Author: Computer Warriors

5 Easy Steps to Backing Up Your iPhone: A Complete Guide

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. We use them to communicate with our loved ones, capture important moments, and store a wealth of personal data, including our contacts, photos, and other important files. However, despite the many benefits of owning a smartphone, there is always a risk of losing data due to accidental deletion, software glitches, or hardware failure. That’s why it’s crucial to back up your iPhone regularly. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to back up your iPhone in just five easy steps.

Step 1: Connect Your iPhone to a Wi-Fi Network

Before you begin the backup process, ensure that your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network. This is important because backing up your iPhone can consume a significant amount of data, and a Wi-Fi connection ensures a faster and more stable backup process.

Step 2: Open the Settings App and Tap on Your Name

Once your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network, open the Settings app and tap on your name at the top of the screen. This will take you to your Apple ID settings.

Step 3: Tap on “iCloud” and then “iCloud Backup”

In your Apple ID settings, tap on “iCloud” and then select “iCloud Backup.” If your iCloud Backup is already turned on, you can skip to Step 5. Otherwise, toggle the “iCloud Backup” switch to turn it on.

Step 4: Start the Backup Process

Once you’ve turned on iCloud Backup, tap on “Back Up Now” to start the backup process. Depending on the amount of data on your iPhone, the backup process can take a few minutes to several hours. You can monitor the progress of the backup process by returning to the iCloud Backup screen and looking at the time of the last successful backup.

Step 5: Verify Your Backup

After the backup process is complete, you should verify that your iPhone has been backed up successfully. To do this, go back to the iCloud Backup screen and look at the time of the last successful backup. You can also check the size of the backup by scrolling down on the iCloud Backup screen.

Alternatively, you can back up your iPhone to your computer using iTunes. To do this, connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable and open iTunes. Select your iPhone in iTunes and click on the “Back Up Now” button.

Backing up your iPhone is essential to ensure that your data is safe and secure. Here are some of the benefits of backing up your iPhone regularly:

  1. Protects Your Data from Loss or Theft

Backing up your iPhone ensures that your data is protected in case of any mishap, such as loss or theft. By having a backup of your data, you can easily restore it to a new device and continue where you left off.

  1. Restores Your Data in Case of a Software or Hardware Failure

Sometimes, iPhones can experience software or hardware failure, which can result in the loss of data. By having a backup of your data, you can easily restore it to a new device and continue where you left off.

  1. Saves Time and Effort

Backing up your iPhone regularly saves time and effort in the long run. If you lose your data, you may have to spend hours or even days trying to recover it, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

In conclusion, backing up your iPhone is essential to ensure that your data is safe and secure. By following the five easy steps outlined in this article, you can back up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes quickly and easily. Remember to back up your iPhone regularly to ensure that your data is always safe and you can restore it in case of any mishap.

 

Boost Your Productivity with AI-Driven Programs: Benefits and Applications

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

As our lives become increasingly complex and fast-paced, it can be challenging to stay productive and on top of our tasks. Luckily, artificial intelligence (AI) is here to help. With the help of AI-driven programs, we can manage our time more efficiently, stay focused on our goals, and achieve more than ever before. Here are some of the benefits of using AI to stay productive in your daily life.

  1. Efficient time management

One of the most significant benefits of using AI-driven programs is that they can help us manage our time more efficiently. For example, scheduling tools like Calendly can automatically schedule appointments and meetings based on our availability, reducing the time we spend organizing our schedules. Similarly, AI-powered to-do list apps like Todoist can help us prioritize tasks and remind us of deadlines, allowing us to focus on what’s important.

  1. Personalized productivity

Everyone has a different working style, and what works for one person may not work for another. AI-powered productivity tools can help us identify our unique strengths and weaknesses and tailor our work processes accordingly. For instance, apps like Forest use gamification to help users stay focused on their tasks, while platforms like Trello allow users to customize their workspaces to suit their preferences.

  1. Enhanced collaboration

Collaboration is essential in today’s workplace, and AI can help streamline the process. Platforms like Asana and Slack use AI algorithms to assign tasks, track progress, and facilitate communication between team members. This makes it easier to work together on complex projects and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

  1. Reduced stress and burnout

Stress and burnout are common problems in today’s fast-paced society. Fortunately, AI can help reduce the burden. For instance, apps like Headspace use AI to provide personalized meditation and mindfulness practices to help users manage stress and improve their mental well-being. Similarly, AI-driven chatbots like Woebot can provide emotional support and help users identify unhealthy thinking patterns.

