• How to hide likes on Facebook from iPhone or desktop
• How to hide your liked pages on Facebook from iPhone and desktop

How to hide likes on Facebook from iPhone or desktop

Whether you want to minimize the pressure or stop others from viewing how many people have liked your post, here’s how you can hide the Likes count on Facebook posts.

How to hide Facebook likes on iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Facebook app and tap your Profile icon at the bottom right corner.
2. Select Settings at the top right of your screen.
3. Scroll down to the Preferences section and select Reaction Preferences.
   
   
4. Now, toggle on the switch next to On your Posts.
   
   

Once you toggle on On your Posts, other Facebook users can no longer view the total number of Likes or other reactions your posts receive.

Further, you can toggle on On posts from others if you don’t want to view the total number of reactions on the posts shared by others.

Tip: You can check out our detailed guide if you wish to hide comments for your Facebook posts as well.

How to hide Facebook likes on a desktop

If you don’t use Facebook from an iOS or iPadOS app, you can hide likes using a web browser on any device.

1. Visit Facebook on the web and Sign in to your account.
2. Click on your Profile icon at the top right corner.
3. Select Settings & Privacy in the drop-down menu.
   
   
4. Next, click Settings in the subsequent menu.
   
   
5. Here, scroll down and choose Reactions Preferences under the Preferences section in the left windowpane.
   
   
6. Finally, enable On your posts and On posts from others.
   
   

How to hide your liked pages on Facebook from iPhone and desktop

Following the pages of your favorite artists, politicians, or brands on Facebook isn’t new. However, you may have some pages or lists on your following list that you don’t want others to know about.

Fortunately, you can hide your liked pages and lists on Facebook from both the iOS app and website.

How to hide your liked pages on Facebook from iPhone

1. Open Facebook app and tap the Profile icon at the bottom right corner.
2. Next, tap Settings & Privacy → Pick Settings in the drop-down menu.
3. Under the Audience and visibility section, tap Followers and public content.
4. Here, tap the dropdown menu next to Who can see the people, Pages, and lists you follow.
5. Finally, select Only Me from the available audience options.
   
   

Going forward, none of your followers will be able to view the Pages you have liked.

How to hide your liked pages on Facebook from desktop

1. Visit Facebook on the web and log in to your account.
2. Head to your Profile → Settings & privacy → Settings.
3. In the left pane, scroll down and choose Followers and Public Content under the Audience and Visibility section.
4. Click the button next to Who can see the people, Pages, and Lists you follow.
   
   
5. From the options available, select Only Me and hit Save to record your preferences.
   
   

The desktop version allows you to hide liked pages belonging to a particular genre as well. Here’s how:

1. Open your Facebook Profile.
2. Go to the More tab under your profile picture.
3. Select Likes from the list of options.
   
   
4. Next, click the three-dot menu on the right and select Edit the Privacy of Your Likes.
   
   
5. Now, click the Audience button (globe icon) next to a particular genre.
   
   
6. Finally, select Only Me and click Save.
   
   

Signing off…

That’s it; this is all about hiding likes on Facebook. Now, you can easily hide the Like count on your and other users’ posts, tailoring the user experience to your preference. Also, instead of focusing just on Likes, I’d recommend focusing on engaging with content that resonates with your interests and fosters genuine connections with your friends and followers alike.

If you have any doubts or queries, comment below, and I’ll happily respond.

Know more about Facebook:

• How to take a break from someone on Facebook
• How to lock Facebook profile on iPhone
• How to log out of Facebook Messenger on iPhone and iPad

The post How to hide likes on Facebook (2024 Guide) appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

Below, I’ll explain what the error means and various ways to get water out of the charging port and fix the “Liquid Detected in Lightning Connector” error on iPhone.

What does the “Liquid Detected in Lightning connector” error mean?

There are many ways you can get liquid in your charging port. Spilling a drink on your device, forgetting your iPhone in a humid bathroom, or getting caught outside during a thunderstorm can all leave moisture stuck inside your iPhone’s Lightning port.

The good thing is that if you own an iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, or a newer model, your device has the capability to detect liquid or moisture in the Lightning Port and alert you whenever you connect a Lightning cable or other Lightning accessories to your iPhone’s port.

When you see one of these alerts on your iPhone, it means that your iPhone detected liquid either in the cable, accessory, or in the Lightning port itself.

• Charging Not Available: This error appears when you connect your iPhone to a charger, and your device detects liquid.
• Liquid detected in Lightning Connector: This error shows up when you connect a Lightning accessory that doesn’t charge your iPhone, and it detects liquid on the port.
  
  This also means that you won’t be able to charge or connect your accessories until the port or the accessory is dry.

8 Ways to fix ‘Liquid detected in Lightning connector’ alert on iPhone

It’s important to note that while most newer iPhone models are water-resistant, they’re definitely not waterproof.

Trapped moisture or liquid can cause the metal pins inside your device to corrode and prevent your iPhone from connecting to lightning connectors or accessories. Here are some different ways to fix this issue.

1. Check if your iPhone or Lightning port is wet

The first thing you need to do is unplug any accessories or cables from your iPhone until you’re sure they’re completely dry. Since using your device while it’s wet can damage your device, turn it off. Then do the following:

• Dry your iPhone: If your device has a case, remove it. You can use a towel or tissue paper to remove the excess water. Do not insert any foreign object, like a cotton swab or tissue, into the charging port. This may push the water further inside.

• Remove excess water: Tap the iPhone gently against your hand with the port facing downward to help get water droplets off the Lightning connector.
• Keep it in a well-ventilated area: Leave your device in a dry area with enough ventilation. Apple doesn’t recommend putting your device in a bag of rice since small grains might get into the port and cause more damage. You may surround your iPhone with desiccants. You can find these in shoeboxes and some food packaging.
  
  Don’t use compressed air or external heat sources like blowers. This may heat your device, cause it to slow down, or damage its components.
  
