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The two most popular smartphones are the iPhone and Android phones. They are developed by different companies and also have unique features. Smartphone buyers are often torn between these types.

The choice of which one to pick depends largely on the specifications and capabilities which you are searching for. While there were a number of other smartphone alternatives such as Windows Phone and Blackberry, they have since gone obsolete. Therefore, majority of smartphones today are either iPhones or Android phones.

IPhone vs. Android: What Should You Get?

Here are some characteristics that can guide your choice as you pick the right one.

Apple vs Android – Easy To Use

If you’re searching for a smartphone that is easy to use, the iPhone is a better pick. This smartphone has a simple interface that is easy to learn, use and maintain. It provides you with a home-screen which contains a collection of icons. You can also personalize it with a photo. Thus, it is uncluttered and easy to utilize.

iPhone or Android – Maximum Control

Sometimes you may want to have extra control over your smartphone. For example, you would like to arrange the icons in a certain way. You may also desire some customized shortcuts for the features which you use most often. Furthermore, you may want some multimedia in the home screen. For this level of extended control, the Android smartphone is your best bet. This operating system allows you to control every feature of the smartphone and personalize it as much as you desire.

iPhone versus Android – Beauty and price

Critics, enthusiasts and smartphone users all agree on one thing, the iPhone is a beautiful device. This brand was created to be a luxury phone. Therefore, the design is futuristic and the iphone is made of premium materials. This results in an exceedingly attractive phone. Along with the visual appeal comes a very high price tag. If you want a beautiful phone but don’t mind paying a high price tag, then iPhone is your ideal pick.

Open Source Versus Closed System

A major difference between an Android phone and an iPhone is the operating system. Android is an open-source platform. This means that skilled computer programmers can take it apart, make modifications and even write some system software for it. On the other hand, the iOS operating system is strictly proprietary. This means that it cannot be modified at all. People who want to have system-level control over their devices should get the Android phone. If you don’t mind having no control over your phone’s operating system, iPhone is good for you.

Smartphone System Updates

Smartphone operating systems need to get updates from time to time. Also known as patches, they help to improve elements such as security, multimedia or connectivity. In the Android platform, these patches are provided by the specific smartphone manufacturers and not the developers of the operating system.

For high-end smartphones, the manufacturers regularly release patches. However, low-end Android phones hardly get any updates. This leaves them prone to hacking, system failures and connection problems.

On the other hand, Phones receive constant, reliable patches. Their manufacturer is steadfast about providing updates for their smartphones as regularly as possible. This ensures stable operation of every device that receives an update. It is important to note that the company phases out older models by gradually halting their patch development.

General Security Facilities

Seeing as we use our mobile phones quite extensively, it is important to ensure that the device that you choose is secure. The biggest source of security threats to our smartphones is downloaded applications. iPhone applications are downloaded from the App Store. This software repository is well known for being highly secure.

The manufacturer is very precise about the applications which are uploaded into this market. However, the Google Play Store is a bit more relaxed about the apps that are uploaded. As such, there is a chance of getting your Android smartphone infected with malware from the Google Play Store. If security is a big concern for you, the iPhone is a better smartphone to get.

Difference between iPhone and Android – Peripheral Connectivity

Android smartphones are fitted with standard USB ports. This makes it possible to connect a wide variety of devices to them. Examples of these are flash drives, audio accessories, computers and USB compatible electronics. On the other hand, the iPhone is fitted with a Lightning port. This limits the number of devices that you can connect to the smartphone.

Users can utilize accessories to improve the connectivity of their iPhone. This can be very inconvenient. Therefore, if peripheral connectivity is important to you, the Android smartphone is the better choice.

Cloud Connectivity

Nowadays, we store documents, files and media in Cloud repositories. This helps us to gain access to these resources on the go. For iPhones, the Cloud architecture is known as Cloud. On the other hand, Android smartphones are integrated with the Google Cloud infrastructure.

Seeing as Android users utilize applications for school and work, this smart phone is more versatile.

The iCloud infrastructure is known for being problematic. Synchronizing is difficult and users have experienced multiple inconveniences. Thus, the Android smartphone offers better Cloud storage.

Conferencing Through Video Media

The iPhone is well known for its Facetime application. This app provides users with a great videoconferencing experience. It allows friends, family and professional colleagues to get in touch with each other and share experiences with audio – video connectivity. Facetime is famous for its effectiveness and smooth operation.

As such, this application presents excellent video facilities to its users. For Android phones, the Google Hangouts system provides videoconferencing. While it is effective, it is not smooth. Therefore, if you intend to perform video conferencing, the iPhone is a better brand.

Both Android and iPhone Smartphones are ideal for modern communication purposes. They are both good in their own ways. You can pick one according to your needs and requirements. By using the guidelines indicated above, you can pick one that fits your personal needs. As such, as long as the smartphone fits your needs, it is the most ideal one for you. It is important to remember that a smartphone requires proper maintenance to provide many years of good quality service.

The latest standard for charging smart devices and data transfer today is known as USB-C. USB type C port is currently being included in the newest smartphones, tablets and phones as well. Seeing as it has many advantages over the previous version, this standard will eventually be integrated into all types of electronics.

Over time, USB-C will completely replace the older port standard. One of the outstanding features of this new USB standard is that it utilizes a new connector that is fully reversible. As a result, it is easier to plug in. Here is a more detailed description of this new connectivity standard and its features.

Structure of New USB Type C

This USB standard features a connector that is smaller than the previous one. It is tiny and close in size to the micro-USB connector. It is also reversible. Therefore, you do not have to plug it in according to a specific way. The USB-C cable carries more power as well. As a result, it can be used to charge up large devices such as laptops.

Furthermore, this cable is also capable of transferring data at a higher speed than previous standards. As a matter of fact, this new connector can transfer data at a speed of up to 10 Gbps. The new USB-C connector is not backwards compatible. However, its adapter is As such, it can successfully be used with older USB cables.

Origin and Future Prospects of the New USB-C

The plans and specifications for USB-C were initially published in 2014. However, this technology has only been implemented in the last year. Due to its characteristics, USB-C is going to replace older USB standards. Its efficiency also finds it having the potential to replace other USB standards such as the DisplayPort and the Thunderbolt.

