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CNET
18 hours ago
- CNET
I Finally Cleared Out My Duplicate iPhone Photos. It Was Weirdly Therapeutic
My iPhone Photos app slowly crept past the point of being fun to scroll. Trips, pet videos, burst shots and a mountain of screenshots kept chewing through storage until the "iPhone storage almost full" alert became routine. I wanted a win I could see right away without paying for another app or more iCloud space. It was like playing the free storage lottery. The Photos app ended up being the fix I was searching for. On iOS 16 or newer, a Duplicates album gathers identical shots so you can merge or delete them in batches. I opened it out of curiosity and cleared dozens of lookalikes from the same vacation album. The storage bar moved. Backups felt faster. Browsing the camera roll stopped lagging. If your iPhone is packed with copies of the same photo, start there. Open Photos, tap Albums, find Duplicates under Utilities, then merge or delete. Removing duplicate photos frees up space quickly and turns cleanup into a simple, focused task that also surfaces memories you forgot you saved. For more, check out every new feature we're expecting Apple to drop with iOS 26 this fall. Remove duplicate photos and videos to get more storage on your iPhone. Screenshots by Jeff Carlson/CNET Apple introduced its "duplicate detection" feature in 2022 and it works just as its name suggests. The tool uses on-device AI to identify identical images and aggregate them in an easy-to-find album in the Photos app. Apple says the iPhone classifies duplicates not only as exact copies but also as photos that appear to be the same but have unique resolutions, file formats or other slight differences. That includes lower-resolution versions you may have saved to share on social media or even bursts of near-identical shots taken at the same time. Here's how to use the iPhone's built-in tool to free up storage space: 1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone. 2. Scroll down to the Utilities section and tap Duplicates. This is where you can view all the duplicate photos on your iPhone and delete them, either individually or at once. 3. If you want to delete all the duplicates at once, tap the Select button, and then tap Select All. You can also remove them in groups of two or more: Tap Select in the top right corner and then tap the Select button to the right of the pairs. Next, tap Merge [number] to merge all the duplicate photos your iPhone detects and send them to the trash. 4. If you want to delete duplicates individually, tap the Merge button that appears next to each pair. Then tap Merge [number] Copies to delete duplicates. Go down the line and repeat this step for all the identical photos you want to delete. Merging keeps the best version of the photo in your library. The duplicates are moved to the Recently Deleted album. If you found this iOS feature helpful, check out CNET's cheat sheet for iOS 18. For more advice on how to save space, read our full list of tips for clearing your iPhone's storage.
Stuff.tv
5 days ago
- Stuff.tv
Why you need to download iOS 18.6 to your iPhone right now
The latest iPhone software update is now out. No we're not talking about the upcoming iOS 26 (and no, the next one isn't iOS 19). Instead, I'm talking about the latest update to the current generation of Apple's smartphone software – iOS 18.6. This update is an interim one, but it serves a crucial purpose. Namely, it solves 24 critical security flaws and downloading it will keep your phone secure. So don't delay updating! You can see exactly which security flaws have been fixed in the update over at Apple Support if you're interested. As usual, Apple acknowledges the help of those who have reported the flaws on that page. The fixes vary in severity, but all are classed as critical, which means they needed to be fixed in fairly short order. One covers an issue where your passcode could have been read aloud by the VoiceOver accessibility tech. Others cover things like 'maliciously crafted web content may disclose sensitive user information' and 'visiting a malicious website may lead to address bar spoofing'. In short, you need these things fixed. There is one 'feature fix' and that is for the Photos app – it solves a problem where memory movies weren't able to be shared with others. Apple's free iOS 18.6 update is free and rolling out now to all compatible iPhones. The update is also available for the iPad lineup in the form of iPadOS 18.6 – you can also check if your iPad is compatible. To download the update, go to o to Settings > General > Software Update. After a few seconds, the update should appear and you can choose to Update Now or Update Tonight. Depending on your Wi-Fi speed, it'll probably take somewhere in the region of 10 minutes to download it and do the install.