  After at least 30 minutes, try charging your device again. If the error still shows up, there may still be liquid in the port or under the pins of your Lightning cable. When this occurs, keep your iPhone turned off, place it in a dry place, and wait for several hours.
  
  You can try charging or connecting your iPhone to the cable or accessory every now and then to check if the liquid is gone, but it might take up to 24 hours for it to dry fully.

2. Dry your Lightning cable

It’s also possible that your Lightning cable is the culprit behind the “Liquid Detected in Lightning Connector” error. If you suspect this, use an absorbent towel to dry it. It’s possible for water to be trapped between the metal pins and plastic shroud.

Leave it in a dry place with adequate airflow and wait for several hours before trying again.

3. Try another Lightning cable

In some instances, the “Liquid Detected in Lightning Connector” only appears when you’re using a certain cable or accessory. If so, the connector you’re using may be damaged. Try using a different Lightning cable and see if this resolves the issue.

4. Restart your iPhone

If you’ve given your device and accessories ample time to try but still get the error, doing a quick reboot may help. This is especially true if your device has not had any contact with water; the issue may just be a one-off software glitch.

Use an Apple-certified charger and Lightning cable

Using third-party accessories can also cause this issue. Apple recommends using only their accessories or third-party products that come with an MFi certification on the box. This way, you can guarantee it is both safe and compatible with your iPhone.

6. Charge your device with a wireless charger

If you have a wireless charger, you can use it to charge your iPhone. Be sure to dry the back of your device before charging.

However, if your iPhone has been submerged in water, it’s possible for liquid to enter other parts of your device. If this is the case, wireless charging your iPhone isn’t a good idea.

7. Use Emergency Override

While it’s not advisable to charge your iPhone when it’s wet, you might need to do so during an emergency. Initially, the error will only give you a Dismiss option, but reconnecting the cord or accessory to your phone will give you the option to Emergency Override the liquid detection and charge your device.

8. Contact Apple Support

If you’ve done all the tips above and still see the same error, or if you see the alert every time you connect your iPhone to a Lightning cable or accessory, it’s best to contact Apple Support.

Wrapping up…

Getting the “Liquid Detected in Lightning Connector” error can be annoying, and it’s important to act fast. While liquid or moisture is often the cause, it’s also possible that the issue is due to a glitch or a faulty accessory.

What worked for you? Share your experience in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!

Read more:

• How to identify a fake Apple charger
• How to fix ‘This accessory may not be supported’ on iPhone
• How to eject water from your iPhone speakers

The post How to fix iPhone ‘Liquid detected in Lightning connector’ alert appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

Fortunately, Apple users have picked up on subtle cues that can help to know if someone has blocked you on iMessage. Read on to learn what to look for.

11 ways to know if someone blocked you on iMessage

When someone blocks you on iMessage, it won’t tell you outright. But there are a few signs you can pick up on that will confirm your suspicions. Here’s what to look for.

1. Check the bubble color in iMessage

Most people recognize the distinction between the green and blue bubbles in Messages.

If your conversations with someone previously displayed blue bubbles and suddenly shifted to green, it could be a sign that they blocked you.

Don’t jump to conclusions just yet—this can also occur for other reasons, such as when the person turns off their iMessage or if they’re temporarily offline.

2. Look at iMessage Delivery Status

Another way to see whether your message went through is to look underneath the last message you sent.

• If there’s a “Not Delivered” error under a blue bubble, you should first check your internet. If it’s under a green bubble, quickly examine your cellular plan and signal.

• Remember, if your iPhone switches your iMessage to SMS and you lack a strong signal, you could see a Not Delivered error under the bubble, regardless of being blocked or not.
  
  
  
  But if you’ve been blocked, your SMS might still get delivered and show a Sent as Text message status, but the person who blocked you still won’t receive your message.
• If you don’t see a Delivered label below the text bubble and only see a message in a blue bubble without any notification or error below it, it might mean the recipient is out of service range, hasn’t gotten your message, or you might have been blocked.

Note: A message in a blue bubble without a label is often just a temporary status. After a few minutes, your iPhone will generally attempt to send it as an SMS.

3. Send an SMS

After seeing a green bubble instead of the usual blue bubble, the next step is to look at any error or notification.

• If you see a Sent as Text Message notification, it could be that you or your recipient have a poor internet connection or that iMessage is turned off on their device at the moment.
  
  

• Conversely, this could also happen if you’ve been blocked. We tested this and found that if you get blocked by a person on iMessage, your iMessage could still be sent as a text message (in a green bubble) with a Sent as text message alert below it after a while. However, the recipient still won’t receive your text message. 

Here are some things we’ve found from our tests:

• If someone has blocked you and your message to them doesn’t go through as an iMessage, any subsequent messages you send will be dispatched as text messages. However, they won’t get any of these messages.
• Interestingly, even if they’ve blocked you, they can still send you messages, which will come to you as iMessages. You may also see the typing bubble whenever they’re typing their messages.
• If you respond to their message, your iPhone might first try to send your message as an iMessage. But if that fails, it’ll automatically switch and send your reply as a regular SMS.

You may also want to try out fixes for an iPhone that doesn’t send text messages.

4. Check for Read Receipts in iMessage

Read Receipts is an iMessage feature that lets you know whether the recipient has read your message. 

In addition to the Delivered status, you can see under a bubble to signify that your message was successfully sent to the recipient. If you don’t see Delivered, you may have been blocked on iMessage.

Note that a user can turn the Read Receipts feature off, so not seeing the word Read under the speech bubble doesn’t automatically mean that you’re blocked.

5. Try to make a phone call

When a number is blocked on an iPhone, the blocked individual can still initiate or attempt a call before being directed to voicemail. Specifically, if you’re blocked, you’ll hear the phone ring momentarily before the call is abruptly cut off and you’re sent to voicemail.

So, if you attempt to call and experience a brief ring before a sudden disconnection, it’s a strong indicator that you’ve likely been blocked.

6. Mask your number

Try calling again, but mask your number by dialing *67 before their number.