Interestingly, there is major testing underway to deliver a USB audio mechanism which makes use of the USB-C cable. From this perspective, the USB-C could replace the 3.5 mm audio jack. Part of the appeal of this new standard is that it is closely related to other technologies. Examples of these are USB 3.1 as well as USB Power Delivery. Overall, the USB-C standard ensures that maximum power is delivered through a USB connection.

Benefits of the USB-C connector

Here are the benefits of the USB-C connector:

Standardization

The first major benefit that this new USB standard will bring is comprehensive standardization of connectors. The technology industry has seen connectors such as the USB Type-A, USB 1 and USB 2. These connectors all had different sizes and shapes. Thanks to this new connector, the difference is finally coming to a close.

The USB-C connector can implement one standard size across all devices. For example, a single USB-C cable can be used for charging your smartphone, transferring data from your computer to your smartphone, charging your laptop and powering other devices too.

This new connector is designed such that it is thin enough to fit in your slim smartphone but powerful enough to be compatible with all the peripherals that you desire. Interestingly, the new cable has two USB-C connectors at both ends. As such, it is versatile and presents maximum connectivity.

It Is Reversible

This is the biggest benefit that the new USB-C presents to the average consumer. You no longer have to flip your USB connector multiple times so as to plug it in correctly. You can simply plug it into your smartphone or laptop using one orientation and it fits directly. This eliminates the frustration of having to flip your cable up to 3 times in search of the ideal connection orientation.

Alternate Modes on USB Type-C Ports

A major benefit that is provided by the USB-C is the ability to deliver alternate modes. This allows this port to handle different types of cables and purposes. For example, a single USB-C port can support VGA, DisplayPort and HDMI.

The port acts as an adapter that can connect various devices and technologies to a smartphone or a laptop. This eliminates the need for multiple ports. It also gets rid of the need for converters and multi-purpose adapters. The USB-C standard streamlines all technological ports into a single, convenient one.

Boosted Power Delivery

The new USB-C standard allows enhanced power delivery. Currently, the USB 2.0 connection allows the transfer of 25 watts of power.

This is enough to charge up a smartphone or a tablet. The USB-C standard increases this power capacity to 100 watts. This is enough to charge up a laptop. Furthermore, the USB-C power delivery mechanism is bi-directional.

As a result, a technological device can receive or send power. Even more interesting is that this power can be transmitted as the device transfers data Thanks to this characteristic, USB-C could signify the end of proprietary laptop charging cables. This is because everything from smartphones to laptops would be charged through a dedicated USB connection.

Quite interestingly, the USB-C port can enable you to charge up your laptop from one of the battery packs that are used to charge smartphones on the go. This USB standard could also enable you to daisy-chain devices while charging them. For example, you could connect your laptop to an external display that is powered on.

As a result, the display can charge up your laptop as you use it as a secondary monitor. For a USB-C port to support power delivery, it also needs to be compatible with USB PD. All in all, the new USB-C port is small in size but immensely powerful.

Faster Data Transfer Rates of USB-C Type

The new USB-C cable is available with 3.1 data transfer technology embedded into it. With this combination, data can be transferred at speeds of up to 10 Gbps. This is just as fast as a Thunderbolt connector. With this rate of data transfer, you can experience quicker streaming to secondary monitors, faster reading of media from secondary storage and more stable data connections.

The new USB-C standard is here with us. It is slowly revolutionizing the way that we charge devices and transfer data. With a reversible, small connector, it boosts convenience as well Technology experts around the world agree that it is the future of USB connectivity!

The latest version of the iOS platform has been recently released. Fans and enthusiasts hoped that the new version would focus more on fixing bugs and improving performance than presenting new features. Their expectations were fulfilled. iOS 12 has dramatically improved performance. It has also added some innovative, new features. Examples of these are Group FaceTime and notification grouping.

The new operating system is effective in both Pads and Phones and will be available in fall. However, users of these devices can join the beta community and experience the new OS next month. Here is more about the improvements and new features that characterize this platform.

What’s New in iOS 12 – Much better performance

The developers behind this new operating system focused mainly on making it faster on supported devices. This is especially so on older versions of the Phone and Pad. The new iOS 12 was tested on a popular device prior to release. This was the Phone 6 Plus. During testing, the device applications were able to launch 40% quicker.

Its keyboard operated up to 50% faster and the camera started up 70% quicker.
After these impressive results, the manufacturer now seeks to enhance speeds for all devices that are supported by the new operating system. iOS 12 posts outstanding performance during instances when the devices are operating under a heavy load. With the new platform embedded in them, Phones and Pads will be faster than ever before. Furthermore, battery life will be preserved.

Notification System Overhaul in Apple iOS 12

It is a well-known fact that the notifications system on Apple devices is quite messy. To fix this situation, iOS 12 supports grouped notifications. As a result, you are able to manipulate notifications as a group.

The operating system also allows you to dismiss them from the same application in one command.

In the group notifications setup, you can view outstanding messages as a stack. This gives you an idea of how many they are. Using this feature of Apple iOS 12, you can also determine the notifications that vibrate your phone and those that don’t. Furthermore, you can choose the Quiet ones that only show up in the notifications center but do not pop up in your lock screen. With the new platform, you have extended control over the notification behavior in your smartphone.

Better Work, Life Balance Thanks to Screen Time in iOS 12

Apple seeks to help users achieve a better relationship between their gadgets and real-life. Therefore, the new platform has a special application that is known as Screen Time It helps users to identify how much time they are spending while operating their Phones and Pads. Screen Time is provided in iOS 12.

The app provides general data as well as the user time for individual applications. It can track the number of notifications that you are getting and indicate their sources. Furthermore, it can stack your applications according to category. Finally, the application delivers a report of your smartphone use at the end of the week.

Having viewed the outcomes of your smartphone use, you can begin to set time limits for each application. Having done so, Screen Time will automatically inform you when the respective allotted time is running out. This is done using a warning. A message titled, —rime’s Up!’ will pop up when your time is over.

Should you desire to keep going, you can request the application to grant you more time. A nice touch is that the app can assist parents to control the amount of time that their children are spending on their Phones and Pads.

New iOS 12 – Interesting Animoji

The new Phone X presented Animoji to the world. These are animated emojis that are more expressive than traditional ones.

