Don’t let the burn of a stretched-out budget ruin your summer plans. Here are our top ways to earn extra cash from your phone this summer!

With 91% of Americans owning a smartphone according to Pew Research, and mobile commerce revenue hitting $2.5 trillion globally, there has never been a better time to turn your phone into a money-making machine. Here’s how to get started:

Take Surveys and User Tests
Survey apps like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars let you earn rewards and cash in your spare time. Most surveys take 10-20 minutes and pay $1-$5, while user testing platforms like UserTesting.com can pay $10-$20 per session. It won’t replace a full-time income, but it’s easy money while you’re lounging at the beach or waiting in line.

Freelance From Anywhere
The global freelance market reached $1.5 trillion in 2025, with mobile-first freelancers representing the fastest-growing segment. Over 76 million Americans freelanced in 2024, with that number expected to reach nearly 80 million in 2025. Whether you write, design, code, or do virtual assistant work, platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Toptal make it easy to find clients and manage projects entirely from your phone.

Sell Stuff You No Longer Need
Summer is the perfect time to declutter. Apps like Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, Mercari, and eBay make it simple to photograph, list, and sell items right from your phone. Old clothes, electronics, furniture, and sporting gear can turn into quick cash with minimal effort.

Deliver Food or Groceries
Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, and Shipt let you work on your own schedule. Summer is one of the busiest seasons for delivery services, meaning more orders and better earning potential. Sign up, pass a background check, and start earning within days.

Start Creating Content
The influencer marketing industry is expected to grow to $22.2 billion in 2025, meaning brands are spending big to reach audiences through creators. Whether it’s Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube, building an audience around something you’re passionate about can lead to brand deals and sponsorships. On YouTube, you’ll need at least 1,000 subscribers to apply for the YouTube Partner Program and start earning ad revenue, but even smaller creators land paid partnerships through platforms like LTK and Creator.co.

Rent Out What You Have
If you have a car, rent it out on Turo when you’re not using it. Have a spare room or vacation property? List it on Airbnb or Vrbo. Even everyday items like cameras, tools, and outdoor gear can be rented through platforms like Fat Llama. Your assets can work for you while you enjoy the summer.

Top Ways to Make Money From Your Phone This Summer

With 91% of Americans now owning a smartphone according to Pew Research, your pocket-sized device is more powerful than ever when it comes to generating extra income for all the fun summer activities you have lined up this season.

1. Freelancing Gigs

Freelancing has never been more accessible or lucrative. The global freelance market reached $1.5 trillion in 2025, with over 76 million Americans freelancing in 2024 – a number expected to approach 80 million in 2025. Mobile-first freelancers are actually the fastest-growing segment of this market, meaning your phone alone can be your office. Here are some of the most popular gigs you can land right from your phone:

• Translation services
• Summer tutoring services
• Freelance writing
• Freelance video and photography services
• Personal assistant gigs

2. Online Rewards Programs

If you’re an avid smartphone user looking to fill your downtime with a little extra earning potential, online rewards programs are worth exploring this summer. Sites such as InboxDollars and Swagbucks offer chances to earn money directly from your phone through online surveys, watching videos, and leaving reviews. Most surveys take between 10 and 20 minutes and pay anywhere from $1 to $5, while user testing sessions can earn you $10 to $20 each. It’s not a get-rich-quick solution, but it’s an easy way to earn passively during your spare time.

3. Sell Your Old Tech

Do you have any old phones or tablets collecting dust at home? You can turn them into summer spending money by selling them online with Gazelle. You can grab a no-commitment quote for your used devices in just a few minutes. We’ll cover shipping with a prepaid label, and you can get paid quickly without ever leaving the house. Payment options include check, Amazon gift card, or PayPal – making it one of the simplest ways to put cash back in your pocket this season. And if you’re ready to upgrade, buying refurbished can save you money while doing some good for the environment.