If the call goes through normally, then it’s a pretty clear sign that your number was likely blocked.

7. Turn off caller ID

Another trick to get past the block is deactivating caller ID in your device’s settings. 

If your carrier allows it, go through Settings on your iPhone, head to Phone → Show My Caller ID, and then toggle it off.

Then try calling the person. If your calls go as normal because of No Caller ID, you may confirm that you have been blocked on iMessage.

8. Use a different number or device

Trying to call from a different number or device can help verify if your suspicions of being blocked are accurate.

If you still can’t connect despite changing iMessage phone numbers or devices, there could be an issue with the recipient’s phone. In that case, consider reaching out to them through alternative channels.

9. Try FaceTiming

If you’re wondering how to know if someone blocked you on iMessage without texting them, you can try FaceTiming them since the call won’t connect if you’re really blocked.

If a person has blocked you on messages, calling or video chatting with them via FaceTime, it will result in an error message like “The recipient does not accept your invitation” or “Cannot reach this person right now.”

10. Try to wait it out

You might not be able to send a message or reach the receiver for several valid reasons, including network issues, a dead battery, or they might be occupied with urgent matters. It’s best to give it some time, perhaps waiting several hours or even a full day before trying again.

11. Check other social media apps

If someone intentionally blocks you, it’s likely not limited to just Messages; they might also block you on social media and other messaging platforms. Consider checking any apps where you typically engage with the person.

If you find yourself blocked across multiple channels, it’s a clear indication they’ve chosen to set boundaries, and it would be respectful to acknowledge and honor them.

Video: How to know if someone has blocked you on iMessage

Wrapping up…

It can be both frustrating and concerning when you’re unable to connect with someone. Whether it’s uncharacteristic of them or a recent incident might explain the behavior, it’s often wise to give it some time before reaching out again.

If everything suggests you’ve been blocked, it’s important to respect their decision. Wait for the right moment or sign that they’re ready to re-engage in conversation, ensuring that the dialogue remains respectful and understanding.

Have any other questions about how to know if someone has blocked you on iMessage? Leave them in a comment below! We want to hear from you.

Read more:

• Best iMessage tips and tricks for iPhone users
• How to fix ‘iMessage needs to be enabled to send this message’ error
• How to change iMessage bubble color on iPhone and iPad

The post How to know if someone has blocked you on iMessage (2024) appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

In this guide, I’ve outlined several solutions to fix the error and get the App Store working again. But before we dive into the solutions, let’s look at the problems causing this error.

Why can’t I connect to the App Store?

The App Store’s servers may go down from time to time due to technical glitches or regular maintenance.

Now, since the App Store is a vital part of its ecosystem, Apple will never let it stay down for long. So, if you can’t connect to the App Store for an extended period, it’s probably because:

• Your iPhone is not connected to the internet.
• You are running an outdated version of iOS.
• The Date & Time settings are incorrect.

13 Ways to fix the “Cannot Connect to App Store” error on iPhone or iPad

Below, I have listed the fixes you can try to begin downloading apps again!

1. Check App Store servers
2. Retry connecting to the App Store
3. Check your internet connection
4. Allow App Store to use data connection
5. Force quit and relaunch App Store
6. Check Date & Time settings
7. Turn off your VPN
8. Update to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS
9. Sign out and sign in to Apple ID
10. Sign out from the App Store
11. Turn on your location
12. Force restart your iPhone
13. Reset Network Settings

1. Check App Store servers

Before you blame your Wi-Fi connection or your iPhone for the issue, it’s best to check if Apple’s servers are the problem first. Although rare, the error may be affecting several users due to server issues.

To be sure, head to Apple’s System Status page and check if the App Store’s server is available (with a green circle beside it). If you see the status indicator in any other color, the App Store is not working properly at this time.

In this case, there’s nothing you can do but wait for Apple to resolve the issue. Check again every so often to see when Apple resolves the issue and restores service.

2. Retry connecting to the App Store

The “Cannot Connect to App Store” error message also contains a Retry button below it. You’ve probably tried it already, but just in case you haven’t, try tapping it several times to see if it connects your iPhone or iPad to the App Store.

Try changing your App Store location before doing so. It might just be a minor delay in the connection. If not, read on.

3. Check your internet connection

This is a no-brainer, but be sure to check that your internet connection is working. Connecting to the App Store requires an active internet connection, either through Wi-Fi, cellular data, or via hotspot.

You can check by simply launching Safari and checking if you can browse the net. If you’re connected to Wi-Fi, ensure that it’s enabled, stable, and configured properly.

While you are at it, toggle Airplane Mode off and on to refresh your internet connection. Then, try accessing the App Store again.

4. Allow App Store to use data connection

If you’re using a cellular data connection, you may be seeing the “Cannot Connect to App Store” error because the App Store isn’t permitted to use your data connection. To fix this:

1. Open Settings → Cellular.
2. Scroll through the apps and toggle on App Store.

This allows the app to use your cellular data to perform actions like updates and downloads.

5. Force quit and relaunch App Store

Temporary glitches may also cause the App Store to crash like any other app. The best way to resolve this is by force quitting the app and relaunching it.

To force quit the app, open the App Switcher and swipe up the App Store card. The procedure to open the App Switcher varies depending on your iPhone. If you have an iPhone 8 or newer, swipe up from the bottom of your screen.

Once done, close the app, then relaunch it.

6. Check Date & Time settings

If you travel often and forget to change the date and time settings according to your time zone, the App Store might fail to work.

To avoid this situation, I’d recommend setting the date and time to automatic.

Go to Settings → General → Date & Time. Toggle on Set Automatically.

7. Turn off your VPN

If you have a VPN (virtual private network) on your device or use VPN apps, you may want to turn it off for a while. Different countries have different access to the App Store.

So, if your VPN is in a different country than your App Store’s location, it may prevent the App Store from loading. To turn it off, go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management. Tap VPN, then toggle it off.

