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Surfshark VPN For iPhone Review

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Surfshark VPN for iPhone is an app that can increase your privacy, give you access to blocked websites, and even increase your security. And if you think that’s good, we’re just getting started!

This is one of the best deals that are out there right now as you’re getting a ton of features at a good price point. With that being said, let’s take a closer look into it!

Surfshark VPN For iPhone Review

Main Functionality

Surfshark VPN for iPhone

As mentioned above, Surfshark is a VPN. And the main purpose of a VPN is to increase your overall privacy while also allowing you to access regional blocked content. If you want more details on how that works, head to the bottom of this page.

Now, with that being said, different VPNs will offer a different set of features and functionality. So, let’s take a quick look at what Surfshark VPN for iPhone brings to the table!

1: Identity Protection And Data Theft

Your IP address can unveil a great deal of information about you from your location to even your name and address, depending on who gets his hands on it. An like it or not, our IP is visible to every single website that we visit.

As if that wasn’t enough, our connection is also not encrypted. So, basically, anyone who has the knowledge on how to steal information can almost freely do so.

That information may include anything from social media passwords to even login information on banking accounts. Needless to say that you definitely don’t want that.

Thankfully, Surfshark protects both your identity and information by concealing your IP and encrypting incoming and outcoming data/information.

2: Phishing Protection and Ad-Blocking

Phishing is a method that cyber criminals use to fool you into providing every bit of information that they need. There is a wide variety of methods to do that, but what matters is that more often than not, you won’t realize that you fell victim of a phishing scam until it’s too late.

For example, the scammer may create a fake copy of a banking website which looks and feels exactly the same. However, every bit of info that insert there will be sent over to the criminal instead of the bank.

So, you open an email which says that you need to log-in to your online bank account in order to check something out, you do, and without realizing, you end up giving all the information that the hacker needs.

That’s why Surfshark has implemented a phishing detection mechanism to protect us from such occurrences. Not to mention malware and intrusive ads.

3: Data Encryption

Surfshark VPN for iPhone

Encrypting outcoming and incoming information offers some massive benefits for both protection and privacy.

This single feature allows you to safely use public Wi-Fi, your banking account, crypto walled, and anything else that is normally prone to cyber criminal attacks.

4: No Borders

Many websites and even individual shows on Netflix are regionally blocked. That means that depending on where you live, you may not be able to access YouTube, Supernatural, or anything else that is regionally blocked.

Surfshark gives you the ability to bypass that by making it look as if you’re browsing through another country. Websites often look at the IP to determine the location of the one who is browsing.

So, if the VPN gives you an American IP, then the website that you’re browsing will think that you’re browsing from the USA regardless of where you really are.

Surfshark VPN for iPhone: Features and Pricing

Surfshark VPN for iPhone

Surfshark VPN for iPhone comes as cheap as $1.99 per month. That’s without a doubt one of the cheapest VPN apps we’ve ever seen and is definitely worth considering for the price alone.

But, obviously, there’s more to it than that! Apart from everything we’ve mentioned above, one thing that Surfshark offers that most VPNs don’t is the ability to use it on as many devices as you want.

That’s right! No restrictions! All you need to do is buy one subscription and then you are free to install it on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Firefox, and Chrome!

Then there’s also CleanWeb. This is one of the main functionalities that we mentioned above. It blocks all intrusive ads and malware/phishing attempts. And if you’re browsing through your phone, it can also save some data!

Now, with all of that being said, don’t forget that there is always the option of whitelisting specific apps and/or websites. For example, if you want to browse YouTube or your banking account without them going through the VPN and slowing you down, you can do it.

Surfshark VPN for iPhone: Security

Our information is only as secure as the VPN that we’re using. That’s why many popular reviewers often recommend not using any free VPN apps. Because, after all, nothing is free. What we don’t pay in money is often paid by other means – like private information!

For this reason, Surfshark has a strict no logs policy. Nobody is going to know what you’re doing online, including the ones that protect that information.

Then there is the other side of the wall that want to spy on you. That includes anything from cyber criminals to even the government.

And for that reason, Surfshark used camouflage mode, encryption, and MultiHop to protect you from prying eyes. Multi-Hop can be particularly useful for privacy as it goes through multiple connection points before finally reaching the main destination. Much like Tor, just in case you’re familiar with it.

What is a VPN? How Does it Work?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. There are numerous VPN apps out there with Surfshark being one of them.

The main purpose of a VPN is to conceal the IP address and encrypt any online information that the user is sending or receiving.

There are multiple ways of doing that. But, the most common one is without a doubt a sort of relay system.

Normally, when you’re browsing without a VPN, all the information goes from your computer to the ISP and then to the main server. However, a VPN will first send the data through the company’s servers and then towards the destination server.

So, if the company’s server is in the US and you’re browsing the web through France, then it’s going to appear as if you’re browsing through the US. Even if you’re not remotely close to it.

The best VPN apps have multiple servers all over the world which helps increasing privacy and also bypassing regional locks. That being said, Surfshark is not an exception to that rule.

Truth be told, the actual technical description is a tiny bit more complicated than that. But, that’s basically all you need to know as fast as possible.

Surfshark VPN for iPhone Review: Wrapping Up

Surfshark is overall a strong, secure, and trustworthy VPN that’s available for the very low price of $1.99 per month. It’s really hard to go wrong with it and that’s why we give it our seal of approval.

You can get it for most available platforms that are out there, including iOS. Check it out in the link down below!

Check Out The VPN Here

Best Netflix Alternatives in 2019

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There are numerous Netflix alternatives out there and we’re here today to find the best out of the bunch. I mean, Netflix is a great streaming service. It really is. But, what if you want something different? Something maybe a bit cheaper, free, or with a different selection of movies and shows? So, let’s check out some alternative options. 

1: Best Netflix Alternatives For a Subscription: Amazon, Hulu, And HBO

Netflix alternatives

Amazon, Hulu, and HBO are by far the most popular streaming services aside from Netflix. Obviously, most of us already know about them. But, still, we thought that mentioning them is good for starters who are just now getting into streaming. And if you haven’t heard about them, now is your chance to check them out!

First of all, there is Amazon Prime Video which offers a great collection of movies and TV shows like Aquaman, Captain Marvel, Game of Thrones (Along with an HBO sub) and many, many more. The great thing about it is that it goes hand to hand with Amazon Prime which means that you won’t have to pay for two separate services. 

Then there is Hulu which has a wide variety of shows to watch from – especially if you include the add-ons that you can use like HBO, Showtime, and more. The only downside of it is that their Android app doesn’t play well with certain devices and that can be an issue. Especially if you consider that more than 60% of people nowadays prefer browsing with their smartphones. 

Last, but not least, there is HBO. This is  the streaming the service that offers two of the most popular exclusive shows out there: 

  1. Game of Thrones
  2. Chernobyl

Exclusives are obviously not exactly a good thing for us, the consumers, but just saying. Prices are not going to be mentioned cause they can wildly differ from region to region. 

Best Free Netflix Alternatives: Showbox, Popcorn Time, And Kodi

Netlfix alternatives

Not everybody is able or willing to pay for a subscription. Thankfully, there are quite a few Netflix alternatives that are also completely free to use. 

Now, some of them are a bit shady and maybe even dangerous for your device’s health, viruses and such, while others, up to a certain point, are completely safe and legal to use. Let’s shart with Showbox. 

Showbox is completely free and allows you to watch almost every show and movie that’s out there. However, it has 2 series downsides: 

  1. Only available for Android
  2. No official source as of yet

The first downside is somewhat of a problem for PC users and for those who want to watch their shows on a bigger screen. Not really a huge deal. However, the second downside can even prove to be dangerous. After all, download the app from the wrong source and you may get infected with adware or something even worse. 

Popcorn Time is a bit more popular and is available for computers as well. While it has a rather big collection of shows and movies, it’s also considered illegal in numerous countries.

Piracy is commonly nothing to be afraid of. But, if you are living in the wrong country and at the wrong time, you’re risking getting fined or even going to jail. More on that later on. 

Last, but not least, Kodi. Kodi, by default, offers quite a number of legitimate and legal sources to watch numerous videos. Now, if you want to move on to more questionable add-ons, then that’s your call to make. 

Basically, Kodi allows you to use 3rd party sources and that, in turn, makes it practically possible to get all the shows and movies in the world for free. Just not legally. Again, Kodi, by default, is completely legitimate and legal. The 3rd party add-ons are the ones that are questionable. 

Consider Using a VPN

Some of the above-mentioned services, including Kodi and Showbox, are considered illegal in numerous countries. Well, to be more precise, Kodi isn’t considered illegal as it is, but that’s a topic for another day. 

Usually, pirating movies and shows isn’t something that will get you punished. However, some countries are known for being strict for such matters. Germany is one of the few that can fine you or even send you to prison for piracy. 

So, are you going to take the risk? Why not use a VPN? VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It’s a kind of software which conceals your identity and also whatever it is that you’re doing on the Internet from any prying eyes. 

That includes your ISP and even the government. Obviously, if you’re going to do something that’s considered highly illegal, then no VPN provider is going to try and hide you from the government/police. 

However, for the rest of us normal folk who just want a bit of privacy and security, a VPN is a great solution. Most of them are extremely cheap while there are also a few free choices. We’d recommend against the latter, but, that’s a topic for another day. 

There are plenty of choices out there, but ExpressVPN is the one that we’re going to recommend. After all, it has a long-standing reputation for being fast, reliable, affordable, and secure. 

