Home / Appliances / 15 MacBook Features Users Should Know About

15 MacBook Features Users Should Know About

15 MacBook Features Users Should Know About

Apple’s Mac devices are renowned for their intuitive design and capabilities. However, it’s the lesser-known features and customization options that truly set them apart. By exploring these hidden gems, users can unlock new levels of productivity, convenience, and security. From seamless multitasking to hands-free operation, these features are designed to empower users and make their interaction with the Mac even more seamless and efficient. These tips make Black Friday 2023 even more sweet:

1. Master Spotlight Search
While many users know about Spotlight Search, few realize its full potential. Beyond simple file searches, Spotlight can perform complex calculations, provide weather updates, offer currency conversions, and even pull in data from the web. By pressing Command + Spacebar, users can unleash the full power of Spotlight and navigate their Mac with unprecedented efficiency.

2. Check Quick Look for speedy previews
Quick Look is a feature that allows users to preview files without actually opening them. By selecting a file and pressing the spacebar, users can quickly examine its contents. This is incredibly useful for browsing through images, documents, and even audio or video files. It’s a time-saving gem that can significantly expedite workflow.

3. Use Text Replacement for effortless typing
For users who find themselves frequently typing the same phrases or responses, Text Replacement can be a game-changer. By navigating to System Preferences > Keyboard > Text, users can set up custom shortcuts for longer phrases. For instance, “omw” can automatically expand to “On my way!” This feature is a productivity booster that can save substantial time in the long run.

4. Try the gestures feature
Apple’s trackpad is a marvel of engineering, offering a range of gestures that can streamline navigation. From swiping between desktops with three or four fingers to pinching to access Launchpad, mastering these gestures can significantly improve the efficiency of multitasking. Users can explore these gestures in System Preferences > Trackpad.

5. Use Split View
Split View is an invaluable feature for users looking to enhance productivity. By dragging a window to the edge of the screen, users can automatically snap it into place, allowing for seamless side-by-side multitasking. This feature is particularly useful for comparing documents, managing emails, or any task that benefits from simultaneous viewing.

6. Try out its virtual assistant
Siri is more than just a virtual assistant; it’s a powerful tool for boosting productivity. Beyond basic tasks like sending messages or setting reminders, Siri can perform complex operations like searching for files or adjusting system settings. Users can customize Siri’s capabilities in System Preferences > Siri.

7. Use desktop stacks
For users who tend to clutter their desktops, Desktop Stacks can be a game-changer. By right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Use Stacks,” macOS will automatically group similar files, creating a more organized workspace. Users can customize this feature by right-clicking and selecting their preferred sorting criteria.

8. Try Preview for editing
Preview is often overlooked as a basic PDF viewer but offers a surprising array of editing tools. Users can add text, annotations, signatures, and even edit images directly within Preview. This can save time and eliminate the need for third-party PDF editors.

9. Master Terminal
While Terminal may seem daunting to some users, it offers unparalleled control over macOS. Power users can execute a wide range of commands to perform tasks that might be otherwise inaccessible. It’s worth exploring online resources and tutorials to unlock the full potential of Terminal.

10. Customize trackpad gestures with BetterTouchTool
For users looking to take trackpad gestures to the next level, BetterTouchTool is a must-have application. It allows for extensive customization of trackpad gestures, enabling users to create their own shortcuts and actions tailored to their specific workflow.

11. Enable live captions
Live Captions is an accessibility feature that provides real-time captions for any audio playing on the device. Beyond their primary purpose, live captions can also be used during phone calls. By enabling live captions, users can have the conversation transcribed in real-time, offering a powerful tool for those who are hard of hearing.

12. Navigate with Mission Control
Mission Control is a powerful tool for managing multiple desktops and applications. By pressing F3 or swiping up with three or four fingers (depending on trackpad settings), users can access an overview of all open windows, desktops, and spaces. This allows for quick navigation between different tasks and applications, enhancing multitasking efficiency.

13. Optimized storage
Optimized storage is a valuable feature for users who are tight on storage space. By navigating to the Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage, users can click on “Manage” to access a range of tools for optimizing storage. This includes options to offload unused apps, store files in iCloud, and automatically empty the trash, ensuring that the Mac runs smoothly even with limited disk space.

14. Enhance security with FileVault
FileVault is a powerful encryption tool that provides an added layer of security for user data. By navigating to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault, users can enable full-disk encryption. This ensures that all data on the Mac’s internal drive is protected, even if the device falls into the wrong hands.

15. Enable parental controls
For families with young users, parental controls can be an invaluable feature. By navigating to System Preferences > Screen Time > Content & Privacy, parents can set restrictions on the type of content that can be accessed, limit screen time, and even control which apps can be used. This feature provides a level of control and peace of mind for parents.

Apple’s range of Mac devices, including the Mac Pro, Mac Mini, M2 Mac Mini, Mac Mini with M2 Pro, 14-inch Mac, 16-inch Mac, and 15-inch MacBook Air, are versatile tools for both casual users and professionals. By delving into these lesser-known features and customization options, users can significantly enhance their productivity, streamline their workflow, and unlock the full potential of their Mac experience. Look out for the upcoming offers this Black Friday sale season to be able to save some while upgrading the tech setup.

