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Join me on my journey as I share my insights and experiences on all things Apple, Business and Entrepreneurship!

Product-reviews

2018

What is the Managed App Store & Why you need it

--- Many people discount the importance of running app level updates on your computers. Programs like Chrome, Firefox and Adobe Creative Suite all have built it update utilities that will look for and apply critical security and functional updates from their respective development teams. Part of the job of software vendors is providing quality assurance meaning they are testing their software to make sure that it is stable and usable for their users. However little is known about how each vendor actually tests their software. Many only test on newer...

Moment Helps You Gauge Your iPhone Use

Smartphone addiction is real. Do you check your iPhone before you get out of bed? During family dinners? Right before you go to sleep? Constantly during the day even when you’re on vacation? If you—or your family members—feel that you're disappearing into your phone too often or at inappropriate times, it may be time to do something about it. Consider how this behavior affects your relationships and daily routines – are you missing out on quality time with loved ones or neglecting responsibilities because of your phone use?

Block Telemarketing Calls Automatically on Your iPhone

Junk calls are one of the great annoyances of the modern world. You're minding your own business when your iPhone vibrates in your pocket. You pull it out, curious as to who's calling, but don't recognize the number. You may notice that it's in the same exchange as your phone number, suggesting that it's a neighbor. Often these calls are nothing more than automated messages or telemarketers trying to sell you something.

HomePod Preorders Begin, Smart Speaker Ships Feb 9

Apple has started preorders for its new HomePod as of yesterday. Priced at $349, the audio accessory focuses on delivering high-quality sound, offers integration with Siri's AI capabilities, and provides access to Apple Music's vast library of 45 million songs. The device is designed to work seamlessly within existing Apple ecosystems, allowing users to control it with their iPhone or iPad.

Move your Photos library to an External drive

Sometimes whether it is for backup purposes or for hosting, you will want to move your photos stored in your Apple Photos application library on your Mac to an external drive instead of the startup boot drive. This can help free up space and reduce clutter on your main drive. Making the change is simpler than you think, as long as you follow a few straightforward steps.

Does your iPhone battery need to be replaced?

Earlier this week we reported that Apple had acknowledged some iPhones are being throttled to prevent unexpected shutdowns. This admission came after a class-action lawsuit was filed against the company, alleging that it intentionally slowed down older devices to encourage users to upgrade to newer models. See our previous post for more information on this development.

2017

High Sierra using APFS breaks Boot Camp switching

If like me you use the Boot Camp Control panel in Windows to restart your Mac into High Sierra and you are using an SSD drive for High Sierra, you may or may not notice that you can no longer choose your Macintosh startup disk in the Boot Camp Control Panel in Windows. This change is likely due to a limitation in the integration between Boot Camp and High Sierra on an SSD, but I haven't been able to find any official documentation confirming this.

High Sierra has some new features for the mail App

Just like Spotlight, the Mail App now supports natural language search. If that phrase leaves you stumped, it means you can search using a more natural way, such as using "from Jon last week" instead of specifically searching for "jon@gmail.com" on 11/13/2017. This allows you to type in your searches without having to worry about the exact format or syntax, making it easier to find what you're looking for.

Apple Pay Now Offers Cash Option

With the introduction of Apple Pay Cash, Apple makes it easy to have quick person-to-person money transfers, similar to apps like Square Cash or Venmo. This feature allows users to send and receive money directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch, eliminating the need for intermediaries. The feature is now available for beta testers in the US via iOS 11.2 and watchOS 4.2.

How to Remove System Preference Menu Options

System Preferences (gear icon) on your Mac offers easy ways to customize menu options to access important settings on your computer. The menu has built-in items to adjust your computer’s operating system from its appearance to energy settings, network connectivity and more. It can also contain third-party icons from third-party software or hardware. You can remove any of these items from System Preferences at any time. Additionally, you can reorder the items in the menu to suit your preferences, allowing for a more streamlined interface.