So, all things considered, do seriously think about installing a VPN. 

Get ExpressVPN From The Official Website

 

Honorable Mentions

All the services that we mentioned above are some of the most widely known Netflix alternatives, but there’s much more to it than that. Here are some other streaming services that deserve a bit of attention as well: 

  • HooqMubi
  • Fandor
  • Crackle
  • Hotstar
  • Filmstruck
  • Sling TV
  • Tubi TV
  • YouTube
  • Pluto TV
  • Showtime
  • Pureflix
  • Pocorn Flix
  • Viewster
  • Snag Films

Yes, YouTube is also included. While it’s clearly far from having the biggest collection of shows and movies, you can still find a few stuff there. For example, The Red Pill is only available on YouTube at the moment. 

That’s all for now. If you’ve got any other Netflix alternatives to recommend, then let us and everyone else know about them in the comments section down below!

Are VPNs Legal to Use? Everything you Need to Know

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Looking to unlock the power of the internet but concerned that are VPNs legal to use in your region? Here’s everything there is to know about the countries that allow the use of VPN, and regions where it is restricted by the government, or banned entirely.

During the early days of the World Wide Web when the network infrastructure was not yet as abundant as it is today, there was more freedom offered to users too. From being able to connect to services across country lines, to be able to access websites freely, the openness of the internet certainly has been disrupted as the number of users has skyrocketed to billions over the past couple of decades. However, the fight to keep the essence of the internet alive and been fueled by virtual private networks (VPNs), offering way to access any part of the World Wide Web freely, while keeping things private and confidential.

Whether you’re trying to access a website that has been restricted by your ISP (Internet Service Provider), or just want to enjoy an international version of Netflix with all of its extra content, a VPN is the way to go. But over the years, even VPNs, which were designed to be a beacon of privacy and security, have been perverted into being used as tools of malicious activities all across the world. The restrictions put forward by certain regional authorities can make you wonder are VPNs legal to use in the first place, which is why we’re here to help it break it all down for you.

Are VPNs Legal or Illegal?

It is estimated that around 1 on 4 people all around the world use a VPN service to secure their online browsing experience for different purposes. What was once the brainchild of a Microsoft chief engineer, today stands as the evolutionary technology that not only allows users to go around the internet anonymously, but barricade their privacy as well. VPNs have been used for decades by corporate entities and government organizations to secure their network services, and in the past decade, has become commercially available to individuals.

The fact of the matter is that VPNs are legal to use in most of the major countries all around the world, and is acceptable to federal authorities. Using a VPN is around 196 countries is completely legal. This includes the major superpowers such as the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, India, Germany, Japan, and several others. However, there are certain countries that either restricted the use of VPNs partially, or have straight up made virtual private network illegal to use all across the region.

Where are VPNs Illegal and Why?

The core purpose of a VPN is to offer security, bolster privacy, and yet, grant complete and unrestricted access the World Wide Web. While the theory behind the service is a force for good, it hasn’t curbed the use of VPNs for a slew of illegal and immoral activities across the world. Unlawful and fraudulent use of a service that allows you to become untraceable and anonymous on the internet can wreak havoc on unsuspecting users.

The unethical use of such as service has been a concern for federal authorities worldwide, which is the reason users are compelled to ask are VPNs legal to use in the first place. However, most countries continue to allow the use of VPN services, with the regard of user freedom, but this does not apply to countries that have a sketchy record when it comes to human rights in the first place. A total of 11 countries have either explicitly banned the use of VPNs, or allow only government-approved VPN services for individual use.

Government-controlled VPN usage

  1. China – Setting up a dedicated cross-border line of communication requires direct consent of the Chinese government. Individuals caught accessing VPN services can be fined up to 15,000 Yuan (approximately $2,200).
  2. Russia – Under the guise of restricting “extremist materials” through social media, Russia blocks the access to VPN services and also imposes a fine of 300,000 RUB ($51,00) on the individual user, and an additional 700,000 RUB ($12,000) on the VPN service provider.
  3. Iran – The government-approved VPN services by the judiciary service in Iran are still subject to surveillance by the government, which defeats the purpose of having a VPN service.
  4. United Arab Emirates – Although the United Arab Emirates does not restrict corporations and institutions from using VPN services, individuals are barred from using VPN services to maximize the profitability of the government-owned telecommunication services. Fraudulent use of a VPN service is, however, a chargeable offence with can land you in custody or with a fine of $544,000.
  5. Oman – VPN services are restricted to curb the use of VOIP for communication and for users outside the Sultanate of Oman to be able to use the online services provided within the region only. A fine of 500 Omani Rial ($1,300) on individuals and 1,000 Omani Rial ($2,600) can be imposed upon unauthorized usage.
  6. Turkey – The government has imposed strict censorship on the content available for viewing to the users, but with no legal fines put forward.

Regions with VPN ban

  1. Iraq – In an order to keep the extremist propaganda by groups such as ISIS from spreading among the common population through social media, Iraqi government has outright banned the use of VPN services.
  2. Turkmenistan – For political reasons and to keep the coverage of foreign media away from the citizens, Turkmenistan’s one and only ISP is government-owned and filters out the content that the users have access to.
  3. Belarus – The government feels strongly about how services like Tor and VPNs can lead to an increase in online criminal activity, thus enforcing a complete ban all across the country.
  4. North Korea – Although a minuscule amount of users in North Korea have access to its version of the internet called “Kwangmyong” in the first place, usage of VPNs is entirely banned under the oppressive regime.
  5. Uganda – After the use of social media was made taxable by the Ugandan government, citizens turned to VPN services, which sparked the ban on the services and was mandated by the authorities on all ISPs.

Choose ExpressVPN

Just because the country that you reside in has not barricaded your access to the internet, does not mean that you don’t need a VPN service. From restricting access to websites from foreign adversaries, to keeping a tab on citizens through unprecedented measures of surveillance, there are plenty of ways the federal authorities are attacking your right to access the World Wide Web with complete freedom.

Even if you do choose a VPN service, it isn’t guaranteed that your online browsing sessions are not being monitored by the ISP or by high authorities, such as the NSA in the United States. Since certain VPN service providers choose to log the user browsing history and can cough up these details to the federal authorities upon request, just plugging into any VPN service won’t cut it. This is why we recommend using ExpressVPN, which guarantees to log no user information, is backed by the highest standards in encryption, and offers hundreds of servers scattered all across the world.

ExpressVPN covers 90+ countries – If you’re looking to access the local or national websites of a country far away, ExpressVPN has got you covered. With more than 160 server locations established in a total of 94 countries, you can spoof your IP address to appear from any of the enlisted countries, choose among 160+ different server locations, and get the fastest transfer speeds going.

Unlock entertainment content – For those who just want to take a look at the catalog of movies and TV shows that Netflix offers outside of your country of residence, or wish to try out services such as BBC iPlayer which is not available to residents outside of the UK, enabling ExpressVPN grants you access to a world of entertainment that you are yet to discover.

ExpressVPN on all devices – Whether you want to set up the VPN service on your mobile phone to make VOIP calls and go under the detection radar, or wish to unlock the power of Kodi with ExpressVPN, there’s an app to do it. You get support for all of the popular platforms such as Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, iOS, Android, and even VPN-enabled routers.

Keeping you secure – To keep your online activities private and away from the prying eyes of your ISP, the government, and especially hackers, ExpressVPN has the highly strengthened 256-bit encryption in place. Since your IP address is hidden, your location and your identity are also safeguarded for complete anonymity.

Final Words

While federal authorities tend to look at VPN services as a means for individuals to bypass necessary restrictions, the mainstream user only looks at it as a way to reclaim the core of what the World Wide Web was initially created for. As a means to connect the world, you cannot deny the fact that there are plenty of ways the resourcefulness of a VPN service can be amalgamated by those with malicious intent. The question of are VPNs legal has been answered in the list above, and the regions where it is restricted or banned, have been detailed as well.

Are you a resident of the countries where using VPN is a rite of passage, or are you among those who could land in trouble if caught communicated to a virtual private network? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.

Guide to Buy a Used Google Pixel 3 – Everything You Need to Know

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Looking to grab a used Google Pixel 3 and enjoy the best of Android straight from the company that has built it? Here’s a definitive buyer’s guide to purchase a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL smartphone, and how you can fetch one without overpaying or settling for a subpar device.

How to buy a Used Google Pixel 3?

Back in the early 2000s when Android OS was first developed, the intention was to create a software platform for digital cameras. Google Inc. was quick to notice the potential behind this mobile operating system and acquired Android OS, along with the team that worked on it in the year 2005. Just a couple of years later, Google, in partnership with Taiwanese tech company HTC, released the very first Android OS powered smartphone – the HTC Desire. In the beginning, Google needed to support of big names in the tech manufacturing space, thus creating the Nexus series of devices.

Over the years, the Mountain View company collaborated with brands such as HTC, Samsung, LG and Motorola to release different iterations of the Nexus series of smartphones and tablets. However, in the year 2016, the very first Google Pixel was unveiled, which officially kick started Google’s bidding in the premium smartphone wars. Deemed as the flagship Android smartphone straight from Google, the Pixel series has become a benchmark by which all other Android flagship phones are measured, and the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are no different.