  1. Improved decision-making

Making decisions can be challenging, especially when there are many variables to consider. AI-driven programs can help us make better decisions by analyzing data and providing insights. For example, investment platforms like Wealthfront use AI to analyze market trends and make investment recommendations, while nutrition apps like Lifesum use AI to provide personalized meal plans based on users’ dietary preferences and health goals.

In conclusion, AI-driven programs offer a range of benefits for staying productive in your daily life. From efficient time management to enhanced collaboration, reduced stress and burnout, and improved decision-making, the applications of AI are endless. With the help of these powerful tools, we can achieve more, stress less, and live a more productive and fulfilling life.

Protecting Your Small Business: The Top Cybersecurity Threats You Need to Know

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

Small businesses are increasingly under threat from cybercriminals who target them for their valuable data, financial information, and intellectual property. Cybersecurity breaches can be costly for small businesses, resulting in lost revenue, damage to reputation, and even the shutdown of the business. In this blog, we’ll explore the specific threats that small businesses face when it comes to cybersecurity and provide recommendations on how to protect your business.

Malware

Malware is a type of software that is designed to damage, disrupt, or take control of computer systems. Small businesses are often targeted by malware attacks, which can result in the loss of valuable data, disruption of operations, and financial loss. To protect against malware, small businesses should implement anti-virus software and ensure that all software is up to date.

Phishing

Phishing attacks are a type of social engineering attack that targets individuals with the aim of stealing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card information, or login credentials. Small businesses are often targeted by phishing attacks because they have less robust security measures in place than larger organizations. To protect against phishing attacks, small businesses should educate their employees on how to recognize and avoid phishing scams.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a business’s data and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key. Small businesses are often targeted by ransomware attacks because they are seen as an easy target. To protect against ransomware attacks, small businesses should implement regular backups of their data and ensure that all software is up to date.

Insider threats

Insider threats are security risks that come from within an organization, such as employees or contractors. Insider threats can be intentional, such as theft or sabotage, or unintentional, such as accidental disclosure of sensitive information. To protect against insider threats, small businesses should implement strict access controls, employee training programs, and monitoring of employee activity.

Third-party risks

Small businesses often rely on third-party vendors for services such as payment processing, cloud storage, and IT support. However, these vendors can also pose a security risk if they have inadequate security measures in place or have been compromised by cyber threats. To mitigate third-party risks, small businesses should carefully vet any vendors they work with and ensure that they comply with security standards.

IoT devices

The internet of things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices that are connected to the internet, such as smart devices, sensors, and other IoT-enabled devices. IoT devices can pose a security risk for small businesses if they are not properly secured. To protect against IoT threats, small businesses should implement strong passwords, update firmware regularly, and monitor IoT device activity.

In conclusion, small businesses face a range of cybersecurity threats that can pose a significant risk to their operations, finances, and reputation. To protect against these threats, small businesses should implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as anti-virus software, employee training programs, strict access controls, and monitoring of third-party vendors. By prioritizing cybersecurity, small businesses can reduce their exposure to these threats and protect themselves against potential attacks. Refer someone in need of our help to ensure their small business has the necessary protection in place and earn a referral bonus of $250 to $1,500. Check out our referral program: Referral Program | Computer Warriors (thecomputerwarriors.com)

Samsung Unveils the Galaxy S23 Series

Posted on | by Computer Warriors
Samsung

 

Samsung has just announced the release of its latest Galaxy S23 lineup, and the tech world is buzzing with excitement. The new lineup features three models – the Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, and S23 Ultra – each with its own unique set of specs that are sure to impress.

The Line Up

  • The Galaxy S23 is the standard model, and it’s a step up from the S21 in terms of performance and design. The phone is equipped with a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080, making it the perfect device for streaming movies, playing games, or just browsing the web. The phone is powered by the latest Snapdragon 888 processor and has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card.
  • The S23 Plus is the larger and more advanced model, boasting a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080. The phone is also powered by the Snapdragon 888 processor and has 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The S23 Plus also features a larger battery, a 5000mAh unit, which will allow users to enjoy their phone for longer periods of time without worrying about battery life.
  • The S23 Ultra is Samsung’s flagship model, offering the best specs and features of any phone on the market. The phone features a massive 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440. The S23 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 888 processor and has 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. The phone also features a massive 5000mAh battery, which will keep the phone running for hours on end.

The Design and Camera 

All three models of the Galaxy S23 lineup feature a stunning design that’s sure to turn heads. The phones feature a sleek and slim profile and are made from premium materials that give them a premium feel. The S23 Ultra also features a camera system that is sure to impress, with a 108MP main camera and a 48MP ultra-wide camera.

