Latest news with #NotesApp
CNET
7 days ago
- CNET
Keep Your Private Conversations Secret With Your iPhone Notes App
I spend a lot of time on my iPhone. Like most people, it's how I communicate with friends and family. However, as technology has progressed, keeping certain conversations private has become more difficult. There are times I want to talk about something personal or plan a surprise party for a friend, and in those cases I want to ensure nobody else can see what I'm saying. I used to think I needed a special app for private chats, but then I found a super simple workaround -- the iPhone Notes app. Yep, that basic little app turns out to be a great way to message someone quietly without downloading anything new. Signal and WhatsApp are solid for privacy, but sometimes the best tools are the ones already sitting on your home screen. The built-in Notes app for iOS is a secret weapon for private conversations. It's always fun to use an app in an unintended way -- almost like you're bending the rules. But everything you need is built in, making it a simple way to have private conversations. We'll lay it all out for you below. For more iOS tips, check out the new features in iOS 17.5 and how easy it is to view and copy Wi-Fi passwords on your iPhone or iPad. Create a note in the Notes app On your iPhone, launch the Notes app, and tap the compose button on the bottom right to create a new note. Next, type anything into the note to keep it, or else it'll automatically be deleted when you exit from the note. You can also just go into an existing note, but it's better to start fresh with a new one. First, create a new note or go into an existing one. Nelson Aguilar/CNET Adjust your note's share options to add collaborators Once your note is up and ready to go, you can begin the process of adding another person as a collaborator, which means they can read and edit whatever is in the note. To start, tap the More button on the top right, and then hit Share Note. Now tap Share Options and make sure the Can make changes option is selected under Permission. You should also toggle off Anyone can add people in case you want to be the only person who can add collaborators to your note. Go back to the last page when you're finished configuring these settings. Second, manage what your collaborators can do. Nelson Aguilar/CNET Add people and share the link Next, choose a method to share the note: You can send it via text message, email, social media and more. If you swipe on the share options, you can also select Copy Link, which copies the note link to your clipboard and allows you to paste it wherever you want. For this example, I'll choose the Copy Link option to share the note. At the top of the Copy Link page, enter the email address or phone number of the person you want to access the note. You can also tap the Add icon to search through your contacts. Adding a contact to the note is required. If you share the link without adding a contact, the other person won't be able to see or edit the note, even with the link. Lastly, hit Copy Link to copy the note link to your clipboard and share it with your collaborator. Next, add your collaborator(s). Nelson Aguilar/CNET Send secret messages using Notes The person on the receiving end must now open the note link and accept the invitation. If they accept, they'll be redirected to the Notes app and to the collaborative note you just created. To communicate, simply type something into the note, which the other person will be able to see in real-time without you having to hit send. They'll also receive a notification any time the note is altered. Each person in the note will have a corresponding color appear (only for a moment) so that everyone else knows who typed what. You can also swipe right from the middle of the note to see the name of who wrote the message, as well as a time stamp for when the message was written and any corresponding colors. Now you can secretly communicate with your friends or family. Nelson Aguilar/CNET You can also tap the Share Note button (with the check mark icon), go to Manage Shared Note and then toggle on Highlight All Changes. That way, all messages will stay permanently highlighted in their corresponding color, making it easier to read the conversation. If you want to keep your communications more low-key, delete your message or the other person's message to strike it from the note. That way your conversation is more like it would be on Snapchat, with ephemeral or short-lived messages that outsiders can't see if they snoop through your notes. You can do this with any text in the notes, as well as photos, videos, links, drawings or any other attachments you add to the note. Delete your secret chat for good Not all secret conversations can go on forever, so it's time now to end it. If you're the owner of the note and want to keep the note intact for everyone but prevent them from editing it, you can easily do so. On the top right, tap the View Participants button and then hit Manage Shared Note. To remove a participant, you can either swipe left on their name and then hit Remove or you can tap on their name and then tap Remove Access. To end the conversation, remove any collaborators or stop sharing the note. Nelson Aguilar/CNET Additionally, you can tap the Stop Sharing option, which will not only remove participants from the note but also delete the note from all of their devices. If you're not the owner of the note, you can just delete the note from the Notes application. For more tech tips, don't miss how to save money by borrowing an Airtag for travel and the two settings to change on your iPhone to go to sleep faster.
