iOS 19: Everything we know about Apple's 'radical' software update
Why bother? Well, you can't take your external monitor with you when you leave the house. And, the iPhone is still great for multi-tasking on multiple apps, boosting productivity in the process. For instance, you could be on a Zoom call on your main screen, while taking notes on the iPhone using your MacBook to type even faster. And, thanks to the massive size of iPhone Pro Max models, with their 6.9-inch displays, you now have more screen space than ever.
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Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Apple iPhone 2025 Buying Guide: Choose the PERFECT iPhone For You
Are you planning to upgrade your smartphone in 2025? Apple's latest iPhone lineup offers a diverse range of models tailored to meet various needs and budgets. From the budget-conscious iPhone 16E to the feature-rich iPhone 16 Pro Max, each device brings distinct strengths to the table. The video below from Nikias Molina provides a detailed breakdown of key aspects—design, display, camera systems, performance, battery life, and Apple Intelligence features—so you can confidently select the iPhone that best suits your requirements. Watch this video on YouTube. Design and Display The design and display of an Apple iPhone significantly influence its usability and aesthetic appeal. The 2025 lineup offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences: iPhone 16E: This model features a durable aluminum frame and a 6.1-inch OLED display. While it lacks advanced features like Dynamic Island and ProMotion, it provides a straightforward design that prioritizes affordability without compromising on quality. This model features a durable aluminum frame and a 6.1-inch OLED display. While it lacks advanced features like Dynamic Island and ProMotion, it provides a straightforward design that prioritizes affordability without compromising on quality. iPhone 16/16 Plus: These models introduce the Dynamic Island feature, enhancing interactivity and multitasking. Both come with brighter OLED displays, with the 16 Plus offering a larger screen for users who prefer more screen real estate. However, the value of the 16 Plus is debatable compared to the Pro models. These models introduce the Dynamic Island feature, enhancing interactivity and multitasking. Both come with brighter OLED displays, with the 16 Plus offering a larger screen for users who prefer more screen real estate. However, the value of the 16 Plus is debatable compared to the Pro models. iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max: Designed for premium users, these models boast a titanium frame for added durability and elegance. The Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max offers a larger 6.9-inch screen. Both include ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate and an Always-On Display, delivering a smooth and immersive viewing experience. Camera Systems The camera capabilities across the 2025 iPhone lineup cater to a wide range of users, from casual photographers to professionals seeking advanced features: iPhone 16E: Equipped with a single 48MP camera and 2x optical zoom, this model is ideal for everyday photography, offering reliable performance for capturing moments. Equipped with a single 48MP camera and 2x optical zoom, this model is ideal for everyday photography, offering reliable performance for capturing moments. iPhone 16/16 Plus: These models add a 12MP ultra-wide lens, allowing three shooting modes (0.5x, 1x, 2x) for greater versatility and creativity in photography. These models add a 12MP ultra-wide lens, allowing three shooting modes (0.5x, 1x, 2x) for greater versatility and creativity in photography. iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max: Featuring a triple-camera system, these models include a 48MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5x telephoto lens. These advanced features make them perfect for professional-grade photography and videography, offering exceptional detail and flexibility. Performance Performance is a crucial factor for users who rely on their smartphones for demanding tasks. The 2025 iPhone lineup is powered by Apple's latest A18 and A18 Pro chips, ensuring top-tier performance. iPhone 16E, 16, and 16 Plus: These models are powered by the A18 chip, delivering excellent performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. They provide a smooth and responsive user experience for most activities. These models are powered by the A18 chip, delivering