press the side button five times and Face ID will be disabled and you’ll need to enter your passcode instead to gain access to your phone.

25) Use Two Pane Landscape View

This tip only Applies to the iPhone XS Max, but is cool nonetheless. If you hold your XS Mac horizontally while using specific apps you’ll see many of the built-in apps will change to a two-pane mode, including Mail and Notes. This mode is the one you see on an iPad where, for example, you can see a list of all your notes in the Notes app while actively reading or editing a single note.

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