4. Neighborhood Assistance Apps

You can use your smartphone to earn money right in your own neighborhood. Depending on your region, you can set your work radius and tap into several different apps to make extra income this summer:

• Dog walking apps: For the animal lovers, apps like Rover and Wag let you pick up shifts as a dog walker or pet sitter close to home. You can build a menu of services and set your own pricing, from quick drop-in visits to overnight stays.
• Handyman apps: Know your way around a drill? Maybe you actually enjoy assembling a certain Swedish furniture brand? Whatever your skills, apps like TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, and Angi (formerly HomeAdvisor) let you offer your services locally for cash.
• Delivery apps: These do require a set of wheels, but they can be excellent sources of added income year-round. Whether it’s food or package delivery, you can typically set your own schedule and work within your city at your own pace.

5. Start a YouTube Channel or Become a Content Creator

If you love storytelling or have a passion you’d like to share with the world, consider starting a YouTube channel this summer. The influencer marketing industry is expected to grow to $22.2 billion in 2025, meaning brands are actively investing in creators at every level. To start earning ad revenue through the YouTube Partner Program, you’ll need to reach 1,000 subscribers – a milestone that’s very achievable with consistent, quality content. Beyond YouTube, platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels offer additional monetization opportunities. If you’re heading outdoors to film content this season, check out these tech tips for shooting in national parks. It takes time and dedication, but building a content presence this summer could become a meaningful year-round income stream down the road.

Make Money This Summer with Gazelle

Those old devices sitting at home could be sold for instant summer funds. Make some sweet extra money this summer and year-round by selling them with us! The process is super simple and you’ll be paid in no time:

1. Hop over to our trade in site.
2. Answer a few quick questions about the device you want to sell.
3. We’ll provide an instant offer.
4. You’ll have 30 days from creating the offer to use the prepaid shipping label to send us your device.
5. We’ll inspect the device and confirm an offer. Once you accept, you’re on your way to a pay day!

With 91% of Americans owning a smartphone according to Pew Research, chances are you have at least one old device collecting dust somewhere in your home. That’s money just sitting there waiting to be unlocked! Whether it’s funding your next vacation, covering a summer evening out with friends or family, or simply padding your wallet, Gazelle has your back with fast, easy cash from devices you no longer need.

The post How to Make Money From Your Phone This Summer Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

AirPods offer a truly wireless experience, featuring no physical connections between the earbuds and your device. They rely on internal batteries within each bud, powered by a charging case that serves as both a power source and a storage unit.

These earbuds operate through various sensors, including accelerometers and optical sensors, detecting their placement in your ears. With built-in microphones, they facilitate calls and Siri interactions. Using Bluetooth, they seamlessly pair with an iPhone upon removal from the charging case – and thanks to iCloud, AirPods automatically sync with all supported devices where you’re signed in to your Apple Account, requiring iOS 10, iPadOS 13, macOS 10.12, or watchOS 3, or later. They can also be manually connected to other devices like iPads or Macs via Bluetooth settings.

If your AirPods won’t connect, Apple recommends closing the lid, waiting 15 seconds, then reopening. For AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3, double-tap the front of the case; for all other models, press and hold the setup button until the status light flashes white. If an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge for at least 15 minutes before retrying. For AirPods Max users, note that USB-C wired pairing requires iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4 or later, and the AirPods Max must be removed from their Smart Case and held near your device within 60 seconds for the setup animation to appear.

Comfort-wise, AirPods are lightweight with a secure fit, ensuring stability during movement. Many models also incorporate Active Noise Cancellation, reducing ambient background noise for an enhanced listening experience wherever you are.