In iOS 12, there are new Animojis such as a tiger, ghost, koala and a tyrannosaurus rex. Interestingly, the new characters will have the capability to notice when you are sticking out your tongue. Upon noticing that you are doing so, they will imitate you. The new operating system also allows you to create personalized emojis.

Known as Memoji, they are tailored according to your personal preference. You can choose the skin color, hair and overall appearance of the emoji.

FaceTime for groups

This new operating system allows group FaceTime. The popular video chatting application will now have the capacity to host more than one-on-one conversations. It will be able to host up to 32 different people in video calls.

Whenever there are multiple people on a video call, their video windows will enlarge when they are speaking and shrink when they are not. You can also use Animoji and Memoji during video conversations. Best of all, the new FaceTime will be compatible with macOS and all other iOS versions.

The new Apple iOS 12 has a wide range of new features. Released quite recently, this operating system provides you with a collection of improvements. It has solved some perennial issues with iOS and introduced a better mobile experience as well!

Due to strict legal procedures, some countries block users’ access to internationally recognised websites. It happens very often to entertainment websites that are of US origin. Some African and Latin American governments perceive US websites as a threat to their internal and external policy.

Such governments are usually not democratic. They block citizens’ access to US websites. It helps them to cultivate a culture of non-acceptance of American products. The same happens to Youtube channels. You should find out how to unblock YouTube  if you are outside the United States.

Youtube channels are an important source of information. They contain different types of videos. These are entertainment, political, educational. Users can get recent updates about social life around the world, and find out what types of products and services are developed in the world.

Unblocking Youtube outside US is possible only with the help of Virtual Private Network software. This type of program provides secure and anonymous access to various types of websites across the globe.

How VPN Helps to Unblock Youtube

Virtual Private Network is an IT development that hides user’s IP address online. Here are some main advantages of using a VPN for Youtube unblocking:

• You can access Youtube from any country around the world. It is a major advantage of this service. When a user goes online, his computer IP address automatically becomes visible in the system. IP address helps to detect geolocation of a user. So, if a person wants to access Youtube from an African country, where it is restricted, with native IP address he can’t do it. The only way is to buy a VPN access and to assign to a computer an IP address of a country where access to Youtube is permitted.
• You can enjoy Youtube content anonymously. Some people perceive internet as absolutely secured space. However, this is not the case. As soon as a user goes online, his identity can be easily disclosed by hackers through IP address and geolocation. If a person uses a VPN service he can access any type of content anonymously. It is a big advantage. It is so, because in many countries with dictatorships a person can go to jail for many years if he accesses content that is forbidden to citizens. So, VPN service becomes indispensable. It does not only guarantee unique access to content, but also keeps a person safe from different legal problems.
• You can watch and download videos easier. It is quite a significant advantages of a virtual private network. When a person uses regular access to websites, a speed of downloading is very low. It takes much time. VPN helps to facilitate this process. It will take a person some seconds to download a video. If a user would like to watch a video in real time, it will be equally easy for him. Speed of streaming is perfect.Watching Youtube video with VPN is time-efficient.
• You will avoid receiving unnecessary advertising. When a person makes a search online, his requests become visible to commercial companies. They put context advertisement on Youtube channel and send tons of adds with promotional content. It annoys many users. If you would like to avoid such type of commercial advertising, you have to use a VPN. You will then be able to use Youtube calmly, avoiding any type of commercial advertisement.
• You will have all your bank details safe. In Youtube, some channels are offered for subscription. A person has to pay some modest money to get access to some of the channels. In order to make the transaction, the system requires bank card details. If a user does not turn on VPN secure access, his bank details can easily get stolen. Hackers wait for a moment to get unprotected data. They can use bank details later to take a loan, or to buy some goods and services.
• You will get a better quality of video. Human brain always accepts information in high quality better. If a user watches a Youtube video from using unprotected access, he will hardly enjoy high quality video. Situation changes greatly with virtual private network. A user will get high quality video. He will enjoy and understand content much more with high quality access to Youtube channel.
• Your access data will be kept securely. To use Youtube extensively, a person needs to register online. When a user creates password, the system automatically memorises it. If a user surfs unsecurely, his passwords and other details can be hacked. The only right way to secure your login details is to get a VPN access.
• You do not have to worry about you access to a Youtube channel from publicly open WiFi. Very often people think that public WiFi access is protected. However, it is not so. Open WiFI spots people have in city center or cafes are not secure. If a person uses such an access, information he searches for will become visible for other users who connects to the same network. Anyone can track what type of information you look for online.

These are the main benefits of using VPNs to watch Youtube videos. VPNs is a right type of software to enjoy videos online. It helps to use Youtube securely.

VPN Software To Choose For Unblocking A Youtube Channel

To unblock Youtube channel, you have to choose a reliable type of VPN. Virtual private networks differ from each other greatly. Here are some main characteristics that determine a right VPN service for unblocking the Youtube channels:

• Quality of Server Park. If you would like to choose a right VPN to download Youtube video efficiently, you have to choose a programs with rich server park. A program also has to be able to switch between different servers easily. It will facilitate a process of watching videos.
• Reliability of encryption. It is a crucial parameter a good VPN for Youtube. The better information is encrypted the better it is. It means no third party can log in and track what type of information a user downloaded from Youtube channel. Many VPNs use common encryption. It is usually not enough to guarantee high security of data access.
• Speed level of VPN. Good VPNs are distinguished not only by high security level they provide to users, but also by high speed level. Users who surfs online usually wish to enjoy high speed of video. Only reliable VPN programs offer it.
• Unlimited type of bandwidth. If you would like to get unlimited access to videos, you have to make sure your VPN has unlimited bandwidth. It will help you to enjoy more quality videos.
• Worldwide access. It is important that a VPN offers access to various types of servers online. A user has to be able to access Youtube from different geographical locations.
• Only quality VPN programs ensure full anonymity of users. For users who access Youtube content from countries where it is legally forbidden, anonymity is crucial. Without it, the user risks to get legal problems.

These are the main features that good VPN programs should have. Even if such types of software are offered for money, they are worth paying for.

Unblocking Youtube Channel Outside the US

Many Youtube channels offer subscription for users from certain areas. Users from geographically restricted areas can’t access their content. It makes people lose track of update in all spheres of their online life. It also makes businesses to lose much money, as Youtube is a source to multiple profits.