Geeky Gadgets
5 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26's New Battery Feature: How to Check Charging Time
iOS 26 introduces a significant enhancement for iPhone users: charging time estimates. This feature provides precise information on how long it will take to charge your device to both 80% and 100%, whether you're using a MagSafe charger or a Lightning cable. Accessible through the Battery section of the Settings app, this tool enables you to make smarter charging decisions, helping to extend your battery's lifespan and optimize daily usage. By offering clear and actionable insights, iOS 26 ensures that managing your iPhone's power becomes more intuitive and efficient. The video below from Jacob's QuickTips gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. How iPhone Batteries Charge: The Basics Understanding the mechanics of your iPhone's lithium-ion battery is essential to appreciating the value of this new feature. Charging occurs in two distinct phases: Phase 1: Fast Charging to 80% – During this stage, the battery receives a high current, allowing it to charge rapidly. This phase is designed to provide a quick boost when your battery is low. – During this stage, the battery receives a high current, allowing it to charge rapidly. This phase is designed to provide a quick boost when your battery is low. Phase 2: Slower Charging to 100% – After reaching 80%, the charging process slows down significantly. This is a deliberate measure to prevent overheating and preserve the long-term health of your battery. The second phase, which focuses on topping off the battery, takes longer than the initial fast-charging phase. iOS 26 uses this knowledge by offering separate time estimates for each stage, allowing you to decide whether to unplug early or wait for a full charge based on your needs. MagSafe Charging: Enhanced Transparency For users of MagSafe chargers, iOS 26 integrates charging time estimates directly into the interface. MagSafe technology ensures a secure connection and efficient charging, and now you can see exactly how long it will take to reach 80% or 100%. This added transparency makes MagSafe charging more practical and user-friendly. This feature is particularly beneficial for planning your day. For example, if you notice that your iPhone will reach 80% in 20 minutes while you're preparing for work, you can adjust your schedule accordingly. By providing this level of detail, iOS 26 caters to the fast-paced demands of modern life, making sure that you can manage your time effectively while keeping your device powered. Cable Charging: Speed and Precision For those who prefer cable charging, iOS 26 offers the same level of detailed insights. When using a Lightning cable, charging time estimates are displayed in the Battery section of the Settings app, allowing you to monitor the process with precision. Cable charging often provides faster speeds compared to wireless options, especially when paired with a high-wattage adapter. With iOS 26, you can maximize this efficiency by planning your charging sessions more effectively. For instance, if you need a quick boost before heading out, you can determine whether cable charging will meet your needs within the available time. This feature ensures that you can make the most of your charging setup, whether you're at home, in the office, or on the go. Centralized Insights in the Settings App The Battery section of the Settings app serves as a centralized hub for all charging-related information. This integration provides a comprehensive view of your device's power usage and charging habits. Within this section, you can: View detailed charging time estimates for both 80% and 100%, helping you plan your charging sessions more effectively. for both 80% and 100%, helping you plan your charging sessions more effectively. Monitor your battery's health and performance metrics, making sure that your device operates at peak efficiency. and performance metrics, making sure that your device operates at peak efficiency. Access optimization settings designed to enhance battery longevity, such as allowing optimized charging to reduce wear over time. By consolidating these features in one place, iOS 26 simplifies battery management, making it easier to adopt habits that preserve your device's lifespan while making sure you always have the power you need. 80% vs. 100%: Making Informed Choices One of the most practical aspects of iOS 26's charging time estimates is its emphasis on the difference between charging to 80% and 100%. For most users, charging to 80% is sufficient for a full day of use, thanks to the energy efficiency of modern iPhones. Charging to 100%, while sometimes necessary, takes longer and can contribute to battery wear over time. By clearly displaying the time required for each stage, iOS 26 helps you make informed decisions. For example, if you're in a rush and see that reaching 80% will take 15 minutes while 100% will take 45 minutes, you can opt for the faster option without compromising your device's performance. This level of insight encourages smarter charging habits, ultimately extending the lifespan of your battery and making sure that your iPhone remains reliable throughout the day. Smarter Charging with iOS 26 The charging time estimation feature in iOS 26 represents a thoughtful addition to Apple's suite of battery management tools. By providing clear and actionable insights, it enables you to optimize your charging habits, extend your battery's lifespan, and make the most of your device. Whether you're using a MagSafe charger, a Lightning cable, or exploring the Battery section of the Settings app, this feature ensures that managing your iPhone's power is both intuitive and efficient. With iOS 26, staying informed about your battery's status has never been more straightforward, allowing you to stay connected and productive with ease. Unlock more potential in iOS 26 battery charging time by reading previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Jacob's QuickTips for iPhone 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.