With the premium hardware specs that the flagship mobile phone from Google, you also get a hefty price tag. Each year, the Google Pixel gets updated with design refinements and significant hardware upgrades, so are you willing to shell out nearly a thousand dollars for the high-end variant of the flagship phone? If you’re among the power users who want the best of Android straight from Google, but don’t want to put a serious dent in your budget, buying a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL is your best option.

There is no shortage of second hand Google Pixel sellers in the market and online, so how do you find an affordable one that’s in the best possible condition? Purchasing a used electronic device can be an unnerving experience, but only if you don’t know what to look for and do the due diligence to find out that device you’re about to buy is worth the ask. We’ve rolled up our sleeves and done the work of understanding how you can buy a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL in the best condition possible, without making any compromises, and pay considerably less than what you would for a new one.

For our highest rated refurbished iPhone reseller, use Swappa. All their used iphones are unlocked and tested for quality and function.
 Our Second Highly Rated Option is Amazon.com. There are lots of certified vendors who offer iPhones and more price options.  Plus Amazon provides a solid return policy and fast delivery with Amazon Prime. .

Why buy a used Google Pixel 3?

Reason #1 – Premium hardware and software

Google has designed its official phone to be a flagship device that is the measurement standard for all other Android smartphones. Google Pixel devices almost always beat every other Android OEM phone on benchmark scores, all thanks to the latest and great hardware configuration, and the Google Pixel 3 lives up to this promise. Packing the Snapdragon 845 processor that is paired with 4GB of RAM capacity, the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have the highest DxOMark score among all Android phones.

Thanks to the combination of the camera hardware and software optimizations done for the Google Camera, you get to capture fleeting moments better than ever. Additionally, each and every software update that is rolled out for the device, comes straight from Google, which means reduced wait times. So when you get yourself a Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL, you can expect nothing less than the best of Android OS, with support for two years of major software updates right out of the box.

Reason #2 – Great value for money

The Google Pixel is built up to be the iPhone among Android devices, being the go-to choice for users who want the most from their smartphone. Back in the day, upgrading to the latest mobile phone seemed like a justifiable act, since each and every update came with significant hardware improvements. However, the Pixel series of devices from Google, just like many other premium Android smartphones, packs a powerful punch in terms of hardware processing.

Since you get seamless software support for 2 years and additional security update for a year more, your phone is far from being outdated within a year of use. Even if you choose to buy a used Google Pixel device, you still get the latest software updates straight from Google, before all other Android OEMs. Getting yourself a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL instead of a new one can mean big savings, since any electronic device loses value once it is out of the original packaging.

Reason #3 – Free of contracts

Purchasing a brand new Google Pixel on easy installments may require you to be restricted to a particular carrier, or you might have to select a carrier-locked variant to enjoy some rebates. However, when you choose to buy a used smartphone, you have the ability to go for an unlocked variant of the Google Pixel. Since most of the used Pixel devices that you find online are either in factory unlocked, or carrier unlocked state, you don’t have to worry about being bogged down to a single network.

You might not require the need to have network unlocked capabilities if you have been linked to a specific network carrier for years. However, the ability to use your phone with any SIM card comes in handy, especially if you’re traveling and want to save up on international roaming costs.

How much does it cost?

Just as you would expect and hope for, the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are offered at a far more affordable price when purchased in used condition. The actual price of the device is evaluated based on the physical condition of the phone, how long it has been used, whether or not the phone comes carrier unlocked or not, and the accessories that are being offered by the seller with the device. Either way, you can expect to save up big when buying a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL instead of a brand new one.

  • 64GB Google Pixel 3  – Starts at $422
  • 128GB Google Pixel 3 – Starts at $566
  • 64GB Google Pixel 3 XL – Starts at $476
  • 128GB Google Pixel 3 XL – Starts at $630

Where can I buy a used Google Pixel 3 online?

Being able to take a look at the device that you’re about to buy, especially if it’s a used one, certainly has its benefits. While it helps you make your purchase confidently, getting a phone from a reseller means that you end up paying more than you would have to if you chose to buy directly from the seller themselves. All thanks to the online marketplaces at facilitate the buying and selling of used electronics, you can get a wider variety of devices to check out and competitive pricing as well, which makes the following ways to buy a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL ideal.

OUR TOP RECOMMENDED CHOICES ARE AMAZON AND SWAPPA

Swappa – Top Recommendation

Designed to be your one-stop shop for all of your used electronics needs and wants, Swappa offers everything from mobile phones and tablets, to gaming consoles and home tech. A platform by the users, for the users, Swappa has become the face of second hand tech marketplaces online ever since its inception back in the year 2010. Hosting a gargantuan listing of mobile devices categorized based on the brand manufacturer and sorted out into unlocked and carrier-locked variants, the simplified user interface that is put in place by Swappa makes sorting through thousands of devices easier than ever.

When taking a deeper look at the products that are sold on Swappa, you will realize the depth of how this marketplace performs. Each and every product listing is first verified by moderators before being made public, and these listing must adhere to the strict guidelines put in place. Pictures from all angles are mandatory when selling a product on Swappa, and you need to do so while displaying a verification code provided, which ensures that the used product that you’re displaying in the images is the one that’s up for selling on the used

The listings are separated based not just on the network carrier status of the device, but the condition too. You can choose a product based on its evaluated physical state, which can be determined by choosing between Good, Fair, Mint, and even New state. Additionally, each of the seller is given a star rating, which helps you determine how trustworthy they are before you go ahead and spend your hard-earned money on a used gadget. Additionally, Swappa comes with PayPal Protection, which means that your money is always in safe hands.

Pros:

  • Online marketplace that is dedicated to selling only used and refurbished electronic items, guaranteeing a cheaper price.
  • The platform is designed to be intuitive and categorized for ease of use, based on type of product, brand, network carrier status, and more.
  • Mandatory visual inspection with images and full disclosure about any damage or defects in the device.
  • Users can communicate directly with the sellers, clear any queries they may have regarding the device, and even negotiate prices in the comments section.

Amazon

Shop Google Pixel 3 on Amazon

With potentially millions of products sold each day all across the world, Amazon certainly is the giant among e-commerce platforms. While the e-retailer is not exactly known for being a dedicated reseller of used and refurbished products, you can find a wide variety of it on its website. Whether you’re looking for used devices, refurbished products sold by the brand manufacturer, or open box products which have been returned by unsatisfied buyers, Amazon can help you cut a good deal on your second hand electronics purchase. The sheer size of this e-commerce giant is what attracts thousands of sellers to it, which also help you, the buyer, enjoys plenty of choices to pick from.

Similar to the way Swappa dictates that the buyer maintains complete transparency, Amazon also mandates that the seller mentions details regarding the condition of the device being sold. However, Amazon does not make it compulsory to add images of the product with a verification code for assurance like Swappa does. However, most of the used devices that sold, are secured through Amazon Purchase Protection, so you don’t have to worry about losing your money in case the product fails to meet your expectations.

Since Amazon is not an exclusive store just for used products, you might have to do more digging in comparison to Swappa. However, you can expect the general price point to be somewhat lower on Amazon, along with a larger selection of products to choose from. However, you do not get a direct channel of communication that helps you easily communicate with the seller, although you do get to send out messages. Additionally, if you do have an Amazon Prime subscription, you can even enjoy one-day delivery if your chosen product qualifies for it.

Pros:

  • Almost every major electronics item on Amazon is available in multiple buying options, giving you a larger selection of second hand devices to choose from.
  • Prices of the used products is highly competitive among the sellers, which enables you to find the right device for a cheaper price.
  • Amazon Purchase Protection secures your investment when buying a used device, while Prime service guarantees quicker delivery to your doorstep.

Cons:

  • Product details are not as descriptive as you would be able to view over at Swappa.

eBay

If you’ve been shopping online long enough, the eBay brand should not seem unknown, since it is one of the oldest one in the business. The guidelines to start listing products on eBay are fairly simple, which is why you can expect to find a higher density of used Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL phones on this platform. Additionally, you can expect the prices of the phone to be lower on eBay compared to other used device marketplaces, since the commission charged by eBay to the sellers is lower. You don’t have to worry about your money either, since eBay also comes with PayPal Protection in place, so you can always take things up with PayPal if you aren’t satisfied with your purchase.

The loose guidelines might make the task easier for the sellers, but at a buyer, not being able to verify the physical condition of the device through pictures may be a deal-breaker for some. You don’t get a dedicated shipping service from eBay, and the entire process has to be done by the seller themselves, which means that you’re at their mercy when it comes to having the product shipped out on time and delivered to you. eBay also has a single-dimensional rating system for its sellers, where a seller in any category of products can go ahead and put up a second-hand device on sale, while their high rating might fool customers into thinking that their purchase is coming from a top-rated electronics seller.

eBay certainly has its merits apart from the competitive pricing, which is apparent through the filtering system that allows you to find the cheaper device right away. One unique feature of this e-commerce platform is the auction system, which allows you to bid for the product you want to buy. This way, you can compete with other buyers to bag the item, while being assured that you did not end up paying a cent more than what the device is worth. Most of the reputed sellers on eBay are responsive and even offer a return policy with 100% refund if you aren’t satisfied with the product You will, however, have to manage the return process yourself and have the product shipped back, which can be quite the ordeal.

Pros:

  • The number of listings available are higher in number since any user is allowed to create a private listing and start selling.
  • The auction system that is put in place allows the buyer to find the most suited price to buy the item and make big savings.

Cons:

  • Moderation of the products sold through the listings is subpar, which may result in a poor buying experience.