If you live in a country where access to Youtube is restricted you can still cheat the system. Here are some ways how to access Youtube channel if access to it is restricted in your geographic area.

1. Use proper virtual private networks service. VPN is not a unified service. There are many different types of VPNs that offer these or that functions. One of the best VPNs to unblock Youtube videos is Nord VPN. It is a very efficient VPN program, that covers major VPN benefits. With a right Nord VPN you can easily access any Youtube channel. To do so, there are simple steps to follow:

• Choose a Nordvpn subscription you wish get. If you doubt if this service is right for you, you can have free trial. If you still decide for a paid subscription from the very beginning, the most cost efficient option is a yearly subscription.
• Download VPN software into your computer. Make sure to download an appropriate VPN software that is compatible with your operating system. There are separate software for iOS, Windows and Linux computers.
• Connect to a server from a needed location. Youtube is blocked in countries like China, North Korea, Iran, Pakistan and some others. It is important to connect to a server in a country where Youtube streaming is permitted. Your computer will then get a different IP address. With it, you will be able to access any type of Youtube content.
• Download your favorite Youtube video. Having installed virtual private network, you can be able to get access to all types of video from Youtube. Getting a right VPN is quite a smart way to unblock Youtube websites. It is 100% sure that this service will work. With a yearly subscription it will cost some 2, 75 dollars per month.

2. Get Expressvpn. This is another type of VPN services that works efficiently to unblock any type of Youtube channel. It is a software that guarantees personal anonymity online better than any other. The program uses special 256 ultra bit encryption.

Express VPN can be used by more than 90 countries all over the world. Another advantage of an Expressvpn is high quality of Youtube video a person can enjoy. You can enjoy 1080P videos. Such a high quality is perfect to watch films and videos online. Expressvpn is compatible with all types of operating systems. If you wish to test Expressvpn first, you can get 30 days guarantee money back. If you do not like the service, money will be returned to you. A price for Express VPN is 12.95 dollars per month.

3. Hotspot Shield. This is a US based VPN. It was powered for the purpose of letting people outside US to enjoy VPNs. A program uses SSL encryption to guarantee advanced anonymity for its users. One of the biggest advantages of this software is that it offers extra high speed of data flow. You will get your Youtube video within some seconds. Hotspot offers 45 days money back guarantee.
4. Vip VPN. It is a very reliable VPN service. High level of users’ security is achieved by strict control of all available servers in a given network. There is no third party involved. This is a type of VPN that offers the highest level of cyber-security. This VPN uses Chameleon protocol that can’t be tracked by anyone online. It guarantees extra security of data inflow and outflow. This virtual private network program falls under Swiss jurisdiction. Swiss is a worldwide label for quality in everything they do. It applies not only to products, but also to services. Vip VPN is very user friendly software.

Overall, virtual private networks software is easy to download. The most important is to choose vPN that matches your needs.

5. CyberGhost. It is one of the cheapest programs that will help you to get an access to Youtube videos. It is easy to download software. One of its biggest advantages is some 900 servers around the globe. You get CyberGhost whatever your country of origin is. This VPN uses double encryptions, that makes it an absolutely secure software. You can read more information on this site.
6. Pure VPN. It is a perfect programs for videos download. It offers an access to over 750 servers in more than 140 countries. Another big advantages of it is that a user can connect to as much as 5 devices at the same time. This type of software has fine 256 bits encryption. It guarantees high security online. Purevpn is one of the most affordable services. The most beneficial is to get 2-years plan. It will help to save money a lot.
7. Privacy VPN. This is another VPN program that will help you to unblock access to Youtube videos. It has 450 servers in more than 56 countries. If you buy this VPN service, you can be sure that you won’t get contextual advertisement. It is a good VPN to get advanced Youtube experience. This program offers unlimited bandwidth and speed. It is one of the most cost-efficient products offered.
8. Tunnel Bear. It is software that is compatible with all types of operating software. A person can download video from any country in the world. You can connect up to 5 devices having one account only. It guarantees very fast speed of data download. One of the major benefits of this program is its advanced security. Even if a user connects to a public WiFi spot, he can be sure that his activity online will be secured. According to international ranking, it is one of the most reliable VPN services in 2018.

These are the best virtual private networks software that will help you not only to access all types of Youtube content? but also to enjoy full anonymity online.  If you would like to watch Youtube video regularly, you have to watch your security and a get a right VPN service.

Access To Youtube From School Or Office With A VPN

Many people watch Youtube videos not only at home. They also prefer to watch such type of content from office or schools. In countries that do not tolerate access to Youtube, it is not very safe.

Government regularly monitors corporate computers. Publicly shared computers use public WiFi spot. It means all search results are kept on computer. It makes corporate governance and administration to track information users were looking for.

There is still a way to avoid such tracking, and safely watch Youtube videos. For that purpose, a user has to install a VPN on a private computer or any other device. Then, even if one uses public hotspot, his activity online will still be protected.

It is crucial to use VPNs in non-democratic countries. This will guarantee people security in virtual and real lives. The cost of VPN service is so low, and it is definitely worth it.

Before you decide what type of virtual private network to get, you have to read information about every program carefully. It will help you to get a fine VPN for rather small money. Security, especially in case you are on the territory of a different, supposedly not democratic, state, is really worth paying for.

Security of online activity is very important in modern world. People have to take care of this aspect. It will help them to guard their security in real life. VPN is a perfect solution to guard your anonymity online, and to get quick access to so informative websites as Youtube.

How to buy a used iPhone?

When it comes to finding a cheap phone that is fantastic value for money, purchasing a used iPhone has proven to be the way forward for millions of us. iPhones have been around for over a decade now and have transformed the way we browse, connect, and communicate. The only drawback is that their high cost can be prohibitive to many of us.

Luckily for you, there are plenty of people out there who trade in their iPhones every year for the latest model. That has created a booming economy all of its own with millions of us shopping around for a cheap used iPhone that saves us time, money, and effort.

Because buying second-hand devices can feel like a bit of a minefield we’ve put together our tops tips of what to look for and packaged everything into our easy to follow How-To Guide!

Let’s take a look at how you’ll be able to acquire the used iPhone 7 you’ve always wanted at just a fraction of the cost of a brand-new handset…

Why buy a used iPhone?

