It isn’t enough to have great new devices, apps, and games — you also have to know how to use them. Here at The Verge, we offer step-by-step how-tos for experienced and new users who are working with online, macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, iOS, and Android apps, services, phones, laptops, and other tools. From simple instructions on how to install and use new devices, to little-known strategies on how to take advantage of hidden features and the best methods for adding power or storage, we’ve got your technological back.
Apple has now made it possible for anyone to play with the developer beta of iOS 17. We tell you how to register for and install the latest version of the mobile OS beta. But at this point, it’s probably a good idea not to install it on your main phone — just in case.
One connected lock does not a smart home make. If you want to get serious with home automation, start with a smart home platform.
My phone just ran out of storage, which is perfect timing as I’ll be flying out on vacation tomorrow. Thankfully, I was able to quickly free up storage by backing up my photos to iCloud and removing them from my phone. You might want to learn how to do this, too, if you’re planning on traveling this summer!
If you’re wondering why your iPhone is running out of power before the end of the day, the answer may not be that your battery is ailing. We’ve got a bunch of suggestions to help you find out whether one or more of your apps is responsible, and how to handle the problem.
It’s very easy to move your data from an older (or lost, or broken) iPhone — as long as you’ve arranged for it to be backed up, either to iCloud or, if you’d prefer, to a computer. Here’s how you can make sure that your info is safe.
According to the CDC, repeated exposure to loud sounds — say, listening to your favorite music at ear-splitting levels via your earphones — can permanently damage your hearing. Luckily, some phones — specifically, iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones — have apps that can set a decibel limit and, as a result, prevent harm. Here’s how to find them.
What you’ll get is likely to be a blank screen. Streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and HBO Max are understandably nervous about letting people make copies of their copyrighted stuff — but just as understandably, fans want photos and clips of their favorite scenes. Here’s how to get that screenshot you’re trying for.
You can give your device your own personal touch using a third-party launcher, which can give you control over icons, colors, menus, and just about every screen handled by the Android operating system. Here’s our advice on how to install a launcher, along with some suggestions as to which to try.
It’s not really that difficult to personalize your right-click Windows menus. We offer some examples of what you can do, including getting rid of that “Show more options” selection and adding shortcuts for your favorite apps. Just remember to back up your Registry Editor first.
iOS 16 added the ability to create a Shared Photo Library via iCloud with up to five other people. Meaning, the next time you’re at a family reunion, you can automatically share any photos you take with Mom and Dad without having to do anything. Here’s how.
Authenticator, which enables you to protect your apps with 2FA, now syncs with your Google account so that it’s a lot easier to switch phones. But what if you don’t want it to? And what if you change your mind later? Here’s how to enable or disable the new sync feature, and how to move your Authenticator codes to a new phone if you chose not to sync.
