9 Alternative Apps You Need to Quit Facebook for Good

Facebook’s reputation is in the gutter right now. Privacy scandals, unchecked snooping, and the mishandling of user data all mean that trust in the company has hit a new low.

The fact that Facebook owns other major services such as Instagram and WhatsApp only heightens concerns over its activities. So what do you need to do to quit Facebook completely?

In this article, we list the apps you’ll need if you want to quit the Facebook ecosystem entirely. They’re the best alternatives to Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

Reasons to Quit the Facebook Ecosystem

Many people are choosing to quit Facebook’s ecosystem completely. But why is this the case?

Firstly, Facebook’s acquisition of popular services means that these services may no longer live up to their original philosophies. For example, the founders of WhatsApp had promised users that the service would never serve ads, but plans are underway to do just that.

Secondly, Facebook’s successful advertising business gives it more incentive to harvest user data across a variety of services. This just makes the fallout even worse when data leaks occur. And Facebook’s security and privacy issues are a nightmare for some consumers.

When it comes to the security of that data, Facebook’s apparent intentions to link these apps through a central platform is another major cause for concern. Leaks from this integrated system could cause even more fallout for users.

Alternatives to Facebook

Facebook will continue to be a social media behemoth for the foreseeable future. No other platform measures up to its userbase. But there are some Facebook alternatives out there you can try…

MeWe: Privacy-Centric Social Network

If you’re specifically looking for a social network that values user privacy, MeWe may be for you. The social network vows to never serve ads, track users, or sell their data.

But how exactly would this free service make money then? MeWe offers a variety of small subscription plans for certain features, such as extra cloud storage and a secret chat app. It also has a business service called MeWePro that provides an alternative revenue source.

Download: MeWe for Android | iOS (Free)

Diaspora

Diaspora is another Facebook alternative that provides a decentralized platform. The creators of Diaspora identify three core values of the site: decentralization, freedom, and privacy.

Rather than one organization running the entire platform, Diaspora is spread across independent servers (which Diaspora calls “pods”). In fact, if you have the right knowledge, you can even start up your own server.

Users choose which pods they want to join and you don’t have to sign up with your real name. Most pods focus on certain topics, such as photography, nature, technology, or other interests.

Sign Up: Diaspora for Web (Free)

Vero

Vero addresses some of the biggest annoyances when using Facebook. Namyl, algorithm-influenced feeds, data mining, and advertisements.

The app’s creators vow that users won’t have to deal with these using Vero. Posts are shown chronologically for the audiences that you select. Meanwhile, there are no ads on the social network.

Vero also has messaging features, a sleek interface, and a variety of features that make it an interesting competitor for Facebook. In terms of monetization, the company plans to eventually introduce a subscription. However, the app continues to let users register for a free lifetime subscription.

Download: Vero for Android | iOS (Free)

Alternatives to WhatsApp

WhatsApp outpaces even Facebook in terms of popularity. But plans to monetize the app through ads and integrate it into the Facebook ecosystem further have many wondering about possible WhatsApp alternatives to use instead.

Consider using these messaging apps instead…

Telegram

Telegram is one of the most popular alternatives to WhatsApp. This messaging app prioritizes encryption, security, and seamless connectivity. The company’s promise to keep the app free forever, with no ads or subscription fees, is another appealing selling point.

Features such as syncing one cloud account across platforms and its availability on desktop mean that you won’t be sacrificing flexibility if you switch from WhatsApp to Telegram.

Download: Telegram for Android | iOS (Free)

Signal

Signal, an open-source messaging app owned by a non-profit foundation, prioritizes user privacy. However, it should be noted that a now-patched bug was discovered in September 2019. The bug left phone calls vulnerable to interception from hackers.

The app has attracted support from privacy groups and advocates thanks to its encryption protocols, support for disappearing messages, and the ability to directly download the APK instead of using an app store.

One thing that makes Signal significantly different to other messaging apps is that you can choose to make it your default SMS app.

Other great features include:

• The ability to add a lock screen to the app
• Advanced controls for notifications
• An incognito keyboard option

Download: Signal Private Messenger for Android | iOS (Free)

Wire

Wire is a messaging and collaboration platform created with the involvement of Skype co-founder Janus Friis. It features many of the core features we’ve come to expect from messaging apps, such as group chats and video calling, making it a solid WhatsApp alternative.

Wire provides a free, personal plan for private messaging, as well as paid professional plans for enterprises and businesses that want to use it for collaboration among employees.

Regardless of your plan, however, the service includes end-to-end encryption and a secure platform.

Download: Wire for Android | iOS | Desktop (Free, subscription available)

Alternatives to Instagram

While not created by Facebook, Instagram was acquired by the company in 2012. Since then it has played an increasingly prominent role in Facebook’s advertising platform.

If you want to use a photo-sharing platform that has access to a like-minded community, without being part of the Facebook brand, here are some Instagram alternatives to try…

VSCO

VSCO is a popular mobile photo-editing app that lets you share your creations with the VSCO community. Rather than relying on advertising, the developers monetize the app with an optional subscription plan. Free users still have access to a certain number of filters, editing tools, and community sharing.

Just like Instagram, you can follow other VSCO users and browse hashtags to discover pictures. The VSCO devs also curate photos from users that are then featured on the app’s Discover page.

Download: VSCO for Android | iOS (Free, subscription available)

EyeEm

EyeEm is a photo-sharing platform that caters mainly towards professional photographers. The platform lets you sell your images and receive feedback from other photographers.

Users maintain copyright over their images. However, if your images are accepted on the EyeEm market, the platform sells licenses at a predetermined price with a 50-50 earnings split between you and EyeEm.

However, sharing images on the marketplace is not required on the app. Photographers who do choose to sell can still sell their images elsewhere too.