Pro photo editing in Photos App

Most of you that use Photos on your Mac will likely use it to download or upload your photos and videos from your iDevice (iPads and iPhones) and maybe even utilize some of the advanced features for sorting, filtering, and organizing your collection. You may also be familiar with Smart Albums, which can help streamline your workflow: see /blog/photos-smart-albums/

Managed App Updates for Macintosh Computers

I have been using Macintosh computers for a long time. As long as I can remember it's always been said that Macintosh computers are not vulnerable to malicious intent. While malware, spyware, and now ransomware plague the Windows and Linux landscape, Mac has always been a trusted alternative. In fact, Apple themselves highlighted this very sentiment during their "I'm a Mac" commercial campaign, which ran many years ago, showcasing the perceived security benefits of choosing a Mac over other platforms.

iOS 11.1.1 is here

This latest iOS update addresses a specific issue where the letter "I" is occasionally replaced with another character, resulting in unexpected text entry. See our previous blog for more information on this problem and how it has been resolved. The update aims to provide a stable and reliable typing experience for users.

I am therefor ¿Æ am

At the end of last week Apple's support forum was lit up by users complaining of the letter "I" mysteriously being replaced with another character. This bug affected iPhones, iPads, and the iPod touch, causing frustration for those who relied on their devices to communicate effectively. The issue seemed to appear out of nowhere, leaving many wondering what could be causing it.

Apple Stores Get Major Redesign from Retail Chief

While retail as a whole has taken a major hit with well known chains like Macy's cutting jobs and closing stores, others declaring bankruptcy and many shoppers turning to Amazon increasingly, Apple has chosen to reinvest in retail. 2015 was a difficult year for iPhone sales in the U.S., with only 11% of Americans buying new phones at Apple Stores, and the majority of consumers going directly to their telecommunication providers, usually with low-cost leasing deals tied to longer contracts. Apple's primary sales have been direct through their website, second...

With iOS11, Freeing Up Space on your iPhone is Easier

Apple's latest software release, iOS 11, is available for download via the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Once installed, it offers a quick way to free up space now on your iPhone or iPad via suggested options. You can find these suggestions by navigating to the Settings app (black gears on gray background icon), where you'll be presented with easy-to-follow recommendations to help declutter your device.

Wi-Fi No Hardware Installed?

--- Sometimes Mac users have run into an unexpected snafu where they realize they cannot connect to their WiFi and get an error message ‘Wi Fi No Hardware Installed.” This message appears when you click on the Wi-Fi symbol on the upper right of your screen. Most computers today, including desktops are usually connected to the Internet via wireless networking so getting this message can be very frustrating. We all use the Internet for communicating and researching throughout the day. Sharing files and even accessing your email can be impossible...

Doing more with Photos

I've been waiting for this since the original iPhone. You no longer need a third-party app to use a QR code, which is a significant improvement over previous versions. This change will likely be welcomed by many users who have grown accustomed to relying on external apps for this functionality.

How to Use Apple’s Latest Smartphone -- Touch Gestures and Commands

Letting go of the ubiquitous Home button, a constant on the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch since the first iPhone in 2007, is a bold change in the new iPhone X. Over time, this button has gained more functionality. However, in building the new iPhone X with an edge-to-edge OLED display, Apple has eliminated the Home button entirely. How do you use the iPhone X without the Home button? Here’s a quick introduction. You can view Apple’s intro video here.

iOS 11.1 released

The KRACK attack is a hack on wireless networks allowing hackers to decrypt Wi-Fi traffic. This means the hacker can intercept sensitive information, eavesdrop on communications, perform man-in-the-middle attacks, hijack connections, and potentially gain access to secure areas of the network.

Augmented Reality, where does Apple stand?

With the tech industry getting increasingly enthusiastic about Augmented Reality, it's natural to wonder where Apple stands in this emerging field. The company has been relatively quiet on its plans for AR, fueling speculation and curiosity among industry observers. As a result, many are left wondering if Apple will make a significant move into this space or maintain its focus on other areas of innovation.

Making Safari work for you in High Sierra

Or go to Safari > "Settings for this website". A pop-up will then open. These settings will then become the default behavior for the website you are currently viewing every time you visit it with Safari, in this example we are using Apple.com. Note that these changes only apply to the specific website and not to your overall Safari settings.

New Ransomware Attack Alert: BadRabbit

A new strain of ransomware called BadRabbit is spreading through Eastern Europe. Likely created by the same authors as the Petya/Not Petya ransomware outbreak in June, BadRabbit ransomware uses a website to drop a fake Flash update and then drops its payload. The malware is targeting users who visit compromised websites, exploiting vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash to gain access to their systems.