Recommended

6 common cycling mistakes to avoid

6 common cycling mistakes to avoid

Starting a new hobby is quite exciting, especially one as fun as cycling. But we may forget important details in the rush with equipment to purchase, routes to map out, and rules to follow. These may be due to a lack of knowledge or experience or overconfidence. However, just like other hobbies, there is a learning curve to the world of cycling. Here are six common cycling mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them: Looking for extremely specific equipment It is great to have stylish equipment, but the lack of ideal clothes or accessories shouldn’t stop you from exploring cycling as a hobby. While high-waisted padded cargo bike shorts and padded bike liner shorts guarantee comfort during cycling, options like Spanx® shorts, spandex shorts, or baggy shorts also offer comfort and support. The most important things are a sturdy bike and a sturdier helmet. Cycling without a helmet Bike helmets are crucial at all times. They can be found at most local stores, with advice on how to choose the right one. Ensure that you wear it correctly and put all the buckles in the rear. Not knowing your limits As with any new hobby, it is important to test the waters.
7 simple daily exercises for first-timers

7 simple daily exercises for first-timers

Research shows that besides enhancing one’s physical health, exercise improves mood, sleep pattern, and self-image and reduces the risk of developing mental illnesses. However, starting and sticking to a fitness journey can be pretty overwhelming. Simple exercises are ideal for beginners as they do not require equipment and can be seamlessly incorporated into everyday life. These seven simple activities will help those unsure of committing to a long-term fitness regimen. Stretching Stretching is the best place to start. Even if one doesn’t follow it with other exercises, stretching for 10 minutes in the morning can help improve one’s blood flow and balance and eliminate body stiffness. Some simple stretching exercises include neck tilts, neck, ankle, arms, waist, and shoulders rotations, spot jogging, and side bends. Walking This underrated exercise is strongly backed by science. It provides long-term health benefits and is suitable for all, from kids and seniors to those suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Walking daily for 40 minutes can help strengthen one’s bones and muscles, improve cardiovascular fitness, and boost energy levels. Sun salutations From forward folds to upward and downward dog, the classic sun salutation involves a series of easy full-body stretches that leave one feeling balanced.
6 mistakes to avoid when installing security cameras

6 mistakes to avoid when installing security cameras

Protecting a home from theft involves measures like putting up fences, using secure locks, and a neighborhood watch system. However, more than 1 million burglaries are reported in the country each year. This is where installing a security camera can come in handy. A good surveillance system can assist the police in investigating all kinds of theft and robbery. However, people can miss crucial steps or make mistakes while installing security cameras.  Picking the wrong spot People may place cameras in hidden spaces to prevent others from noticing them. However, this affects the camera’s line of sight. Ensure the camera is mounted strategically for the best results when capturing events. Outdated software If you buy a good home security camera with poor or outdated software, the system may not be able to record or capture anybody when required. So, you should ensure that hardware and software are reliable while buying the product. Incorrect placement You may mount the security cameras too low, which allows burglars to spray paint or damage the camera. Ensure you place the camera at an appropriate height to prevent such complications. Not testing the camera If you start using a security camera without testing it first and the device turns out to be defective or damaged, it may not provide adequate surveillance.
4 travel mistakes to take a break from

4 travel mistakes to take a break from

Whether you are a novice wanderlust or have been to hundreds of places, mistakes are a part of the process. But, it is important to learn and avoid the mistakes that might ruin your journey. One of the common traveling mistakes to avoid is taking connecting flights as you might have to cancel or modify back-to-back bookings in case your first flight is delayed. Read on to know some other travel mistakes to avoid.  Overpacking Choosing what to pack is a hard job. But being weighed down by your bulky suitcase is a lot more difficult. Start off with choosing the bag that is right for the duration of your trip. Don’t go for a big bag. The bigger the bag, the more will you be packing. With a smaller bag, you’ll only carry things necessary for the trip and there are no extra options. Moreover, with limited belongings, you can easily keep your hotel room clean. Visiting several destinations Taking time off from your routine does not mean you spend every minute of the couple of days you have off in traveling. It is a common mistake most travelers make and one that you need to avoided on your next trip.
4 clever tech gifts to buy for loved ones

4 clever tech gifts to buy for loved ones

The festive season is right around the corner, and it is the perfect time to shop for all your family and friends. So, while you would want all the gifts to be special and perfect for your loved ones, choosing the best gift can require a lot of planning. A great way to make your festive shopping easier is to choose useful gadgets that everyone can use. So, here are some unique gift ideas: Smart mug This is the perfect option if you want to get a handy gadget for a loved one. Smart mugs ensure you get to have your drink at the exact temperature, even if you prepared it a while ago. Most smart mugs can maintain the temperature for up to 90 minutes on a single charge. So, you don’t have to worry about your tea or coffee getting cold if you haven’t had the chance to pick it up as soon as you made it. Smart mugs can also be connected to your smartphone via an application, and you can set the temperature of your choice here. Smart writing set A smart writing set comes with a pen and a book where you can jot down your thoughts and ideas.
Get the best Christmas gift cards from these retailers

Get the best Christmas gift cards from these retailers

Do you hear the bells jingling and smell the pie baking? Christmas is approaching, and the offline and online worlds are abuzz with activity. The festive season is an exciting time to redeem gift cards and coupons, check every item on your shopping bucket list and surprise your loved ones with presents. We are here to help you with some hacks that can earn you gift cards and vouchers this Christmas: Groupon® Groupon’s app and website provide various coupons, cashback offers, and gift cards for customer purchases. In addition, it hosts several entrepreneurs, including restaurateurs, manufacturers, and retailers, and lists its products, serving as a credible avenue for such groups to attract their target customers. Simultaneously, it is a lucrative platform for buyers, offering several benefits and gift coupons. You can avail of several offers and deals on Groupon® this Christmas! Rakuten Rakuten lists several of your favorite stores, offering rebates and discounts on purchases. It also provides a comprehensive list of coupon codes, saving time and effort. Essentially, when Rakuten receives a commission from stores for providing them with customers, it presents this amount to customers as cashback, ensuring a win-win situation for all the parties involved. Currently, you can use the coupon code CYBER25 to avail of 25% off and 12% cashback on Boll & Branch products.