Social Media/Craigslist

Users all across the world have been using online classifieds such as Craigslist to buy and sell products such as furniture, cars, and even rent out places. It should come as no surprise that Craigslist is also effectively used for buying and selling of used electronics such as mobile phones, and the ability to create listings for free right away, makes it more accessible to the masses. You can expect significantly lower prices when buying products off Craigslist, since there is no middleman with commission fees.

However, the freedom of being able to buy directly from the seller comes at its own risks, especially without a moderator in place. When purchasing a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL from a seller on Craigslist, you need to make a judgement call. You can do so based on the description that the seller provides, pictures of the actual device, and how responsive they are to your queries regarding the listing. Either way, there is a certain amount of risk that comes with buying something from a complete stranger, so the price of the phone should be able to justify it.

If you are willing to go out into the open and look for someone who wants to sell their used phone, why not look into your social circle first? Ask friends and family around if someone they know is looking to sell their used mobile phone, and with a direct connection, you can fetch one for the right price. Asking as many questions as possible when buying a used phone directly through the seller is always a smart practice, so don’t hold back on any queries you may have. Albeit there is no protection in place that can safeguard your money, but that’s the price you have to pay for a cheaper smartphone.

Evaluate a used Google Pixel 3 before buying

Once you’ve decided where you want to buy the second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL from, the work isn’t done just yet. Purchasing a phone that you are most likely going to be using for a year or two should be a well-informed decision that you feel confident about. Covering the basics such as looking closely at the cosmetic condition of the phone is just the first step to qualifying a device for purchase. However, you need to look deeper into whether the device that you have your eyes on is worth your money and the effort you put into buying it.

Step 1: Verify the IMEI Number

The very reason device manufacturers assign the unique IMEI Number to mobile phones and tablets is to curb the illegal trading of phones. Additionally, stolen devices can also easily be tracked using the IMEI Number, and when it comes to purchasing a used Google Pixel 3, you need to be sure about the fact that the device you’re purchasing is neither stolen or blacklisted. Before you go ahead and make the purchase, it is essential to ask the seller for the IMEI Number of the phone for verification purposes.

One of the first things you need to ask the seller is the IMEI Number, and if they fail to provide it, you might want to steer clear of the purchase. A blacklisted IMEI phone will not only be rendered useless, but using one can get you into legal trouble, so regardless of the enticing price tag that it comes with, avoid such products at all costs. If you are able to get your hands on the device, here’s what you need to do to find out the IMEI of the used Google Pixel phone that you’re looking to buy:

  1. From the home screen of the device, head over to the Settings
  2. Scroll down to find the System tab and open it.
  3. Now head over to the About phone
  4. Access the MEID menu, which should give you a view of the IMEI Number of the device.
  5. You can also choose to dial *#06# from the Phone app to find out the IMEI Number.

Step 2: Network unlock the device

If you’re choosing to get yourself a factory unlocked Pixel 3, you don’t need to worry about this particular step. However, if you’re planning to save a few bucks by getting a network locked variant, you might want to consider having it unlocked. Not only is the 15-digit IMEI Number the signaling factor that validates the legitimacy of the seller, but is also essential for unlocking the phone from the network carrier. If the phone does not come unlocked right out of the box, you will need to verify if the phone is unlockable, for which you will need to provide the IMEI Number of the device to the unlocking service provider.

Even if you’re planning to use the Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL with the same network carrier that the phone is locked to, we recommend that you have it network unlocked. Down the road if you decide to change your network carrier for better coverage or cheaper service plans, having an unlocked phone would give you plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, if you travel abroad often and need to stay connected on the go, swapping your SIM card with a local one would help you save big on international roaming costs. This is why we especially like the feature of Swappa that allows you to choose a device which is carrier-specific or unlocked right out of the box.

Step 3: Ensure that Google FRP is disabled

Apple devices come with a security feature called iCloud Activation Lock, which restricts the user from accessing a newly formatted iDevice without entering the owner’s Apple ID and password first. This straightforward security feature works as a deterrent of mobile theft, since it effectively makes the device useless without accessing the iCloud account. Google has adopted a similar security protocol in the form of Google Account Verification, which is also known as FRP (Factory Reset Protection).

There is no apparent way of knowing whether the FRP feature is enabled or disabled on a used Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL. This is what makes it crucial that you ensure that the feature has been disabled by the seller before they send over the device to you. Since reaching out to the seller after the point of sale may not always be possible, or they may be hesitant to share their Google account username and password with you, this is a process that you need to complete before making the purchase.

To disable the FRP feature on any Android phone, all that you need to do is remove the Google account that is associated with the device.

  1. From the home screen of your Google Pixel device, head over to the Settings
  2. In the Settings app, scroll down to find the Accounts
  3. Tap on the Google icon and find the associated Google account and select it.
  4. Select the Remove account button and confirm your action.

Step 4: Perform a general inspection

Once you have the phone arrive to you in the mail, or you are able to get a hold of the device before making the purchase, a general inspection is in order. Since you will be able to either turn down the seller or send the phone back within the first few days, it is essential that you get to testing things out about the used Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL right away.

Physical condition – With the phone’s display being the main concern, the first thing you should start observing is the wear and tear on the housing of the Google Pixel. If you notice any chips on the side of the screen or hairline cracks that run all the way, that could mean hundreds of dollars in screen repair. While a broken screen is unacceptable, other oddities such as dents on the corner of the phone or abrasions on the back might just help you negotiate for a better price. Additionally, taking a look at the accessories that are provided with the phone, along with any damage in the charging cable should also be considered.

Verify the battery life – The amount out screen on time that you get from your mobile phone is a crucial aspect that you must consider. Since the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are not even a year old, you should expect the battery to be in healthy condition and give you hours of performance for communication, entertainment, and everything in between. You can start off by performing an entire battery cycle, by charging the phone all the way up to 100% and then letting it drain down to 0% until it shuts off. This process should help cleanse the battery and also give you an estimate of how many hours of screen-on time to expect.

Conclusion

The speed with which technology is evolving is mesmerizing, with personal tech devices getting faster, smarter, and more expensive with each iteration. Back in 2016 when Google released the very first Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, it did not hold back on the hardware specs and premium build quality, and that hasn’t changed now either. If you’re a power user who appreciates the pure stock Android experience that Google offers with its Pixel line of devices, but don’t feel that the premium price tag is justified, then saving hundreds of bucks on a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL is the way to go.

We’ve closely examined the marketplaces that offer a healthy range of mobile devices and other electronics, and shortlisted the best options for you. If you have any questions regarding how an e-commerce platform such as Swappa works, or need any assistance related to how you can unlock your Google Pixel phone the easy way, just reach out to us in the comments section right down below, and you’ll hear back from us soon.

How to Install Real-Debrid on Kodi – Real Debrid Kodi Guide

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Are you looking to streamline your streaming experience by putting Real-Debrid on Kodi media player? Here’s a complete guide that explains what the Real Debrid Kodi actually does, and a step-by-step guide on how you can install it right away.

The XBMC Foundation has developed the Kodi media player platform to be omnipotent, offering anything the everything that you may need to quench your desire in regard to entertainment. For any of the features that you may think are missing, there is a nifty Kodi add-on the fill in the void, whether you have music streaming in mind, or just good old live sports entertainment. However, the official Kodi repository is quite limited, and despite including hundreds of outstanding officially supported add-ons there are certain unofficial ones that have outshined the rest in terms of popularity.

These unofficial Kodi add-ons need to be installed manually, which is not as easy as simply hooking one up from the official Kodi repository. However, when you get premium movies, TV shows, music services, and a lot more in return, taking out a few minutes to get these add-ons running is well worth it. However, Using Kodi as a video entertainment service isn’t always optimal, since the content is hosted on third-party servers, and the streaming quality can be severely affected, with irregular buffering and drops in connectivity. A way to resolve this issue has been the ability to learn how to install Real-Debrid on Kodi media player.

What is Real-Debrid?

Promoting itself as an “unrestricted downloader”, Real-Debrid is a multi-hosting service provider that offers a premium service to its users for gaining access to streaming sources that are not publicly available to other users. By allowing you to easily download files that are hosted on the internet or simply stream them directly using the web player, Real-Debrid allows you to revamp your Kodi media player viewing experience by cutting down on the buffering time significantly. Allowing Kodi media player to add more sources for each viewing link, you can get your hands on high-definition content the easy way.

  • Real Debrid Kodi multi-hoster is available at different price plans, so you can try out the service for as low as 3 Euros before you choose to select it for good.
  • You can fetch a Real-Debrid Premium account that support streaming speeds of up to 1000MB/s with HTML5 streaming support, no advertisements, multi-browser support, and AES security.
  • Real Debrid also works seamlessly with a VPN, so you can make the most out of premium services such as ExpressVPN without any hiccups.

Use ExpressVPN with Real-Debrid

There is no dispute over the fact that you need a decent VPN service to not only get most of the popular Kodi add-ons installed, but also to have them work optimally. However, simply having any VPN will not do the trick, especially if you’re looking to enjoy a buffering-free and high-definition viewing experience with the Kodi media player. The entire reason for setting up Real Debrid Kodi is to enjoy a decent streaming experience, which is why you need a service such as ExpressVPN to support it. Built with features that specifically complement the Kodi media player and its add-ons, we recommend ExpressVPN to be used with Real-Debrid and every other Kodi add-on out there.