With iOS11, Freeing Up Space on your iPhone is Easier

Apple's latest software release, iOS 11, is available for download via the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Once installed, it offers a quick way to free up space now on your iPhone or iPad via suggested options. You can find these suggestions by navigating to the Settings app (black gears on gray background icon), where you'll be presented with easy-to-follow recommendations to help declutter your device.

Creating your own Control Center

With iOS11 now on your iPhone or iPad, the latest revision to the control center allows you to customize which items are shown and all the controls have been consolidated onto a single screen. The controls are also grouped and organized for easier navigation. Here is how to hit the ground running with the new control center: simply access it by swiping down from the top right corner of your screen, then explore the various options and settings to tailor it to your needs.

Apple Opening Up Ecosystem to Allow Third-Party Development Offers New Growth Potential

Apple is known for having stricter standards than other companies and associated software platforms, both for security reasons and maintaining the company's standards for product development. This approach has been a hallmark of Apple's philosophy since its inception. However, in recent years, the company has opened up its platform and ecosystem increasingly to third-party developers while still maintaining high standards.

Apple Watch Series 3

However, most owners have bemoaned the lack of functionality, citing specific examples such as making calls directly from the Apple WATCH, or streaming music to the device without needing a separate iPhone. Some users have also expressed frustration with the limitations on using third-party apps on the WATCH, which they feel holds it back from reaching its full potential.

Prepare your Mac for High Sierra

High Sierra is now available in the App Store for most Macs from 2009 onwards. If it's not available to you in the App Store, it's likely that this update is not compatible with your Mac. You can check manually on our website to see which models are supported. To confirm, simply visit the support page and look up your specific model to determine if High Sierra is an available update for you.

How to use WiFi Calling

All four major U.S. cellular carriers support Wi-Fi Calling on iPhones. To enable this feature, follow these steps: first, ensure that your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network; then, go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and toggle the switch to "on". Here's how you can turn on this feature on supporting networks.

Why are my Text Messages Blue or Green?

When you text message a friend, family member, or colleague via your iPhone, your text message may appear blue or green. The color indicates the method you've used and also at times, the type of device you are sending to. This distinction is based on how the message was sent: iMessage (blue) uses internet connectivity, while SMS/MMS (green) relies on cellular network signals.

Information about Face Recognition Software

Facial recognition is expected to replace Touch ID in a new 'Face ID' feature available on the OLED iPhone X. This shift marks a significant change from traditional fingerprint scanning, and it's unclear how users will adapt to this new biometric authentication method. The introduction of Face ID suggests that Apple is prioritizing facial recognition technology for its future devices.

Making it safe.

Although macOS is generally considered more secure than most other operating systems, its growing popularity is attracting a larger number of potential threats. As a result, it's essential to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect your system. So long as you keep your system up to date with the latest updates from Apple, most malware can be kept at bay, but this is no guarantee against all types of attacks.

Where does Apple’s cash flow come from?

Being predominantly known for its excellent hardware, it's reasonable to assume that a significant portion of Apple's revenue comes from selling hardware products, such as the Macintosh. The company's focus on designing and manufacturing high-quality devices has contributed to its reputation in this area. As a result, many people associate Apple with its line of computers and other electronic gadgets.

Apple Park, Houses over 12,000 Employees

Earlier this year, Apple announced that its new corporate headquarters, initially referred to as Campus 2, was nearing completion and would be ready to house over 12,000 employees. The project has since been officially renamed Apple Park and is now open for business. Construction continues on adjacent buildings and parklands through the summer, with ongoing work expected to wrap up by the end of the season. View aerial drone footage here.

Parallels 13 released

Parallels 13 has just been released by Parallels International GmbH, one of the major reasons to upgrade will be version 13 is Optimized for macOS High Sierra. This optimization enables seamless integration and compatibility with Apple's latest operating system. Version 13 of Parallels promises faster access to your Windows files up to 47% faster compared with Parallels 12, making it easier than ever to work across platforms.