#1 There’s plenty of value out there! 

iPhones are some of the most desirable and sought-after handsets on the market, and the main reason so many would-be Apple fans haven’t yet made the jump to iOS is the significant cost involved in purchasing a new handset.

If you do your research, check all the basics, and negotiate well then you can get an absolute bargain that will function as good as new. This is an excellent way of saving yourself a significant portion of your hard earned monthly pay so that you have plenty left over to spend on the other things in life that matter.

#2 You’re not tethered to a contract

We’ve all seen those people in the shopping mall on a Saturday who’re walking around with the latest iPhone, but it has a giant crack right across the screen. All too often you’ll see this rather sorry sight, and the truth is that to replace the glass adequately can be too expensive for many of us.

Shopping around for a good quality used iPhone is a great way to replace or upgrade your handset for a fraction of the price…and you won’t be tied to a long-term contract with your network provider if you follow the advice in the rest of this article!

#3 You’ll have a lot of freedom to choose a handset that works for you

Network suppliers and phone stores always focus on pushing the latest handsets because that’s where they make their money. Take a step back and read the online comments from Apple fans about the newest raft of releases and updates and you’ll see plenty of voices of dissension which tells you that newer does not necessarily mean better!

By shopping around amongst a much bigger selection of handsets, you’ll be able to find an earlier model that is more to your liking. If have seen a good quality used iPhone 6 then remember that you’re unlikely to get anything of that generation as part of a package deal with your monthly phone contract. Don’t get caught up in searching sole or the latest models; find something that’s right for you.

How much do they cost?

Prices for iPhones are quite stable, with the general rule being that the older the model, the less you’ll pay.

Take a look at the latest prices to give you an idea of what you can expect for your money in the current market:

• iPhone 6S………….Starting from $175
• iPhone 6S Plus……Starting from $220
• iPhone 7……………Starting from $299
• iPhone 7 Plus………Starting from $395

Where can I buy a used iPhone?

There are a number of online marketplaces where you can buy a second-hand phone, but you need to be aware that if something sounds too good to be true, then it often is.

Let’s take a look at four of the most common places people shop so that you have a clear idea of where you need to be looking if you’re to find the bargain your wallet deserves.

eBay

This online giant will be the name that first comes to mind for many of us. You can buy anything and everything on there, including a used iPhone at a competitive price. Because there are so many sellers on there, you may see prices that appear far below those on other platforms, but when you see these apparent deals of a lifetime, I would always suggest proceeding with caution.

One thing to consider when approaching eBay is that because anyone can sell on there your buying experience may differ considerably from seller to seller. While there many talented and professional sellers, there is always room for that small number of people who spoil the experience for the rest of us.

Be sure to confirm in writing the delivery times, delivery payments, and where possible ask for a fully tracked delivery. If at any point you feel that your purchase is taking longer to arrive than it should then don’t panic; you have the security and safeguard of the eBay customer support team to fall back on. They make a little while to get back to you, but they should come through in the end.

Craigslist

Slightly different in terms of function than eBay, but with a reputation as a place where you get anything and everything you need, Craigslist is another site that is potentially worth considering.

As with eBay, there are some great sellers, but unfortunately, there is always room for a small number of people who will make the buying experience less than your hard earned money deserves. With that in mind always consider if the deal you’re being offered sounds too good to be true.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that should you encounter a nightmare seller is blatantly out to make a quick buck then you may find it very difficult to recoup even a fraction of your outlay. Personally, this puts me off and is a reason why before shopping around for a phone, it’s definitely worth shopping around for the right online store

Swappa.com

What sets Swappa apart from the larger buy-anything marketplaces is that they specialize in selling used iPhones, as well as other handsets and devices. This is great because straight away it gives you the peace of mind that you’re dealing with a team that knows their market and will stand by the quality and integrity of every device that is sold through their website.

They offer competitive pricing across all handsets, and best of all, in my opinion, is that they allow you to search, by the provider. That is a really important option because sadly what you’ll find with less established selling platforms is that iPhones that are listed as ‘Unlocked’ will often require you to pay to unlock them upon arrival before you can actually use them on your chosen network.

By being able to search for unlocked handsets, and for a network, Swappa removes one of the biggest headaches when shopping for a used iPhone with the click of a button. When you add to that that every handset is checked for quality and functionality, you can sleep easy knowing that you’re shopping in the right place as there’ll be no nasty surprises hidden behind what at first looks like a super low price

Social Media

The last entry to consider is social media, and honestly, it should be the last place anyone looks. Anyone can post an ad on Facebook and ask you to wire them some money for a handset. Because it isn’t a properly established buying and selling platform you have virtually no protection should something go wrong. You’ll see all manner of ‘too good to be true’ offers on social media that offer iPhones for $50 but they simply aren’t worth the risk.

Ask yourself this: if someone really were able to find a uniquely cheap source of iPhones would they only be selling them through their Facebook profile?

How To Evaluate Your Phone

Evaluating your prospective phone is something that’s really important, and there’s a little more to it than merely checking the uploaded photos for any signs of scratches and cracks that run right across the screen.

Don’t worry though, this section of our handy How-To Guide covers everything you need to know and even goes through the questions you need to ask when buying online, in the exact order you need to ask them. That way you can be assured of making the right choice before you head to the checkout!

Step 1: Ask for the IMEI

Simply put: NEVER enter into a negotiation on price or delivery time until you have been given the IMEI. It’s the unique 15-digit code that is tied to that particular handset, and it’s what allows you to unlock it from its original network and use it anywhere you choose.

Forgetting to ask for the IMEI is like not asking for the keys to use it as you wish, and guarantees that you’ll be limited to a couple of high tariffs from the original network provider. If you’re in the market for a good quality used iPhone, then make sure you allow yourself the freedom and flexibility to shop around and find the right monthly contract for you, once your new handset arrives!

What if the seller can’t provide the IMEI? Don’t be fooled or feel pressured into going ahead anyway with vague promises of receiving it later on. Something is wrong with the phone, so you are best moving on to something else. After all, there’s plenty of choice out there, and you have no reason to feel rushed or pressured into finding something right there and then.

Step 2: Make sure it’s unlocked

If you’re buying a phone that’s advertised as being ‘Unlocked,’ ’Contract Free,’ or anything similar that the buyer wishes to call it in their listing, then you must make sure that’s the reality before handing over your hard-earned money.