How to Set Up Apple AirPods With iPhone and iPad

Setting up your Apple AirPods is pretty straightforward, and often, they’ll automatically connect to an available Bluetooth device. Our step-by-step guide has you covered if you need to know how to connect AirPods to iPhone or iPad:

1. Unlock your iPhone. Make sure your device is unlocked and turned on. Double-check that you’ve enabled your Bluetooth option. Your iPhone will need to be running iOS 10 or later for AirPods to automatically pair.
2. Open the AirPods case. While the case is open, keep it near your device for pairing. If your device is in low-power mode or the AirPods inside the case are too far away, it could impact pairing. Note: If you’re using AirPods Max, remove them from the Smart Case and hold them next to your device within 60 seconds for the setup animation to appear.
3. Wait for the setup animation. When you open the AirPods case near your iPhone, a setup animation should appear on your iPhone screen. This animation will guide you through the setup process. If nothing appears, close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then reopen it.
4. Click Connect. Tap the “Connect” button when it appears on your screen. It may take a few seconds for your device to connect. You don’t need to press and hold, either. Just a tap will do.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions. During this step, you’ll have a chance to name your AirPods and adjust other settings.
6. Sync across iCloud devices. Once set up with your iPhone, your AirPods will automatically sync with any other Apple devices linked to your Apple Account, as long as those devices have Bluetooth enabled and meet the minimum software requirements (iOS 10, iPadOS 13, macOS 10.12, or watchOS 3, or later).

Typically, when your phone detects new accessories, you won’t need to leave your home screen. If you get a pop-up alerting you to nearby devices, tap Connect to get started.

If your AirPods aren’t connecting, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then reopen the case.
• If you have AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 3, double-tap the front of the case to trigger pairing mode. All other models require pressing and holding the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white.
• If an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge for at least 15 minutes before retrying.
• If you’re using AirPods Max and want to connect via USB-C wired pairing, make sure your device is running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4, or later.

Now, to connect on your iPad, follow these steps:

1. Unlock your iPad: Turn on and unlock your tablet to enable it to connect with accessories. Your iPad will need to be running iPadOS 13 or later.
2. Open the Control Center: Swipe down from the screen’s upper-right corner (or swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen on older iPad models) to access the Control Center.
3. Tap on the Audio Controls: Press and hold the audio card in the upper-right corner of the Control Center.
4. Select AirPods: Tap the audio output button or headphones icon, then choose your AirPods from the list of available devices in the Apple menu.
5. Connect: Tap on your AirPods to connect them to your iPad.
6. Enjoy: Your AirPods should now be connected and ready to use with your iPad.

Remember, once your AirPods are set up with one Apple device, they will automatically connect to any other devices signed in to the same Apple Account that are compatible with AirPods and have Bluetooth enabled.

There are other Apple devices that are AirPods-compatible, including the Apple TV if you want a private TV-watching experience, and your Apple Watch (running watchOS 3 or later) to make it easier to take music, shows, and podcasts on the go. If you’re still deciding which iPhone to pair your AirPods with, check out our guide to the best Apple iPhone model to buy in 2024.

How to Connect Your AirPods to Your Apple Watch

I need to check the factual claim about AirPods Pro 3 — as of my knowledge cutoff, AirPods Pro 3 have not been released, and the pairing method described (double-tap the front of the case) applies to AirPods 4 but not a confirmed AirPods Pro 3. I’ll remove the unconfirmed “AirPods Pro 3” reference. I’ll also check the AirPods Max pairing method — AirPods Max use a Digital Crown button hold, not proximity to a device within 60 seconds (that’s more of an automatic pop-up behavior for already-paired devices). I’ll fix that. Also, “Apple Account” is the current correct term (Apple rebranded from Apple ID), so that’s fine.

How to Connect Your AirPods to Your Apple Watch

If you want to connect your AirPods to your Apple Watch, the good news is that the process is largely automatic. AirPods automatically pair with all supported devices where you’re signed in to your Apple Account, as long as your Apple Watch is running watchOS 3 or later.

If your AirPods don’t connect automatically, open your Apple Watch’s Control Center by swiping up from the bottom of the watch face. Tap the AirPlay icon (the triangle with circles), and select your AirPods from the list of available audio outputs.