CNET
5 days ago
- CNET
You Can Change Your iPhone's Default Alert Sound in a Few Easy Steps
Changing app alert tones is a great way to help you distinguish between notifications on your iPhone. You'll know if you're receiving a text or an email without taking your iPhone out of your pocket. While it was always possible to change tones for certain iPhone apps and alerts, you couldn't change the device's general alert notification until Apple released iOS 17.2 in 2023. After the release of iOS 17, iPhone users complained online about Apple changing the default alert tone. Some said the new alert tone wasn't loud enough to wake them up if their security system went off, and one person said they relied on an older tone to alert them about care responsibilities for their parents. Now, you can change the default tone to better suit your needs. Here's how to change your iPhone's default notification tone. Easily change your default alert tone 1. Open Settings. 2. Tap Sounds & Haptics. 3. Tap Default Alerts. From Default Alerts, you can preview and select familiar-sounding alerts, like Tri-tone, or explore older tones (like Bell) by tapping Classic near the bottom of the menu. You can also choose None, which will silence your alert tone but leave your haptic alert (the vibration pattern for an alert) on. Don't want any default alert tone? You can choose None. Screenshot by Zach McAuliffe/CNET You can also change your haptic alerts if you want. How to change your haptic alert tone 1. Open Settings. 2. Tap Sounds & Haptics. 3. Tap Default Alerts. 4. Tap Haptics. From this menu, you can choose vibration patterns like Accent (a short, single vibration) or SOS, which vibrates SOS in Morse code. If you choose Synchronized, your haptics and alert tone will work in tandem. If you don't want a vibration, you can choose None. There's also an option to create a custom vibration pattern. Tap Create New Vibration in the Haptics menu, and you'll be taken to a screen that reads, "Tap to create a vibration pattern." You can tap quickly on your screen to make a short vibration pattern or press and hold to make a longer, single vibration. When you're finished, tap Save, then name your pattern and it automatically gets selected as your default alert haptic. For more on iOS 26, here are my first impressions of the iOS version, how to reduce the Liquid Glass effects on your iPhone and all the new features Apple said it will bring to your device later this year.
Geeky Gadgets
5 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Get Your Old MacBook Pro Running The Latest Apple MacOS
Can a laptop from over a decade ago still keep up with today's tech demands? It might sound improbable, but a 2009 MacBook Pro has been successfully revived to run macOS Sonoma, Apple's latest operating system. This transformation is more than a nostalgic experiment—it's a testament to the resilience of older hardware and the ingenuity of modern refurbishing techniques. However, the journey wasn't without hurdles. From sourcing compatible parts to navigating software restrictions, this project reveals both the potential and the challenges of breathing new life into aging devices. For anyone who's ever wondered if their old tech is truly obsolete, this story offers a surprising answer. Hugh JeffreysHugh Jeffreys explains how a neglected laptop, once deemed a relic, was carefully upgraded and modified to meet modern standards. From installing an SSD and upgrading RAM to overcoming software compatibility issues with tools like OpenCore, every step of the process reflects a blend of technical skill and creative problem-solving. But does the refurbished MacBook Pro truly hold up in a world of sleek, innovative devices? And what lessons can be drawn from its performance? Whether you're curious about the limits of legacy hardware or inspired to tackle your own restoration project, this exploration offers insights that might just change how you view old technology. Reviving an Old MacBook Older laptops like this MacBook Pro are often discarded, deemed relics of a bygone era with little practical use. This particular device was acquired at no cost, but its condition reflected years of neglect. The laptop exhibited significant physical damage, including missing components and internal issues such as a broken hard drive bracket and signs of moisture exposure. These problems created a daunting starting point for refurbishment, requiring both technical expertise and resourcefulness to overcome. Hardware Upgrades: Restoring Functionality To prepare the MacBook Pro for modern use, several