Download: EyeEm for Android | iOS (Free)

500px

500px is another Instagram alternative aimed towards photographers who want to share their work. However, it also features the community aspects of Instagram, allowing you to follow other users and topics. When you log into the app, you have a home feed just like Instagram.

You can also complete various quests or challenges within the app. Much like EyeEm, you can choose whether you want to submit certain images to the platform’s licensing marketplace. Contributors get paid up to 60 percent of the license price.

Download: 500px for Android | iOS (Free, subscription available)

More Reasons to Use Alternatives to Facebook’s Apps

If you’re still not convinced that you need to quit the Facebook ecosystem, the company’s privacy issues could be the deciding factor. But is the company’s track record really that bad?

There are actually a variety of tools that keep track of Facebook’s privacy violations and understand the alternative options out there. Check out our guide listing the tools you need to understand the risks of using Facebook to find out more.

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How to Get Started Playing Games With Apple Arcade

Gaming on the App Store is often disappointing. While there are some hidden gems, they’re hard to find among the overgrowth of games that are free to download but full of in-app purchases, banner ads, harsh wait times, and other nonsense.

If you’ve played any of those, you know that the large majority have lost something every game should be—fun.

But Apple Arcade wants to change that. The gaming subscription service allows you to access a growing roster games on your iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac for one monthly charge.

Let’s take a closer look at Apple Arcade and everything you need to get started.

Subscribing to Apple Arcade

The most important step before you install Apple Arcade is making sure you have the latest software installed on all your devices. That means at least iOS 13 for iPhone, iPadOS 13 for iPad, tvOS 13 on Apple TV, and macOS Catalina on a Mac.

On any of those four devices, head to the App Store app and select the Arcade tab.

You’ll then see a free 30-day trial offer. Sign in with your Apple ID and password to accept. After the trial period, the arcade subscription will automatically renew for $4.99 per month.

If you’re using the Family Sharing option, up to six family members can also access Apple Arcade without needing to purchase their own subscription.

To cancel the Apple Arcade subscription at any time, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions on your iPhone or iPad. Select Apple Arcade, then scroll down to the bottom and choose Cancel Subscription.

Downloading Games on Apple Arcade

Once you’re ready to start playing, just head back to the Arcade tab on the App Store.

The design should look familiar to anyone who has browsed the App Store before. Apple features many games in different categories—like Action, Adventure, and Family—to make it easier to find something you’ll want to play.

To see everything that’s available on Apple Arcade, scroll down to the bottom of the section and select See All Games.

On each individual game page, you can read more about the title, see a promo video, check the age rating, and confirm whether you can use a controller. To download a game, select Get.

The game will appear on your device just like any other app and is ready to play. Apple includes all updates to the games as long as you have a subscription. Plus, all Apple Arcade games have no in-app purchases or ads.

Start Apple Arcade With These Three Games

When diving into Apple Arcade, you’ll probably ask the same question as with any new subscription service: “where do I start?”

Here are three high-quality titles, available on each device, that show showcase some of the best that Apple Arcade offers.

1. Oceanhorn 2: Knight of the Lost Realm

You can’t go wrong starting Apple Arcade with Oceanhorn 2: Knight of the Lost Realm. The original RPG, which arrived in 2013, was an instant classic thanks to beautiful graphics, an enchanting soundtrack, and its Legend of Zelda-like gameplay. And the long-awaited sequel delivers all that and more.

Set 1,000 years before the original, the game focuses on a young knight who must help save the world of Gaia. The family-friendly game looks beautiful on any Apple device, and is best played with a controller. It’s truly a high-quality title you’d expect to find on a gaming console.

Download: Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm on Apple Arcade

2. Assemble With Care

Even the most casual gamer knows of the Monument Valley series. And the developer of those two great games, ustwo, is also behind Apple Arcade’s Assemble With Care.

Think of the game as a puzzler with a big focus on a narrative story. You play as Maria, an antique restorer who arrives in the unique town of Bellariva. While helping to put together prized possessions, you’ll also need to help restore relationships that are broken. Even though the game is short, it will stick with you long after fixing the 12 different objects.

Download: Assemble With Care on Apple Arcade

3. Speed Demons

There’s no need to worry; fans of fast-paced gaming action will definitely be at home on Apple Arcade. Speed Demons in more than just your usual trip down the highway. The top-down racing game features more than 25 different cars to drive and eight distinct game modes.

You accelerate automatically, so it’s your job is to avoid all the traffic, which can be up to 100 vehicles on screen at a time. The controller-compatible game will always keep you on your toes as the highways in 19 different environments automatically generate to provide a different experience each time.

Download: Speed Demons on Apple Arcade

Playing Apple Arcade With a Controller

With the wide variety of different games available to play on Apple Arcade, devoted games should definitely consider purchasing a physical controller.

The big advantage is that your controller will work across iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac, allowing for a more unified gaming experience no matter where you’re playing. In many instances, using a controller gives you better split-second control for fast-paced titles.

A majority of Apple Arcade games support a controller. To confirm this, just look for the Controller Supported tag on the game’s page before downloading.

Starting all OS versions mentioned above, Apple has added support for two popular Bluetooth game controllers:

Xbox One Wireless Controller

The Xbox One Wireless Controller offers a textured grip that makes it easy to hold while gaming. You can also use a compatible headset with the 3.5mm stereo jack.

You’ll need to provide a set of AA batteries to use in the controller. For colors, Microsoft offers everything from the usual black to more unique colors and configurations that celebrate Fortnite, Gears of War 5, and more.

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller for PlayStation 4

Compared to the Xbox controller, the biggest plus of the DualShock 4 wireless controller is the built-in battery that you can recharge with a micro-USB cable. That will definitely save you some money on batteries in the long run.