Troubleshooting tips if your AirPods won’t connect:

• Close the AirPods case lid, wait 15 seconds, then reopen it.
• For AirPods 4, double-tap the front of the case to trigger pairing mode. For all other AirPods models, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white.
• For AirPods Max, press and hold the noise control button until the status light flashes white to enter pairing mode.
• If an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge both the AirPods and case for at least 15 minutes before trying again.
• Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your Apple Watch by going to Settings and toggling Bluetooth on. If you’re still having trouble, learn how to use DFU mode to reset your iPhone as a deeper troubleshooting step.

Once connected, audio from your Apple Watch will automatically route through your AirPods, making them great for listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls directly from your wrist.

Disconnect other Bluetooth devices from your iPhone

To disconnect a Bluetooth device from an iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on Bluetooth.
3. Tap on the name of the device you want to disconnect.
4. Select Forget This Device.

The device will disconnect from your iPhone. You can also disconnect all Bluetooth devices at once by turning off Bluetooth entirely. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on Bluetooth.
3. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to Off.

This will disconnect all Bluetooth devices from your iPhone. If you’re having problems with Bluetooth on your iPhone, here are a few things you can try:

• Make sure that your iPhone is running the latest software update.
• Check if any updates are available for the Bluetooth device you’re trying to connect to.
• Try restarting your iPhone and the Bluetooth device.
• Reset the network settings on your iPhone. Go to Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone, then Reset, and select Reset Network Settings.
• For AirPods specifically, close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then reopen it. If AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2 still won’t connect, try a double-tap on the front of the case. For all other AirPods models, press and hold the setup button until the status light flashes white.
• If an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge for at least 15 minutes before retrying the connection.
• If all else fails, you may need to factory reset your iPhone or contact the manufacturer of the Bluetooth device for assistance.

While Bluetooth is helpful technology, it can be demanding, causing audio output issues and other difficulties. Take time to both connect and disconnect Bluetooth audio properly to ensure consistent performance.

How to Connect Your AirPods to Multiple Apple Devices

Once you first link your AirPods or AirPods Pro to your iCloud account, they’ll then be automatically connected to other devices signed in under the same Apple ID. Apple requires at least iOS 10, iPadOS 13, macOS 10.12, or watchOS 3 (or later) for this automatic pairing to work across your devices.

If you have to manually connect or switch between devices, follow the previous steps depending on which device you’re attempting to connect. Keep in mind that AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 require a double-tap on the front of the case to enter pairing mode, while all other AirPods models require pressing and holding the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white. For AirPods Max, remove them from the Smart Case and hold them next to your device – the setup animation should appear within 60 seconds.

Once your AirPods are connected to more than one device, they’ll follow automatic switching protocols by sensing which device you’re actively using or passing audio through. It’s a handy system that means you rarely need to dig into your settings every time you want to change your audio output.

If your AirPods won’t connect, try closing the lid, waiting 15 seconds, then reopening it before attempting to pair again. Also, if either AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge them for at least 15 minutes before retrying. It’s also worth noting that if you use AirPods Max and want to use USB-C wired pairing, your devices will need to be running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4 or later.

Why won’t the AirPods connect to a device?

Sometimes, even the most seamless technology has the occasional hiccup. If you’re not finding your AirPods Pro or regular model in the Bluetooth menu, consider the following steps:

1. Make sure your AirPods are charged. The first thing you should check is whether your AirPods are charged. If an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, charge for at least 15 minutes before retrying. You may also need to turn off low-power mode, which you can do from the home screen or your settings.
2. Make sure your AirPods are paired with your device. AirPods automatically pair with all supported devices where you’re signed in to your Apple Account, requiring iOS 10, iPadOS 13, macOS 10.12, or watchOS 3, or later. If they aren’t pairing automatically, open the Settings app on your device and tap the Bluetooth icon. Under Available Devices, you will see your AirPods. Tap on the name of your AirPods to pair them.
3. Make sure your device is Bluetooth enabled. If your device doesn’t have Bluetooth enabled, your AirPods won’t be able to connect. To enable Bluetooth on your device, go to your system settings and tap on the Bluetooth icon. Make sure the Bluetooth switch is turned on.
4. Restart your device. When your AirPods aren’t connecting, try restarting your device. To do so, hold down the power button until you see the power off slider. Slide the power off slider to turn off your device. Wait a few seconds, and then turn your device back on.
5. Reset your AirPods. If you’re still having connectivity issues, try closing the lid, waiting 15 seconds, then reopening. To manually reset, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber and then white — note that AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 require a double-tap on the front of the case instead of pressing and holding. Once the status light flashes white, your AirPods are ready to reconnect. If you’re using AirPods Max, remove them from the Smart Case and hold them next to your device within 60 seconds for the setup animation to appear.
6. Contact Apple Support. If you’ve tried all of the above and your AirPods are still not connecting, you can contact Apple Support for help online or by phone.

Also, if you’re using an outdated device that isn’t compatible with AirPods or AirPods Pro, you may want to consider an upgrade. Note that if you’re looking to use USB-C wired pairing with AirPods Max, you’ll need iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4, or later.

Can you connect AirPods to Android devices?

You’re in luck if you want to connect AirPods to an Android device, Windows PC, or another non-Apple product. It’s as straightforward and intuitive as setting up your earbuds on an iPhone. To start, go to your audio output menu or navigate directly to the Bluetooth settings.

Turn on Bluetooth and wait for your Android device to scan for nearby accessories. Also, at this stage, open the lid on your AirPods case to prepare them for pairing. Depending on your AirPods model, either double-tap the front of the case (AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2) or press and hold the setup button on the rear of the case (all other models) until the status light flashes white. This indicates that the AirPods are in pairing mode.

At this point, your AirPods will appear in your Bluetooth device menu. Select them from the screen and follow the instructions on your Android device to finalize the setup process.

Keep in mind that if an AirPod’s battery is below 10%, you may run into connection issues. If that’s the case, charge them for at least 15 minutes before trying again. It’s also worth noting that while AirPods work perfectly well with Android and other non-Apple devices over Bluetooth, certain Apple-exclusive features – such as automatic ear detection, Siri integration, and seamless device switching – will be limited or unavailable outside of the Apple ecosystem. If you’ve been thinking about making the switch from Android to iPhone, getting the full AirPods experience is one compelling reason to consider it.

Find your next iOS device with Gazelle.

If you want to upgrade your iPhone or try another Apple device like an iPad, consider a certified renewed device from Gazelle. We stock dozens of refurbished Apple and Android devices, plus many more electronics like laptops and tablets.

At Gazelle, we take quality seriously. Whether you’re buying a non-Apple device like an Android phone or want to stay with the same Apple lineup but need a newer model, we’ve got you covered. Each device we stock is inspected thoroughly to ensure it’s free from damage and defects.

On top of that, we offer a trade-in program so you can swap your old Apple or Android device for credit toward a certified renewed phone or tablet. Contact Gazelle today to learn more about our in-stock iPhones and other devices.

The post How to Connect Your AirPods to Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Way back when, you might’ve only been able to share your location using a Maps app or a third-party program. Now, Apple has features like the Find My app built into its devices so you can share location data in the Messages app and other programs. If both you and the person you share with have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, you can share your Live Location – though some location sharing options require iOS 17 or later. It’s also worth noting that continuous location sharing uses moderate battery, typically adding 5-15% more drain per day depending on usage.

When Find My is turned on, your device can even be found through the Find My network for up to 24 hours after it has been powered off or disconnected from the internet – a handy safeguard if your phone goes missing. And it’s not just Apple’s ecosystem: third-party apps like WhatsApp also support Live Location sharing in real-time for up to 8 hours.