Final Thoughts

Samsung has once again raised the bar for the smartphone industry with its latest Galaxy S23 lineup. The phones feature top-of-the-line specs, an impressive design, and a camera system that’s sure to impress. If you’re in the market for a new phone, be sure to check out the Galaxy S23 lineup, as these phones are sure to provide an unparalleled mobile experience.

What to Look for in a Custom Built Gaming Computer

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

Gaming Computer

 

In 2020, gaming PC sales soared 27% to more than 55 million units sold. These sales resulted from the global pandemic – people were working from home and wanted something to do.

However, a chip shortage forced custom-built gaming computers to double in price due to the pandemic. They have always been a considerable investment, and sometimes, we did not know what we were getting when we purchased one.

People took advantage of this and sold their seven-year-old gaming computers and parts for a profit.

Since 2022 started, those prices have gone back down. Luckily for you, buying a gaming PC is more affordable than ever.

How?

Keep reading if you want to learn more about custom-built gaming computers and their features.

Blue vs. Red – The Two Brands of CPU (Processor)

The CPU is almost like the heart and brain of the computer.

Intel and AMD are the world’s leading manufacturers of CPUs.

CPUs can measure performance in cores and threads. Cores refer to the physical amount of properties in the CPU. Threads are measured virtually, with each core containing two.

Looking at the Ryzen 5 5600x, it has 6 cores and 12 threads. The cores make it possible to get more tasks finished at once. The threads inside the cores are responsible for processing that data.

GHz measures the speed of a processor. A higher rate allows gaming PCs to run programs smoother with less lag.

Intel CPUs excel at single-core processing, meaning they can take a load of editing and content creation a lot easier – each core. AMD CPUs are great at multi-core processing, making them exceptional for gaming.

There are huge debates on whether Intel or AMD is better.

Intel is a reputable brand name that is more pricey and does not come with a CPU cooler. On the other hand, AMD provides a better bang for the buck – coming with a decent cooler.

The Motherboard

The motherboard is the backbone that connects the CPU to the rest of the hardware, like a circulatory system. Its function is also to identify corresponding parts and regulates electricity in the system.

Depending on whether an Intel or AMD CPU is being used, a particular motherboard model is required to be compatible with it – they have different chipsets and sockets

Motherboards come in four sizes:

E-ATX

An extended version of the ATX, it is commonly used by high-end gamers and professionals. It can fit more memory and an extra GPU.

ATX

The standard full-size ATX motherboard is suitable for any gamer who wishes to upgrade their memory, storage, and GPU later. ATX supports four slots for memory and six slots for storage.

Micro-ATX

Slightly smaller than the ATX, a micro-ATX is suitable for anybody on a smaller budget. It supports the same features as the ATX.

Mini-ATX

Almost half the size of the ATX, the mini-ATX is more expensive than a micro-ATX due to its small size and more incredible difficulty to work on. It usually features half the amount of slots available compared to an ATX.

This size is great for any PC gamers who want a minimalist build.

RAM (Random-Access Memory)

Commonly mistaken for storage, RAM is the short-term memory for the functions of a computer system. It collects temporary data to a program so it can execute much faster when we close and open said program.

Today, most memory comes in sticks of 8GB. A stick can come in a max capacity as big as 512GB. That would be for large programs and companies.

Regular capacity will go up to 32GB per stick. Anything over will be rare.

For gaming, it’s best to have 16GB. More than 16GB is ideal for workstations like 3D processing and other content creation.

Storage: SSD vs. HDD

Solid-state drives are the norm for the operating system. SSDs provide the benefits of a faster rating and writing rate than an HDD.

Compared to the bulky, spinning hard disk drive of old, SSDs are digital, giving them incredible speeds.

SSDs also take up significantly less space, giving off less heat.

The Most Expensive Component of a Custom-Built Gaming Computer: The GPU

During the 2020 pandemic, new graphics cards were easily priced at more than $1,200 – a significant leap from their average $350 MRSP.

In 2022, the prices have gone back down since the chip shortage is going away.

The GPU is responsible for displaying images to your screen monitor. Not only that, but it helps with processing the complex graphics in a video game.

Being one of the most crucial components of a custom-built gaming computer, a GPU has memory capacity like RAM. It functions like RAM but only handles visuals.

Cooling – Battle of the Elements

Gaming computers need good airflow and cooling to operate at their peak. It’s best to have case fans placed as intake in the front and bottom while having exhaust case fans on the top or back of the computer.

This will bring in cold air from the bottom and front to cool the system, flushing out to the exhaust.

CPUs and GPUs come with their direct cooling fan, but they can be replaced with custom water cooling loops and AIOs. Using water is perfect for high-end gaming computers, as it can keep CPU and GPU temperatures low during high loads.