While you can always unlock a phone at a later date, the most important thing here is to get what you’re paying for. Think of it this way: you’re paying a premium for an unlocked handset. If it turns out to be locked after all, then you’ll have paid a premium, and then you’ll have to pay again for it to be unlocked. Paying twice for the same thing is certainly not something you’ll feel good about.

Ask for proof from the seller. If you’re buying online, you could ask for screenshots with the handset functioning on the SIM cards from two or more networks. If you’re buying in person from a friend or someone you’ve found locally on social media, then take a SIM along with you and check the handset that way.

Alternatively what I like to do is save myself a headache right from the start and use Swappa. By searching their list of unlocked handsets, you can have the peace of mind that you’re getting exactly what you paid for.

Step 3: Make sure you know how to unlock your handset

If you’re buying from sites like Swappa.com, then you can just skip over this section. However, if you’ve decided to buy from somewhere else, or have opted to buy a locked phone, then read on…

Unlocking your phone takes a few different steps, can typically take 48 hours to go through and can cost you money. If in doubt I would recommend always opting for an unlocked handset, even if the price difference does make the locked handset look like the better deal on the surface.  If not, I have an article here to learn about the safe ways to unlock your phone.

The first thing you need to do will be to contact the current network provider and request that your handset is unlocked. They may ask for your IMEI. Alternatively, there are a large number of online businesses that will use your IMEI to unlock your iPhone by editing Apple’s database of handsets so that it appears to be unlocked to every carrier. What I would say about these services is that they can be hit and miss, so I would always opt for speaking directly with the current carrier in the first instance.

If you no longer have the original SIM card, then you’ll need to power down your handset before it can be unlocked. While it’s powered off insert a SIM issued by the network you want to use it on, and then power it back up.

If everything has been processed by the carrier, and they were happy to do so in the first place, then your handset should now be operational on your new network. What I would say is that the cost and time of this process can vary dramatically across different networks and devices. When you first get in touch make sure to ask how long it will take, how long it will cost, and get a direct number in case you encounter any delays or difficulties.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Activation Locks

Activation locks can be a real headache if you buy your used handset from someone off eBay or social media. So, what is an activation lock and why do they cause so much hassle?

Your iPhone has a handy piece of software called ‘Find My iPhone’ that allows you to see where it is from any other iOS or Apple device. Its primary purpose is to assist you in getting your phone back should it be lost or stolen. It also allows you to remotely lock anyone else out of it until the handset is returned to you.

What some users find when shopping for used handsets is that they go through the unlocking process only to find that they’re prevented from using the phone due to the presence of the activation locks. This can be a real nightmare and often indicates that the phone you’ve bought has been stolen or inappropriately sold on.  To read about ways to unlock your activation lock, click here.

Once again a quick and easy way to ensure you never encounter such issues is to use a reputable specialist seller like Swappa. Because they personally stand by the quality and integrity of everything sold on their platform you’ll have the security of an entire customer support team to fall back on in the event that your handset isn’t what you expected it to be. If you choose a potentially lower price option off of a random one-off Facebook seller, then you probably will never hear from the seller again, and your money will be long gone!

The Conclusion

There is plenty of value out there if you’re looking to invest in an old phone, but do exercise caution when presented with deals that seem too good to be true.

If in doubt, choose the security of a reputable specialist seller who will provide the experience, range of choice, and customer service that your hard earned money deserves.

Everything You Need to Know When Your iPhone Won’t Charge

An issue many devoted Apple users face is that as if out of nowhere their iPhone won’t charge. This can be really annoying as it leaves you at the mercy of your remaining battery life as your once, trusty device is now something you need to constantly fiddle with, so that you can keep it powered.

Rest assured though; this is a common problem that many users have faced, so there are plenty of solutions out there when you are trying in vain to top up your iPhone charge.

To get things started let’s take a look at a few of the common reasons why you may be struggling with why your iPhone won’t charge, and why the cause will likely be something other than a broken or dead battery.

The top 4 reasons your iPhone won’t charge

#1 Check your lightning cable.

The lightning cable is the rather cool name Apple use for your iPhone’s power cable. They’re a lot more robust and easy to use compared to the old multi-pin connectors that came before them, but that doesn’t mean you should completely rule them out as the source of the problem.

The two main areas to check are the gold electrical contacts on the end of the lightning connector and the cable. If we start with the electrical contacts; you’re looking for any cracks, bends, or deep scratches.

With millions of us taking our chargers with us on the move it’s not uncommon for them to get stepped on or crushed. Plus, if you have pets then the day will likely come when you find your connector has been the victim of a thorough chewing!

Give the connector an inspection and remember that any damage will make it more difficult for the contacts to touch the matching parts on your iPhone’s socket.

Next, you need to take a look along the length of the cable. You’re looking for any splits or pinches in the line. The danger here is that the inner parts of the cable may have short-circuited which would mean that no power is getting to your iPhone battery.

#2 Can’t Charge iPhone? Check the Power Outlet!

This may seem too simple to be worth trying, but the simple things will fix so many issues they’re never worth passing over. First, you will need to check the wall plug that your lightning cable fits into. Check that the USB connection connects firmly, as over time they can work loose.

To check the wall socket itself it is always worth plugging in a second device. If it begins to charge, then you know that the fault lies somewhere else.

#3 Check the bottom of your iPhone

This too is one that people overlook; however, when you stop and think about the reason for it, it becomes apparent why you should stop and check it.

Your phone spends a significant portion of its life deep in your pocket. Your pockets will contain little bits of lint and fluff that make no difference to items like your keys or your wallet, but your iPhone is a little bit more sensitive.

The power socket on the bottom of the iPhone will only be covered if you have made a point of adding a specific type of case. That makes it the ideal place for all manner of small pieces of debris to gather. As the weeks and months go by the buildup will become such that it forms an impenetrable barrier between the gold contacts on the lightning connector and the contacts inside the iPhone’s socket.

If you notice that you can charge your iPhone by moving the lightning connector around once it’s plugged in, then there is a very high likelihood that this is the source of those charging woes.

Don’t worry though because cleaning is simple and you certainly won’t need to form an orderly queue at the Genius Bar to get your iPhone back up and running. We’ll talk you through an easy way to clean it out below in our handy fixes section…

#4 Software. Software. Software.