  • Bypassing Geo-restrictions – If you reside in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other regions where there the federal authorities have blockaded access to PrimeWire, you won’t be able to access the service through Kodi either. Whether the functionality of the add-on is censored in your region or the service is entirely unusable, ExpressVPN allows you push forward with hundreds of remote servers across the world for you to connect to.
  • Avoid ISP Logging – Even if the service is not explicitly banned in your region of residence, the ISP (internet service provider) can still keep tabs on your usage. The online activity that you perform when using Kodi media player can be logged, which poses not only a privacy threat, but the problem of the ISP fining you for unauthorized usage as well. With ExpressVPN and its military-grade encryption to secure your online activity, rest assured that your online browsing experience is 100% secure.
  • High-speed Streaming – Although you can find plenty of free and barely-secure VPN services out there that can help you connect with Kodi and make the most out of Kodi add-ons, most of them offer sub-par streaming quality. When using ExpressVPN for Kodi media player, you are automatically recommended servers which offer top upload and download streaming speeds, so you don’t ever have to sit in front of the screen, waiting for the buffering circle to load up.

TO SAVE 30% on an annual ExpressVPN plan, click this exclusive link. 

Reminder:  You need to install Kodi on your Firestick, Fire TV or other device.  We have some installation articles for you to follow to install Kodi.

 

How to Install Real-Debrid on Kodi

The Real Debrid Kodi installation process is different than most, since Real-Debrid isn’t actually a Kodi add-on, but a third-party service. Before we dive into the process, here’s a list of a few things that you should set up already:

Prerequisites:

  • Turn off the VPN service before you start the process, and turn it on only after the entire set up is complete.
  • Make sure that you have the latest Kodi build installed along with a Kodi add-on repository such as Yoda or Redux.
  • These repositories must include a Kodi add-on such as ResolveURL or URLResolver, which is essential to set up Real Debrid on Kodi.

Step 1: Create a Real-Debrid Account

Before you can get to installing Real Debrid on your Kodi media player, you need to create an account with the website and subscribe to the premium service. Here’s what you need to do to get started:

  1. From the web browser on your computer, head over to www.real-debrid.com.
  2. On the main screen of the website, you should be able to see the Sign Up button in the top-right corner.
  3. The sign up form should now appear on the screen, requiring you to enter details such as Region, Username, Password, and Email.
  4. Once you have created a new Real Debrid account, enter the Username and Password, and then hit the Login
  5. You can then access the Premium section to choose the plan of your liking, make the payment and continue to the next step.

Step 2: Set up Real-Debrid on Kodi

Once you have your premium Real-Debrid multi-hosting account up and running, you can now go to the Kodi media player app and get started with the setup.

  1. Launch the Kodi media player app on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet.
  2. From the main screen, press the Gear icon on the top-right side of the screen.
  3. Now go ahead and select the System tab.
  4. Move the mouse cursor or your finger over to the Standard option on the bottom-left corner of the screen and click/tap on it until it turns to Advanced or Expert.
  5. Select the Add-ons tab from the side menu and then navigate to the Manage dependencies option. 
  6. From the list of available Kodi add-ons, scroll all the way down to find the URLResolver add-on.
  7. In the URLResolver add-on window, select the Configure button.
  8. From the side-menu, select the Universal Resolvers tab and then select Priority under the Real-Debrid section of the window.
  9. Change the Priority number select from 100 to 90 and press the Done button.
  10. Now press the OK button to confirm your action and press the Configure button once again on the URLResolver window.
  11. Select the Universal Resolvers tab again and make sure that the Enabled toggle under the Real-Debrid section is turned on.
  12. Finally, press the button that reads (Re)Authorize My Account and write down the code that appears on the screen.
  13. Open a tab in the web browser and navigate to the following webpage – https://real-debrid.com/device.
  14. In the empty box, type in the code that you retrieved from the Kodi media player and hit the Continue button.
  15. You should be able to see the message “Real-Debrid Resolver Authorized” appear on the Kodi screen.

Once you get the confirmation message, you will be able to make the most of out the multi-hosting service provided by Real-Debrid and hopefully enjoy a seamless video streaming experience with the Kodi media player.

Final Words

Going through the process above to set up a Real-Debrid account, and then installing it on the Kodi media player can seem like quite the ordeal. But if you have been streaming online content with Kodi long enough, you will be able to recognize that the problems with drops in connectivity and constant buffering can ruin an enjoyable experience. This is why we do recommend that if you plan to use Kodi and its numerous video streaming add-ons regularly, the hassle of setting Real Debrid is well worth it, and so is the premium subscription fees that it requires.

We’ve tried our best to provide a detailed and simplified guide on how you can set up Real-Debrid with Kodi and streamline your online entertainment. However, if you’re facing an issue with the installation process and do need assistance in getting things up and running, we’re here to help. Just reach out to us in the comments section with your query down below, and we’ll respond back swiftly.

How to Install and Use TweakBox on iPhone and iPad

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Are you trying install TweakBox on iPhone and iPad, but what to know more about it before you proceed any further? Here’s everything you need to know about TweakBox, how you can install this app distribution service, and what it is actually capable of doing.

Apple iPhone and the entire ecosphere of iDevices that have existed, have been so in a closed-circuit environment. From restrictions over sharing media files across devices, and little-to-no cross-platform support between iOS and Android phones, Apple has a clearly defined path that it wants the customers to approach through. But ever since the beginning of the iPhone era, the user community has been tinkering with the software and trying to find loopholes that allow you to do a whole lot more than what Apple has intended the iPhone and the iPad for.

Jailbreaking has existed for almost a decade now, allowing iOS users to gain administrative access to the hardware and software of their iDevices. Over the years, Apple has made it harder for users to jailbreak its devices, and although jailbreaking is completely legal, it does pose a serious security risk. The need to do more with the mighty iPhone is the sole purpose behind the inception of TweakBox mobile app installer, which has taken the world of iOS devices by storm. If you own an iPhone or an iPad and want to be able install third-party apps, tweaked apps, and apps that don’t exist elsewhere, TweakBox is what you need.

What is the TweakBox App?

Apple has designed the iOS platform to be able to download and install apps and games only from the Apple App Store. The same pathway is used by Google on the Android OS as well, where users are expected to get their hands on all of the apps from the Google Play Store. However, the open-source structure of Android OS allows users to not only install apps manually, but also fetch them from third-party app stores such as Amazon Appstore and others. There had been no such way on the iOS platform to install apps through third-party sources, until now.

TweakBox has emerged as a one of a kind third-party app installer, which brings a slew of apps and services to your iPhone and iPad. Although there have been methods to install third-party apps directly on iOS devices, but all of them have required you to jailbreak your device and install them through Cydia. This is where TweakBox comes into play, acting as a third-party app installer without the need to jailbreak the device. Since the practice of jailbreaking is frowned upon by security experts, TweakBox is emerging as a brand new way of enjoying the freedom, without making any compromises.

Features of TweakBox

Plenty of thought and effort has gone into the development of the TweakBox app intaller service. Although the fact that the app installer does not require you to use Cydia is the biggest winning aspect of it, what makes the service worth trying out is the simplified categorization of the content that is available for you to try out.

App Store Apps – The TweakBox app comes with a category that includes a list of premium apps that are already available on the App Store. However, you can download these paid apps for free on your iPhone and iPad directly.

TweakBox Apps – TweakBox Apps category is a collection of apps, games, music directories, movies, and so much more. The list keeps being updated regularly, and you can find some truly unique offerings here, which includes game emulators and more.

Tweaked Apps – This category in TweakBox includes a list of apps that have been modified by the developer community to do more than they are originally intended to be used for. Here you can find modified versions of social media apps such as Snapchat, and entertainment apps such as YouTube, which includes some added features.

Hacked Games – If you’re tired of the pay-for-play design of some of the freemium games available for iPhone and iPad, this category in the TweakBox app is just what you need. With modified versions of games such as Clash of Clans and Pokémon GO, you can enjoy a premium gaming experience without spending a dime on in-app purchases.

How to Install TweakBox on iPhone or iPad

Now that you know what the TweakBox app installer is capable of, here’s how you can install it on your iPhone or iPad right now.

  1. Open the Safari browser on your iPhone or iPad and access the official download website of TweakBox – tweakboxapp.com.
  2. On the main screen of the TweakBox website, press the Install Now button.
  3. A pop-up window will appear, notifying you that the website is attempting to access the Settings app, so confirm the action by pressing the Allow button.
  4. You will now be prompted with a “Profile Downloaded” message, so continue by pressing the Close button.
  5. Now head back to the home screen on your iPhone or iPad and open the Settings app.
  6. In the Settings menu, you will be able to see a new tab called “Profile Downloaded”, so go ahead and tap on it.
  7. On the next screen, press the Install button, at which point you will be prompted to enter your Passcode if you have one set up.
  8. The pop-up screen will ask you to confirm your action, so go ahead and press Install to begin the process.
  9. Once the installation process is complete, press the Done button on the top-right corner of the screen.
  10. You can now go back to the home screen of your iPhone or iPad to see the newly installed TweakBox app icon available for use.

Before you proceed to using the TweakBox app, there is one additional permission that you need to enable first. Granting this specific permission will ensure that you can use TweakBox, along with its thousands of apps without any problems.

  1. Head over to the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap on the General tab, and then scroll down to find the Profiles & Device Management menu option.
  3. Tap on the text that is shown under the Enterprise App menu.
  4. On the pop-up window that appears, press the Trust button and then press it again to confirm.