The controller also features a built-in speaker and a stereo headset jack. Just like the Xbox controller, there are a number of different colors and designs to select from.

Apple Arcade titles also support any MFi controller. To find out more, take to a look at how to connect a game controller to your iPad or iPhone.

Game on With Apple Arcade

Whether you’re a pro or new to gaming on an Apple device, Apple Arcade features something for everyone. And no matter what game you choose to play, you’ll have definitely have fun.

If you’re looking for even more gaming action, make sure to take a look at some of the other great games on Apple Arcade.

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RAW vs. JPEG: Which Is Best for Your Photographs?

When you make the leap to a digital SLR or mirrorless camera, you’re faced with the choice of continuing to snap your photos as JPEGs or switching to RAW files instead. But which is best to use? In this article we pit RAW vs JPEG to find out.

What Is a RAW File?

Image Credit: Jeshoots.com/Unsplash

You can think of a RAW file as a digital negative, or as what you have before taking your photo into the darkroom. RAW files contains all of the data in an image for you to process later.

RAW files don’t come in a standard format. The closest is Adobe’s DNG format, which niche cameras and smartphones capable of shooting RAW files tend to embrace. This is not the format your Nikon, Canon, or Sony camera uses. Some cameras do shoot in a format known as RAW, but the overwhelming majority do not.

RAW files require specialized programs to view or edit them. Two Adobe programs, Lightroom and Photoshop, are the most well-known examples. Darktable and RawTherapee are two free options anyone can use without restriction or a subscription. These latter two options also have public source code, so anyone can view how the apps were made and make their own modifications.

Why Many Photographers Love RAW

Many people swear by RAW. Some will even state point blank that you should be shooting in RAW. Here are some of the big reasons the RAW format has so many advocates.

RAW Files Preserve More Data

RAW files store all of the data your camera captures when you snap a picture. These files are considered lossless formats, like WAV or FLAC audio files. When you shoot in RAW, you preserve all of the details your camera was able to capture.

Raw Files Are Better for Editing

Since RAW files are unprocessed, it’s your job to process them. You get to take all of that data that your camera stored and see what the image can become. This freedom allows you to restore details from bright or dark areas of a photo where there appeared to be none. You can save images that you would otherwise delete.

Technically, you’re not editing an existing image. Instead, you’re telling the computer how to arrange the data you’ve captured in order to create the image.

You Keep the Original Image Data

Image editors that manipulate RAW files are also known as non-destructive image editors. That’s because they don’t make changes to the original file. They save any tweaks you make to a separate file, and when you’re done, you export your image to another format (most likely a JPEG). Note, non-destructive editors can preserve your original JPEGs as well, but other image manipulation programs won’t.

The Downsides of RAW Files

Image Credit: João Silas/Unsplash

As great as RAW files are, they’re not without their drawbacks.

RAW Files Have a Slower Workflow

You have to convert RAW files into another format before you can send them to a printer, give them to family members over email, or share them with followers on social media.

This means sitting in front of a computer, waiting for images to import, editing those images, and them waiting for them to export into another format. With time and practice, you can speed this process up, but it still won’t be as quick as having images leave your camera already ready for use.

You Need to Know How to Process RAW Images

To take full advantage of RAW formats, you need to know how to process an image using a program such as Darktable. That means having an understanding of various photography concepts such as exposure, white balance, and dynamic range.

Your chosen image editor might automatically adjust aspects on the image for you, but if you’re not going to perform your own adjustments, you might be better off with the processing your camera manufacturer designed and tested. And if your image viewer supports RAW files, you may find that all of those unprocessed images look rather dull.

RAW Files Require More Storage Space

RAW files save all of the data your camera captured, so using them is akin to saving all of your images as JPEGs at the highest resolution and image quality setting, except slightly larger still. If you choose the RAW + JPEG setting to save your photos in both formats simultaneously, then you’re going to use up even more space on your memory card, computer, or cloud storage account. You will spend more time watching files transfer and may need to spend more money as a result.

What Are JPEGs?

JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group. This is the group that created the JPEG standard in 1992.

Since then, the JPEG format has become the standard way we capture and share digital images. Point and shoot cameras, smartphones, and flip phones all save photos in this format. When you view a photo in your web browser, the chances are you’re looking at a JPEG file. All of the images I’ve included in this post are JPEGs.

Reasons to Prefer JPEGs

Image Credit: John Matychuk/Unsplash

There are quite a few reasons JPEG files are commonly used everywhere.

JPEGs Come Ready to Go

JPEG files are ready to view, print, and share from the moment you capture them. Your camera does all of the processing for you. It’s the modern day equivalent of taking a picture with a Polaroid camera and having an photo you can hand to someone else in moments. Except with JPEGs, you can capture massive high-quality images for use in an art gallery or on a billboard.

JPEGs Open Everywhere

When you save your photos as JPEGs, you can rest easy knowing you can view them on whatever device using whatever program you want. This gives you more freedom to choose whatever photo manager or image manipulation program that most speaks to you, including many that were designed for RAW files. The same is true for the people who receive your images.

JPEGs Are Better for Fast Photography

When you’re covering a performance or sports event, you may find yourself inclined to shoot in JPEG even if it’s not your preferred choice. That’s in part because large RAW files take longer to save to your memory card. If you snap several photos in rapid succession, your camera may pump the brakes while it tries to save all those images. You can miss the shot you wanted during those precious moments.

Why Doesn’t Everyone Just Stick to JPEGs?

Image Credit: Patrick Hendry/Unsplash

As common as JPEGs are, there are a few key reasons why many photographers don’t trust the format for their workflow.

JPEGs Are a Lossy Format

JPEGs are meant to be easy to share and open everywhere, including on the web. That means striking the right balance between creating a beautiful image and a small file. Due to the image compression, you may suffer a loss in quality.