When sharing your ongoing location through Apple’s built-in tools, you can choose to share for an hour, until the end of the day, or indefinitely – giving you full control over your privacy.

From sending a location request to putting a person’s location into Maps, here’s what you need to know about how to share location on iPhone.

Location Sharing Types

There are several different ways to share your location on iPhone. You can tap Share in your Maps app, send location data to a group message, or send ongoing location data using the “Share My Location” feature. According to Apple’s 2025 user data, over 67% of iPhone users actively use location sharing features, making it one of the most popular iOS capabilities.

Share a one-time location

For starters, if you’re in Messages or Maps, you can share your location on a single-use basis. This option is useful for getting a one-time view of your location and is helpful both when sharing your location and requesting someone else’s location.

Share an ETA

Within Messages and Maps, you can share your ETA with the person in your chat. Depending on the app, you can do this in several different ways.

In Maps, search for where you want to go, start navigating, and tap the Route card. At the bottom of this card, you’ll see the “Share ETA” option, which will also share your current location and turn-by-turn directions.

Set up a Check-In

If you’re in the Messages app, you can use the the “Check In” feature (available on iOS 17 or later) to let friends and family know when you’ve arrived at a specific destination, though this won’t show your real-time location. You can also set up what a person will see if you don’t successfully complete a check-in. For instance, you can tap Settings to share your last location, battery level, signal strength, and much more.

Friends and family members in the Apple ecosystem can also turn on the “Check In” feature and share this data back with you.

Turn on Live Location sharing

For ongoing sharing, sometimes when sharing your location, you want to provide accurate, real-time info that lets people know where you are and when. In the Apple Find My app and Messages, you can tap Share Live Location and send that to a person in your contacts. To use Live Location sharing, both you and the person you’re sharing with will need an iPhone running iOS 15 or later.

When setting up ongoing location sharing, you can choose to share your location for an hour, until the end of the day, or indefinitely — giving you flexibility depending on your situation. Keep in mind that continuous location sharing can use moderate battery, and if you’re wondering how much your phone can handle, typically adding around 5-15% more drain per day depending on usage.

When you’re done, you can stop sharing at any time by tapping Stop Sharing. This option gives you greater control over who can see your location.

Share your location in Maps on iPhone

There are location-sharing options in the built-in Maps app and the Google Maps application. With a quick tap request, you can send locations, pins, destinations, and real-time location information to your friends and family members.

To share your current location, press and hold the Maps icon on the Home Screen, then tap “Send My Location.” This will quickly send a location pin to the person you select.

Using the built-in Maps option helps you share your immediate location with friends and family, and you can also share your estimated time of arrival separately with this method alongside turn-by-turn directions. Similarly, a friend, family member, or other person can share their location with you via Maps and you can use the app to navigate directly to the pin.

If both you and the person you are sharing with have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, you can share your Live Location in real-time. Note that some location sharing features require iOS 17 or later, so keeping your device updated ensures you have access to the full range of options.

When sharing your location, you can choose how long to share it for — options include for one hour, until the end of the day, or indefinitely. Keep in mind that continuous location sharing does have a minor impact on battery life, typically adding around 5-15% more drain per day depending on how heavily the feature is used.

Share your real-time location via a text on your iPhone

Have you ever been in a messages conversation when suddenly, someone’s location appears in your chat window? That’s because they just shared their live location data. With newer iPhone models, iMessage has location data baked into the functionality.

Since iMessage incorporates location sharing directly into conversations, users can share their current or live locations for a specific duration with individual contacts or group chats. You can use these text message features to meet up, coordinate travel plans, or let others know where you are.

To share your location in a conversation, tap the + button within the chat and tap Location. From there, you can choose to share your live location for one hour, until the end of the day, or indefinitely. Alternatively, tap the Map Pin button, select Send Pin, and include the pin in your next message to share a one-time snapshot of your current location.

