1.  Restoring Data from iCloud

If you already own a MacBook or an iPhone, connecting your iPad to either device will initiate a sync of your personal files. It’s an effortless and easy way to bring your photos, files and music from one device to another. Make sure to have iTunes installed on your computer to make this process easier, especially if you’re connecting to a PC. Also, check that your iPad has enough memory compared to your computer or phone – you may have to selectively move the files that you want.

2.  The App Store

Before you begin installing any apps, you’ll need to make sure you have created an Apple ID. You will be prompted to sign in with your existing ID or create one after activating the device. If you don’t have one or aren’t prompted, follow these steps:

• From the Home screen, Tap Settings > iTunes and App Stores
• Tap “Create Apple ID”

You’ll have to agree to the terms and conditions when prompted. Having an Apple ID is essential. Even if you’re downloading free apps, you’ll have to re-enter your password or Touch ID for each installation. This failsafe is to prevent your little ones from downloading a “free” app and racking up dozens of in-app purchases.

Once you’re signed in, click on the App Store from the Home Screen to install a few essential programs.

3.  A Reading Rainbow

Most people use their iPads to read books that are too wide to view on a phone or too big to stow in carry-on luggage. iBooks is pre-installed on your home screen, so you can start reading Apple’s offerings right away.

However, the Amazon Kindle store has many more options, and you don’t have to own an Amazon device. Simply install the Kindle app and download books from Amazon’s immense digital catalog.

4.  A Musical Interlude

If you want to keep your phone in your pocket when hosting a party, the iPad is perfect to keep tunes going during game night. The Music option is located at the bottom right of the Dock. The Dock, which holds apps that are always anchored at the bottom of the screen, doesn’t change even as you download more apps.

You can purchase a $9.99/month Apple Music subscription, or you can download any number of free apps with paid options, such as Pandora and Spotify. However, Apple Music is better integrated with Siri, so you can tell Siri, “Play jazz music” right before your date walks through the door.

These tips should get you off to a good start with your new iPad. Want to dive deeper? Take a look at these 10 iPad tricks you didn’t know existed.

The post Everything You Need to Get Started with Your iPad Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  LoopPay

I know what you’re thinking – I’m tired of these apps that let me pay with my phone but are only recognized by select retailers with special equipment. Well fear no more. LoopPay absorbs all of your information, encrypts it, and allows you to pay without any additional hardware. Hold it up to a regular credit card machine, and watch it work its magic.

2.  Edge Clock

No more picking up and swiping your phone to check the time. A clock always at the very edge of the screen is a little added convenience that will save you the trouble of fumbling with your alarm in bed.

3.  Auto Answer with Bluetooth

If you have a Bluetooth device connected, the Galaxy automatically connects your call by default. No more struggling to get your phone out of your pocket when you’re driving or riding your bike to work.

4.  A Better TV Remote

Tired of that giant oblong monstrosity with a thousand buttons? Turn your Galaxy into a TV remote by downloading the WatchOn app. You can control everything even from other rooms, ensuring your household channel surfing control.

5.  Stay Right There!

If you’re doing a lot of reading and want a quick-activated screen time-out, use Smart Stay. Under Settings > My Device > Smart Screen, select “Smart Stay.” As if by magic, your device will track when you’re actually reading from the screen.

6.  Speedy Downloads

Activate the “Download Booster” to stream large files using both WiFi and a cellular network at the same time. It’s ideal when in a hurry to download important videos or other hefty blocks of data.

Who knew you could open the Internet floodgates so easily?

7.  Kids Mode

Speaking of floodgates, the Internet continues to be a dangerous and potentially expensive place for children. Find the “Galaxy Essentials” at the top of your home screen. Download the Kids Mode app to block off parts of your phone that you don’t want your kids to see – or purchase – without your permission. Kid-friendly apps will automatically populate the home screen for as long as Kids Mode is activated.

These seven highlights are just the beginning of a constellation of awesome features for Galaxy owners.