Geeky Gadgets
26-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Beyond the Obvious: 20 Hidden Gems in iOS 26 Beta 2
Apple's iOS 26 Beta 2 introduces a variety of hidden features and subtle improvements designed to enhance usability and functionality. Whether you're browsing the web, managing files, or customizing your device, this update delivers thoughtful refinements aimed at improving your overall experience. Below is a detailed look at the most notable changes that make this update stand out in a new video from iReviews. Watch this video on YouTube. Safari Gets Smarter Browsing the web has become more intuitive with the addition of forward and backward buttons in Safari. These buttons, conveniently located at the bottom of the browser, improve accessibility and streamline navigation. This enhancement extends to third-party apps as well, making sure a consistent user experience across platforms. Whether you're revisiting a previous page or exploring new content, this feature simplifies your browsing journey. Notes App Adapts to Your Workflow The Notes app now features dynamic toolbars that adjust based on the content you're working on. This adaptive design minimizes distractions, allowing you to focus on tasks such as writing, organizing, or brainstorming with greater efficiency. By tailoring the toolbar to your current activity, the app ensures that the tools you need are always within reach, enhancing productivity. Files App Adds Personalization The Files app has received a subtle yet impactful update, including a purple shader for its icon. More importantly, users can now customize folder color tints to match their home screen themes. This added layer of personalization not only makes file management more engaging but also creates a visually cohesive experience. Whether you're organizing work documents or personal files, this feature allows you to tailor the app to your preferences. Live Radio Widget in the Music App Music enthusiasts will appreciate the new live radio widget, which provides quick access to live radio streams directly from the home screen. The widget prominently displays album art or playlist thumbnails, making it easier to engage with your favorite content. This feature ensures that your music experience is both seamless and visually appealing, keeping your favorite stations just a tap away. Seamless eSIM Transfers from Android Switching from Android to iOS has been simplified with a streamlined eSIM transfer process. You can now migrate your eSIM directly through the Settings app, eliminating the need for complex configurations or external tools. This feature makes transitioning between platforms more accessible, reducing the hassle often associated with such changes. iPhone Recovery Without a Computer Recovering your iPhone is now more convenient than ever. With iOS 26 Beta 2, you can use another iOS device or iPad to restore and set up your phone. This feature is particularly useful when you're traveling or away from your computer, providing a flexible solution for device recovery. Whether you're troubleshooting or setting up a new device, this functionality ensures a smoother process. Improved Personal Hotspot Insights The personal hotspot feature now includes dynamic status descriptions that update based on activity. These real-time insights provide a clearer understanding of your hotspot's current state, helping you manage connections more effectively. Whether you're monitoring data usage or checking connection stability, this update offers valuable information at a glance. Refined UI and Visual Tweaks Apple has introduced several subtle yet impactful visual adjustments across the interface. These refinements enhance the overall aesthetic and usability of iOS 26 Beta 2. Key updates include: Enhanced blur effects for widgets and the control center, creating a more polished look. Smoother animations for home screen customization, improving the user experience. Adjusted border radii for UI elements to better align with iPhone screen corners. Black borders around Spotlight search results for improved visibility and focus. These changes reflect Apple's attention to detail, making sure a visually cohesive and user-friendly interface. Messages App Adds Blue Badges Unread messages from unknown senders are now marked with a blue badge, making it easier to identify and manage these conversations. Additionally, conversation details have been simplified to display only relevant categories such as media, links, and files. This update streamlines message management, helping you stay organized and focused on important communications. Order Tracking in Wallet The Wallet app now supports order tracking, allowing you to monitor purchases directly within the app. This feature integrates seamlessly with your payment and delivery information, offering a centralized solution for managing transactions. Whether you're tracking a recent purchase or planning future orders, this functionality adds convenience to your shopping experience. Camera App Brings Back Feature Labels Labels for features like night mode and flashlight have been reintroduced in the Camera app. These labels provide clarity and guidance, making sure you can fully use your camera's capabilities without guesswork. Whether you're capturing photos in low light or adjusting settings, this update makes the process more intuitive. Crash Feedback in Photos If the Photos app crashes, a new popup allows you to report the issue directly to Apple. This feedback mechanism helps the company address bugs more efficiently, improving the app's overall stability. By allowing users to contribute to the refinement process, Apple demonstrates its commitment to delivering a reliable experience. Enhanced Visual Intelligence for Screenshots Visual intelligence for screenshots has been upgraded, making it easier to recognize and interact with elements within captured images. This enhancement adds functionality to a feature many users rely on daily, making sure that screenshots are not only a tool for documentation but also a practical resource for interaction and organization. Why It Matters iOS 26 Beta 2 represents a thoughtful refinement of the iOS experience. From smarter navigation in Safari to customizable icons in the Files app, these updates reflect Apple's commitment to usability and innovation. Whether you're managing files, exploring new music, or recovering your device, these changes are designed to make your interactions smoother, more intuitive, and ultimately more enjoyable. Gain further expertise in iOS 26 Beta 2 Features by checking out these recommendations. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Technology News, 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.