JPEGs Don’t Capture All of the Data

JPEGs cannot preserve all of the information that your camera is capable of capturing. The format can’t store quite as many colors, so you might notice a difference in shade or tone from what you can see in the raw version. Photos shot as JPEGs may also lose more details in the extremely bright or dark portions of a photo.

JPEGs Are Processed by the Camera

JPEGs are a finalized version of an image. While you can edit a JPEG, you’re making permanent changes to the file unless you save as a new copy. Some changes aren’t possible to make without actively manipulating the photo, like a digital artist using a photo as a base.

RAW vs. JPEG: Which Is Best?

So, which is best? RAW or JPEG? It depends. Why are you taking a photo, where, and under what conditions?

For example, if you’re taking pictures of a concert to print in a magazine, you may want to shoot in RAW. The difficult lighting may require you to process the image manually in order to get any decent shots. But if you’re taking photos of a fast-paced event, animals on the move, or kids running around, then you may value the fast bursts you can get with JPEGs.

Also, does sitting in front of a computer and tweaking images sounds miserable to you? In that case, go with JPEG. But if that’s your favorite part, then go for RAW.

Ultimately, if you want to take great photos, there are aspects that matter more than what file format you choose. You’ll first need to master the essentials, such as learning how to compose a photograph.

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Why You Should Start Using Custom Photoshop Workspaces

Picture yourself walking into work. You arrive at your desk only to find that someone at your workplace has decided to reorganize it for you. For the sake of efficiency, they have decreed that everyone will have to work with a standardized setup across the board.

Download our FREE "Adobe Photoshop Keyboard Shortcuts" cheat sheet today to discover every Photoshop keyboard command you absolutely have to know!

The problem is a standardized setup doesn’t work for everyone. Which is why everyone who uses Photoshop should be using a custom workspace. In this article we’ll explain how to get started using custom Photoshop workspaces.

Reasons to Use Custom Photoshop Workspaces

When launching Photoshop for the first time, the Essentials workspace appears for everyone. Along with the other preset workspaces, it offers a very generic build for anyone trying to learn how to use Photoshop.

However, these are training wheel workspaces, and you really need to start using a custom workspace to make Photoshop shine.

Make Photoshop Complement Your Workflow

In the right hands, Photoshop operates as a powerhouse of a program. On a professional level, videographers, graphic designers, photographers, web designers, 3D modelers, digital painters, and more use the software every day. As a result, Photoshop needs to accommodate these different work processes.

While the premade workspaces are OK, they cannot account for everyone. When you begin to customize Photoshop to be a better fit for your process, your workflow will start getting easier. Instead of having to work past the panels that don’t apply to you, everything you need to do your work will be there.

The ability to make and save multiple workspaces for different needs also allows for additional efficiency. Swapping between custom workspaces with a click of a button offers a ton of value.

Keep Your Computer Screen From Feeling Overcrowded

As Photoshop users encompass a diverse range of people, an equally diverse range of devices uses the software too. If you’re using a laptop, it goes without saying that a 13-inch screen will obviously have far less to work with than a 27-inch desktop monitor made for image processing.

Depending on the task at hand, a lack of screen space can easily create additional challenges and annoyances when the panels bleed over into your work area. Even if you’re the type to be able to work with any setup, eventually a work area can become too cluttered.

How to Get Started Using Custom Photoshop Workspaces

Now that you know why you should be using custom Photoshop workspaces, here’s how to get started.

In most cases, the crafting of a new workspace begins in a similar way as before. Open Photoshop, then go to Window > Workspace > Essentials (Default).

After you’ve selected a workspace, all changes made to the workspace remain until Photoshop resets to the saved workspace file. After you have made changes that you are happy with, you can keep your new workspace by using Window > Workspace > New Workspace and clicking Save after assigning it a new name. It will then pop up above Photoshop’s default workspaces.

Now that you know how to save a custom workspace, let’s look at how to customize your new work area.

Remove Unnecessary Panels

The first thing to do is remove any unnecessary panels. Drag panels out into the work area from their columns and close them by pressing X in the upper-right hand corner. You can also close panels by accessing the menu on any expanded panel and selecting close (or close tab group to remove multiple panel tabs at once).

If you accidentally close a panel, you can restore panels from the Window menu individually. You can also reset your workspace fully by going to Window > Workspace > Reset (insert name of the currently selected workspace). For a more detailed look on how to do both, here’s how to reset Photoshop back to its default appearance.

Dock Panels Together to Save Space

When it comes to organizing panels, a lot of the more personal arrangements come with the formation of groups and moving panel tabs around. As seen below, we have the option to arrange a number of panels in a group together.

Separate panels into individual groups if you ever need to isolate one from the rest. When moving any tab around, simply watch for the blue highlights of the placement indicator when trying to place a panel.

If you accidentally create a column or otherwise misplace your panel, pull it out of its location and move it to the desired spot. Do note that if you try to close the panel and then turn it back on, it will still return to its previous location unless you reset your workspace.

Expand and Shrink Panels to Your Liking

Expand your panels or hide them by pressing the double arrow icon at the top of any Photoshop column. If you want more control, stretch or shrink your panels to change your work area. Simply hover the mouse between a group or column until a double arrow appears.

Afterwards, you can make them bigger or smaller based on your personal preferences.

Change Your Thumbnail Graphics for Your Panels

Some panels allow you to adjust the thumbnail size under panel graphics. While not a super-mandatory customization, the thumbnail adjustment can be nice while working with panels such as channels or layers.

Whether you have a big monitor or a small laptop screen, you can adjust the thumbnail size to your liking.