Once you’ve performed this action, the TweakBox app will be granted all of the required permissions by the system to function optimally.

Final Words

Back in the day when Apple had users on a chokehold when it came to the usability that iOS offered, jailbreaking your device was the only way out. Cydia installer offered a window into the world of possibilities that Apple restricted users from, but developers have figured out a way to get the good stuff over to users without the need for jailbreaking through the TweakBox app. Allowing you to try out modified versions of popular apps, download premium apps that are available on the App Store, enjoy freemium games, and also play around with a bunch of unique apps that cannot be found elsewhere, TweakBox changes everything.

Note: Despite the slew of features that it offers, TweakBox is, after all, a third-party app installer that is neither endorsed, nor supported by Apple. We advise you to use the TweakBox app with a certain amount of caution, since not every third-party app can be considered reliable.

Are you among the Apple fanboys and fangirls who wants more from iOS and can’t wait to see what TweakBox third-party app installer has to offer? For any questions regarding how to install TweakBox, what it can do, and what version of iOS is it compatible with, just reach out to us in the comments section right down below, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

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How to unlock iPhone Activation Lock – Quick and Safe Methods

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How To remove iPhone Activation Lock Removal

Summary: Did you purchased used iPhone recently and saw that the phone is locked to previous owner’s iCloud account? If the iPhone you have purchased having iCloud lock, that means no matter how much money you have paid for used device, still former owner can get you blocked from using it. The way they can do that is by holding the phone locked to iCloud account of themselves and not giving you the full access to device.

The only solution to this problem is to make that iCloud account unlocked, means getting tool of iPhone activation lock removing a device from a previous owner’s account. It releases your phone from the account of previous owner whilst enables you to open up your own account on that device, means you can then start using apps, sending messages, or making calls.

From the 9 services of iCloud unlock activation we have found and tested 3 of them, the cheapest, fastest, and best iPhone activation lock removalis CellUnlocker. They successfully unlocked all of 6 locked accounts that we send to them for minimum money and fastest time.

Recommended Unlocking Service
AppleiPhoneUnlock is the best iCloud Activation Unlock Service provider. It was tested as the safest and most reliable activation bypass provider. Unlock your iCloud account with AppleiPhoneUnlock .

Recommended Unlocking Software
LockWiper is the best iCloud Activation Unlock Software option. It was tested as a close alternative due to having to download software.  However, it was proven to just as effective. Unlock with LockWiper.

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Apple added a new feature in iOS7 at the start of 2014, which completely changed how iPhone accounts were accessible before. Though, it was a small quirk called iCloud Activation Lock. The new change added to iOS7 (followed by iOS 10, iOS 11, and iOS 12) is that your Apple Watch, iPad, and iPhone devices can be locked to your personal account of iCloud.

That means the moment you restart or switch on your Apple device, you need to insert your iCloud credentials like username and password to fully access the files, functions, and features of device.

It is not big deal when you are only using your Apple Watch, iPad, or iPhone, but when you purchase second-hand device from eBay or StarGazer77, and previous owners either does not remove or provide you their iCloud details, the phone is literally useless.

Then, it does not matter you reset the device, jailbreak it, let the battery to be consumed completely, or even pay to some hackers to hack into it, you just won’t be able to use that phone. As a result, your $500 are completely wasted and you are left with most expensive but useless electronic device you have ever bought.

In reaction to huge demand which raised all of a sudden from frustrated consumers who had legally bought iPad, iPhone, or Apple Watch devices and were unable to use it, some innovative people started examining the different approaches to bypass this barrier.

Apple tried and shut down several bad starts and loopholes, but ultimately, one flawless and reliable loophole emerged. As of today, you can easily get iPhone activation lock removed and use your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch for which you have paid your money.

Choose the reliable iPhone Activation Unlock Service Provider

When the market saturated with iPhone activation lock removal providers, it became hard to tell which service providers will properly get your phone unlocked from iPhone activation lock of iCloud and which was a scam trick setup to cheat you.

After getting scammed three times by different unlock solutions, I decided to review and test most of them to find out which was the most efficient and effective.

Why I am qualify to tell you about it

There are no any degrees or certificates here in iCloud unlocking. Therefore, there are no “experts” in the field of iCloud unlocking. Although, there is one factor of ‘testing’ which does make me more of an expert than others.

I have reviewed 9 of providers and tested 3 of them on almost all active iPhone models. And, this simple fact that I have tested those services makes me the expert in this field.

There are other reviews that you will find but most of them have not reviewed even one actual carrier, put aside reviews of all 9. That is why, I qualify to guide you about this.

Four easy steps for unlocking the device

There are four easy steps you need to follow for iPad, Apple Watch or iPhone activation lock removal in order to perform iPhone activation lock bypass.

Step 1:  Visit one of the iPhone activation lock removal servicesthat we have reviewed and recommended to you in this guide below

Step 2: Enter the Serial Number or IMEI of the device you own

  • If your device is active: Dial *#06# to receive IMEI code or just go to Settings -) General -) About, scroll down to find IMEI code.
  • If your device is inactive: there is a small icon of “i” located on activation screen. Just tap that button to receive your IMEI code.

Step 3: Now, wait for confirmation message which will say that iCloud has been unlocked

Step 4: Finally, open up a new account and start using your phone.

 

This tool works on almost all iPhones including 4S, 4, 5C, 5S, 5, 6 plus, 6, 7 plus, 7, 8, 8 plus, X, XS, XR and iPad 2, iPad Air 2, 3, 4, iPad Pro

Test Methodology For Having to Bypass Activation Unlocked

The approach of conducting these tests was really easy. At starting, I just googled for iCloud unlock service providers and created the list of all I had found. After eliminating the names of service providers that did not seem to be active or working, 9 services were left eventually.

The next step for me was to cull the list further and I was left with my best three. As, I wanted to test each service provider completely, and so it was not quite possible to comprehensively test all nine service providers. For that, I immediately jumped to review websites like TrustmarkReviews and  RipoffReport in order to remove unreliable service providers.

I thoroughly look at all the reviews and calculated each service provider’s average score. Then, I removed service providers with lowest scoring and was left with three for testing.

iPhone iOS Activation LockIn order to determine I have enough devices to completely test each service provider, I interact with all of my readers to receive the iPhone devices which required unlocking. As, I wanted to connect with people from different countries using different iPhone models.

From 73 people who replied, I selected 18 of them to test:

  • 1 – iPhone 4
  • 1 – iPhone 4s
  • 2 – iPhone 5
  • 2 – iPhone 5c
  • 3 – iPhone 5s
  • 2 – iPhone 6
  • 2 – iPhone 6 Plus
  • 3 – iPhone 7
  • 1 – iPhone 8
  • 1 – iPhone X

 

Then, selected people sent IMEI of their devices to me and I started the process.

Criteria of Testing

There are 4 criteria on which iCloud service providers were tested.

Price

The prices were varying hugely between services. Some of them were as low as $15 while rest were as high as $149 dollars. There are only some people on this planet who can buy services without need to care about prices, hence this was the very first point where we started to examine the services.

Customer Service

Giving the device details and piece of cash to an unknown site to process the service you don’t know very well can be a difficult situation, but interacting with good supportive people on the other end of services’ customer support line can make this very easy.

We thoroughly tested and analyzed the customer support of each provider three times during this unlocking process:

  • Before purchasing
  • After purchasing but before unlocking was done
  • After unlocking was done

It was done to get complete understanding of who actually wanted to help and who were there just to grab your hard earned money.

Success

It does not matter with affordable prices and good customer support if they cannot deliver what they promised?  Because of this reason, ‘Success’ was set as third criteria. It is a simple criteria of Pass/Fail. If iCloud account gets unlocked or iPhone activation lock bypass successfully: it’s a success. If it is not: it’s a failure.

Speed

Having iCloud account unlocked is good, but waiting a bit long can be annoying. Comparing apples with apples; here we did not judge the service providers on how much time they have stated it will take to unlock iCloud account but exactly how much time it took actually to unlock them.

After examining all this bunch of data, I can say with full confidence that below are the best services of all.

Top 2 iPhone Activation Lock Removal Service Providers

Not all iPhone Activation Lock Removal Services are same. Some of them have very low price rate but not having good customer support line. Some will reply to your emails in just five minutes, but would take about one month to get your iPhone unlocked.

After examining and testing 9 services, these two are the best ones:

1.AppleiPhoneUnlock – 9.5/10 (Best iPhone Activation Lock Removal)

My number one iCloud unlocks service choice is  AppleiPhoneUnlock. We have tested it on the basis of 4 criteria defined above and it came first in all three best choices.

PROs:

Firstly,  AppleiPhoneUnlock unlocked all devices that we sent to them. The devices they were assigned to unlock include iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, 6, 6s, 7, 8, and XS, and they completed each one of devices (the only provider to do so).

Secondly, they quickly unlock all devices. The overall time duration for finishing eight iPhones was 15 days. Below is the breakdown:

  • iPhone XS – 2 days
  • iPhone 8 – 2 days
  • iPhone 7 – 3 days
  • iPhone 6s – 2 days
  • iPhone 6 – 2 days
  • iPhone 5c – 1 day
  • iPhone 5s – 1 day
  • iPhone 5 – 2 days

Now, when you analyze that most iPhone activation lock services take minimum time of week, this one is stellar.