WIRED
22-06-2025
- General
- WIRED
If You're a Sucker For Sticky Notes, the Poppin Sticky Memo Ball Is Art
If a messy desk is a sign of genius, I might be one of the smartest people out there. Everywhere I've worked, whether in an office or my own house, I've begun with the purest of intentions to keep my desk clean and clutter-free, only to weigh the time and energy cost of constantly putting things away just to pull them out again the next day. Spoiler alert: Most of the time, it isn't worth it. One of the biggest, ahem, sticking points in my decluttering process is the sheer number of sticky notes I use. Classic Post-It brand notes, sticky notes shaped like flowers, novelty pads, tape flags—all have a place in my office supply arsenal. I write everything by hand, with a pen. And I mean everything. Not only in my paper planner but also on the sticky notes I have in nearly every room of my house. I have them in the kitchen, in my nightstand, in the car. And I always will, as it's been scientifically proven that writing things down boosts learning and memory, since writing by hand activates more wide-ranging connections in the brain. I love my Notes app as much as anyone else, but if I type something into it that I need to do in the future, I not only have to remember that I did so but also hope I titled it with something searchable. If I write it down on a sticky note, I will not only remember, but I can stick it exactly where I know I'll see it. Doctor's office unexpectedly calling while I'm in another room? Sticky note. Reminder for my husband who's still asleep and doesn't have his phone set to silent, so I can't text him? Sticky note. Sticky notes for my kid. Sticky notes for my friends. Sticky notes in my car, in my garage … It's an infallible system. However, the worst offender of sticky note detritus is by far my workstation. If I receive any kind of actionable instruction, whether it's in a meeting, an email, a Slack message, or via a phone call, it's immediately written down on a sticky note and slapped on my planner or, if longer-range, pinned to the wall above my desk, which is lined with felt bulletin board wall tiles from Amazon and currently looks like the pelt of a disappointing piñata. However, I hadn't really thought much about what those notepads were doing for my space visually until I saw the Poppin' Sticky Memo Ball, the 4.5-inch dodecahedron that looks something like a girly soccer ball but is actually a desk ornament you can put to use. This is the sticky note stack made into decor. Back to School Photograph: Kat Merck The Sticky Memo Ball originated not in a boardroom at 3M, nor in the brains of Romy and Michelle, but at Rochester Institute of Technology. Each year, the STEM-focused school holds a design initiative called Metaproject, pairing companies with RIT students to create products focusing on the theme 'Design Is One,' the official philosophy of the school's Vignelli Center for Design Studies. (Named in honor of Italian designers Lella and Massimo Vignelli, the latter of whom is known for his modernist designs incorporating geometric shapes.)