8. Update to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS

An outdated OS can lead to many errors, so it’s a good idea to keep your iPhone or iPad up-to-date whenever a new update gets released. Updating your device’s software helps fix bugs and glitches, and the “Cannot connect to App Store” is a system bug on your iPhone or iPad.

To update your device’s OS:

1. Go to Settings → General.
2. Tap Software Update. Your device will check for any available updates that may be available for your iPhone or iPad. If there’s an available update, tap Update Now.
   
   

9. Sign out and sign in to Apple ID

Sometimes, signing out of your Apple ID can troubleshoot issues on apps related to it, like Apple Music and the App Store. 

Note: Before you sign out of your Apple ID, be sure that you know your Apple ID password. Remember that your Apple ID is your only way to access Apple services and all your Apple devices. 

To sign out, head to Settings, then tap your name at the top. Scroll down at the bottom and tap Sign Out. You’ll be asked for your password to confirm your action.

After this, head back to Settings to sign back in.

10. Sign out from the App Store

If the above method doesn’t work, you may want to try a similar method that signs you out from the App Store. To do this,

1. Go to Settings → [your profile] → Media & Purchases.
2. Tap Sign Out, then sign in again.

11. Turn on your location

Sometimes, the App Store may not work as smoothly if your location is turned off. Turning it on may help it work. To do this:

1. Go to Settings → Privacy & Security.
2. Tap Location Services and toggle on Location Services.
   
   
3. Scroll down and look for App Store and choose Ask Next Time Or When I Share or While Using the App.
   
   

12. Force restart your iPhone

Force restarting is another way to refresh your iPhone or iPad. This may help the App Store load properly if it’s not working due to a minor bug or software glitch. Rebooting your iPhone or iPad may also solve issues related to its network or software.

The method to force restarting your iPhone or iPad depends on the model you have, so be sure to check the instructions for your device. Once you’ve force restarted, you can open up the App Store again and see if it works.

If you have an iPhone 8 or newer,

1. From the left side of the device, press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
2. Next, press and immediately release the Volume Down button.
3. Finally, from the device’s right side, press and hold the Side button.
4. Release the Side button when you see the Apple logo on your iPhone screen.

13. Reset Network Settings

If you cannot connect to the App Store, but your internet is working, resetting your network settings may also help fix the issue. This method only erases your Wi-Fi and cellular network settings but doesn’t delete any of your data.

Just be sure you know all your passwords before you begin, as this will erase any existing network settings. To reset your network settings:

1. Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Reset → Reset Network Settings.
3. Enter your passcode if needed and select Reset Network Settings again.
4. Finally, tap Reset Network Settings again to confirm the reset and restart your device.
   
   

Once done, you can open the App Store and see if it’s working. If it still doesn’t work, you may want to reset your iPhone or iPad.

Wrapping up…

Hopefully, one of the fixes provided above helped you fix the “Can’t connect to App Store” issue. If you still can’t seem to connect, you may need to contact Apple Support for further assistance.

If you have any other issues pertaining to the App Store, let me know in the comments below. I’d be happy to help.

Read more:

• How to fix App Store icon missing on iPhone or iPad
• How to hide App Store purchases on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

The post How to fix “Cannot Connect to App Store” on iPhone or iPad appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

Thankfully, several workarounds can help you reduce photo file size on your iPhone or iPad. Let’s save some storage space.

How to reduce photo size on iPhone

There are several different ways to reduce the size of your iPhone photos: within Settings, using the Shortcuts app, or using third-party apps. Here’s how.

Method 1: Reduce the size of a photo in iPhone Settings

The best way to avoid all the hassle of having to compress or reduce the file size of your iPhone photos is to take pictures with small file sizes. The high-efficiency image format (HEIF) is smaller than JPEG but offers the same quality.

Your iPhone or iPad takes images in HEIF, but if you unknowingly changed it, here’s how you can re-enable it.

1. Open Settings → Go to Camera.
2. Tap Formats → Choose High Efficiency.
   
   

The downside is that HEIF/HEIC isn’t as universally compatible as JPEG. So, you may need to convert your photos to a different image format if you’re looking to edit them on a laptop or PC.

Method 2: Reduce the size of a photo using Shortcuts

The Shortcuts app is a goldmine for a ton of valuable automation. You have the option to download a premade shortcut to resize images.

Once the Shortcut is created, you can select Photos, pull up the Share Sheet, and resize images quickly.

Here’s how it’s done:

1. Download Change Image Quality & Share Shortcut. 
2. Tap Add Shortcut and wait for it to be added to the Shortcuts app.
3. Open the Shortcuts app → tap Change Image Quality and Share shortcut.
   You may be asked to give the app access to your photos. Tap Allow Access.
   
   
4. Select the photo(s) you want to resize → Tap Add at the top right.
5. From the pop-up, select your preferred image quality.
   I’d prefer going with Medium = Average File Size.
6. A prompt will appear asking you to allow the shortcut to share the image(s) you resized. Select Allow Once or Always Allow.
7. A Share sheet will appear → Tap Save Image.
   
   

Now, you can easily resize images from the Photos app as well. Just select the photos and follow steps 4 to 7 from above.

By default, the resized images will appear in the Recents section of the Photos app.

Method 3: Reduce photo file size in Mail

Another option is to make the photos smaller without the need to crop them. You can quickly reduce the file size of your images by sending them using Apple Mail. Here’s how:

1. Go to Photos and select the image or images you want to resize.
2. Tap the Share icon → Select Mail from the share options.
3. Put your email ID → Hit Send.
4. A popup window will appear informing you about the size of the image and an option to reduce its size to Small, Medium, Large, or retain its Actual Size. Select your preferred option.
   Mail will send your photo as soon as you select from one of these options.
5. Open Mail and download your resized image.
   
   

Method 4: Use a third-party app to reduce the size of all of your photos

1. Download the Image Size app.
2. Tap the Photo icon to import the image you want to resize. Tap Allow Access to give the app permission to access your photo library.
3. Select your photo/s → tap Choose.
4. Choose from pixels, millimeters, centimeters, or inches for your image’s resize options. Enter values in the Width and Height sections.
   