We can all get our heads around issues with hardware because it’s relatively straightforward to swap bits in and out, cross reference as you go, and determine where the fault lies. Where so many of us hit a stumbling block is when it comes to software.

Something you may not be aware of is that when you plug in your iPhone, it runs a piece of software that decides whether it should start charging. With all manner of software and app updates bombarding your iPhone night and day it wouldn’t be too surprising if it needed the occasional reset to knock itself out of its unintended confused state.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the fixes that are on offer when your iPhone won’t charge…

The Fixes for When Your iPhone Won’t Charge

Fix 1: The hard reset

This first fix may sound a little bit daunting and technically demanding but don’t worry. Fortunately, as with almost everything they do Apple has made this easy and straightforward.

We mentioned above that the software is what actually allows your iPhone to begin receiving a charge. That may sound like an over-engineered feature, but it prevents your iPhone being overcharged and the resulting damage to the battery that this would cause.

Nine times out of 10 when you approach the Genius Bar with your seemingly dead iPhone, they’ll perform a hard reset that brings it back to life right then and there.

Fortunately doing one yourself at home is super simple. All you need to do is hold down the power button until you see the Apple logo display on your screen; everything else should be black. (Please note if you have the iPhone 8 or later you’ll need to quickly toggle the volume up and then down before engaging the power button.)

After a couple of minutes, your iPhone will boot back up and ask you to enter your passcode to resume normal operation. That is precisely the same as selecting ‘Shutdown’ on your old desktop PC. It gives your iPhone a little break; this enables it to process any loose ends from updates and hanging operations.

If your iPhone won’t charge, then this simple trick should be your first port of call.

Fix 2: The lightning cable

We mentioned a little bit earlier about why apparently cosmetic damage to your lightning cable can result in all manner of charging difficulties.

On the face of it, the only solution here is to buy a new lightning cable and hope for the best. But when you investigate your options a little further, there are many more avenues open to you than may first appear.

The first thing to say is that you need to swap lightning cables and see if the charging issues go away. If they do, then you know where the fault lies. Rather than paying out for a new cable from Apple why not borrow one from a friend or family member for a quick test? Straight away this will save you the price of a cable and the time it takes for it to arrive.

Remember Your Warranty!

Next, you want to figure out why it has failed. If it is obvious from the cosmetic appearance of the cable that it has been roughly handled, then you will have little option but to consider buying a replacement cable. If however there is no apparent physical damage but the issue goes away when using your friend’s cable then Apple Support should be your next port of call.

If your iPhone is still under warranty, then it’s important to know that this doesn’t just cover the handset. No, it actually covers everything in the box! If your cable is under warranty and it’s not your fault that it has failed, Apple will likely replace it free of charge.

Non-Apple Options

If however, you’re out of warranty there are a number of replacement options to consider. Apple branded cables tend to be the most expensive, but they’re also amongst the very best. Don’t be put off by the fact that your one just failed and opt for a substandard $5 cable. They tend to be cheaper for a very good reason, and you may well end up buying another replacement before you know it. If in doubt, stick with official products.

 Fix 3: Let’s focus on your charger

We mentioned earlier that you can check your wall socket by seeing if it will charge a separate device which uses a different charger. The next question then is how do you tell if the charger itself is the issue.

Just to be clear, the charger we’re talking about here is the large wall plug that your lightning cable connects to using a USB connector. If you find that it will work sporadically when you move the USB connector around, then it is likely that the USB socket is damaged and you will need to purchase a new charger.

There is also the potential for the USB connector on the cable itself to be the cause of the charging issues. A simple way to rule this in or out is to connect it directly to the USB socket on your PC or laptop. If it starts charging and your iPhone displays as a recognized device that’s trying to communicate with your computer, then you can be sure that the issue lies with the USB socket on your charger.

Replacement Options

As with coming to replace the lightning cable, it’s important to be aware of the drawbacks of a number of the cheaper options on the market. By all means, shop around for something that isn’t Apple if you’re annoyed that it has just failed on you. However, don’t necessarily go for the cheapest option on the market.

Read the reviews, ask on tech forums, and make an informed choice so that you end up spending your hard earned money on something that will stand the test of time.

And one last thing…Don’t forget to double check whether you’re still under warranty! If you are, then there’s every possibility that Apple will give you a like-for-like replacement free of charge!

Fix 4: Can’t charge battery…could it be the battery?!

If you’ve worked through our first 3-fixes and you’re still not up and running, you may start to think that your iPhone won’t charge because the battery has died. If you go to a third party phone repair store and they can’t get your iPhone operational with the hard reset we talked through in Fix-1, then there’s every chance they’ll try to charge you a large sum of money to investigate the battery.

What’s important to know here is that Apple’s batteries are incredibly robust and are very rarely the source of the problem. Also, turn your iPhone over and take a look at the back. There’s no simple way to slide the case off and access the battery like there was with the old style Nokia phones. That means that not only is the operation potentially quite costly; there’s also a lot that can go wrong.

Our advice here is to ignore talk of having the battery replaced or examined by a third party seller, and only suggest it as a last resort when you come to deal with Apple in person.

Fix 5: Get cleaning

A quick and simple solution that you should certainly try is to clean out your iPhone’s power socket. Remember how we said it could become stuffed full of all sorts of dust and fluff? Well, now you can show your device a little TLC and get it back to working and charging as it should!

The key here is not to use anything abrasive or any form of liquid. It may be tempting to go in there with the tip of your keys or a hair clip. Unfortunately, if you do the metal will merely scratch the delicate contacts inside the socket and cause you further charging issues.

As strange as it sounds, a toothbrush works as good as anything. Make sure it is new out of the packet so that you avoid the risk of water and moisture damaging the internal working of your device.

Visibility is Key

If this is indeed the source of your issues, you’ll be amazed at how much debris you end up removing. Remember that if you’ve had multiple attempts at charging it, then a significant amount of the fluff will be compacted near the bottom of the socket. Stand under a light and be patient; the sight of your iPhone charging just like it did the first time you took it out of the box will be well worth the wait!

Fix 6: The factory reset

Seen as a last-ditch option for many, this requires you to back up all of your iPhone’s data elsewhere before proceeding. The factory reset will wipe your iPhone right back to its first run settings. As such, you will have a phone that is identical in terms of its software, as the first day you took it out of the box.