The post 7 Awesome Features to Get the Most Out of Your Galaxy Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Orientation Lock

Newcomers to the iPad may find there’s nothing quite as frustrating as trying to read in bed while your orientation – landscape or portrait – keeps shifting. In the latest iPads, the Orientation Lock button is on the side of the device above the volume controls. It can also be configured under Settings > General to serve as the Mute button instead.

Personally, I use Orientation Lock more than Mute. Stick with the default.

2.  A Personal White Noise Machine

When I’m traveling on long flights, my iPad is a godsend. I don’t have to waste my iPhone battery or shell out more money for noise-cancelling headphones. With the Sleep Pillow app, I can let the sounds of the ocean soothe me to sleep through a steady stream of white noise. It’s a lifesaver in a noisy hotel room too.

3.  This Message Will Self-Destruct

If you have sensitive information on your iPad (I’m looking at you, Important Government Official), you can set it to completely wipe after 10 failed passcode log-in attempts. Navigate to Settings > Passcode > Erase Data.

4.  Charging Quirks

As a new owner, I was often frustrated when my iPad wouldn’t charge on certain USB ports. I finally figured out that in some PCs, not all USB ports are created equal. If your current port isn’t charging, just try out another one. The one closer to the front of your desktop or laptop is your best bet.

5.  Lost and Found

The first minute you get your iPad, make sure to enable Find My iPad. If you leave it under a couch cushion or in a gym bag, the activated app will set off a sonar-sounding noise to direct you to the iPad’s location. The setting is easy to activate under Settings > iCloud at the bottom left of the screen.

6.  AirPrint

AirPrint, available under the Share button in your browser, allows you to quickly print from your iPad. It’s great for when you need an extra copy of a critical document that someone forgot to bring to the meeting.

7.  CapsLock

Trying to type in all capital letters can be a major annoyance without the benefit of a physical keyboard. Instead of pressing Shift once, tap it twice to lock All Caps.

8.  Jump from App to App

Instead of using the Home button or navigating back to the main screen each time, use 4 fingers and swipe Left or Right to move among already-open apps.

9.  Uninterrupted FaceTime

FaceTime no longer pauses your connection when you exit the app during a call. If you press the Home button while Facetiming, your loved one will automatically overlap with your favorite app.

10.  A Constant Slideshow

Turn your living room into a vacation showcase with a photo slide show. Tap the Picture Frame icon located to the right of the slide-to-unlock bar on the lock screen. It’s much more efficient and versatile than an expensive, separate digital frame.

There’s even more to learn about the iPad, but I’m confident that you can avoid my first-timer mistakes with this quick list. These techniques apply to models old and new, refurbished and retail.

Image courtesy of Unsplash.

The post 10 iPad Tricks You Didn’t Know You Could Do Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Low Power Mode

So you’re stuck on the tarmac with no power outlet in sight, and it’s hour three. Thankfully, the new Low Power Mode will extend your battery life in those desperate hours of boredom. To activate, choose Settings – Battery – Low Power mode.

2.  Apple Maps Adds Transit

Apple Maps caught a lot of flack in its initial release. But with Siri integration, I’m using it a lot more than its competitor Google Maps. And I’m pleasantly surprised that Apple Maps is giving me easier, faster and more accurate results – whether I’m driving, walking or taking public transit.

3.  Boarding Passes

While individual airline apps have had mobile boarding passes for a while now, Apple Wallet just recently allowed you to integrate all of your travel documents in one place. There’s nothing worse than fumbling for a paper pass – or leaving it behind – when you’re sprinting across the airport between tight connections.

4.  Advanced Spotlight

Jennifer Hudson famously sang that she didn’t like living in the spotlight, but everyone, Hudson included, will want to beam in Apple’s Spotlight. The new-and-improved search function makes finding everything a whole lot easier. Swipe left on the home screen and the improved Spotlight will populate with your recently used apps. Search for a contact and you’ll have easy access without having to scroll through several menus.

5.  Silent Siri

I never liked that annoying beep right before Siri kicks in. Keep her quiet with a quick side-button press by activating this new feature. First, go to Settings – General – Siri – Voice Feedback. Then, check “Control with Ring Switch” to stop her from interrupting the flow of your Apple Music.