critical hardware upgrades were implemented: SSD Installation: The outdated hard drive was replaced with a solid-state drive (SSD), significantly improving storage speed and reliability. The outdated hard drive was replaced with a solid-state drive (SSD), significantly improving storage speed and reliability. RAM Upgrade: The memory was expanded to the device's maximum capacity of 8GB, allowing smoother performance when running contemporary software. The memory was expanded to the device's maximum capacity of 8GB, allowing smoother performance when running contemporary software. Structural Repairs: Missing screws were replaced, and the battery indicator was repaired to restore the laptop's physical integrity. Sourcing compatible parts for a device of this age required patience and precision. Despite these challenges, the upgrades were essential to breathe new life into the laptop and prepare it for the demands of macOS Sonoma. Running macOS Sonoma On An Old MacBook Pro from 2009 Watch this video on YouTube. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on Apple macOS Sonoma that you might find useful. Software Challenges: Installing macOS Sonoma Running macOS Sonoma on unsupported hardware presented unique software challenges. Using OpenCore, a macOS patching tool, Apple's restrictions were bypassed, allowing the latest operating system to function on this legacy device. However, the process was far from straightforward: Installation Issues: During the initial setup, the internal keyboard and trackpad were unresponsive, complicating the installation process. During the initial setup, the internal keyboard and trackpad were unresponsive, complicating the installation process. Post-Installation Adjustments: Additional tweaks were required to restore full functionality after the operating system was installed. While OpenCore proved invaluable in allowing macOS Sonoma to run, it introduced ongoing maintenance requirements. Each macOS update necessitates reapplying patches, adding complexity to the system's upkeep. Performance: Strengths and Weaknesses Once refurbished, the MacBook Pro delivered a mix of surprising functionality and noticeable limitations. For basic tasks such as web browsing and light productivity applications, the laptop performed admirably. However, its age became apparent in other areas: Graphical Limitations: Occasional graphical glitches highlighted the constraints of the older hardware. Occasional graphical glitches highlighted the constraints of the older hardware. Reduced Speeds: Video playback and Wi-Fi performance were slower compared to modern devices, reflecting the technological gap. Despite these drawbacks, the refurbished MacBook Pro demonstrated that aging technology can still serve practical purposes with the right upgrades and modifications. Practical Constraints and Lessons Learned While the project successfully extended the lifespan of the MacBook Pro, it also underscored the limitations of working with legacy devices: Maintenance Complexity: Reapplying OpenCore patches after every macOS update adds an ongoing layer of technical maintenance. Reapplying OpenCore patches after every macOS update adds an ongoing layer of technical maintenance. Compatibility Issues: Attempts to install Windows 11 as an alternative operating system failed, highlighting the challenges of running newer software on older hardware. Attempts to install Windows 11 as an alternative operating system failed, highlighting the challenges of running newer software on older hardware. Performance Limitations: While adequate for basic tasks, the laptop struggles with resource-intensive applications and multitasking, making it unsuitable for demanding workflows. These challenges serve as a reminder that while older hardware can be revitalized, it cannot fully match the capabilities of modern devices. Insights from the Refurbishment Process The successful revival of a 2009 MacBook Pro to run macOS Sonoma highlights the potential of extending the life of aging technology. By combining thoughtful hardware upgrades with strategic software modifications, outdated devices can be transformed into functional tools for everyday use. However, it is essential to approach such projects with realistic expectations. While this refurbished MacBook Pro stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness required to adapt legacy hardware, it also emphasizes the unavoidable constraints of older technology. Media Credit: Hugh Jeffreys Filed Under: Apple, Guides, Top News 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.