excellent performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. They provide a smooth and responsive user experience for most activities. iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max: Built for maximum performance, these models feature the A18 Pro chip, excelling in resource-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and advanced gaming. They are ideal for power users and professionals. Battery Life Battery life is a key consideration for many users, and the 2025 lineup offers options to suit different usage patterns: iPhone 16E: Provides 6–7 hours of screen time, making it suitable for moderate daily use. Provides 6–7 hours of screen time, making it suitable for moderate daily use. iPhone 16: Offers 7–8 hours of screen time, while the 16 Plus extends this to 9–10 hours, catering to users who need longer battery life. Offers 7–8 hours of screen time, while the 16 Plus extends this to 9–10 hours, catering to users who need longer battery life. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Delivers an impressive 10–11 hours of screen time, making it the best choice for heavy users who require extended battery performance. Apple Intelligence Features Apple continues to innovate with its AI-driven features, enhancing the user experience across all models in the 2025 lineup: Advanced features such as custom emoji creation, text summarization, and ChatGPT integration with Siri make daily interactions more intuitive and efficient. All models are designed to support future software updates, making sure they remain relevant and functional for years to come, providing excellent long-term value. Recommendations Selecting the right Apple iPhone depends on your priorities, preferences, and budget. Here's a breakdown to help you decide: Best Value: The iPhone 16E, priced at $599, is an excellent choice for users seeking affordability and essential features without unnecessary extras. The iPhone 16E, priced at $599, is an excellent choice for users seeking affordability and essential features without unnecessary extras. Mainstream Choice: The iPhone 16, priced at $799, strikes a balance between price, features, and modern design, making it a solid option for most users. The iPhone 16, priced at $799, strikes a balance between price, features, and modern design, making it a solid option for most users. Premium Option: The iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, is ideal for users who prioritize advanced cameras, ProMotion technology, and a titanium frame for a premium experience. The iPhone 16 Pro, starting at $999, is ideal for users who prioritize advanced cameras, ProMotion technology, and a titanium frame for a premium experience. Avoid: The iPhone 16 Plus, as its price is close to the Pro model but lacks significant advantages to justify the cost. Additional Considerations If you're open to exploring older models, the iPhone 14 Pro remains a compelling secondhand option. It offers excellent performance and features at a lower price point, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a high-quality device. Making the Right Choice The 2025 Apple iPhone lineup is designed to cater to a wide range of users, from casual smartphone owners to tech enthusiasts. By carefully evaluating factors such as design, display, camera capabilities, performance, and battery life, you can select the model that best aligns with your needs. Whether you prioritize affordability, advanced features, or future-proofing, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and find the perfect iPhone for your lifestyle. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to iPhone 16E that you may find helpful. Source & Image Credit: Nikias Molina Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Sun
16 hours ago
- The Sun
8 Best power banks UK for 2025
POWER banks are a lifesaver when your battery's running low and there's no plug in sight. After testing options to suit every budget, I've rounded up the best power banks that'll keep your devices charged wherever you are. 9 Keeping our devices charged used to be a real hassle, while being tethered to a wall socket or watching your battery percentage drop wasn't exactly ideal. I know that panic all too well, especially when your phone dies right when you need it most. To save myself (and you) from any more of those moments, I've tested the best power banks on the market. From high-capacity beasts to slim, pocket-sized chargers, I've put them all through their paces. The best ones deliver enough power to keep your gadgets going for