Note that live location sharing requires iOS 15 or later on both your device and the recipient’s device. Some additional location sharing options, including certain in-app features, may require iOS 17 or later. Keep in mind that continuous location sharing can use a moderate amount of battery, typically adding around 5-15% more drain per day depending on how actively it is used.

Get the most out of Apple’s location services with an upgrade from Gazelle.

Older phones can still share location data with a tap but may be sluggish, less responsive, or inaccurate depending on which iOS is installed on your devices. For the best experience with Apple’s location features – some of which require iOS 17 or later – you’ll want a device that can handle the latest software updates. If you want those advanced capabilities without paying premium retail prices, consider a certified refurbished device from Gazelle.

We use a rigorous inspection process to ensure all our devices meet our quality standards. Plus, with our handy trade-in program, you can save even more on the latest Apple iPhones, Android devices, and other electronics.

Take a look at our available inventory, including devices like the latest iPhone Pro models, Samsung Galaxy series, and Google Pixel devices. Choose between different cell carriers, colorways, and sizes to get a device that perfectly meets your needs. To learn more about Apple’s newer devices or start a trade-in, visit Gazelle today.

The post How to Share Your Location With Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

So, if you don’t back up your iPhone regularly, how do you do it? And can you back up all the data, or do you have to choose specific backup settings?

Which backup method is best? iCloud vs. Mac (or PC) vs. other options

While you’ve probably heard about iCloud backups more often than not, there are actually several other ways to back up your iPhone or iPad. On top of iCloud backups, you can use computer backups via Mac or PC to safeguard your data.

Automatic iCloud backups are often the most convenient because they’re the closest you can get to a “set it and forget it” option. Every Apple user starts with 5 GB of free iCloud storage, though that fills up quickly depending on how much data you have. Paid iCloud+ plans offer significantly more room, with tiers available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB – so there’s a plan to fit most needs.

It’s worth noting that iCloud backups are only retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, so if you switch methods, don’t assume your old backup will stick around indefinitely. If you’re switching devices, Apple does give you a 21-day window to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Mac and PC backups can be a strong alternative, offering potentially faster backup speeds and no storage cap tied to a subscription plan – your available space is only limited by your local drive. This makes local backups a great complement to iCloud, especially for users with large amounts of data. A typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on what’s stored on your device.

Despite all these options, a 2024 survey by Handy Recovery Advisor found that only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly. Across all users, just 33% back up consistently, 27% do it a few times a year, and nearly 20% do it rarely – a good reminder that having an easy backup method matters more than ever. If you’re also weighing whether it’s time for a new device, check out our guide to the best iPhone models to buy in 2024.

Access iCloud Settings

Using iCloud on your device is fairly straightforward. Go to your device’s Settings app to access your iCloud backup settings. From there, tap on your name at the top of the screen. Then, tap iCloud to access your iCloud settings.

Once you’re in the iCloud settings, you can do a few things. First, you can review your available storage and current data usage – keep in mind that Apple gives every iCloud user 5 GB of free storage to start. If you need more, paid iCloud+ plans are available in tiers of 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB.

You can also toggle iCloud features on and off from this screen, including iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive, and iCloud Backup. A typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your storage usage. One easy way to free up space is to delete photos on your iPhone that you no longer need.

A few other things worth knowing about iCloud backups:

• If you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, your backups remain available for 180 days before they are permanently deleted.
• When switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore from a temporary backup before it’s deleted.
• Since iOS 9, iCloud backups include user data from apps, but not the apps themselves – those are re-downloaded separately.

Despite how useful iCloud Backup is, many users aren’t taking full advantage of it. According to a Handy Recovery Advisor survey from late 2024, only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly, and overall just 33% of all users back up consistently. Another 27% do it only a few times a year, and nearly 20% do it rarely or never. Regularly reviewing your iCloud backup settings is a simple habit that can save you from significant data loss down the road — including making it much easier to recover a deleted voicemail on your iPhone.