CNET
21-06-2025
- CNET
This Hidden Trick Can Help Keep Your iPhone's Notes App Organized
Apple announced at its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9 that the next version of the iPhone's operating system will be called iOS 26. The tech giant said iOS 26 will bring a transparent glass design to icons and menus and much more to your iPhone this fall. But when Apple released iOS 18 in September, the company made it easy to keep your Notes app more organized with collapsible sections. Read more: iOS 18 Brings These New Features to Your iPhone There are other ways to keep Notes organized, like with tags, but those usually apply to the whole note and not the content within the note. With collapsible sections, you can keep the content within individual notes organized and tidy so you can easily find what you're looking for. Here's how to create collapsible sections in Notes to keep the app organized. How to create collapsible sections Tap the gray arrows on the left side of the screen to collapse and expand sections. Apple/CNET 1. Open Notes. 2. Tap the new note button — the square with a pen — in the bottom right corner of your screen. 3. Add a title to the note, like weeks of the month. 4. Tap the Aa in the toolbar across the top of your keyboard. You might have to tap the plus (+) sign over the top right corner of your keyboard to open the toolbar. 5. Tap Heading or Subheading to name your sections, like the days of the week. 6. Fill out information under your headings and subheadings. 7. Tap the space just in front of your headings or subheadings, and a down arrow will appear to the left of them. 8. Tap that arrow and everything under the heading or subheading will collapse. It's important to note that headings won't collapse into each other, and same with subheadings and titles. But if you put a subheading under a heading, the subheading can collapse into the heading. And everything will collapse under a title if there's more than one title in a note. Now you can keep your Notes organized and tidy. I've used the feature to keep track of my work week, as well as meetings, that way I can easily look back on what I was working on earlier in the week or remind myself what I have upcoming in the week. For more on iOS 18, here's what you need to know about iOS 18.5 and iOS 18.4. You can also check out our iOS 18 cheat sheet and everything to know about iOS 26.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
McDonald's Officially Confirms Fan-Favorite Snack Wrap is Returning Next Month
McDonald's announced the long-awaited return of its Snack Wrap, set to hit menus nationwide on July 10, 2025, in spicy and ranch varieties. A heartfelt social media post credited fans for the comeback, celebrating years of petitions, tweet streaks, and drive-thru requests. A microsite, The Snack Wrap Files, teases more content to come, including fan emails, behind-the-scenes clips, and promo has heard all of the hundreds, and maybe millions, of fan prayers – and they have officially been answered. On Tuesday, June 3, the fast food giant announced on social media the date that the fan-favorite Snack Wrap will be returning to menus nationwide. The caption of the 16-slide carousel post reads, 'Got emotional typing this. snack wrap is back 07.10.25.' Following the first image, which also showcases the date in all its glory, is a sentimental note from the McDonald's social media manager. 'I don't usually do this, and i didn't run this by brian from legal (sorry brian). but i have something to say. not as mcdonald's but as the person behind the mcdonald's account,' the Notes App screenshots began. 'I once posted, 'social media managers don't control the menu.' as much as i hated admitting it at the time, it's true. i even got a plaque made of it put on my desk. i also don't control the bitcoin price even though you think the McRib is responsible, but i digress.' The note continues, 'Yes, i could post about the Snack Wrap, tease you with tweets like 'bring back____' (knowing exactly what you'd say). And even manifest for its return. but i couldn't bring it back. you know who could bring it back? YOU.' The social media manager went on to write that it was the fans of the menu item – with comments under every social media post, petitions, asks in the drive-thrus, rallies and 100-day-long tweet streaks begging for its return – that influenced the fast food chain to bring the wrap back. 'I cheered you on from behind the screen and made it my mission to never stop fighting for you. i made 486 decks on 'reasons why to bring back the Snack Wrap' (i counted),' the note said. 'You created a movement. A movement so powerful that you finally won.' In the final screenshot of the note, the social media manager mused about how much they love their job and how proud they are to announce the Snack Wrap's return. 'It's the honor of my lifetime to finally say…the Snack Wrap is back. Because of YOU. see you 07.10.25,' the note ends, and leads to the collection of photos and videos of fans professing their love for the food item across social media platforms and to drive-thru operators. The Snack Wrap will return in two flavors, spicy and ranch. The Spicy option delivers the same habanero kick that fans enjoy in the Spicy McCrispy sandwich, whereas the Ranch wrap is rich and savory, with hints of garlic and onion. Along with the announcement, McDonald's released the Snack Wrap Files. The website, which has a countdown in the top-right corner of the screen that's suspiciously counting down to June 9, is a collection of locked folders labeled presumably by each's contents. On the day of the announcement, the only folders unlocked are 'The Fandom,' which houses nearly 30 email requests all requesting the discontinued Snack Wrap; 'BTS' filled with images of the team creating the marketing for the release; and 'Media Materials' that has a Frequently Asked Questions section and a video from McDonald's US President Joe Erlinger. The other notable folders that are expected to be unlocked at a later date include Reaction Clips, Merch Concepts, Internet Emails, Promo Codes, Playlist, Voice Note and Credits. McDonald's first teased the return of the Snack Wrap on X/Twitter back in April. The ominous post on its official account read, '0x.14.2025,' omitting the month. The Snack Wrap originally debuted on McDonald's menus in the U.S. in 2006 before being discontinued in 2016. The fan-favorite item consisted of chicken, shredded lettuce and shredded cheese covered in either ranch or honey mustard, wrapped inside a warm tortilla. Read the original article on People
