All articles tagged with #tech support
iPhone users can free up significant storage space without upgrading iCloud by using a built-in tool to review and delete large attachments from text messages. This method targets duplicate photos, videos, and files accumulated over time, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing additional cloud storage.
Google has confirmed that newer Chromebook models will be eligible to upgrade to the new Googlebook OS, with migration details to be released soon. The company will continue supporting ChromeOS through mid-2034, after which the platform is expected to be phased out in favor of the Android-based Googlebook OS. Initial Googlebook models feature at least 16GB of RAM and touchscreens, while enterprise and education management tools are scheduled for the second half of 2027.
Google is set to launch its new Android-based Googlebook laptops on October 4, 2026, while simultaneously confirming that ChromeOS support will end by mid-2034. A new support page indicates that newer Chromebooks may migrate directly to Googlebook OS, though management tools for enterprise and education sectors will not be available for over a year. While Googlebooks promise a decade of software updates, initial pricing has proven volatile, with several manufacturers lowering costs significantly in the days before launch. The transition aims to replace the budget-friendly Chromebook model with a premium device, potentially disrupting markets that rely on low-cost, easily managed hardware.
QNAP NAS users are experiencing login issues after a problematic firmware update, QTS 5.2.2.2950, which was initially released and then withdrawn due to user complaints. The update affected certain models in the TS-x53D and TS-x51 series, leaving users unable to access their devices even after resets. QNAP has re-released a stable version and advises affected users to either downgrade or contact tech support, though some users report a lack of response from support. This incident highlights ongoing challenges with software updates in the tech industry.
Some iPhone users have experienced their notes disappearing after accepting new iCloud terms. To resolve this, users should go to Settings, tap their name, select iCloud, tap Notes, and ensure "Sync this iPhone" is turned on. If already on, toggle it off and on again, then wait for notes to restore in the Notes app. The cause of the issue is unclear, and Apple has not commented.
Netflix will stop supporting second- and third-generation Apple TV models starting July 31, 2024, urging users to upgrade to newer devices to continue streaming. This follows similar moves by other services like Amazon Prime Video, which ended support for these older models earlier this year. While newer smart TVs and devices like Roku are alternatives, many users prefer the Apple TV experience for its comprehensive app support and integration with Apple services.
Apple has officially labeled the iPhone 5S, launched in 2013, as obsolete, meaning it will no longer receive hardware service or support from Apple or its service providers. The iPhone 5S was notable for introducing the 64-bit processor and Touch ID. Users are encouraged to upgrade to newer models for better performance and the latest software updates.
Elon Musk expressed frustration over the requirement to create a Microsoft account to use his new Windows laptop, criticizing the lack of an option to skip this step and the inability to use a work email address. His complaints made waves on social media, with some humorous reactions. Musk later found a workaround to set up the laptop without a Microsoft account, but the incident highlighted the challenges users may face with the account requirement for Windows 11.
Elon Musk reached out to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to express his frustration with the mandatory Microsoft account setup for Windows PCs, highlighting issues with the process and limitations on using work email addresses. This interaction sparked amusement among users, with some commenting on Musk's ability to treat the CEO of Microsoft as a consumer service representative. Musk later shared a workaround he used to bypass the account setup, and Nadella took over as the CEO of Microsoft in 2014.
Elon Musk took to X, the social media network he recently acquired, to seek tech support for setting up his Windows PC without creating a Microsoft account. After a back-and-forth with users and eventually managing to set up his PC, Musk reached out to Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, on X to request changes to the setup process. He asked for the option to skip creating a Microsoft account and to use a work email address, but as of Monday afternoon, Nadella had not replied.
Apple's official guidance advises against using uncooked rice to dry a wet iPhone, as it could potentially damage the device. Instead, they recommend tapping the phone to remove excess liquid, allowing it to air dry for up to 24 hours, and avoiding heat sources or inserting objects into the charging port. The longstanding internet myth of using rice as a drying agent for waterlogged electronics is debunked, with experts suggesting that it's the time spent drying out that actually works.
The FBI has issued a warning about the increasing prevalence of "Phantom Hacker" scams, which involve scammers impersonating tech support, banking personnel, and government representatives to deceive victims into believing their accounts have been compromised. The scammers then convince victims to download software that grants them remote access to their computers, and subsequently persuade them to transfer money overseas or to a new account for protection. The FBI reported a 40% year-over-year increase in losses incurred from these scams, with victims often losing their entire savings and retirement accounts. Older individuals have been particularly targeted, with nearly 50% of victims being above the age of 60. The FBI advises people to be cautious of unsolicited pop-ups, links, and requests for software downloads, and to avoid granting control of their devices to unknown individuals.
A Ukrainian soldier, known as Kochevnik, called Russian tech support for assistance with a captured Russian tank that wouldn't start. The support staff seemed unaware they were speaking to a Ukrainian and offered their help. Ukraine has been capturing and repurposing Russia's tanks for their own use.
Best Buy is replacing its $200 Totaltech membership program with a new version that offers perks such as tech support, waived delivery fees, and exclusive prices at three price points ranging from free to $179.99. The new program aims to appeal to a wider range of customers.