multiple charges, while the most convenient models include wireless options to make life even easier. And it's not just power banks on my radar this month, I've also checked out the best Bluetooth speakers to keep your tunes flowing no matter where you are. But when it comes to staying powered up, these portable chargers are the ones you can count on. Read on for my handpicked choices of the best power banks you can buy today. How I tested I used these portable chargers daily for the last few weeks to keep my iPhone 13 fully charged and ready to go. Since my phone uses a Lightning connection, I made sure every option on this list either made the most of MagSafe or had both Lightning and USB-C compatibility. As someone who hates carrying around anything bulky (I'm not one for lugging everything and the kitchen sink), I focused on lightweight and easy pack options. Most importantly, I looked for power banks that packed enough juice to keep me going without the stress of running out of charge halfway through the day. Best power banks - tried and tested Anker MagGo Anker MagGo, £89.99 £59.99 BUY HERE Pros: Excellent battery capacity, handy battery level screen, fast Qi2 wireless charging, sturdy MagSafe connection Cons: Slightly heavier than it looks, higher price tag Rating: 9/10 Anker's MagSafe power bank strikes a near-perfect balance between size, capacity, and everyday convenience. It packs a hefty 10,000mAh battery, and delivers almost two full iPhone charges without weighing you down, though at 220g, you'll still feel it in your pocket. That said, the trade-off is worth it: it's compact enough to take anywhere, and Qi2 wireless charging took me from 0 to 50% in around 40 minutes. The MagSafe connection is seriously solid too, you really feel it snap into place, and there's no worrying about it coming off. I'm a big fan of the little battery level screen on the right of the battery pack. It's a simple touch, but makes a huge difference. There's no guessing how much juice you've got left, and it even gives you the hours and minutes it'll take to get you to 100%. Sure, it's a tad pricier than other options out there, but you're paying for quality, reliability, and smart design. It feels sleek and solid in the hand, and honestly, it just works. I've tested a lot of power banks, and this one's a clear front runner. Connections: USB-C, MagSafe, Capacity: 10,000mAh, Weight: 220g, Wireless charging: Yes (Qi2) Anker Zolo 20K 9 Anker Zolo 20K, £39.99 £33.99 BUY HERE Pros: Built-in lightning cable, good size-to-power ratio Cons: Slightly chunky feel Rating: 8.5/10 The Anker Zolo Power Bank was larger than I expected, but it packs a seriously large battery. The built-in Lightning cable worked perfectly with my iPhone 13, and having an extra built-in USB-C cable made it easy to charge my AirPods and other USB-C devices without lugging around extra cords. It also has additional USB-C and USB-A ports, so you can plug in even more devices or cables when needed, which adds a lot of flexibility. With a hefty 20,000mAh capacity, it outperforms other chargers of a similar size, giving me multiple full charges and reliable all-day power. That said, it's on the heavier side, so it's better suited for tossing in a bag rather than carrying around for light travel. For Samsung users, it supports 30W wireless charging, though not an Android user myself, I didn't get a chance to test that feature. While it's not the smallest or lightest power bank out there, it's impressively convenient, especially if you need to keep several Apple devices powered up while on the move. If you want a fuss-free, reliable option that cuts down on cable clutter, this one's definitely worth considering. Anker 622 MagGo 9 Anker 622 MagGo, £35.99 £26.99 BUY HERE Pros: Very slim and light, handy fold-out stand, strong MagSafe hold Cons: Slower charge speed, gets hot when charging Rating: 7.5/10 The Anker 622 was one of the ones I was most looking forward to test-driving, with the fold-out stand and slim profile a big part of the appeal. It's all about convenience here, weighing just 145g and staying surprisingly pocketable, even when snapped onto your phone. With a 5000mAh capacity, you're looking at roughly one full charge, which is nothing groundbreaking, but enough for when you're out and about without easy access to a plug. Charging speeds aren't the fastest, especially compared to wired options or bigger batteries, but that's par for the course with something this compact. It got me to 20% from a dead battery in just over half an hour, which isn't