6.  Back to Previous App

Previously, if an app navigated you to a different app, you needed to double click the home button and swipe right to return to your first app. iOS 9 changed that with a simple link that appears in the upper left hand corner when you navigate away. For example, if you click a link in an email and jump to Safari, you can reach to the top left and tap “Back to Mail” to easily get back to your inbox.

7.  Music on Demand

As soon as you connect your headphones to a locked iPhone, an icon will appear in the bottom left of the screen that connects directly to the most recently used music app.

8.  Grouped Photos

No more tediously clicking on every photo you want to send, delete or upload. Simply tap, hold and swipe to select groups of photos at once instead of one-by-one.

9.  Better News

Another great feature of Apple’s improved Spotlight is the collection of news updates. Swipe left on the home screen (just like you would to search for an app or contact) and scroll down to find serious news articles from outlets you frequently visit in a refreshing and clean format. I’ve already started using it every day.

Though there’s plenty more to see and do in iOS 9, these innovations should get you started strong with Apple’s best operating system yet.

The post The 9 Best iOS 9 Features Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Automate

With my MacBook, iPad and iPhone synced via iCloud, I can automate – or at least automate reminders for – important tasks that I would otherwise forget. Car payments, weekly classes and recurring meetings are set to ping on all of my Apple devices. If you’re as forgetful as I am, you’ll appreciate the constant coordination among devices.

2.  Delegate

I often set myself up for failure by not delegating tedious tasks that could be performed by other members of my team. Pyrus Workflow on iOS helps coordinate various processes and tasks among team members, making it simple to delegate work in a group. Plus it’s free for the first 12 team members.

3.  Motivate

Setting goals is great, but what do you get when you cross the finish line? Rewards like video game time, healthy indulgences or new gadgets give me the extra push that I need to get things done.

4.  Unplug

With the constant availability of Facebook, Twitter and other platforms at all hours, separating work life from personal life has never been more difficult. Give yourself time to unplug and focus on one task at a time. After all, multi-tasking is just another way of saying “distracted.”

5.  Differentiate

Each person has his or her own pace and learning methods. The concept of multiple intelligences means that you should allocate more time for tasks that you know will be more difficult and reserve your most productive time of day for such tasks. Don’t compare your efficiency to other people’s; work at the pace and time of day that’s best for you.

6.  Aggregate

How are you spending your time at work? Apps like RescueTime let you see where you’re actually expending your efforts. Begin smartly aggregating tasks by measuring the time it takes to complete them – and discover how much time you waste reading Wikipedia entries.

7.  Hibernate

Quality sleep is critical to being productive; all-nighters are lethal to your mental focus. If you hate waking up in the mornings, invest in a Phillips Wake-Up Light. It’s a bit pricy, but it’s a game-changer for getting out of bed in the mornings.

8.  Operate

While it may be a pain to temporarily put your MacBook offline, updating your operating system is crucial. Speed typically increases with each update, and it only takes one security flaw to bring down your most important files.

9.  Anticipate

Those little daily tasks can be a major time suck. Use Sundays to anticipate what you’ll need during the week – dry cleaning, laundry and food.

And spending precious morning rush hour time waiting in line at Starbucks can start your day on the wrong foot. I take advantage of the new Starbucks ordering app to skip the latte line.

10.  Celebrate

It’s easy to fly from one to-do list to the next without stopping to take a breath. Remember to take time to celebrate your accomplishments and give yourself a sense of pride in what you’ve already done.

Sometimes I even reward myself with a new device; a faster iPad or MacBook Air makes hard work that much easier.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia.

The post 10 Tips (and Tools) for Increasing Productivity Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Cover It

iPad screens are most susceptible to damage. Protect it. The Apple Smart Cover is a decent start, but at the end of the day, it’s just a piece of flexible plastic and may not perform when your device plummets to the ground. Screen protectors are a solid investment, and Gazelle has some for only $15. Don’t fall for the more expensive options that use phrases like “self-healing.”

2.  Encase It

A simple cover may not be enough, especially if you’re dealing with young children or clumsy adults. Check out Lifehacker’s 5 best cases and perhaps even splurge on the all-terrain survival case if you plan on taking your iPad camping. Whitewater rafting has never been so risk-free.

