Latest news with #JacobsQuickTips
Geeky Gadgets
7 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.
Geeky Gadgets
31-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
How to Customise iMessage Backgrounds (iOS 26 Public Beta)
Apple's iOS 26 public beta introduces an exciting new feature: the ability to customize iMessage chat backgrounds. This update transforms the messaging experience by allowing users to personalize their conversations with animated visuals, AI-generated images, and interactive elements. Whether you prefer pre-designed themes or want to create something entirely unique, this feature offers a range of tools to make your chats more engaging and visually appealing. Below is a detailed videoo from Jacob's QuickTips to help you explore and use this functionality effectively. Watch this video on YouTube. Getting Started with Background Customization Customizing your iMessage background is straightforward and intuitive. Follow these steps to begin: Open an iMessage conversation and tap the recipient's name at the top of the chat window. From the dropdown menu, select the new 'Backgrounds' option. option. Access the customization interface, where you can preview and apply changes in real time. The customization interface is designed with user-friendliness in mind, allowing you to explore various options such as preset themes, personal uploads, and AI-generated designs. The real-time preview feature ensures that you can see exactly how your chosen background will appear before finalizing your selection. Exploring Preset Background Categories Apple has curated a diverse collection of preset background categories to suit different moods, styles, and preferences. These categories include: Sky: Features drifting clouds and serene skies, perfect for a calming atmosphere. Features drifting clouds and serene skies, perfect for a calming atmosphere. Aurora: Showcases vibrant, dynamic light displays inspired by the northern lights. Showcases vibrant, dynamic light displays inspired by the northern lights. Water: Offers tranquil underwater scenes with flowing waves and aquatic visuals. Offers tranquil underwater scenes with flowing waves and aquatic visuals. Colour: Provides bold, animated color gradients for a modern and energetic vibe. Each category includes dynamic, animated visuals that add depth and movement to your chats. These presets are ideal for users who want visually stunning backgrounds without the need for extensive customization. Creating Custom Backgrounds For those seeking a more personalized touch, iOS 26 allows you to create custom backgrounds using your own images or Apple's AI-powered tools. Here's how you can make your iMessage interface truly unique: Upload Photos: Select images from your device to use as chat backgrounds. This option lets you incorporate personal memories, favorite visuals, or meaningful artwork into your conversations. Select images from your device to use as chat backgrounds. This option lets you incorporate personal memories, favorite visuals, or meaningful artwork into your conversations. AI-Generated Designs: Use Apple's 'Image Playgrounds' tool to create custom backgrounds. Simply enter a text prompt, such as 'sunset over the mountains' or 'city skyline at night,' and the AI will generate a unique design tailored to your description. These customization options empower users to express their individuality and creativity, making sure that every chat feels personal and distinctive. Interactive Animations One of the standout features of this update is the introduction of interactive backgrounds. Unlike static visuals, these backgrounds respond dynamically to user interactions, adding a layer of immersion to your chats. For example: Sending a reaction, such as a heart or thumbs-up, can trigger ripples, shimmering effects, or other animations in the background. Background animations adapt to the flow of the conversation, creating a seamless and engaging experience. This feature enhances the visual and interactive aspects of iMessage, making conversations more dynamic and enjoyable. Customizing Group Chats The background customization feature is not limited to individual chats; it extends to group conversations as well. Here's what you need to know about customizing group chat backgrounds: When a background is applied to a group chat, all participants will see the changes, making sure a cohesive and unified visual experience. Only the group admin has the authority to modify the background settings, maintaining consistency and preventing conflicts among participants. This functionality ensures that group chats remain visually harmonious while still allowing for creative expression. Reverting to Default Backgrounds If you decide to return to the standard iMessage appearance, reverting to the default background is simple and quick: Navigate to the 'Backgrounds' menu within the customization interface. menu within the customization interface. Select the 'None' option to remove any applied backgrounds and restore the default look. This option provides flexibility, allowing you to experiment with different designs while retaining the ability to reset your chat interface whenever desired. Enhancing Your Messaging Experience The iOS 26 public beta's iMessage background customization feature represents a significant enhancement to the messaging experience. With options ranging from preset themes to AI-generated designs and interactive animations, it caters to a wide array of user preferences. The ability to customize group chats further expands its appeal, making sure a unified and visually engaging experience for all participants. Whether you're looking to add a personal touch, explore creative visuals, or simply make your conversations more dynamic, this feature provides the tools to transform your iMessage interface into a platform that reflects your style and personality. Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in iMessage background customization. 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.