   
5. You can move, reposition, or zoom the image to your preference. Under the photo, you’ll also see the difference between the original and compressed image size.
6. Tap the Download/Save icon at the bottom-left of the screen.

Method 5: Make iPhone pictures smaller with the Photos app

Although not recommended, cropping your image is a makeshift solution to reduce its file size. It goes without saying that you’ll lose some portion of the image.

Open the Photos app → tap the image you want → Edit → crop/rotate icon at the bottom of the screen.

Trimming your image a bit may help lower your photo’s image resolution. The Photos app allows you to crop your image to several aspect ratios, but you can also manually crop them.

Video: How to Reduce Photo File Size on iPhone or iPad

Benefits of reducing photo file size on iPhone

• By resizing your photos, you can save a lot of storage space on your device. This is especially useful since iPhones and iPads do not have expandable memory. 
• Making your images smaller also helps when you have to send them over email or share them with others via messaging apps.
• Reducing your image’s file size may also be necessary when uploading to specific sites.

I hope I was able to help you out with this tutorial. Let us know if you’ve found any other way of compressing photos on your iPhone or iPad in the comments below.

Wrapping up…

You may need to reduce the size of photos on your iPhone to free up storage space. This may also help you transfer your images from one device to another or share them with friends and family.

Whatever your reason is, try one or more of the tips above so that you no longer have to worry about big file sizes and enjoy capturing more memories on your device.

Read more:

• How to use extensions in the Photos app on iPhone and iPad
• How to batch edit photos in Photos app (iPhone, iPad and Mac)
• Best image upscaler apps for iPhone, iPad and Mac

The post How to reduce photo file size on iPhone and iPad (2024 Guide) appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

In this guide, I will show you how to convert a picture to PDF on iPhone and iPad.

How to convert picture to PDF on iPhone or iPad

Here are six methods for converting images to PDFs on iPhone or iPad. Let’s get started!

Method 1: How to save images as a PDF with the Print feature

The Print option from the Share Sheet on the iPhone or iPad lets you print files and images directly. When printing images, it converts photos into PDF files before it sends them to the printer. Here’s how you can do it!

1. Open Photos → Tap Select.
2. Choose the photos you want to convert into a PDF.
   Selecting more than one will create a single PDF file containing all the selected images.
3. Tap Share → Choose Print.
   
   
4. You will see a preview of the PDF with each photo on a single page. Tap and hold the page to see the Preview → Tap the image once more to see the share icon.
5. Tap the Share button and send it to others via messaging apps or email, or save to Files.
   
   

Method 2: How to convert photo to PDF with the Files app

The Files app is great for turning images into PDF files and editing PDFs. Also, your converted PDFs will be saved in your iCloud Drive and synced across your other devices.

1. Open Files.
2. Long-press the image → Quick Actions → Create PDF.
   
   

To convert multiple images to PDF

1. Launch Files → Tap the More (…) button → Choose Select.
2. Select the images you want to convert into PDF.
3. Tap More (…) at the bottom right → Create PDF.
   
   

The new PDF file will be saved in the same folder as the images.

Method 3: How to convert picture to PDF with the Books app

Another very convenient way to convert your images into PDF files is via Books. The process is very straightforward.

1. Open Photos → Select the pictures → Tap Share.
2. Swipe through the apps → Select Books.
   
   
3. Doing so immediately converts the images into a PDF document that opens in the Books app.  However, the file is also automatically saved into the Books app. To share or send it, do the following.
4. Head to Books.
5. Tap More (…) under the file → Share PDF.
   
   
6. Choose how you want to share your file and send it.

Method 4: Use Shortcut to convert photo to PDF

If you frequently convert photos to PDF, creating a shortcut will save you a lot of time. Although creating a shortcut may seem daunting, it is very straightforward.

1. Open Shortcuts → Tap Add (+) button.
2. Select New Shortcut → Tap Rename.
   
   
3. Type in a new name for your shortcut → Select Done on keyboard.
4. Tap Add Action → Choose Photos app →  Tap Select Photos.
   
   
5. Tap the downward arrow and toggle on Select Multiple to convert multiple images into PDF.
   
   
6. Tap the search bar below → Go to the Categories tab → Select Media → Tap Convert Image.
   
   
7. Now, tap JPEG and replace it with PDF. 
8. Again, tap the search bar → Go to the Apps tab → Select Files.
   
   
9. Choose Save File → Select Done.
   
   

To run the Shortcut:

1. Launch Shortcut → Tap the shortcut you made.
2. Select the photos you want to convert → Tap Add.
3. Choose the folder where you want to save your PDF document → Tap Open.

It will create individual PDFs for each photo you selected.

Method 5: Use Photos to PDF apps on iPhone and iPad

If you don’t want to create your own shortcut or try the other options above, you can use an app that gets it done for you. There is a variety of free image-to-PDF converters you can download from the App Store to convert your photos into PDFs instantly. I suggest the following:

• PDF Converter
• Photo to PDF Converter Scanner
• Photos PDF 

The process for all these apps is somewhat similar. You just need to open the app, select the photos you want to convert, and begin converting them. Some apps may place a watermark on the generated PDF and require you to upgrade to a paid version to remove it. 

Method 6: Online options to convert a photo to PDF

If you don’t want to download any apps on your iPhone, you can use your browser to access sites that let you convert your images to PDFs for free. Adobe offers a free image-to-PDF converter, which allows you to convert your PNG, JPG, GIF, or TIFF files to PDF format without cost. 

Other online image-to-PDF converters you might want to check include:

• HiPDF
• SmallPDF
• PDF Converter

Video: How to Convert Photo to PDF on iPhone and iPad

Why convert a photo to a PDF?