OtterBox is the #1 selling case for tablets, but it may not be the best use of your money if you’re an average user. Plus, a bulky case makes it much harder to fit into bags and purses.

3.  Insure It

I learned the hard way that iPad warranties aren’t what they used to be as they become more affordable and therefore more disposable. Opt for AppleCare if you buy retail as $99 is still better than a whole new device. Or, make use of Gazelle’s warranty if you buy refurbished. Using an American Express or similar credit card to buy your iPad may also include insurance. Check the fine print to see if your new (or gently used) purchase is already covered.

4.  Secure It

I’ve no problem with my iPad at the beach without an expensive case, but I’ve still managed to ruin the screen by not storing it securely. Be careful if you fall asleep on the couch while reading. You might roll over and wake up to a smashed tablet!

Accidents happen regardless of how old or how careful you are. Follow this advice to make sure that your iPad makes it through the year intact.

The post How to Protect Your iPad with 4 Simple Steps Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Timing is Everything

There are plenty of deals to be had for those who keep a close eye for online deals. New Egg’s Daily Deals is a site worth bookmarking in your browser. A quick check every day could save you hundreds of dollars.

If you’re looking for a laptop, big retail websites like Best Buy’s Deal of the Day provide ample opportunity to save your wallet from pain all year round. Those who only use Microsoft Word and an Internet connection can forgo all the latest hardware specs. Shop for an affordable laptop that’s perfect for crafting those late-night term papers.

Good things come to those who wait for the best possible deal.

2.  Not-Worth-It Warranties

Many parents, worried that a new phone will wind up in a puddle or worse, take out generous warranty policies on their electronic purchases. Make sure to read the fine print, as you might be paying extra for something you don’t really need – or paying too much for something that doesn’t even cover water damage. There’s nothing worse than spending money every month, only to discover that spilled milk voided the insurance policy. An incomplete warranty can be money wasted and certainly something to cry about.

3.  Give Used or Refurbished

I received a used iPad Mini last year – and until recently I had no idea it wasn’t straight from the box. So kids definitely won’t know the difference if you bought it refurbished. They only care that it works.

After dropping my iPad on hardwood flooring, I found out the hard way that Apple no longer even offers to repair iPad Minis for its lower-end models. The best you’ll manage is a $50 in-store credit toward a brand new device. I was better off taking my tablet to an off-market mall kiosk. Buying a used iPad from Gazelle could go a lot further than replacing it at the Apple Store.

Just because something’s new doesn’t mean that it’s built to last. Give the gift of used electronics and invest the leftover budget saved in a heartfelt accessory – like a hard case to protect your hard-won deal.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia.

The post 3 Ways to Save on Electronics for Kids Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

1.  Drop Everything

Whether you’re viewing an Excel spreadsheet for work or a PDF for music rehearsal, Dropbox is the go-to organizer for the cloud. With the Dropbox app on your iPhone or iPad, it’s much easier to share files for those who may not have iCloud or Google accounts. Fewer clicks to share means it’s more likely someone might actually read those long attachments. Plus, you get 2GB of storage for free!

2.  Learn Something New

Khan Academy has been rapidly moving its way from the virtual classroom to our living rooms. With more than 10,000 free instructional videos, the new Khan Academy app can turn any moment into a learning moment. Why not download this personal tutor for your child instead of a mind-numbing choice like Candy Crush? Keep learning alive for kids and adults alike during the bleak mid-winter.

3.  Strategize Your Way to Victory

One of the best reasons to own a tablet is the quality tabletop games that have made their way into the App Store. BattleLore: Command has been holding my interest with its challenging-but-fair brand of turn-based strategy. If you’re someone who likes to pause before you swing your sword, BattleLore may be the thinking man’s game for you. A 2015 review assures everyone (as can I!) that it’s easy to learn and play.

4.  Never Get Lost

Sorry, Apple Maps – though you’ve improved dramatically and are now better integrated with Siri, Google Maps still reigns because of Google’s massive information infrastructure. Though the gap has narrowed between these fierce competitors, I still choose Google for transit directions and for surprising new features – like alerts telling me when I should leave in order to make it to my destination on time.