Power Supply

Without a PSU, the computer will not be able to boot up.

Although there are bronze and silver grades, it is always best to go with gold, platinum, or titanium. Gold is commonly used in custom-built gaming computers, as they are reliable and have a reasonable price point.

Power supplies provide power in W (Watts). Depending on the output of the other components in the gaming computer, it’s best to go over a 25% W rating.

For example, if a computer takes up 500W, it will be best to go for a 650W PSU. If you want to do a significant upgrade in the future, going for a 750W or 800W PSU will do the trick.

Ready to Purchase a Gaming Computer?

In the end, learning the complexities of gaming computer specs is essential. You know how your system will perform, and you get a better experience. It can also take a lot of time to build a gaming PC.

If you are looking to buy a gaming PC, let us deal with it. You can contact us to figure out what custom-built gaming computer fits you.

Top 4 Apple Accessories You Should Buy

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

Apple accessories make the Apple ecosystem more organized and usable. Here’s a list of the ones you should have in your arsenal.

The lifestyle sold by Apple is difficult to resist. It provides ease of use, organization, convenience, and a sense of minimalism all in one. While some Apple accessories might seem unnecessary, they exist for their own purposes and users love them. Otherwise, Apple wouldn’t think of releasing them if they knew their consumers wouldn’t bite.

Let’s take a look at the Apple accessories that are worth your money:

1. AirTag

The AirTag is one of Apple’s latest additions to the line of Apple accessories. It’s a keychain you can attach to anything, even non-Apple devices, and electronics. It helps you keep track of those items. You can attach an AirTag to your keys, backpack, wallet – the options are endless!

The best part of the AirTag is that you can see the location of the item it’s attached to in the Find My app. Simply put, once an item has an AirTag, it can be located just like the devices in your Find My app.

You can purchase as many AirTags as you want and pair them to your Find My app to keep track of things that are important to you. If you lose your keys and wallet frequently, then the AirTag is a great buy.

Furthermore, you can personalize your AirTags by getting free engraving services from Apple upon purchase.

2. MagSafe Battery Pack

There’s nothing better than having extra battery juice without carrying a power bank around with you all the time. That’s what the Apple MagSafe Battery Pack brings to the table for Apple fans. Not only that, but it also comes in different colors! You can match it with the rest of your electronics and Apple accessories to create an organized look.

The MagSafe magnets are compatible with the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 series, but there’s also a version for older iPhones called the Smart Battery Case.

Here’s how much the MagSafe Battery Pack can charge your iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, according to Apple:

  • Up to 70% additional charge with iPhone 12 mini or iPhone 13 mini and MagSafe Battery Pack*
  • Up to 60% additional charge with iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 and MagSafe Battery Pack*
  • Up to 60% additional charge with iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro and MagSafe Battery Pack*
  • Up to 40% additional charge with iPhone 12 Pro Max or iPhone 13 Pro Max and MagSafe Battery Pack*

3. AirPods Max

Another first of its kind from the group of Apple accessories is the AirPods Max. It’s the brand’s first-ever over-head earphones and audio accessory that comes in colors other than white! It has an impressive fit that prevents it from falling off your head, Hi-Fi audio, noise control with Active Noise Cancellation, and Spatial Audio.

You can customize it further by getting an engraving service from Apple upon purchase. Further, the colors are the following:

  • Space Gray
  • Silver
  • Pink
  • Green
  • Sky Blue

Lastly, you get a free 6-month subscription to Apple Music.

4. USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter

Since Apple ditched USB-A ports for its Mac computers, it’s become essential for MacBook users to get Apple’s USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter as one of their go-to Apple accessories. It not only comes with a USB-A port, but also has an added Type-C port and an HDMI port.

If you find yourself needing USB-A and HDMI ports often, this accessory is worth the purchase. With an HDMI port, you can plug your MacBook’s display into a much bigger one.

Final Thoughts

Truth be told, there are tons of Apple accessories you can choose from to make your maneuver with Apple electronics so much easier. Just pick the ones you need to make enjoying Apple products better, and you’re good to go!

Is It Worth Repairing a Broken MacBook, or Should You Sell It?

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

Whether we’re talking about the MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro, one thing’s for sure — anyone who’s used any of them long enough has experienced a problem or two, such as a cracked LCD, a bad battery, or some other hardware issue. 

MacBooks are expensive and generally perform better than other computers. It’s this reason that MacBooks are generally used more than PCs. In a recent study, a tech firm gathered information on the preference of 2,200 college students that year. They made these correspondents choose between Macs and PCs. The study revealed that 40% of the students prefer the MacBook, as they use them as daily drivers. 31% use PCs but actually prefer Macs, and 29% use PCs and prefer them as well.