Converting your photos to PDF has several benefits. Here are some of them:

• Ease of sharing: PDF files are supported on a wide range of devices and OS. So, converting ensures that the recipients can view and access your images.
• Preservation of formatting: Converting the images to PDF ensures that the visual integrity of the original pictures is maintained. This is useful when sharing images with specific annotations, captions, or layouts.
• Security and protection: You can benefit from the security features of PDF files, including password protection and encryption.
• Printing: Converting your images to PDF files helps preserve the details and visual elements of the images, allowing for high-quality printing.
• Archiving: PDFs provide a reliable, standardized format, so they’re great for archiving.
• Collaboration: You can easily add comments, annotate, and add digital signatures on PDF files, allowing for easy annotation and collaboration.

Wrapping up…

There you have it! All the methods above are easy ways to convert a photo to PDF on your iPhone; the choice ultimately comes down to your preference. Let us know which one you prefer in the comment section below!

Read more:

• How to save webpage as PDF on iPhone and iPad
• How to remove password from PDF file on iPhone and iPad
• Best PDF editors for iPhone and iPad

The post How to convert picture to PDF on iPhone and iPad (2024 updated) appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

There’s a hack that lets you send photos as documents in WhatsApp on iPhone without losing quality. Want to know how it works? Read on.

How to send images as documents in WhatsApp on iPhone

1. Launch WhatsApp → Open the chat where you want to send the images.
2. Tap the plus icon beside the text box.
3. Select Document → Choose Photo or Video.
   If you have saved your photos on iCloud or any other location, tap Choose from Files.
   
   
4. If you are using this feature for the first time, you may need to allow access to your Camera Roll.
5. Select an image. To select multiple photos, tap and hold an image → Tap Select → Choose other images → Tap Next.
6. If you have selected just one image, you may add a caption.
7. Finally, tap the blue send icon.
   Tap Send if sending multiple photos.
   
   

If you don’t see this option in WhatsApp, make sure you have updated the app to its latest version.

When you send an image as document, WhatsApp preserves the image format. If you select multiple photos, you can add markups before sending them in WhatsApp. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Key things to remember while sending photo as document

• WhatsApp can only handle files up to 2GB in size. So, you can’t send photos or videos larger than that as documents.
• Sending and receiving high-quality images requires more data, storage space, and time to upload or download.

Moreover, once you receive an image as document, you can’t see the image preview within the chat. You need to open the document to check the image. If you want to avoid this situation, I suggest using the HD feature to send high-quality images on WhatsApp from iPhone.

Simply, open the chat in WhatsApp → Tap the plus icon → Photos → Select photo/s → Tap the HD button → Select HD quality → Tap the send icon. Using this option won’t compress your photos either.

Alternative ways to send photos from iPhone without losing quality

If sending the file through WhatsApp seems arduous, you can try other options.

• If you want to send it to another iPhone user, use AirDrop to share original quality photos and videos on iPhone.
• The other common way of sharing high-res files is to upload them to Google Drive and simply send the link to the recipient.
• The third option is to send the image as an attachment via email. There’s an option to send a smaller photo via the Mail app, so select Actual Size in the choices before hitting Send.

Wrapping up…

Now you know how to keep your image quality intact when sending files on WhatsApp. Remember to use the tricks above to give the recipient the best image they’d love to see. Share away!

The post How to send photos as documents in WhatsApp on iPhone appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

Also, during my testing, I found that apart from standard phone calls, Voice Isolation works well with FaceTime, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat calls! So, if the prospect of using this feature excites you, here’s all you need to know.

• What is Voice Isolation on iPhone and how it works
• Which iPhone supports Voice Isolation?
• How to turn on Voice Isolation on your iPhone

What is Voice Isolation on iPhone and how it works

Voice Isolation is a noise reduction feature that was first added to the iPhone with iOS 15, along with a roster of other cool features. It aims to make it easier for others to hear your voice better during online audio and video calls. At that point in time, the feature was only available for FaceTime calls and some third-party apps.

However, with the iOS 16.4 update, Apple has introduced Voice Isolation for cellular calls on iPhone. Basically, it uses machine learning to distinguish your voice from ambient background noises. Then it mutes the unwanted noise frequencies from a call, isolating your voice and improving its quality.

Below are the iPhone models that support Voice Isolation:

• iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
• iPhone 15, 14, 13, 12, and 11 series

Now that we have the basics out of the way, here’s a look at how you can enable this iPhone noise-cancellation feature.

How to turn on Voice Isolation on your iPhone

1. Open an app that supports Voice Isolation, like Phone app or FaceTime.
2. Start a regular audio or video call.
3. During the call, open Control Center.
4. Tap Mic Mode → Select Voice Isolation.
   
   

That’s all you need to do. Now, the receiver will be able to hear you clearly without any background noise. Remember, you’ll have to enable this feature individually for each call you make as the Mic Mode reverts to Standard at the end of each call.

Now, I’d also like to bring your attention to another feature called Wide Spectrum, which is available in the same window. You may enable it if multiple people are speaking into your iPhone. Let me explain why.

Wide Spectrum amplifies the sound of everyone around an iPhone mic. So, the receiver will be able to hear everyone – and not just the person holding the device – clearly. The downside of this feature is that it is limited to FaceTime calls.

Wrapping up…

Voice Isolation is a much-needed feature, especially since most of our communication happens with the help of the internet. It’s a great way to make sure your voice is heard clearly and distinctly over the background noise, allowing you to have conversations more clearly.

Have you tried it yet? Did you find it helpful? Let me know in the comments!

Read more:

• Voice Isolation not working on iPhone? Easy ways to fix it!
• 35 Best AirPods tips and tricks
• How to customize Quick Responses for incoming calls on iPhone

The post How to enable Voice Isolation for calls on iPhone appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

In most cases, this problem arises due to the device struggling to properly recognize the display. Regardless of the underlying cause, this guide will walk you through various solutions to fix the iPhone green screen of death issue.

What causes the green screen of death on iPhone?

As we mentioned in the introduction, there are a few common causes for this annoying iPhone issue. It primarily affects iPhones X, 12, and 13 running iOS version 17.