While this approach has been known to solve a number of more exotic software bugs that prevent your iPhone from charging, I would exercise caution before proceeding.

If you have AppleCare+ (Apple’s own rolling maintenance and protection program), then I would suggest consulting with them directly before proceeding. That way if there’s something they can do to help you (sometimes they’ll even replace your iPhone right then and there,) then you’re saving yourself some headaches if something goes awry while wiping your device.

Backup Everything

Backing up your photos and other data is critical here. If you have an iMac or MacBook, then the process is particularly simple as all you need to do is plug in your iPhone using your lightning cable and follow the import options in iTunes. Follow every step, and you’ll have the peace of mind that no matter what happens to your phone, you still have everything from it safe and sound somewhere else.

The factory rest options can be found under Settings > General > Reset. You’ll sometimes be asked whether you want to proceed which is handy as it makes it impossible to wipe your phone by mistake. Once complete it will operate as a brand new iPhone and greet you with the rather charming ‘Hello’ screen.

Congratulations: You’re Up and Running!

If you’ve tried everything on this list, then you’ve tried all of the common (and a number of not so common!) fixes and solutions to iPhones that no longer want to charge. It can be frustrating, but as with everything tech-related, there’ll be a reason why it’s happening.

I hope you’ve found this rundown useful and that you now have a clear idea of not only what fixed your iPhone, but why it worked!

If you are interested in unlocking your iPhone to use on any carrier, click here.

Everything is done online these days. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but when you’re out looking for a job, or if you’re seeking to advance in your current career, you may find yourself needing this trending skill: the ability to code.

Coding is becoming a skill more and more people are looking to learn especially for work, so if you need a job yourself, this is one skill that should be at the top of your list to master.

Job Opportunities

You’ve gotten a degree from high school or college and are looking for a job. Maybe you’ve gone on a lot of interviews, but you haven’t gotten any work yet. Learning to code can help you beef up your resume while giving you practical skills many careers and jobs are currently looking for. In short: learning to code gets you hired.

Just about every industry needs developers, but not enough people have the skills they need. With the increasing focus of technology in society, you can expect a constant and growing need for developers in the coming years too. If you can learn to read, write, and understand code, you can set yourself apart with a guaranteed job.

With just a little time spent learning, there are suddenly many more job opportunities available to you. Above all else, this means that if a job comes your way that doesn’t look too great, you have the power to say no. Rest assured that another job opportunity will come soon.

Earn More Money

You can get a job when you know how to code, but what you might not know is that you can also earn a lot more money. Because there’s a lack of people with this specific skill, you are able to earn more as a developer.

Starting salaries are great too, but as you hone your coding skills and increase the amount of coding languages in your arsenal, you can begin making even more. You’ll soon be invaluable and in high demand for most jobs out there. Funnily enough, many jobs needing coding also provide you with more time for yourself. You make more while working less hours.

Always in Demand

Since companies need people who can code, you’ll always be in demand. As you improve your skills too, you’ll find that there’s always more you’re able to learn to widen your job prospects. Learn new languages, pick up new skills, and make yourself look even better to prospective employers. You can always advance in this field, meaning that there are always new opportunities available to you.

Better Job Control

Coding is a wonderful skill to have for those of you who don’t have a set schedule, or who need a job that allows them some flexibility. Knowing how to code can get you a job that doesn’t require you to work every day at the same time. Especially if you have a busy home life, this is ideal.

With more control over your job, you’ll usually find yourself with some extra time. Use this to do more at home, or to spend time traveling. Unlike many jobs out there, you’re able to control when and where you work for more freedom without compromising your job security.

Remote Work

You already know that knowing how to code gives you the opportunity to work on many more types of jobs, while providing you more control over your current work, but coding can also help you work remotely. Since you’re working on the computer, as long as you have it with you, you’re able to work anywhere. Travel to your heart’s content with the extra money, time, and job control that you have, without worrying about losing your job or being away from the office.

Get Recruited

Instead of using all of your time running around and filling out job applications, if you know how to code, people will come to you. Companies reach out all the time to find developers and software engineers that can fulfill their needs. Many people even have to put on their online profiles that they aren’t looking for work with all the job offers they’ve gotten.

On top of getting recruited, you never have to fill out those annoying job applications anymore either. As you get many unasked offers and people find you on social media websites, suddenly you find yourself with much more time that you won’t have to spend filling out job applications.

Fresh Skills

Coding is becoming an increasingly important skill. It’s becoming part of the national curriculum, which means that soon you’ll begin to see it showing up everywhere, even in educational institutions. If you know how to code though, you’ll be able to keep up with the current trends of education while giving yourself an opportunity to learn more and improve your skill level.

Effective Communication

Coding doesn’t mean that you’re working all by yourself all the time. Web development can be a collaborative process that involves team members and clients. By learning to code, you can find yourself in a job that can improve your communication skills. Learn to explain tricky codes and programs, and to interact with people casually too. With the ability to talk to others, your job opportunities only increase.

Prepare for Other Careers

Learning how to code won’t just help you as a developer, but within other aspects of your life too. By coding, you can train yourself to become a logical thinker, helping you with problem solving. This is because coding combines math, logic, and algorithms, which allow you to efficiently focus on an issue, solve it, and move along. Use you new skills in any number of different jobs, or in your personal life as well.

This means that even if coding is not necessarily your favorite skill, you can still gain many practical skills that will help you in other ways. Especially if you like to ask questions or solve problems, you can gain immense personal satisfaction by learning to code.

The Future of Technology

It’s obvious, but computers are becoming more and more important in the world today. If you don’t know how to code, you’ll soon be missing a valuable skill that you’ll need in the future. As computers become more prominent in everyday life, you’ll be thankful you can interact efficiently.

Increased Personal Opportunities

With all the extra time you have, along with the job flexibility, you can work on other ways to make money and further your career. As a developer, this means you can make a website, or build up your resume for future work by improving your coding skill. Over time, these projects can develop into real work and passions.

Conclusion

Many people are intimidated by the prospect of coding. Learning a new skill can be difficult, but if you’re looking for a job, coding is one of the skills you definitely want in your arsenal. Knowing how to code not only provides you with great job opportunities, but gives you the option of choosing your work, spending more time outside of work, and preparing yourself for future projects. If you’re trying to get a job, spend a little time learning to code and you’ll be set for life.