The Benefits of Using Custom Photoshop Workspaces

When it comes to improving your workflow, the ability to personalize your workspace can make a big difference. Taking the time to create a custom workspace in Photoshop will give you a workspace you can carry with you from task-to-task. Potentially improving your productivity and efficiency.

Once you’re happy with your custom workspace, consider employing these Adobe Photoshop workflow tips to further improve your image editing.

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Apple’s Worst MacBook Problems (And How to Fix Them)

If you plan on getting a MacBook, research on the features and faults of Apple’s devices can go a long way in shaping your buying decision. You don’t want to purchase a new device only to find that it has a notorious problem.

But if you’ve already purchased a MacBook and notice an issue, there might be a way around it. Here are some of Apple’s biggest MacBook hardware blunders, and how to fix them if you’re affected.

1. Early Generations of the Butterfly Keyboard

When Apple launched the revamped 12-inch MacBook in 2015, it came with a noticeably different keyboard. According to the company, the redesign of the keyboard was meant to accommodate the sleek frame of the machine.

The butterfly mechanism underneath the keys certainly resulted in thinner keys than the traditional scissor mechanism. Over time, Apple implemented this design on the new MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models as well. At the time of writing, Apple’s machine includes the third-generation butterfly keyboard.

However, for most Mac users, the butterfly keyboard has been more of a hindrance than a help. In particular, the space bar was highly unreliable. After a period of use, it felt like it was bottoming out on the right side, with only the left side responding to a press.

Apple’s keyboard also featured several instances of sticky keys. This was a result of the shallow depth of the keys, making it easy for them to get stuck within the grooves of the board.

Even worse, the keyboard was also sensitive to dust and debris. If dust particles get under the key, you can likely expect it not to function correctly again. These problems are present from the first generation to third-generation butterfly keyboards.

If you’re dealing with a case of dust or food debris under your keyboard, make use of a toothpick to remove it. We’ve also looked at what you can do to fix a stuck MacBook keyboard. People who’ve had constant cases of stuck keys or a malfunctioning space bar may qualify for Apple’s Keyboard Service Program.

2. MacBook Pro SSD Failure

If you bought a 13-inch MacBook Pro between 2017 and 2018, there’s a chance you might lose your data. You may also get locked out from accessing the drive.

As it turns out, Apple had issues with its batch of SSDs for this generation of laptops. According to Apple, some of its 128GB and 256GB 13-inch Macbook Pro units had a system fault which could trigger loss of data on the SSD. Knowing the warning signs that your SSD is about to fail can help you safeguard against issues like this.

To check if your laptop suffers from this fault, you need to identify the MacBook Pro model you have. Only the non-Touch Bar 13-inch laptops are affected by this.

Head to Apple’s Solid State Drive Service Program page and enter your device’s serial number to see if you’re eligible. If you are, then Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider will service your affected drive for free. We recommend backing up your Mac data immediately and going in for service as soon as possible, as you may irrecoverably lose data otherwise.

3. Delamination of Retina Display Coating

When talking about Mac missteps, it is impossible not to include the Retina display delamination. This was a problem in MacBook and MacBook Pro models manufactured from 2012 to 2017.

Apple’s Retina display is a marketing name for its high pixel density screens, which result in a clearer picture. Unfortunately, many of the MacBook models to first offer this display had faults with delamination, which occurs when a material breaks into layers.

At first, the fracture appears on the Retina display’s anti-reflective coating as smudges, until it spreads and forms a layer on the screen. When this happens, it’s much harder to use the display on your Mac.

According to Apple, impact or stress to the surface of the display can lead to this. However, people also identified that the coating applied to the Retina display was too weak. This, in turn, affects the ability of the surface to withstand stress.

There is no sure fix for the delamination of your Mac’s Retina display. At one point, Apple offered affected users replacement screens. However, this service has expired.

Unless you feel confident enough to replace the display yourself, you’re best off contacting Apple Support or an authorized service provider to look into replacement options.

4. The Touch Bar

Although some may swear by the usefulness of the Touch Bar in the MacBook Pro, this innovative feature has plenty of faults that make it a worthy addition to the list.

The Touch Bar was launched with the 2016 MacBook Pro. This strip of OLED screen, in place of the old function keys, provided dynamic controls for Mac programs. While it’s a fun feature and cool selling point in the store, it wasn’t all beneficial.

As the Touch Bar was a replacement for the function keys, the general anticipation was that it would improve efficiency. However, most found the Touch Bar more disappointing than anything.

Unlike the function keys, which were fast and responsive to instructions, the Touch Bar makes performing common actions slower. For example, adjusting brightness with a function key takes a split-second with muscle memory. In the case of the Touch Bar, you have to focus on the bar, aim your finger, and move a slider to perform the same action.

This is especially the case with the common Escape key, which can disappear with certain Touch Bar controls. Another fault is how easy it is to accidentally trigger actions by a mere brush of your fingers over the bar.

Unfortunately, unlike the other problems listed above, there is no official Apple recall or servicing for these issues. We recommend either making the Touch Bar more useful for you, or you can disable the Touch bar completely if you prefer.

Is Buying a Mac Still Worth It?

We’ve seen above that even Apple isn’t immune to hardware issues and blunders. Whether you buy an old or new Mac, there’s chance you could run into some of the problems above.

However, most other aspects of Apple’s computers are top-notch. These are relatively minor blemishes on otherwise solid computers, so you can still buy with confidence in most cases. If you have other issues with your Mac, have a look at the best free tools to fix common macOS issues.

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Upgrade Your Microsoft Office Skills With 62 Hours of Training for $29.99

If you work behind a desk, Microsoft software is almost certainly part of your workflow. By getting to know Office a little better, you can get things done faster and impress recruiters. The Complete Microsoft Office Training Bundle helps you learn all the major apps, with eight video courses and over 62 hours of content. You can currently get lifetime access to the training for just $29.99 at MakeUseOf Deals — and use coupon code 40LEARN40 for 40% off.