• Damaged screen: If your iPhone recently took a particularly nasty fall, a long bath in water, or overheated to the point it damaged the internal components, a damaged display may be the cause of the green screen of death. In this case, you’ll either need to replace the display yourself using Apple Self Service Repair or take it into a repair shop.
• Faulty software: While iPhone’s are generally pretty reliable, sometimes a glitch or rogue software setting throws a wrench into daily operation. If you experienced the green screen issue right after updating to the latest iOS version, you can try downgrading your iOS version to resolve the issue. If that doesn’t work, try resetting your iPhone to factory settings using a Mac or PC.
• Malicious apps: If you’ve recently downloaded a third-party app and you notice the issue arises shortly after, there’s a good chance the new app is the cause of the issue. In this case, deleting the app and resetting your iPhone’s settings will likely solve the problem.

Now, let’s get into the solutions.

How to fix the green screen of death on iPhone

1. Restart your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone is a simple yet effective troubleshooting step that can resolve many common glitches. It’s often the first action you should take when encountering issues with your device.

For iPhones X to 15:

1. Press and hold the Side button from the right side of the device, and either Volume Up or Volume Down from the left side of the device. Let go of both buttons when you see the slider.
2. Drag the slider from left to right.
3. Wait for at least 30 seconds.
4. To turn your iPhone back on, press and hold the right Side button. Let go when you see the Apple logo on the screen.

2. Force restart your iPhone

An iPhone stuck on a green screen is often just a temporary glitch. Fortunately, a quick reboot is often enough to fix most bugs, including an iPhone screen that turned green. Check our guide on force restarting your iPhone depending on your iPhone’s model.

For iPhones 8 and later:

1. From the left side of the device, press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
2. Next, press and immediately release the Volume Down button.
3. Finally, from the device’s right side, press and hold the Side button.
4. Release the Side button when you see the Apple logo on your iPhone screen.

3. Adjust your iPhone‘s display settings

Since improper display settings may trigger the issue, adjusting them can help fix the green screen on your iPhone:

• Adjust Brightness level: Head to Settings → Display & Brightness. Drag the slider to an ideal brightness that removes the tint.
  
  
• Turn on True Tone: When enabled, True Tone adapts your iPhone screen’s color and intensity to match the ambient lighting, ensuring the brightness and tone remain consistent. Turn it on by going to Settings → Display & Brightness. Toggle True Tone.
  
  
• Enable Auto-Brightness: You can automatically adjust your iPhone’s brightness based on current lighting conditions. Go to Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size. Turn on Auto-Brightness.
  
  

4. Update iOS

The green screen problem on your iPhone could result from an outdated iOS version. Older operating systems tend to be more prone to software glitches. Apple regularly releases updates containing bug fixes and enhancements, so updating your iOS can help solve the green screen issue.

1. Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
2. Choose Update Now if an update is available.
   
   

5. Uninstall recently installed apps

If you’ve recently installed a third-party app on your device, it could be the reason behind the green screen issue on your iPhone. Delete the app and check if this solves the problem.

Running too many apps running in the background may also cause the green screen of death. Remove them and see if this solves the problem.

6. Reset All Settings

If you still can’t find what’s wrong with your device but remember that you or someone recently tinkered with it, it’s probably due to incorrect settings. In that case, restoring your iPhone’s settings to default can help fix the issue—don’t worry, it won’t wipe out your saved data (like photos or videos).

Here’s what to do:

1. Open Settings → General.
2. Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone → Select Reset.
   
   
3. Tap Reset All Settings → Enter your passcode → Tap Reset All Settings.
   
   

Restart your iPhone and see if this solves the green screen issue.

7. Restore the iPhone from a backup

If the above solutions didn’t help, you might want to try restoring your iPhone from a recent backup. This process removes all the information on your phone (including your data and media) and restores your device’s settings, content, and apps to how it looked during your last backup. 

This is another possible solution if you keep on experiencing issues on your device, including when your iPhone faces the green screen of death issue.

Here’s how to restore from a backup:

1. Follow the on-screen instructions until the Apps & Data Screen.
2. Next, select Restore from iCloud backup.
3. Enter your Apple ID credentials to sign in to iCloud.
4. Select the most updated backup to start the transfer.
   Follow the on-screen instructions to update your OS.
5. Sign in with your Apple ID to restore your apps and purchases.
6. Now, wait for the progress bar to finish.

8. Inspect for physical or water damage

If you’ve recently dropped your iPhone, it may have broken or damaged something inside, causing the screen issue. If exposed to water or a moist environment, keep your device off for at least 48 hours before turning it on again. 

Contact Apple Support

If the iPhone green screen of death issue persists, it’s likely due to component damage or failure. You’ll need professional help for a more thorough inspection and assistance. Visit the nearest Genius bar or Apple Store for assistance. Apple might recommend replacing the screen. 

Many people complaining about this issue had iPhones not older than a year. If the same is true for you, check if your iPhone is still under warranty.

Wrapping up…

Resolving the green screen issue on your iPhone hinges on whether it’s caused by software malfunctions or hardware damage. Ideally, it’s a software problem that can be fixed without the need for extensive repairs.

Did any of the tips work for you? We’d love to hear about your experience. Let us know in the comment section below!

The post How to fix iPhone green screen of death issue appeared first on iGeeksBlog.

If you’re still on the fence about which VPN to select and need to research a little before committing to a service, this article has you covered.

Below are all the features you need to consider to help you decide on a VPN service. What’s more, I’ll also teach you how to use a VPN on your Mac. Let’s get going!

Why you may need to set up a VPN for your Mac

The primary reason why you’d need a VPN is to conceal your online activity. Every device connected to the Internet has its own unique Internet Protocol (IP) address.