bad going for wireless charging on the go. One thing to flag: it does get noticeably warm while charging. It's not a major issue, wireless charging naturally generates heat, but because of the thinner design, you're more likely to feel it. On the plus side, the built-in stand is genuinely handy. It flips out with ease, feels sturdier than you'd expect, and is perfect for propping your phone up. There's no display or flashy extras like the larger MagGo models, but that simplicity is part of its charm. Connections: USB-C, MagSafe, Capacity: 5,000mAh, Weight: 145g, Wireless charging: Yes Anker Laptop Power Bank Anker Laptop Power Bank, £89.99 £74.99 Pros: Huge capacity, charges multiple devices, built-in and retractable cables Cons: Very heavy Rating: 9/10 This thing is a powerhouse, plain and simple, with a massive 25,000mAh capacity and a 165W total output that can handle multiple devices simultaneously. The Anker Laptop Portable Charger 25K can recharge a laptop, tablet, and phone all at once, making it ideal for digital nomads or anyone who hates being tied to a plug socket. My MacBook's battery is on its way out and often runs low quickly, but this charger gives me back the portability I need until I finally replace my tired laptop. Thanks to its 165W power delivery, it can charge a MacBook from zero to about 50% in just around 30 minutes: that's seriously impressive for a portable pack. The built-in, retractable USB-C cables are a tidy, hassle-free touch, and the digital battery display is crystal clear. It's got all the right ports, too: USB-C and USB-A, plus the built-in USB-C cables, so you're covered for just about everything. Yes, it's heavy at 630g, you'll definitely feel it in your bag, but for this much power, it's absolutely worth it. I wouldn't carry it daily, but for travel, long workdays, or whenever you need serious, reliable backup, it's a no-brainer. Sure, it's an investment, but worth every penny and will be coming with me on an upcoming road trip to keep the whole family's devices charged and happy. Connections: USB-C (x2), USB-A and USB-C built-in, Capacity: 25,000mAh, Weight: 630g, Wireless charging: No iWalk LinkMe Plus 9 iWalk LinkMe Plus, £21 £15 Pros: Tiny and lightweight, plugs directly into iPhone, cheap and cheerful Cons: Very low capacity, not fast charging Rating: 6.5/10 I've been using the iWalk LinkMe Plus 3350mAh for a while now, and it's a really handy little backup charger to have around. It plugs directly into your iPhone's Lightning port, so there's no need for extra cables, and it doesn't get in the way or add bulk while you're using it. At just 75 grams, it's easy to carry around without feeling like a burden and you'll barely notice it in your pocket or bag. The capacity is pretty low at 3,350mAh, which means it gives me about a 50% charge: enough to get through the end of a night out or a long journey, but don't expect it to power your phone all day. It does recharge quickly, so I can get it ready for the next time I need a boost without much downtime. Overall, it's a solid emergency option that I'd keep in my coat pocket or bag just in case, but it's not something I'd rely on as my main charger. At just £15, it's cheap and cheerful option, and it's simplicity works in its favor. Connections: Built-in lighting, Capacity: 3,350mAh, Weight: 75g, Wireless charging: No Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic 9 Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic Qi2 8K, £69.99 BUY HERE Pros: Qi2 wireless charging, good capacity, sturdy and well-made Cons: No display, a bit bulky for pockets Rating: 8/10 The Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic Qi2 8K is a solid choice for anyone who loves MagSafe wireless charging. At 8,000mAh, the capacity is good enough to charge most phones about one and a half times, which is perfect for a full day of power. The wireless charging is smooth and surprisingly quick thanks to the newer Qi2 standard, so it doesn't feel sluggish or unreliable. It sticks firmly to my iPhone, so there's no awkward slipping or misalignment while charging. That said, it's a bit bulky for pockets, so it's better suited for keeping on hand in your bag rather than slipping into your jeans. I do wish it had a battery level display to show how much charge is left, which would be a handy addition. On the plus side, it's a reliable MagSafe power bank for anyone wanting wireless convenience and is great for what it offers. Connections: USB-C, MagSafe (Qi2), Capacity: 8,000mAh, Weight: 205g, Wireless charging: Yes(Qi2) Belkin