5.  Cook Up a Storm

If you love cooking like me, or even if learning is your New Year’s resolution, the Epicurious app is my go-to for both weeknight dinners and fancy dinner parties. With a precise filter as well as an eye for more exotic ingredients, Epicurious has something for both beginning and master chefs. I prefer it over the more traditional Food Network and Real Simple apps that also live on my home screen.

There’s more than five ways to meet your New Year’s resolutions, but these apps will help you in most areas of your life throughout 2016.

Image courtesy of Flickr.

The post Five Apps to Help Meet Your New Year’s Resolutions Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Unless it’s fruitcake, here are four ideas to turn that frown upside down and get rid of those unwanted gifts.

1. Re-Gift It

Participating in a White Elephant or Yankee Swap – all staples of the office party – is bound to earn you a new dust collector for your home or office. The easy cure? Re-gift it. As long as it’s in the original packaging, who will ever know?

 2. Donate It

The Huffington Post showed me four great ways to turn trash into treasure. Soldiers, seniors and students are those most in need of electronics. No matter how outdated that device may seem to you, it could be a godsend to someone in need of phoning home. A tablet could be the perfect companion for so many of our military men and women who are serving overseas.

The United Nations, through the University for Peace, is engaged in providing cellphones to low-income communities and more local organizations like Toys for Tots are reputable ways to get rid of those pesky but trendy drone devices.

3. Exchange or Return It

Stores like Nordstrom or LL Bean don’t require a receipt of any kind. Take those legendary Bean boots back for ones in the right size or something more useful altogether. And Nordstrom doesn’t even have a return policy posted – they stand by the merchandise, 100%. If you’re lucky enough to receive something that’s exclusive to Nordstrom, you’ll be in the perfect position for that return without anyone ever knowing.

4. Sell It!

Of course, not all of us are so benevolent and selfless – sometimes we just need cold, hard cash after a rough 2015. Did Santa bring you a new iPhone, iPad or MacBook? Trade-in your old one for cash. Select the make and model, and send it off to Gazelle for a guaranteed amount. Gazelle even provides free shipping, so your sale is pure profit.

Photo courtesy of Flickr.

The post What to do With the Gifts You Didn’t Want Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Gadgets are always a hot ticket item, and rarely seem like a last minute decision– even if you’ve spent all this time waiting for a better deal or another paycheck. We’ve got three great places to spend your dollars wisely.

1.  The Gift of an App

One of my favorite Christmas presents ever was actually an app from the Culinary Institute of America. It was their entire textbook delivered straight to my iPad! I still use it often when I’m trying to remember what exactly mise en place means.

With thousands of apps now available for the iPhone, iPad and MacBook, gifting an app or a video game through a virtual store or streaming service doesn’t make it any less thoughtful. As Christmas approaches, check out the Apple App Store or services like Steam, which allow for instant arrival of perfect products. Or, opt for a gift card if you don’t really know your recipient that well.

2.  Last Minute Deals from Major Retailers

CNET has a great run-down of the best deals still remaining, including a $299 Star Wars Battlefront Playstation 4 package to awaken the force within your mega fan. This popular action game is more accessible than the regular shooter franchises like Call of Duty. It’s free of blood and gore and is teen-friendly.

You’ll find most of these deals by shopping online or in-store at Walmart, Target or Best Buy. I’m just wishing I had someone in my life who might enjoy a remote-controlled Millenium Falcon as much as me. You know, a younger version of me.

For Millennials looking to save money on the cable bill, the Google Chromecast may be the ideal gift. It will stream the Internet directly to your television and save a bundle by allowing you to unbundle from your overpriced provider. Added bonus: It takes minutes to set up.

3.  Shop Used and Save

Since the release of the iPhone 6s, Gazelle is offering some serious deals on the iPhone 5s Expect more as Christmas creeps closer and inventories need to be cleared. But hurry – Christmas is creeping up!

Buying used means you never have to pay the full retail price, even if you waited until the last possible minute.

Image courtesy of Flickr.

The post Forget Something? Last Minute Tech Deals Just in Time for Christmas Adam Edgerton appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.