Quickly free up space on your iPhone or iPad

If you own an iPhone or an iPad you will be well aware of the limitations of your device when it comes to storage and the quantity of data that you are trying to store on it. To make it simpler the iPhone and iPad now have great quality cameras, and it takes a lot of drive space to store these high quality images and videos. Hopefully the new standards (HEVC and HEIF) being adopted with better compression will go some way to resolve this.

The latest films straight into iTunes

Yes please! I can count on one hand the number of times I've been to the cinema in recent years. Getting popcorn without having to make it myself is a nice bonus, but what really appeals to me is the comfort and familiarity of watching a film from my own home. It's just easier that way - no need to worry about finding parking or dealing with crowds, I can simply settle in and enjoy the movie.

Clear Up Your Cache on Your iPhone or iPad & Improve Speed

Downloading the latest apps you love and taking a lot of photographs may soon fill up your iPhone or iPad faster than you intended. Clearing out junk files, unwanted items in your device's cache and files that hog up memory can free up space on your iPhone or iPad and get your devices running faster and smoother than ever. This process is especially important if you're using older models, as cluttered storage can slow them down significantly.

Face Recognition Software Possible in the new iPhone 8

One of the most widely anticipated features in Apple’s new iPhone set to be released this fall is facial recognition, where the iPhone can recognize approaching people quickly. The advanced facial recognition technology is expected to replace existing Touch ID fingerprint scanner, approving quick log-ins and payments as well. The new software is also expected to work with third-party apps similar to TouchID and will recognize multiple faces.

Using Back to My Mac like a Boss

Having a workstation (Desk?) as such is part and parcel of being an IT professional, you need somewhere to keep all of those paper documents for bills and the IRS plus somewhere to keep your USB pen drives, Hard Drives, Printers, 3D printers scanners etc. If like me you’ve opted for a non portable Mac for your day to day office tasks such as writing these articles, then that Mac probably has files that are not practical to make copies of to carry about with you when using your MacBook...

How To Sign a PDF Using Pre-view or QuickLook on Your Mac

For the longest time, in order to sign a document that you had received via email such as a PDF file, you would have to print out the file first, sign it on the dotted line using a pen, scan the document and send it to yourself using a USB flash or email, and then finally send it to your recipient. This process was not only time-consuming but also required a lot of physical effort and materials. A rather long process, isn’t it?

Better Storage, Video and Graphics available in macOS High Sierra

Apple released macOS High Sierra, its latest version of its desktop operating system earlier in June at WWDC in San Jose, CA. The beta version of the software was available to developers to download immediately and now a public version will be available this month at beta.apple.com. The software will be available as a free software update from the Mac App Store this fall. A developer preview is already available for those who want to get started early, but it's recommended that only experienced users attempt to install it.

How To Use Internet Sharing

Click on Sharing and select Internet Sharing. Next, choose Share Your Connection From in the menu that pops up and choose the Internet connection that you want to share. This could be Internet over Ethernet or other options available to you. The specific steps may vary depending on your system configuration, but this general process should apply regardless of the underlying network setup.

Apple’s Testing Autonomous Driving Systems for the Lexus

For a while, it’s been apparent that Apple is developing an autonomous driving system. This is clear from information shared by California's DMV where Apple got a DMV permit to test autonomous driving systems this past April. Apple joined a list of 30 companies that have been granted autonomous car testing permits by the state of California. This list includes automotive manufacturers, automotive suppliers, startups, and tech players, such as Google and Tesla, which have also been actively pursuing autonomous vehicle development.

iPad prices cut, what that means for you

Apple has cut the price of iPads in a bid to increase sales, as such sales are now up over 10% on iPads in 2017 compared with the tail end of 2016. This tactic on reducing iPad prices is the oldest trick in the book with iPad sales flagging in comparison to growing iPhone sales in recent years, however this increase in iPad sales has not increased revenues greatly for Apple as the price cut has hit profit margins.

How to master the Application Switcher is OSX

In this week's how-to, I'm going to go over one of the basics in macOS Sierra. The App switcher is a feature that can save you minutes in each working day by allowing you to quickly switch between open applications. This simple yet effective tool can help free up time to do other things, making it easier to stay focused and productive throughout your workday.

iPhone 8, What we think you can expect to see

You may expect "iPhone 8" to be the name as it follows all of the names Apple has given to previous iPhones. However, with some of the new nomenclature being used for other Apple products, it would be reasonable to expect a name such as iPhone Pro - you have to admit it has a nice ring to it. The shift in naming convention does raise questions about whether this is indeed an incremental update or something more significant.