BoostCharge Pro 9 Belkin BoostCharge Pro, £54.99 BUY HERE Pros: Built-in cables (USB-C and Lightning), great capacity, simple design Cons: Slightly bulky shape, no wireless option Rating: 8.5/10 The Belkin BoostCharge Plus 10K is a great everyday essential power bank, with the biggest selling point being the built-in USB-C and Lightning cables. With 10,000mAh capacity, it gives me roughly two full charges, which covers a full day or two without access to a wall charger. I appreciate how the cables tuck neatly into the sides, making it easy to keep everything organised and tangle-free. It also includes a USB-A port, which is handy when charging a third device or helping out friends with different gadgets. This power bank is perfect for people who switch between iPhones and Android devices since it supports both cables. The only downside is that it's slightly bulky compared to ultra-compact models, but the extra cables and capacity more than make up for it. There's no wireless charging here, which might be a dealbreaker for some, but for me, the practicality of built-in cables wins out here. Connections: USB-C, Lightning (both built-in), USB-A, Capacity: 10,000mAh, Weight: 240g, Wireless charging: No Belkin 3-Port Laptop Charger Pros: Big capacity, multi-device support, well-balanced design Cons: No built-in cables, quite heavy Rating: 8.5/10 If you're like me and juggle laptops, tablets, and phones, the Belkin 3-Port Laptop Power Bank is a solid addition to your tech gear. It has a huge 20,000mAh capacity, and can fully charge my laptop once and still have enough power left to recharge my phone or tablet a couple of times. It has three ports, two USB-C and one USB-A, so I can charge multiple devices at once. The design is clean and minimal, and compared to other power banks with similar capacity, this one is actually smaller, which I appreciate. It charges fairly quickly too, and the display shows you exactly how much charge is left, which is super handy. A minor niggle for me is that it doesn't have built-in cables, and while most of us already carry the cables we need, it would have been nice to see a built in option. That said, it's a dependable and well-designed power bank that does exactly what you need. Best power banks FAQs Which brand is the best power bank? Anker and Belkin are standout brands for power banks. Anker is known for its high-quality builds and reliable performance, while Belkin offers sleek designs with plenty of handy features. Both are great choices that won't let you down. How do I choose a good power bank? Think about how you'll use it. If you're always out and about, go for something small and easy to carry. But if you need serious power, pick one with a higher mAh. It's also worth checking for fast charging, extra ports, and whether it works with your devices. Features like wireless charging or MagSafe can be a real bonus too. Should I get a 10,000mAh or a 20,000mAh power bank? It depends on how you use your devices. A 10,000mAh power bank is small and easy to carry, and it'll give most phones one or two full charges, which is perfect for daily use. If you're heading off on a trip or want to charge bigger gadgets like tablets or laptops, a 20,000mAh one is a better bet, it's a bit chunkier, but it'll keep you going for longer. How do you charge a power bank? Most portable chargers come with their own cable to charge the power bank itself. You'll usually see little lights that show how much charge it has, and the best ones have a clear display that tells you exactly how much battery is left. If your power bank supports fast charging, using a high-wattage wall plug can give it a much quicker boost. Can you take a power bank on an aeroplane? Yes, but it has to go in your hand luggage, not in checked bags. Most airlines are fine with power banks under 100 watts (around 20,000mAh), which covers most models. If you're not sure, it's always worth checking with your airline before you fly. Which is better wireless charger or a power bank? It depends on where you're using it, with a wireless charger is brilliant for home or office setups, keeping things cable-free. A power bank, on the other hand, is a must-have for charging on the go. If you want the best of both, look for a power bank that supports wireless charging alongside a wired connection. How long does it take for power banks to charge? It depends on the size and what charger you're using. Smaller ones (like 10,000mAh) usually take three to five hours, while bigger ones (like 20,000mAh) can take anywhere between six to 10 hours.