Complete Office Training

Most of us know how to do the basics in Excel, Word and PowerPoint. But these apps are packed with powerful features that you may never discover without some guidance.

This bundle helps you unearth these advanced tools, with 594 video tutorials. The training starts from scratch, showing you how to create workbooks and design simple slideshows. You then learn how to use functions in Excel, utilize animations in PowerPoint, and format your Word documents.

Alongside the video tutorials, the training offers plenty of downloadable exercises and tests. When you complete each course, you also get a certificate to add to your résumé.

Eight Courses for $29.99

This training is worth $249 in total, but you can grab the bundle now for just $29.99 with lifetime access included.

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Millions downloaded dozens of Android apps on Google Play infected with adware

Security researchers have found dozens of Android apps in the Google Play store serving ads to unsuspecting victims as part of a money-making scheme.

ESET researchers found 42 apps containing adware, which they say have been downloaded over 8 million times since they first debuted in July 2018.

These apps look normal but act sneakily. Once an unsuspecting user installs an adware-infected app, the app will serve full-screen ads on the device’s display at semi-random intervals. Often the apps will delete their shortcut icon, making it more difficult to remove. The adware-infected apps will also mimic Facebook and Google’s apps to avoid suspicion, likely as a way to detract from the actual ad-serving app and to keep the app the device for as long as possible.

In the background, the apps were also sending back data about the user’s device — including if certain apps are installed and if the device allows apps from non-app store sources — which could be used to install more malicious software on a device.

“The adware functionality is the same in all the apps we analyzed,” said Lukas Stefanko, one of ESET’s security researchers.

The researchers also found that the apps would check to see if an affected device was connected to Google’s servers in an effort to prevent detection. If the apps think they are being tested by Google Play’s security mechanisms, which ostensibly keep the app store free from malicious apps, the adware payload will not be triggered.

Some of those apps include Video Downloader Master, which had five million downloads; and Ringtone Maker Pro, SaveInsta and Tank Classic, which had 500,000 downloads each.

The researchers say a Vietnamese college student may be behind the adware campaign.

Google removed all of the offending apps but the researchers warned that many were still available from third-party app stores. A spokesperson confirmed all of the apps have been removed, but the search and mobile giant does not usually comment beyond acknowledging their removal.

Read more:

• New Android adware found in 200 apps on Google Play
• Sennheiser’s flawed headphone software opened PCs and Macs to HTTPS site spoofing
• Millions of Android users tricked into downloading dozens of adware apps from Google Play
• Scranos, a new rootkit malware, steals passwords and pushes YouTube clicks
• A top-tier app in Apple’s Mac App Store stole your browser history
• Android security: 0.04% of downloads on Google Play in 2018 were ‘potentially harmful apps’

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Netflix launches $4 mobile-only monthly plan in Malaysia

Netflix is ready to take its lower-cost, mobile-only plan beyond India as it looks to expand the reach of its service in other international markets. The American on-demand video streaming giant today launched a new price tier in Malaysia that would allow people in the nation to access the video service for RM 17 ($4) a month.

The new tier, which is being offered alongside existing regular monthly plans that start from $7.8, limits access to Netflix to just one mobile device and in lower video quality (standard definition, ~480p). (Customers subscribed to this plan are not allowed to watch — or cast — Netflix on their TVs and laptops.)

The company, which began testing cheaper mobile plans last year in many markets including Malaysia, said it is hopeful that its new plan would “broaden access to Netflix in this truly mobile-first nation.”

More than 88% of people in Malaysia own a smartphone and 78% of internet users in the Southeast Asian nation — home to roughly 32 million people — stream and download media content, according to industry estimates.

In a statement, Ajay Arora, Director of Product Innovation at Netflix, said, “our members in Malaysia love to watch shows on their smartphones and tablets. With the first-ever Mobile plan in Southeast Asia, all of Netflix’s shows and movies will be even more accessible for Malaysians to stream and download.”

Like in India, Netflix competes with a range of aggressively priced services such as iFlix, Dimsum, playTV, and Astro Go in Malaysia. And like in other markets, the company has invested in production of original content to better serve customers in Malaysia, too. Upcoming series The Ghost Bride was filmed and produced in Malaysia. Comedy series Polis Evo and Jagat have also been popular among customers in the nation.

As we have argued in the past, Netflix’s standard pricing has limited its reach in many parts of the world, especially since a number of rivals are offering their services at lower cost. On its part, Netflix is increasingly admitting this publicly. During its quarterly earnings call last week, the company executives noted that it was “pleased” with the way its mobile-only plan in India was gaining adoption in the nation.

“Our approach with pricing is to grow revenue and so far, uptake and retention on our mobile plan in India has been better than our initial testing suggested. This will allow us to invest more in Indian content to further satisfy our members. While still only a very small percentage of our total subscriber base, we’re continuing to test mobile-only plans in other markets,” they said.

Greg Peters, chief product officer at Netflix, said the company continues to explore more plan structures and “feature value benefits” in other different markets to see how the audiences react to them.

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Google Launches Apps to Reduce Your Smartphone Use

Google has launched what it’s calling Digital Wellbeing Experiments. These are apps designed to reduce your smartphone use. While installing more apps in order to spend less time on your phone sounds wrong, it actually makes perfect sense.

We’re all spending too much time on our smartphones. And that time spent mindlessly scrolling through Twitter, watching random videos on YouTube, and playing addictive mobile games could be put to much better use. Which is where Google comes in.