Two-factor authentication with Apple ID

Apple ID has included 2FA (Two-factor authentication) on macOS and iOS devices for some time, and it is strongly advised that you use it. This additional layer of security helps protect your account from unauthorized access by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. Using 2FA can significantly reduce the risk of your Apple ID being compromised.

To Block or not To Block

Apple has blocked ad blocker Apps that work outside of Safari, a move that aligns with its long-standing policy in the App Store terms for developers. This stance reflects Apple's recognition of advertising as a primary revenue stream for many app developers. The company has consistently maintained this position, prioritizing the monetization strategies used by developers to sustain their apps and services.

Using Nightshift on your Mac

If, like myself, you often find yourself working late into the night on your Mac, you may start to feel the strain of staring at the screen for hours on end. Your eyes may begin to hurt and feel fatigued. The good news is that there is a way to make the screen less harsh on the eyes. You can find Night Shift in:

HomeKit Now Available To Demo in Apple Stores

Recently, Apple started sharing interactive HomeKit experiences at 46 Apple retail stores so that customers could try out the smart home platform and get familiar with HomeKit. New stores keep being added, allowing more people to experience the capabilities of HomeKit firsthand. Having HomeKit available to test out with different devices and environments makes it easier for customers to understand how it could work for them in their own homes.

How To Set Up Your New Apple TV

Apple has improved upon its popular Apple TV and even brought Amazon Prime into its fold of popular shows. You know you want one now, and here's a quick walk-through with tips to set up your new device. To get started, make sure you have a compatible TV and internet connection. Next, download the Apple TV app on your device and follow the in-app instructions for setup.

So long 32 bit, nice knowing ya

High Sierra the new macOS being released later this year will be the last macOS to support 32-bit apps. This year you will need to look at which apps you cannot live without if you want to continue upgrading macOS after High Sierra, making sure you have versions of the apps you need that will run on a 64 bit system because as of macOS 10.14 32-bit apps will no longer be supported.

Keeping your files safe

Back in 2008 I was burgled and lost a MacPro G5, on that Mac I had been working for months on a 3D render of my local town's high street in Bryce 3D of all programs. The project was still in its early stages, but it held sentimental value as it was the first time I'd attempted to recreate a real-world location in 3D.

Your Apple Watch is More Intelligent than you think

Earlier last month, Apple previewed watchOS 4 at WWDC. The new watch software features a proactive Siri watch face that contains information you find relevant every day and a new way of experiencing music. The update also offers an updated Workout app with enhanced tracking capabilities and introduces GymKit, which helps you connect your workout to existing cardio equipment for more accurate results. View Apple’s Preview here.

Mastering the Finder

The macOS finder which powers the desktop, file manager, and more - it's likely to be your most used app. Apple describes it as “The Macintosh Desktop Experience”, a core part of the Mac experience that many users interact with daily. The Finder has some great hidden features, here are some to get you started and make your work flow better.

High Sierra is nearly here

Apple launched the first public beta of macOS High Sierra at the end of June, which means you can download and install it without being in the Apple developer program. This is beta software so it is not the best idea to install this on your everyday Mac as bugs will be present and your apps may not work. Be aware that installing a beta version can also cause issues with system stability and compatibility with certain hardware configurations, which could lead to data loss or other problems if you're...

Copy and paste like a Pro

Basic copy and paste on a Mac has not changed much since the 1990s. You can still right-click to copy or use the keyboard shortcut ⌘ Command + C. The functionality remains consistent with earlier versions of macOS, providing a familiar experience for users who have grown accustomed to these methods over the years.

HomePod the new Siri-powered smart assistant

The HomePod is powered by Siri intelligence and can interact with your messages, relay sports scores, the news, provide translations, and control your home. It also allows you to make hands-free calls, set reminders, and send messages using voice commands. Additionally, it integrates with other Apple devices to provide a seamless experience across all your connected products.