Over time, IP addresses have been associated with a geographic location, even accurate enough to tell you the city you’re in. This can pose several risks, such as:

• Reveal who you are to the website you’re checking
• Show your location to your email recipients
• Have your internet service provider (ISP) track your activity and sell your data

Benefits of using VPN on Mac

• A VPN can hide your IP address and conceal internet traffic that can be intercepted when connected to poorly secured or compromised Wi-Fi networks.
• It prevents numerous corporations, websites, apps, and hackers from tracking your online activity and hides your online identity so you can browse the internet anonymously and securely.
• You can also use a VPN on your Mac to relocate and access the internet from servers far from you, bypassing various online blocks and restrictions, like movies or shows unavailable for local streaming.

While VPNs are more commonly used on computers, phone users should also consider using them to offer the same protection on their devices. If you own an iPhone, here’s how VPN works on an iPhone.

What to consider when choosing a VPN for macOS

Now that you’re convinced of the utility of VPNs, here are several factors you may want to weigh when looking for the best VPN for Mac.

Location/server coverage

Depending on your usage, you may want to get a VPN with many server locations.

A VPN server near you can be ideal for online gaming since it ensures a responsive connection without lags. However, having several locations is vital if you often need to bypass geo-blockers, such as for streaming content only available in a particular area.

If that’s you, then you need to consider where the VPN’s servers are located. For example, choose a VPN service with a long list of US exit nodes if you need a US IP address to access a particular site you can’t access from where you are.

Data cap

Many free VPNs on Macs and other devices place a monthly data cap on their services, which can be a significant restriction if you use a large amount of data. Other services do not cap your internet usage.

Different VPN protocols also use differing amounts of data. The protocols that offer the most security, like OpenVPN, use a moderate amount of data compared to those offering minimal security and privacy.

Security

Even if privacy or security is not an issue for you, everyone should consider using a VPN if they regularly use unsecured, public Wi-Fi networks, like connections in hotels and coffee shops.

For all you know, their router has compromised firmware. Worse, it can be actively logging your data. In the case of a poorly secured network, other users may be able to probe and hack sensitive data from your device.

You may want to look for other security features for your VPN service. Two-factor authentication (2FA) prevents hackers from accessing your network in case of compromised credentials.

A kill switch is another desirable feature that helps ensure security for your connection. It automatically blocks internet access on your device if your VPN isn’t working to prevent it from making unprotected connections.

Logging, tracking, and privacy

We all want complete anonymity. But the reality is that all VPN services still do log and keep user data. Different VPNs have different policies on what data they hold. Some keep a record of all your activities, while others are less invasive and only keep a log of when they connected and disconnected.

It’s crucial to check the logging policy of the VPN service you’re eyeing to see what logs they maintain. You may opt for VPNs that have a “no-logs” policy. These services won’t follow, collect, or monitor your online browsing activities.

Similarly, many VPN services—especially free VPNs—make money by selling user data to other businesses for marketing purposes. Inspect your VPN’s privacy policy thoroughly to determine whether they collect and share your data with any third party.

Encryption protocol 

You’d want to use a robust VPN protocol to protect yourself from cyberattacks and hacks. OpenVPN is one of the safest and best VPN protocols available. Since it’s open-source, anyone can inspect and check for security vulnerabilities.

Meanwhile, it’s best to avoid PPTP and L2TP/IPSec for their known security flaws that make them susceptible to hacks.

Versatility

You should check if the VPN service supports different platforms and operating systems. This can be crucial if you have several devices running on different systems or when it’s for business.

The VPN you’re eyeing should have dedicated apps for different platforms, such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It would be even better if you could configure it to be used on routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.

Number of connected devices

Many people use their laptops and phones at different times. To ensure safe browsing, each of these devices should be covered by your VPN. If you’re using multiple devices, it’s just given that you’ll get a VPN service that provides coverage to multiple devices.

Look for VPN services that cover at least up to five devices. It would be ideal for getting one that allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, like Surfshark.

Price

The pricing of a VPN for Macs can range from free to around $100 per year. The most important thing is to find a balance between features and price.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive package with advanced features, you should be prepared to pay more. But if you just need a basic VPN for occasional use, there are plenty of affordable options.

Some VPN providers also offer lifetime subscriptions. Others have free trials or money-back guarantees that let you try the service before committing to it. 

Customer support

While prompt and helpful customer support is hard to find, you should still consider this when deciding on your VPN service. It’s ideal to find a service that offers 24/7 live chat support, just in case you run into any issues.

How to use a VPN on Mac

Now that you know what to look for in a VPN, it’s time to set one up on your Mac. You can get one through a third-party VPN service or manual configuration.

Subscribe to a VPN service

I’d say that the easiest way to use a VPN service is by subscribing to one. The process can vary depending on the service, but they generally follow a similar process. For this article, I’ve decided to try Surfshark since they’re offering a free 7-day trial.

1. Download the VPN app on your Mac through the App Store or their website.
2. Sign up for an account.
3. If the service is paid, choose the subscription you prefer. 
4. Connect to the server of your choice.

Connect to an existing VPN on your Mac

If you have a VPN on an existing internet connection, you can directly connect to it on your Mac:

1. Choose Apple menu → System Settings.
2. Select your VPN service on the list on the left of the window.
3. Enable the service on the right pane.

Manually setup a VPN on a Mac

You may connect to a VPN service provider through your Mac’s built-in networking framework. To do this:

1. Click the Apple menu → System Settings.
   
   
2. Select Network.
3. Click the three-dot icon at the bottom of the right pane.
   
   
4. Select Add VPN Configuration → Select the type of VPN. For Surf Shark, it’s IKEv2.
   
   
5. Choose a name for the VPN service and enter the required details, such as Server Address and Remote ID.
6. Select Create.
   
   

Wrapping up…

VPNs are a great way to ensure online anonymity, privacy, and security. By connecting to a VPN server, you can encrypt your traffic and hide your identity from anyone who might be spying on you.

When choosing a VPN service for your Mac, consider the above factors to help you get the most out of your investment. What are your dealbreakers when it comes to VPNs? Share them down below!

The post How to choose and use a VPN on Mac in 2024 appeared first on iGeeksBlog.