Thirdly, they have best customer support. I interacted with them previously, during unlocking process, and after process completed, and maximum time they kept me waiting for reply was 45 minutes.  More preferably, when I contacted them, they were very helpful, polite, and replied to all my queries properly.

Finally, this is the cheapest service providers of all. It may be $1 cheaper than our second best choice, but the fact that we are in a world where every single dollar counts, so it is good to have it in our own pocket rather than any other’s.

CONs

Nothing really is there to write unfortunately.  We do suggest that you read their caveats and terms for the service.

I always try to write my reviews as much as pure and unbiased as possible and still I don’t have right know anything to add here. Could they have all iCloud accounts unlocked in less time? Sure, they could have, but it would not have made much difference. Could their customer service have replied in less time than 45 minutes? Sure, but it would not have created much difference.

As a whole, nothing is really to add here.

Summarizing:

The only service who unlocked all of six accounts was AppleiPhoneUnlock and so, it was my first choice. Still, if it was not enough, they have cheapest price (even if it is only cheaper by $1), they have really great customer support, and finally they are the fastest.

if your iPhone device is having lock to an iCloud account of someone else, you need to use AppleiPhoneUnlock.

2.0 LockWiper – 9/10 (Best Software Unlock Option)

The second choice of mine is LockWiper by iMyFone.  While CellUnlocker is a service, LockWiper is a software you download.

PROs:

If you got a used iPhone without a password screen lock but it is linked to an iCloud account, LockWiper can be still used to remove the iCloud activation lock within few minutes.

Based on our tests, LockWiper is highly effective if your iPhone is determined as a valid candidate for their unlocking feature.  The software is very user friendly and easy to use.  It doesn’t require any technical knowledge. It is works with  all versions of iPhones, iPads and all versions of iOS, from iPhone 4 up to iPhone X and up to the latest iOS.

The software is extremely fast. Our test phones were unlocked within minutes.  You can also download the free trial to test if your iPhone or iPad is valid for an unlock.  Unless, you see the message “Your Device Is Not Supported” you can use their software.  

Attention:

  1. Be aware that all data on your iOS device will be erased after password removal.So, unless you had backed up your iPhone recently, you may not want to use LockWiper.
  2. Your iOS version will be updated to the latest one.

CONs:

There are not many cons to using this service.  While CellUnlocker is a handoff method, this requires you to download some software and follow some easy steps to unlock.

Summarizing:

LockWiper by iMyFone is a reliable software option and there are higher-than-average chances you will get your iPhone unlocked.

You can visit LockerWiper and download their Software here.  Follow our link for a 20% discount. 

Conclusion

Getting iPhone device locked to iCloud account of someone else really sucks. And so, they can blackmail you and force you to pay amount they wished to get access to device you have already paid for. Surely, no person wants that situation. If you are having your iCloud account locked or facing iPhone unlocked problem, there are many services available and you can beat their scams without paying a cent to them.

From 9 iPhone activation lock bypass providers we found and tested 2 of them; there are two strong options.  While CellUnlocker leads slightly for their hands off approach as a service, LockWiper is also a strong option for others.  The ability to wipe a phone clean and remove all locks cleanly is a strong positive.  In the end, LockWiper only lags slightly due to the need to download software and follow some steps to unlock the iPhone or iPad yourself.  However, the steps are very easy to follow for anyone.

These two options are the cheapest, fastest, have more efficient and reliable customer support, and they were the only service providers who delivered all unlocked iCloud accounts.

If you require an iCloud Unlock for your iPhone,

Best Unlock Service:  Visit AppleiPhoneUnlock and have iPhone activation lock bypass tool download.

Best Unlock with Software: Visit LockWiper  and have iPhone activation lock bypass tool download.

 

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10 Best Websites like FMovie – Alternative Free Movie Streaming Sites

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10 Best Websites Like FMovie

Out looking for the best websites like FMovies which offer you loads of free movies and TV shows to watch? Here’s our handpicked selection of some of the most popular free movie streaming sites and why you need ExpressVPN by your side during your viewing experience.

The very foundation of the internet is based on the idea of creating a larger-than-life virtual network that helps human beings communicate all across the world. Thanks to the globalized growth and modern infrastructure, billions of people are able to access the online world not just through computers, but especially through smartphones. One particular space that has been revolutionized by the growth of internet users in the entertainment industry, which has largely moved to the cloud, offering consumers all forms of content online through both, free and premium subscription-based platforms.

The current generation of online streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and others do cover up hundreds and thousands of TV shows and movies. However, there is a fair share of entertainment content that never makes it to these streaming platforms, and the high prices can also cause you to pump the brakes on your quest for enjoying some premium quality content online. However, the rise of free movie streaming sites such as FMovies has been there to fill the gap for those who wish to get their hands on high-quality movies and TV shows without having to subscribe to the premium streaming services.

Disclaimer: Since the use of websites such as FMovies and other similar content streaming website may be restricted by law in certain regions, we do not endorse or recommend it. You may proceed to learn about the use of such services at your own risk, we shall not be held accountable for any disputes.

Why Use ExpressVPN for Movie Streaming

The problem with this movies streaming site and other websites like FMovies are that these websites are not exactly legalized. Since the copyright content is distributed freely without the approval of the production studios, watching movies and TV shows of FMovies and similar websites not only lies in the legally gray area but also may not even be possible if your ISP (internet service provider) has blocked such websites. Under such circumstances, the only option that is left for you to try out is a dependable VPN service such as ExpressVPN which not only unlocks free movie streaming sites but also keeps your privacy in place.

  • Since free online streaming sites may be blocked by your ISP or geo-restricted, ExpressVPN is essential in helping you change IP address and get past the limitations right away.
  • ExpressVPN comes with a built-in Speed Test service which helps you predict the connection speed you can expect during your viewing session.
  • Thanks to the dozens of servers that are spread across the globe, ExpressVPN is able to offer you different connections with varying Speed Index, so that you can choose the server that offers you the highest transfer speeds.
  • By changing your IP address without taking a bite out of your surfing speed, ExpressVPN offers you complete anonymity when browsing the internet, keeping your ISP out of your personal business.

Best Websites Like FMovies

If you’re having a problem accessing FMovies or can’t find a particular movie or TV show that you can’t find there, here’s a list of some great alternatives that work just as well.

Fmovie Alternatives

1. GoMovies

Designed to be simple and direct, GoMovies starts off with a search engine that allows you to quickly find the movie title or even a specific episode of the season that you want to watch. But for the times when you aren’t sure about what content you want to enjoy, the website offers an easy way to find new movies and TV shows using the Trending section. Additionally, you can even sort through content based on the Top IMDB titles, Genre, and even look up entertaining content based on Country of origin.

2. Movie4K

A veteran in the world of free movie streaming sites that have been around for years, Movie4K may have hopped, skipped, and jumped across domain names, but it continues to offer a massive collection of content. Not limited to just the English language, you can find movies, TV shows, documentaries and more in multiple languages, ranging all the way up to 1080p Full-HD in streaming quality. The user interface is direct and simplified with a few pop-up ads here and there, and the inclusion of multiple servers for each movie or TV show ensures that you’re never left high and dry.

3. Yes! Movies

Resembling some of the more premium free movies and TV shows websites out there, Yes! Movies come with a design that is inspired by FMovies itself. A featured slider right on the home screen gives you a sneak peek into the latest additions to the library of content, while the Featured Movies section comes integrated with IMDB so that you can simply hover over the movie posters and get quick information on what the content is all about. There are some pop-up ads that might bother you every now and then, but the overall viewing experience is quite satisfactory.

4. 123Movies

Offering a clean and fluid user interface, easily categorized content and a huge library of it, 123Movies feels almost like a premium streaming service. In comparison to the other websites like FMovies, we did notice fewer pop-up ad banners at first, but there is no shortage of ads included in the content when you choose to play and movie or TV show. 123Movies understands that these ads can be obtrusive at times, which is why it offers a premium membership for those who don’t mind a little extra dough for an ad-free experience.

5. LookMovie

Although LookMovie is not as popular or as old and established as the other names on the list, and in our review, it easily fared as one of the best free streaming sites that are out there. With little to no ad banners popping up during the viewing experience, you can set a specific streaming quality all the way up to 1080p Full-HD and enjoy some of the latest movies and TV shows. The library is updated daily and LookMovie also maintains a forum where you can request movies or TV shows to the moderators.

6. MoviesJoy

Positioning itself as one of the few websites out there for free movies and TV shows that comes with “zero ads” MoviesJoy certainly live up to the hype. Hosting a giant library of content that covers almost a dozen languages, MoviesJoy manages to stay lightweight and easy to use by outsourcing all of the files from third-party servers. While this does decrease the reliability of the content that is provided to you, but it ensures that you won’t ever be bothered by pesky advertisements again.

Best Legal Websites like FMovies

If your morality seems to get in the way and you can’t get yourself to enjoy the premium quality content which is essentially pirated, then there is a way to get around it. Fortunately, there are a handful of online streaming websites that not only have managed to stay free for use but are also completely legal to use.

7. Sony Crackle

Recently purchased by Sony in a move to capture the online entertainment business, Crackle one of the few premium services that continue to be free for viewing across several countries. While the service is mostly restricted to the United States, Canada, Australia, and a few other European countries, you can unlock Crackle for viewing anywhere across the world by using ExpressVPN. From offering a wide range of blockbusters such as Ocean’s Eleven, to create its very own audience with Crackle Originals series and movies, there’s plenty of fun to have with this streaming service.