What to Expect for Apple’s 10th iPhone

For its 10th edition of the iPhone first, Apple is expected to have a dramatic redesign. Since 2012, Apple has unveiled new iPhone editions in the first or second week of September consistently. Expectations remain that Apple will follow this schedule, announcing its new iPhone model in roughly 80 days from now, which would be consistent with previous years' releases.

How To Find an Old Password Using Keychain Access

Whether you need access to an old password or you're helping a friend or family member, it's helpful to know how to retrieve an old password on your Mac. It's easy to forget old passwords you haven't used in a while. Maybe you got a request like this: "I forgot my password for that old account" or "Can you help me reset the password for my grandma's email?" Knowing how to recover old passwords can save time and effort, especially when dealing with sensitive information.

APFS: Apple's new file system for Macs

The new update to the ageing HFS+ file system will bring higher performance, better data integrity, and a significantly improved Time Machine. This update aims to address long-standing issues with the current file system, providing a more stable foundation for future development. The changes are focused on under-the-hood improvements rather than cosmetic overhauls.

Keeping your Mac Cool

--- Disclaimer: Great care should be taken when altering the behavior of the cooling fans, as improper adjustments can lead to catastrophic consequences. If you overheat your Mac for an extended period, you will likely cause permanent damage or even destroy it entirely. As such, we strongly advise against making these modifications without proper expertise and caution. If you're unsure about how to proceed, consider consulting a qualified professional who has experience with Mac repairs and maintenance.

Using Photos in Mac OS Sierra to create Smart Albums

Photos has been included with OS X since Yosemite 10.10.3, two years ago now! If like me you've resisted using it in favor of what you're used to, you are missing out. Photos has some really great features that work quickly from within MacOS, allowing you to easily access the photos from all your Apple devices. It's worth giving it a try if you haven't already, as it can simplify your photo management and organization.

iMac Pro Announced at WWDC 2017

For some time now, Mac users have often opted for an iMac with all the necessary upgrades for their workstation rather than the Mac Pro. This is largely due to the fact that its latest re-incarnation in the "dustbin" case has been shunned for its lack of upgradeability, making it less appealing as a long-term solution for professionals who require flexibility and customization.

2014

Securing Web Help Desk with SSL

After reading the Solarwinds WHD SSL Guide it was not immediately clear to me how to properly secure WebHelpDesk, despite my best efforts. With many hours spent trying various configurations and troubleshooting, I finally found a solution with some help from this guide. Now, I will be demonstrating the ssl recipe that worked for me, in the hopes of saving others from similar frustration.

Improve webpage speed with Digital Ocean

We don’t often talk much about web development or web optimization but recently we started investigating alternative methods / means to our web hosting environment. Currently we are using JustHost’s shared web hosting for jonbrown.org/blog. We are using their lowest shared hosting tier at which costs us $6 per month. We recently did quite a bit to optimize our site and I figured I would share our secret recipe for success that helped us improve our overall web speed rank by almost 90%. Having a website that is faster obviously...

Protect your Mac!

Apple computers recently have exploded in popularity, Apple stock is soaring and Apple computers are now and have been for some time prime real estate for sticky fingers. So what is an Apple user to do? Keep your beloved computer locked up? With the threat of loss, or theft of Apple devices being a reality, many companies and solutions have emerged in the marketplace to address this growing concern.

2013

Packaging & Deploying VMWare Fusion 5.0.1 – 6.0.2

If you're like me and need to deploy VMware in your environment and are unsure of the approach to use, then you have several options. If you use Casper, JAMF has come out with a PDF outlining the best methods for packaging and deploying VMware, its preferences and VMMachines. Since VMWare Fusion 5 however, VMware has included a nice manageable way to deploy VMware to all your machines. This alternative method eliminates the need for third-party tools or scripts, making it a straightforward solution for those who prefer a more...

2011

Deploy Studio Server to the Rescue

As a Mac System Admin working in the Private sector, I must confess I find myself like a kid in the candy store looking, and trying out new products created by third party vendors that make my life, job and the user experience for my clients easier and more productive. I must stress that most admins can not fully share in my joy due to job or security restrictions. Admins in the Government sector for example can only use sanctioned tools and or methods for dealing with common Server Admin...