Geeky Gadgets
17 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Set Up New Mac with iPhone or iPad (Step-by-Step Guide)
Setting up a new Mac can be a seamless experience, especially if you already own an iPhone or iPad. Apple's ecosystem is designed to simplify the process, allowing you to transfer your Apple account, preferences, and settings directly to your Mac. By using proximity-based technology, Bluetooth, and Apple's integrated features, you can ensure your devices are synchronized efficiently. Follow these steps in the video below from Apple to set up your Mac quickly and effectively. Watch this video on YouTube. Prepare Your Devices for a Smooth Setup Before starting the setup process, it's important to prepare your devices to ensure everything works as intended. Proper preparation minimizes potential issues and streamlines the connection between your Mac and your iPhone or iPad. Here's what you need to do: Update your iPhone or iPad: Ensure your device is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Compatibility is crucial for smooth communication between devices. Ensure your device is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Compatibility is crucial for smooth communication between devices. Enable Bluetooth: Turn on Bluetooth on both your Mac and your iPhone or iPad. This is essential for establishing a connection. Turn on Bluetooth on both your Mac and your iPhone or iPad. This is essential for establishing a connection. Place the devices close together: Proximity is key for pairing. Keep your iPhone or iPad near your Mac during the setup process. Taking these steps ensures that your devices are ready to communicate and transfer data without interruptions. Start the Setup Process When you power on your Mac for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the option to 'Set up with iPhone or iPad.' At this stage, your Mac will automatically search for nearby Apple devices signed in to your Apple ID. Select your iPhone or iPad from the list of detected devices to proceed. Your Mac's ability to detect and connect with your iPhone or iPad is a testament to Apple's focus on creating a cohesive user experience. This step eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. Authenticate and Establish a Secure Connection Once your Mac detects your iPhone or iPad, you'll need to authenticate the connection. Your iPhone or iPad will prompt you to confirm the pairing request. Depending on your device, you can use one of the following methods to authenticate: Face ID: Use facial recognition to confirm the connection. Use facial recognition to confirm the connection. Touch ID: Authenticate using your fingerprint. Authenticate using your fingerprint. Passcode: Enter your device's passcode for verification. This authentication step ensures that only authorized users can transfer their Apple account and settings to the new Mac. It adds an extra layer of security while maintaining ease of use. Use Camera-Based Scanning for Pairing After authentication, your Mac will display a unique animation on the screen. Open the camera on your iPhone or iPad and align it with the animation. This scanning process is similar to how you pair AirPods or other Apple devices. It establishes a secure and encrypted connection between your Mac and your iPhone or iPad. This innovative pairing method not only simplifies the process but also ensures that your data is transferred securely. The use of camera-based scanning highlights Apple's commitment to combining convenience with robust security measures. Transfer Your Preferences and Configure Settings Once the connection is established, your Mac will automatically transfer your Apple account details, including your Apple ID, iCloud settings, and other preferences. You'll then have the opportunity to customize additional features to suit your needs. Key configuration options include: Accessibility tools: Adjust features like screen magnification, voice control, and text-to-speech to make your Mac more user-friendly. Adjust features like screen magnification, voice control, and text-to-speech to make your Mac more user-friendly. System preferences: Personalize settings such as display options, keyboard preferences, and trackpad gestures to match your workflow. This step ensures that your Mac is tailored to your preferences, providing a consistent and familiar experience across all your Apple devices. Create and Link Your User Account The next step involves creating a user account on your Mac. This account will be linked to your Apple ID, granting you access to essential services like iCloud, the App Store, and Apple Music. During this process, you'll also need to review and accept Apple's terms and conditions. Once your user account is set up, your Mac will be fully configured with your Apple account, preferences, and accessibility settings. This integration allows you to start using your Mac immediately, with all your data and settings already in place. The Benefits of Apple's Ecosystem Integration Setting up your Mac using your iPhone or iPad demonstrates the advantages of Apple's tightly integrated ecosystem. This approach offers several key benefits: Efficiency: The setup process is faster and more intuitive compared to manual configuration. The setup process is faster and more intuitive compared to manual configuration. Consistency: Your preferences, Apple ID, and settings are seamlessly transferred, making sure a unified experience across devices. Your preferences, Apple ID, and settings are seamlessly transferred, making sure a unified experience across devices. Security: Features like Face ID, Touch ID, and camera-based scanning protect your data while simplifying the setup process. Apple's ecosystem integration is designed to enhance user convenience while maintaining high standards of security and reliability. This approach reflects the company's commitment to creating a cohesive and user-friendly environment for its customers. Advance your skills in Mac setup with iPhone or iPad by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: Apple Support Filed Under: Apple, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