Macs are indeed popular, but just like PCs, they are prone to wear and tear. This brings us down to the most common MacBook problems these users face. If you are a MacBook user, you’re probably all too familiar with the following list.

The most common MacBook problems

RAM – RAM becomes a problem for MacBook users today because of the increasing RAM power demand to run software. This is especially true for users who use their Macs for hardware-intensive software such as ones for video and photo editing. 

Remember that RAM stores the information it needs to access and run things quickly. So if you don’t have enough, you’re probably in for extra hours on top of the work.

Charging Ports – As a MacBook user, it’s easy to accidentally misplug. Sometimes, it’s easy to unintentionally snag it out of the plug because you forgot that you’re still charging. These small mishaps always lead to faulty charging ports. 

Dead Battery – The eventual result of a faulty charging port and an aging Mac is a dead battery. A dead MacBook battery means you’d have to constantly search for a place to plug in, which is not ideal for the busy on-the-go student or business professional. 

Backlight – Backlight helps illuminate the screen, allowing you to see items in the Mac’s display better. A broken backlight means you won’t be able to distinguish things like text and icons from the background.

There are hundreds of MacBook issues experienced by everyone, but the big question is, are MacBooks worth getting repairs for?

Should I get my MacBook repaired or buy a replacement?

Now that you know the most common issues you’ll face, or have faced with MacBooks, you’re wondering how much you should expect to pay for getting a MacBook repaired. You’re probably even asking yourself if getting a repair is even worth it. We’re going to help you decide.

When considering a MacBook repair for any problem, one of the first few things to consider is the price. The price depends on the damage and the model of the MacBook. We do offer repair quotes, so if you’re in trouble, please bring your MacBook in directly to us and we’ll give you a quote.

We Have Both Options!

Fortunately, we have you covered no matter what you do. We do offer used and refurbished MacBooks, but before you browse our selection, bring in your old MacBook and we’ll give you a free repair quote. If it makes more sense to repair it, we can do that. 

Before coming into our store, click here for an instant quote on MacBook repairs!

Which System is Best: Xbox, Nintendo, or Playstation?

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

The world of gamers is a big one. There are numerous brands, devices, and enthusiasts with a single goal in mind — setting up the best gaming experience.

Outsiders may not appreciate the captivating adventures gamers enter to explore new worlds, conquer powerful enemies, and complete complex missions. Battles to win and prizes to uncover, the gaming world is filled with possibilities and adventures. Plus, if you and your friends combine forces, there is no telling what great things you can accomplish.

But, the gaming world has its challenges. There is no denying that there is disagreement between PC and console gamers. Even within console gamers, there’s an ongoing debate over what game console system is the best one.

Today there are three types of game consoles most widely known to consumers: Sony’s PlayStation, Microsoft’s Xbox, and Nintendo’s Switch.

But which one of the three is actually the best?

Let’s find out.

Market share

Our first criterion is popularity. According to one study, Playstation 2 is the most popular gaming console around. Having sold approximately 158 million units, PlayStation stands tall at the front of the pack in popularity.

Behind PlayStation comes Nintendo Wii at number four. With just over 101 million units sold, Nintendo proudly ranks number four in the gaming console popularity charts.

But what about Microsoft’s Xbox models?  Xbox 360 comes in at number six with approximately 85 million units sold. Not as impressive as Playstation or Nintendo, but still a respectable number of units sold. 

In the list of popular gaming consoles, Playstation ranks as the most popular, with four models total ranking in the top ten. Nintendo comes in second, its most popular model ranking number four on the list plus three other models ranking in the top ten list. Lastly, Xbox’s most popular unit comes in at number six, with only one other unit making it in as the tenth most popular gaming console. 

Our winning gaming console by popularity: Sony’s Playstation. 

Which console is 2021’s favorite?

Every year, new consoles are released by the gaming world’s favorite manufacturers. But this year, we haven’t seen much from them.

But their releases from past years, such as Sony’s PlayStation 5 (2020), Microsoft’s Xbox Series X (2020), and Nintendo’s Switch (2017) proved to be gold. 

Much of the continuing popularity for these gaming consoles can be attributed to lockdowns that have kept people inside for months. Even adults, many of whom now work from home, find they have some extra time to enjoy some gaming time. Children and adults alike have enjoyed the extra gaming time they’ve been able to enjoy. 

GameSpot found that in the first half of 2021, the Nintendo Switch garnered the most sales. Following the Switch is Sony’s PlayStation 5, a highly-coveted console. 