How to Try Google’s Digital Wellbeing Experiments

Google launched its Digital Wellbeing Experiments in a post on The Keyword. The initiative is described as “a platform to encourage designers and developers to build digital wellbeing into their products”. And the first five Android apps are as follows:

Unlock Clock: This is a Live Wallpaper that counts the number of times you unlock your phone in a day. You could try setting a limit to stop yourself from opening your phone at every opportunity.

Post Box: This app enables you to get your notifications delivered in batches at a time that suits you. This will help minimize distractions, and prevent you from checking your phone every five minutes.

We Flip: This is designed to help groups put their phones away and communicate with each other. You all join together and promise not to touch your phones. And as soon as someone does, the session ends.

Desert Island: This app makes you choose the apps that are the most important to you. Once chosen, your challenge is to go a full 24 hours only using those apps, and none of the other, more distracting apps.

Morph: This organizes your apps into different modes, such as Home and Work. Your phone will then automatically adapt to what you’re doing at that time, putting the apps you need front and center.

How to Create More Digital Wellbeing Experiments

These are just the first five Digital Wellbeing Experiments. However, Google is likely to produce more, and it’s also inviting developers and designers to create their own. You can get links to the Hack Pack and open source code on Experiments With Google.

We wholeheartedly recommend trying to spend less time on your smartphone. And if Google’s Digital Wellbeing Experiments help you do that, they’re a good idea. And if you can’t stand to use it less, at least learn how to use your smartphone more productively.

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Should You Leave Your Laptop Plugged in All the Time?

At one point or another, all laptop users find themselves pondering the same question: is it bad to leave your laptop plugged in all the time?

Turns out, the answer isn’t entirely straightforward. So let’s take a look.

Know Your Laptop Battery

There are two main types of battery used in laptops: lithium-ion and lithium-polymer. Although they are different technologies they function in broadly the same way, generating power through the movement of electrons.

This constant flow is also needed to help keep the battery healthy.

For both types of batteries, the following statements are true (at least as far as modern laptops are concerned):

• A battery cannot be overcharged. There’s no danger of overcharging a battery if you leave it plugged in all the time. As soon as it hits 100 percent it will cease charging and won’t start again until the voltage falls below a certain level.
• Fully discharging a battery will damage it. Allowing the battery to become completely empty for an extended period can put it into a deep discharge state. This can be fatal—you might never be able to charge it again. (You can try these methods to jump start a dead laptop battery.)

So, based on this, do we conclude that you should leave your laptop plugged in all the time? Not quite.

Things That Damage Lithium Batteries

The truth about lithium-based batteries is that they are inherently unstable. They begin to lose capacity from the moment they are produced, and there are numerous factors that hasten their decline. These include:

• Charge/discharge cycles. Every battery has a finite number of times it can be charged and discharged.
• Voltage level. The higher the charge level (measured in volts per cell), the shorter the battery’s life.
• High temperature, over 30 degrees celsius. This can cause irreparable damage.

The last two are the ones that we’re most concerned with here. A comprehensive study by Battery University highlights how voltage level and high temperatures will shorten the life of a battery in isolation, and even more when they combine.

Charge or Voltage Level

Lithium-ion batteries charge to 4.20 volts per cell, which amounts to 100 percent of its capacity. At this level, the battery will have a lifespan of 300-500 discharge cycles.

Every 0.10V/cell reduction in the charge doubles the number of discharge cycles, until the optimum level is reached: 3.90V/cell, with 2400-4000 discharge cycles.

Unfortunately, at this level the battery is only around 60 percent charged. The runtime will be little more than half of a fully-charged battery.

Heat

And then there’s heat. High temperatures, typically classified as being over 30 degrees Celsius, will shorten the life of a battery irrespective of any other factors. Simply leaving your laptop in your car on a summer’s afternoon is a bad idea.

When you combine the stress of high temperature with the stress of high voltage, the effects are even worse.

The Battery University study shows that a battery stored with a 40 percent charge at 40 degrees would see its capacity fall to 85 percent after a year.

Charged to 100 percent the capacity falls to 65 percent under the same conditions. For a fully charged battery at 60 degrees the capacity plummets to 60 percent in just three months.

The evidence seems clear. Keeping the battery permanently charged at 100 percent will slowly shorten its life. Keeping it at 100 percent and exposing it to high temperatures will shorten it much quicker.

And remember, these high temperatures are not just environmental. Resource intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing will considerably increase heat levels, and using the laptop on a pillow or in a poorly designed case will trap that heat as well.

For the sake of your battery, it’s always a good idea to fix an overheating laptop.

Should You Remove the Battery?

If heat is such a danger, it begs another question. Should you remove the battery altogether when using your laptop on AC power?

Obviously, this isn’t possible on the growing number of laptops that sport sealed batteries.

Where they are replaceable, the answer seems to vary from one manufacturer to the next. Acer, for instance, says you don’t have to remove the battery on AC power, but should remove it if you aren’t going to use it for several days. When Apple produced laptops with removable batteries, it advised against ever taking them out.

It all comes down to the power management setup in the laptop. Some may reduce the power when a battery isn’t present, just as some do when the battery level gets low. This could leave you with subpar performance.

If you do choose to remove the battery, ensure that you store it properly. This usually means charged to between 40 percent and 80 percent, and kept at room temperature.

Should You Keep Your Laptop Plugged In?

Does leaving your laptop plugged in ruin the battery? Yes it does. But then so does charging it every day.

Curiously, the industry as a whole doesn’t seem to have settled on a single answer for the question about whether to use your laptop on AC or battery power.

We’ve seen that Acer recommends removing the battery when you aren’t using it. Asus says you should drain the battery to at least 50 percent every two weeks. But Dell says there’s no problem leaving the laptop plugged in at all times.