8. SnagFilms

If you are expecting to find the top-charting and latest blockbuster movies online, you’re not going to have much luck with SnagFilms. However, if you want a platform that hosts a fair amount of content from independent filmmakers and some other timeless classics featuring big names in Hollywood such as Ryan Gosling and Amy Adams, SnagFilms is just the portal for you. While some of the content is region-locked, you can use ExpressVPN to easily get past it, while the ad-free experience will surely make you forget that the service actually doesn’t cost a dime.

9. VIKI

Are you into Korean drama but can’t find anything worth watching online on the free streaming websites? Then you probably haven’t tried out VIKI, which is currently one of the few streaming services out there that takes a jab at the gigantic Asian entertainment industry. Covering regional shows in Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, and more, you even get a decent collection of movies to choose from, and if you do really like what you see, there’s the option to get the VIKI Pass and enjoy more premium content.

10. The Internet Archive

Taking us back to the early days and reminding us of what the World Wide Web was actually designed to be, The Internet Archive is an online library of some of the classic movies, music albums, and books, all available to you for free. Built up to be just like a digital version of a public library, The Internet Archive comes with golden-age movies such as Night of the Living Dead, The Brother from Another Planet and many others, all of which is available for you to enjoy without an ad in sight.

Final Words

Ever since the heavy crackdown on torrents, streaming websites have been slowly replacing the way we source and enjoy movies and TV online without subscribing to premium streaming services. While the FMovies domain continues to shift gears every now and then, but the service continues to be a dependable source for many to get their hands on entertaining content online. We’ve sieved through the internet to find some of the best websites like FMovies, and also included some up and coming free and freemium services for streaming entertaining content online.

Which of the free movie streaming sites that are highlighted in the list above is going to be your first choice to binge-watch all day and night? Have we missed out on a great service provider that definitely should be on this list already? Be sure to share all of your thoughts regarding it in the comments section down below, and we’ll surely respond back.

Guide to the Best VPN for FireStick – Unlock the Entertainment

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Looking for the best VPN for FireStick that can bring you unfiltered access to the beauty that is the internet? Here’s a hand-picked selection of the best VPN apps for your Amazon Fire TV streaming device that you can start using right now.

In an attempt to break the stronghold that cable companies across the globe have created on the entertainment content that viewers can enjoy, online streaming services were introduced. As a stronger wireless network infrastructure has been put in place worldwide, there has been rapid expansion of premium subscription streaming service like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, Crackle, and many others. However, even with the extended freedom, there is certain regional limitations that is put in place.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick has been one of the most renowned media streaming devices out there, offering the ability to connect with every major subscription service. Despite the cable-free content, the only thing that seems to get in the way of unfiltered access to entertainment is regional restriction put in place due to copyright laws. However, there’s a way to get around it all by selecting one of the best VPN for FireStick in the market.

Why do you need a VPN for Amazon Fire TV?

Since you’re already paying a premium for the subscription entertainment services, shelling out a few extra dollars each month may not seem too tempting. However, there are plenty of reasons why you should invest in a VPN service that can be used with your Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Privacy Protection

With government agencies like the NSA keeping a close eye on everything that you do, privacy has become a priority for users. Since VPN services make your browsing sessions anonymous by masking the IP address of your Internet Service Provider and encrypting the data transferred across the servers, you can rest assured knowing that your browsing experience is private.

Avoid Censorship

The worst thing that can happen to an entertainment junkie is media censorship, which is unfortunately practiced in almost every country, and far more strictly under regions such as Saudi Arabia and China. Allowing to unblock services such as YouTube, Facebook, and plenty of restricted content at any time, getting the best VPN for FireStick is your shot to jumping past unnecessary and oppressive censorship laws.

Bypass Geo-Restrictions

There are hundreds of different media streaming services out there, but the reason you can’t use most of them with your Amazon Fire TV Stick is geo-restrictions. Since you can use the VPN service to spoof your location by connecting to a remote server located abroad, this enables you to provide a fake geographical location to the streaming service and helps unlock a large catalog of restricted content for viewing.

Best VPN for FireStick

Now that you know why the Amazon Fire TV Stick can make the most out of what VPN services have to offer, the hard part is making the right choice. To make things easier for you, we’ve sieved through the different available VPN services to help you find the right one out there.

ExpressVPN– Best Value and Performance

An industry leader in the VPN service space, ExpressVPN has successfully cast a wide net across all platforms, including a official app for Amazon Fire TV Stick as well. Backed by an assuring money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with the service within 30 days, ExpressVPN is available for PC, Mac, Android, and iOS as well.

When it comes to bypassing geo-restrictions, none can do it better than this VPN for Fire TV, which offers more than 130 VPN servers that span across more than 90 countries worldwide. While it may be a tad bit pricier compared to the others on the list, features such as smart DNS proxy and 24/7 customer support make it worthwhile.

Get 30% Off ExpressVPN

IPVanish

One of most highly-rated VPN services for Amazon Fire TV Stick out there, IPVanish has become a popular choice among users who use VPN services for streaming, all thanks to the high-speed data transfer rates. Maintaining a no-log policy for its clients, you don’t have to worry about user data collection when you’ve got one of the best VPN for FireStick by your side.

Allowing optimized support for Kodi media player, multi-level connection support spread across devices, and a dedicated Amazon Fire TV app to go with it, IPVanish allows you to unlock an entire catalog of content when streaming with subscription services like Netflix and Hulu.

Get the IPVanish

ZenMate

While ZenMate may not be as old as some of the other contenders on the list of the best VPN for FireStick out there, but it certainly is among the most prominent ones. Apart from offering features such as high-speed connectivity with low latency to keep buffering at bay and no-logging policy to keep your entertainment experience private, ZenMate comes with multi-device support.

Built under the strict data-protection guidelines of the European Union, ZenMate offers some of the fastest servers in the United States and the United Kingdom. The single-click connect app designed for Amazon Fire TV makes it easy for you set it all up and get going, and although it isn’t the cheapest offering on the table, it certainly more than makes up for it in quality.

Get the ZenMate

TorGuard

A VPN service that has positioned itself as the “fastest VPN protocol on the internet”, TorGuard started offering official support for all Amazon Fire TV devices last year. Offering tightknit security protocols through no-logging and features such as SSTP/L2TP/IPsec/OpenVPN, TorGuard comes loaded with more than 3,000 servers across 50+ countries.

The TorGuard app for Amazon Fire TV is specifically designed to help you do away with geo-restrictions and access region-specific Netflix entertainment catalogs from anywhere in the world. Since the service uses a dedicated IP address, you can easily bypass the security firewall set up by Netflix and enjoy a content online at anytime from anywhere.

Get the TorGuard

Private Internet Access

A relatively newer entry into the market, Private Internet Access has still managed to cement its position as one of the best VPN for FireStick out there. The service comes with multi-platform support across a whopping 10 different devices at once, and is all locked down with features such as encrypted data transfers, ad-blocking, and no-log policy.

There is no bandwidth restriction put in place by Private Internet Access, which is ideal when you’re streaming gigabytes of content in high definition. Supporting VPN servers in more than 32 countries across the world, Private Internet Access also offers you complete anonymity when you browse the internet or watch media online.

Get the Private Internet Access

Bonus

Apart from the list of the best VPN service providers listed above for Amazon Fire TV, here are couple other great choices for you to try out: 

BulletVPN

Designed for the modern user in mind, BulletVPN is a relatively new entry into market which puts streaming on focus. Although the service does not offer a humongous number of servers across the world, what makes it one of the best VPN for FireStick is the fact it takes buffering out of the equation with high-speed server connectivity.

Setting up the service is a cakewalk with the official Amazon Fire TV app available for download, and it all comes backed with a 30-day guarantee. The customer service support will help you tackle with any and every issue you come across, while the ability to spoof your location and access geo-restricted content is always a bonus.

Get the BulletVPN

NordVPN

Another giant in the VPN service industry that has skyrocketed in popularity by offering premium quality service at a fairly reasonable price, NordVPN is spread across all system platforms. Apart from offering an official app for the Amazon Fire TV devices, NordVPN is available for every major mobile and computer operating system.

There is a 30-day refund policy put in place by the company to make sure that your investment is always safe. While NordVPN may not have the gigantic amount of servers like ExpressVPN does, it successfully operates across more than 50 countries globally with multiple servers in high-traffic regions such as the United States to ensure optimum speeds.

Get the NordVPN

Final Words

The unprecedented freedom that users on the internet once enjoyed, has certainly been curbed over the past decade. In the wake of cybercrimes and cyber warfare waging across the world, federal agencies are more vigilant than ever in monitoring what goes on in the World Wide Web. This comes at a serious cost to the end-user, but virtual private network services surely help take the edge off.

When it comes to enjoying unfiltered access to the hundreds and thousands of hours of entertaining content out there that is blocked due to geo-restrictions, nothing comes close to what the best VPN for FireStick devices have to offer. We’ve tried and tested the best ones out there that not only offer decent transfer speeds, but also keep your browsing experience secure at all times.

Which VPN service have you commissioned to keep your Amazon Fire TV viewing experience better than ever? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section right down below.

Reasons why your iPhone won’t charge

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

fully charged iPhoneAn 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.Check the bottom of your iPhone

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…

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.

 

iPhone charged phoneReplacement 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.

«Hello» screen on your iPhoneCongratulations: 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!

 

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