If you were in the market for a PlayStation 5 this last year, you know how difficult it was to score a unit when it first came out because people were flocking to stores in an effort to secure one for themselves.

With the holiday season coming up, it’s hard to tell which console will be this year’s favorite. 

Once the holiday season and sales have ended, we’ll find out this year’s best-selling game console.

Specifications

In deciding which game console is truly the best, the average consumer may not look at the specs. As someone in the market for a game system, you know it’s the technical specifications you’re after and not just the best looking console.

So we’re going to take a look at some of the pros and cons of the PlayStation 5, Switch, and Xbox Series X, the top three latest and most popular releases.

  1. PlayStation 5

The first on our list is the PS5. It’s a powerful video game machine that looks sleek — much like its predecessors. Sony maintained the monochromatic game console designs seen in their previous releases.

The internet didn’t go crazy over the PS5 for no reason. This monster offers a next-gen gaming experience and a library of games exclusive to the PS Plus Collection. 

Aside from its design and platform exclusivity, the PS5 is praised for its DualSense controller, spatial 3D audio, and impressive SSD. You don’t have to wait a long time for your games to load, no matter how demanding they are.

Output-wise, the PS5 offers 4k@120fps and 8K@60fps gameplay. Both are clear enough to show you the shadows of your Uncharted character and water reflections!

Of course, it’s not perfect. Aside from it being hard to find when it first came out, it’s also a bit larger when compared to the old PlayStations.With today’s games taking bigger storage space, the 825GB SSD the PS5 comes with fills up pretty quick.

  1. Nintendo Switch

Out of the three game consoles we’re comparing, the Switch stands out. First, it’s the only handheld device that doesn’t need to be plugged into an external display for you to play your games. Plus, it’s three years older than the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Though the Switch might be smaller compared to the other two consoles, it’s powerful enough to stand against them.

The Switch is a hybrid game console. It can be played handheld or connected to a display. Nintendo wants its throne back from Sony with this feature, and the public loves it!

The seamless transition from a portable console to a home console is definitely a huge success, but that amazing feature has its own drawback. It needs more battery juice to display on bigger screens.

When it comes to playing titles you can play on the PS5 and Xbox, you can’t really expect all the games you can play on the PS5 and Xbox to be played on the Switch. 

  1. Xbox Series X

The PS5’s direct competitor is Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, which came out the same year.

With the Xbox Series X, Microsoft tried to address loading times, graphics, frames, and backward compatibility issues many gamers complained about.

They’ve geared this release up with a storage drive that significantly boosts loading times, even for demanding titles that are known to have long loading times.

Contrary to the PS5, the Xbox Series X has Dolby Vision and Atmos support. This means better display and audio for titles supported by Dolby.

For video playback, it can only produce up to 4K@60ps and 40K@120fps, depending on the capabilities of your display.

When it comes to backward compatibility, the Xbox Series X fares better than the PS5 because of its wider coverage for old titles not released for its platform.

The downside of the Xbox Series X is that its library of exclusive games isn’t as big as the PS5’s and the user interface isn’t as optimized.

It can be a tad picky when it comes to display panels because it requires compatible displays for gamers to experience the new visual features it comes with.

Final thoughts

Picking the best console for you can be a tough choice, especially if it’s your first time buying one.

What you can do to make deciding a little lighter for yourself is break down your profile as a gamer. Do you like portability, high-quality video, or backward compatibility?

Remember that no game console has everything you want, so make sure you know what you’re looking for so you can find the best console to meet your needs.

The iPhone 13 is Here. Here’s What it Can Do.

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

On September 14, 2021, Apple unveiled its new iPhone 13 line, along with the Apple Watch Series 7, new iPad mini, and iPad.

There are four models of the iPhone 13 :

  • iPhone 13 mini
  • iPhone 13
  • iPhone 13 Pro
  • iPhone 13 Pro Max

The base model is the iPhone 13, coming in five colors: Product Red, Starlight, Midnight, Blue, and Pink. All models come with Ceramic Shield fronts and glass back and aluminum design to protect the phone’s back components. If you’ve dropped your iPhone 8 in the past and see the backglass shatter, don’t expect the same from the new iPhone model. The iPhone 13 can take quite a beating before showing any signs of damage. 

The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max models come with Ceramic Shield front and textured matte glass back and stainless steel design, providing a smooth grip for iPhone users.

The base storage capacity starts at 128 gigabytes (GB) and the highest is 1 terabyte (TB) for the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max models.

Weight-wise, the iPhone 13 mini is the lightest, weighing 140g (just about the same weight as a baseball). The heaviest out of the four models is the 238g Pro Max, boasting the widest screen of the four.

Comparing the display, all models come with Super Retina XDR and OLED display.