Apple’s advice is no longer on its website, but you can still read it online. The company recommends against leaving a laptop plugged in all the time. Instead, it suggests:

“An ideal user would be a commuter who uses her notebook on the train, then plugs it in at the office to charge. This keeps the battery juices flowing…”

Leaving your laptop plugged in will not cause short term damage, but if you only ever use it on AC power you’ll almost certainly find that after a year the battery’s capacity has been significantly reduced. Similarly, if you only ever use it on battery power you’ll get through the battery’s discharge cycles quicker.

So, the best solution is something of a compromise between the two: use it on battery power some days, and keep it plugged in on others. And whatever you do you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t get too hot.

Want some more tips on prolonging the life of your laptop battery? Check out these tools for analyzing your laptop’s battery health.

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How to Return Merchandise Without a Receipt

You’ve bought something in a shop, only to get home and realize that the item isn’t right for you, after all.

So, you go rummaging through your bags, pockets, and purse to try and find your receipt. But disaster strikes—you can’t find it! Do you have any hope of getting a refund?

It depends on the store and the reason for your return. Let’s take a closer look.

What Does the Law Say?

In almost all countries, retailers are under no obligation to issue a refund simply because you don’t like the color or the way it looks, regardless of whether you have the receipt.

It is a different story for defective goods. In the United States, all states have “Implied Warranty” laws. Implied Warranty is a guarantee that the purchase will work for its intended purpose. If you’ve bought defective products and don’t have the receipt, you can exercise your right to Implied Warranty with a credit card statement. In the UK, even the say-so of a store salesperson is legally sufficient.

But what happens if you simply don’t want the purchase and don’t have the receipt? Retailers are free to set their own rules. They can vary from a full refund to store credit to no rebate at all. Let’s take a look at the returns policy of seven major US retailers.

Macy’s Returns Policy

Macy’s provides refunds for up to 90 days after the date of purchase. It offers a full refund for in-store and online purchases. However, it does have special guidelines for jewelry, floor rugs, mattresses, gourmet food, and furniture.

But can you return something to Macy’s without a receipt?

The answer is yes. Macy’s return policy says it will accept returns without a receipt if the product still has the store’s sticker, or you have a gift card receipt. However, you will only get an in-store credit; you will not get a full refund.

Items purchased at any Macy’s store can be returned to any of its store locations, not just the original location.

Walmart Returns Policy

Given the large variety of goods that Walmart sells, its refund policy is complicated. In simple terms, Walmart will accept non-receipted returns for a full refund in the US, providing certain conditions are met:

• You can supply a valid government ID.
• You have not claimed more than three non-receipted returns in the previous six months.
• The return date is within 90 days of purchase.
• The value of the item is less than $25.

If the value of the product is more than $25, Walmart will only issue a store gift card.

There are different rules for firearms, pharmacy products, food, gift cards, and hazardous materials.

Target Returns Policy

Target has a generous returns policy, even if you no longer have the receipt.

Firstly, before you head back to the store, remember that if you have a Target account, you can access all your receipts via the online portal. Just print the receipt for the item you want to return, and you won’t have any issues.

However, even if you don’t have an account, Target is still open to issuing full cash refunds. Here’s what the company says in its returns policy:

“We can attempt to look up the receipt for store and Target.com purchases in-store. Bring the item and the method of payment used to Guest Services within the return window allowed for that item.”

The return window is 90 days for most items.

Best Buy Returns Policy

Best Buy’s policy is much vaguer for anyone who’s trying to return an item without a receipt. The official policy says, “Reimbursements on returns lacking proof of purchase may be denied or limited, and state sales tax and fees will not be reimbursed.” In practice, it is down to the manager of each induvial store to make the decision. At best, it you can probably only hope to receive a gift card.

Also, be aware that Best Buy’s returns window is much shorter than many stores. Phones, tablets, and wearables need to be returned within 14 days. All other items are 15 days. Elite members get 30 days for non-mobile purchases.

Home Depot Returns Policy

Almost all items you buy from Home Depot can be returned to the store within 90 days of purchase. Exceptions apply to big-ticket appliances, gift cards, generators, flowers, installation services, and product samples.

Home Depot does accept returns without a receipt as long as you bought the item using a credit card or debit card. The company will find the record of sales in its systems. If you are returning an item to Home Depot without a receipt, you will also need to provide a government ID.

Bed Bath and Beyond Returns Policy

If you’ve been doing some interior design and bought unwanted merchandise from Bed Bath and Beyond, you might be able to get a partial refund, even if you don’t have your receipt.

If you made your purchase in the last year, the company could help as long as you have one of the following things:

• Credit or debit card statement showing the purchase.
• A merchandise credit number.
• A gift card number.
• Your order number.
• A registry number.
• Your checking account number.

Bed Bath and Beyond will not refund opened items without a receipt. For unopened items without a receipt, you will get the sales price minus 20 percent in the form of store credit.

Walgreens Returns Policy

Walgreens has a stricter returns policy than some stores. You only have 30 days to return your item. If you do not have a receipt, the company will only refund you the amount of the lowest advertised price in any of its stores nationwide.

So, for example, if you bought a bottle of shampoo for $10, but a store on the other side of the country is running a special offer of three for the price of one, you would only get $3.33 returned. The refund is issued as a store credit.

It will not refund prescription medication or contact lenses.

Other Tips to Return Merchandise Without a Receipt

As our study shows, most large retail chains are reasonably flexible about refunding purchases without a receipt. You might have more difficulty with small local retailers who don’t have the same amount of infrastructure.

In those cases, there are a few things you can try:

• Provide as much evidence of your purchase as possible.
• Claim that the item was a gift.
• Show a history of loyalty to the store.
• Wait until busy periods where returns are more common such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

If you’d like to learn more about various companies’ returns policies, check out our other articles on how to request a refund on Facebook and how to return an item on eBay.

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