Processing power

All models come with the A15 5-core CPU Bionic chip that includes a 5-core GPU (4-core for non-Pro) and a 16-core Neural Engine. That’s fast enough to run multiple applications optimized for today’s smartphones and should let you run mobile games with the settings maxed out without any issues.

Damage resistance

When it comes to splash, water, and dust resistance, the whole iPhone 13 line is rated IP68 under IEC standard 60529. Meaning, all models can be submerged at a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes without being rendered useless. So you can rest easy the next time you accidentally spill some water on your iPhone 13.

Camera

When talking about iPhones, we can’t forget the camera.

The 13 line comes with a Pro 12MP camera system that has wide and ultra-wide cameras. The Pro line has telephoto as an addition. For all models, video recording quality can be up to 4K at 60fps. Crystal clear, right? Pack that with beefy storage, and you’re good to go on your vlogging adventures!

Non-Pro models

Since Apple started releasing Pro models in addition to their iPhones’ base models, fans are quick to compare and find the best models. 

The non-Pros are considered entry-level, as they come with the latest features without the additional Pro features. They also cost less than their Pro counterparts.

  1. iPhone 13 mini

The 13 mini model has the smallest viewing area with 2340×1080 resolution. Albeit small, it’s clear enough to display sharp images with excellent viewing angles. There’s only 5.4-inch to look at, but the small size allows you to fit the phone into small pockets and it’s easy to hold. 

When it comes to battery life, the 13 mini is the smallest battery. You can play up to 17 hours of non-live videos and 13 hours of streaming videos. When streaming audio, the mini’s battery can play up to 55 hours worth of audio.

  1. iPhone 13

I can’t say this is the base model because it’s not the entry-priced one, but because it’s called the iPhone 13, we’ll call it the line’s base for reference.

It doesn’t differ much from the mini version, but it weighs 18g more and has a 6.1-inch display at 2532×1170 pixels. That’s a bigger display with clearer images. If Apple didn’t up the resolution on this model, we’d be looking at the mini with the smaller but clearer display. 

In terms of battery life, the 13 fares better than the mini. It has a battery beefy enough to stream 19 hours worth of non-streamed video and 15 hours of streamed video. When playing audio, you can trust the 13 to play for up to 75 hours.

Pro models

The Pro models carry features you can’t find in the non-Pros. Some people prefer pros for the size, storage, and camera.

But if you’re not looking for those, we suggest you look into the non-Pro to save a few hundred bucks. If you want a feature-packed smartphone, then here’s the breakdown of the 13 Pro models.

  1. iPhone 13 Pro

Headlining the Pro line is the 13 Pro. It weighs 203g and has a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532×1170, much like the iPhone 13.

Battery-wise, the 13 Pro can play up to 22 hours of video and 20 hours of video streamed. Like playing audiobooks of music for long periods? You’ll have no issues with the 13 Pro’s 75-hour audio playback capacity.

  1. iPhone 13 Pro Max

The 13 Pro Max is the heaviest, biggest, and most expensive model of the 13 line. It has a 6.7-inch display at 2778×1284. Talk about being big and clear, right?

While most of the features are similar to the 13 Pro, the difference lies in the battery capacity. The Pro Max can play up to 28 hours of non-streamed video non-stop and up to 25 hours of streamed video. 

For music and audiobook lovers out there, you won’t have issues with the 13 Pro Max because it can play up to 95 hours of audio. 

All in all

With how the iPhone 13 models are looking like and how the public received them, it’s safe to say they are very popular. Given the next-level features that come within even the entry models, you can’t go wrong with any iPhone 13 model.

When picking the right iPhone 13 model for yourself, the features should always be the first one you should look at.

Don’t know what features to start looking at? Start with the battery capacity and go from there.

5 Signs Your Smartphone Battery Is Dying

Posted on | by Computer Warriors

There’s nothing more annoying than having a smartphone that’s designed for portability but needs to stay close to a wall socket.

You bought a feature-packed smartphone you can take anywhere with you but years — sometimes even months later, you notice that there are more times you keep it plugged in than not.

You look back and realize, “Are these smartphones really built to act like this?”

The answer is yes. Batteries aren’t supposed to last forever. They’re meant to decay in health due to use. And we also can’t deny that most of us are heavy users. We don’t even care if we’re using our phone while it’s plugged in, right?

But if you’re trying to look for explicit signs that’ll tell you about your smartphone battery’s decaying state, I compiled a list of signs you should be on the lookout for.

  1. Your phone always dies on you

Imagine being outdoors with your friends and you want to play some music and take pictures. About 15 minutes later while the phone is connected to a Bluetooth speaker, the music stops.

You run to where your phone is. It’s dead. Again.

You know you just fully charged the thing, but why did it die this early? Well, you’re definitely looking at a case of a decayed smartphone battery that needs replacement.

This is the number one sign that your phone’s battery needs to be switched up, or you might have to change the way you use your phone if you don’t want to get a smartphone battery replacement just yet.

You always have to carry around a power bank with you if you want to remain away from the wall socket most of the time.

If this situation persists, the best decision is to get your phone checked at a reliable cell phone repair store that will give you good estimates for quality battery replacement services.

  1. Your smartphone is old

Another sign that your battery isn’t good anymore is when your phone is 5-10 years old. Say, you’re using a phone that came out 8 years ago and you’re wondering why its battery won’t last you more than an hour.

Even if you took care of your 8-year old phone like a baby, batteries don’t last forever. You might have kept it stored somewhere and didn’t use it for years, but it’ll still decay. It probably might not turn on again unless you get a new battery.

So yes, your phone’s age is a factor to consider when assessing its battery health. Just because a phone is free of scratches and you’re a careful user, doesn’t mean it’ll work as if it’s new.

Get a new one. It doesn’t have to be the iPhone 13, but you can check out other models that are still very useful based on today’s tech needs. Just make sure you’re transacting with reputable stores as you browse.

  1. Your phone never gets 100% charged

I’ve gone through this myself, and I admit it’s very confusing and stressful. When charging your phone, you’d expect the battery percentage to go up as time passes. But when your battery is nearing its last days on earth, the percentage decreases even when it’s plugged in!

That’s pretty mind-boggling, especially when you see it for the first time.

This occurrence is a big “GET YOUR PHONE FIXED” sign to us users because our battery isn’t even acting the way it’s supposed to. Something must be really wrong with it, right?

There are also instances wherein phones get charged to 100% but once you unplug it and use it for 10 minutes, the battery goes down to 10%. Yikes.

So get it fixed before your battery bloats and explodes (yes, that happens).

You don’t even have to wait for this to happen. Most of today’s smartphones have a feature in the settings where you can check battery health. It should tell you when the health is dangerously low and you need a replacement.

  1. Things get hot

Don’t get me wrong, there are many things that cause phones to heat up. It could be the weather, the app you’re running, your phone case, and sometimes, your battery.

This is a serious implication that your battery is dying. When you’re charging your phone, it shouldn’t run hot when the battery is healthy.

It also shouldn’t be hot when you’re only running your messages app, for example. Because they’re not very demanding on hardware, your phone shouldn’t be hot on your hands when you’re running just that.

It’s even worse if your phone gets hot while you’re not using it! But if you left it somewhere hot, like on top of your car that’s parked under the sun, it should be hot (please don’t do that).

If these things happen to you, it’s definitely time to get your smartphone battery checked out and replaced by a professional.

  1. It looks deformed

Smartphone batteries get bloated due to many factors. Damage, overcharging, overuse, and many others are just one of the few. Fortunately, today’s smartphone batteries are built to withstand most things users overlook.

If the back or front of your phone rises up or takes a weird shape, your battery is bloated and you need to get it replaced as soon as possible. I even strongly advise you to stop using it until you get it repaired.

If not, you’ll risk damaging other components in your smartphone, or worse, your battery might explode. Whatever’s inside your smartphone battery is toxic, and manufacturers are always sure to include that in the battery and phone’s packaging to tell you.

Check if your phone has light leaking in weird places or if it feels weird in your hands. You’ll know it because you always have your phone in your hands. Put it flat on the table and spin it around. If it spins full circle, then something’s wrong. It should be flat and shouldn’t spin around.

All in all, if your phone looks AND feels different, you should 100% get it checked out by a professional. Since most diagnostics are free, you don’t have to worry about paying for a phone check-up.

But if something needs urgent fixing (like your battery), then it’s always a good measure to prepare for getting some cash out for service.

What should you do?

Aside from getting a new battery or a new smartphone, there’s nothing you can really do. You can’t save something that’s dying and is meant to go that way in the first place.

The only thing you can do that’s close to saving yourself from smartphone battery problems is to practice proper phone usage when it comes to charging.

Today’s phones are built to avoid overcharging, so you don’t have to worry about it. But they’re not built for using off-brand chargers that run hot and sometimes catch fire.

Since most batteries are made for extreme use, just make sure you’re using authentic charges that won’t endanger you or your phone.

I know there are a lot of attractive offers on smartphone chargers, but it wouldn’t hurt to get one from your phone’s manufacturer.

When the time comes that you need to get a new battery, just call up your trusted cell phone repair store and let them do the work for you!