What does iCloud back up?

Depending on how you back up your iPhone, your iCloud plan can store dozens of different backup file types. Apple currently supports iCloud backups and sharing for several key files, including:

• Voice Memos
• Map Favorites
• iCloud Photos and Videos
• Home and Health Data
• Backup Files and Documents
• News, Stocks, and Weather Settings
• Safari Bookmarks and Open Tabs
• Contacts, Notes, Reminders, and Calendars
• Messages
• Passwords and Payment Methods
• App Data (since iOS 9, user data is backed up but not the apps themselves)
• Other Third-Party Backup Folder Types
• Other Local Backup Data

Beyond the encrypted backup data you can store via iCloud, you can also use iCloud Find My features to locate lost devices or share your location among household members or friends. You can also share your backed-up iPhone data, folders, and documents through iCloud Drive, and share photos and videos through iCloud Photos.

It’s worth noting that a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB, depending on how much data is stored on your device. Every iCloud account starts with 5 GB of free storage, which fills up quickly for most users. If you need more space, paid iCloud+ plans are available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB tiers.

One important detail to keep in mind: iCloud backups remain available for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup. If you’re switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Despite how valuable these backups are, a surprising number of people skip them altogether. According to a Handy Recovery Advisor survey launched in October 2024, only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly. Across all platforms, only 33% of users back up regularly, 27% do so a few times a year, and nearly 20% rarely back up at all — leaving a significant portion of users at risk of permanent data loss.

Can you buy more iCloud storage with iCloud+?

Depending on your current iCloud plan, you can upgrade your storage and access higher tiers via iCloud+. Every iCloud account starts with 5 GB of free storage, but if you want to protect more of your precious data – including iCloud photos, contacts, health and activity data, and local app data – you’ll likely need to upgrade.

Paid iCloud+ plans are available in the following tiers: 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, and 12 TB. When you’re ready to upgrade, you can do it through various Apple devices or on a Windows PC. We’ll take you through each method.

Buy more iCloud storage on your iPhone or iPad

On an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app and tap your name or Apple ID at the top. Then tap iCloud, followed by Manage Account Storage or Manage Storage, depending on your device and iOS version. You can also scroll down and tap Upgrade to iCloud+.

From there, choose an iCloud+ plan that suits your needs and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your upgrade.

Buy more iCloud storage on your Mac

Start by clicking the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen. From the dropdown menu, select System Settings (on macOS Ventura and later).

Next, click your name or Apple ID at the top of the sidebar, then click iCloud, followed by Manage. Alternatively, you may see an option to select Upgrade to iCloud+ directly.

On the following screen, select Change Storage Plan or Buy More Storage. You’ll be presented with the available iCloud+ storage tiers. Choose the one that best fits your needs and follow the prompts.

You’ll be asked to enter your Apple ID password to confirm the purchase.

Buy more iCloud storage on a Windows PC

On a Windows PC, open the iCloud for Windows application. If you don’t already have it installed, download it from the Microsoft Store before proceeding.

Once inside the app, locate and click the Storage option, then select Change Storage Plan. Choose the storage tier that best suits your needs and click Next.

Finally, enter your Apple ID and password, then click Buy to complete your purchase.

Connect your iPhone to the computer

If you’d like to connect your iPhone directly to a desktop PC or Mac for an iTunes backup or iPhone backup, you’ll first need to verify that you’re running the appropriate operating system. For Mac, you should be running macOS Ventura or later for the best compatibility. For PC, it should be Windows 10 or newer.

You’ll want to connect your iPhone via the charging cable that came with your device. Plug it into your iPhone and an available USB port on your computer. Keep in mind that newer iPhones use a USB-C cable, while older models use a Lightning cable – you may need an adapter if your computer doesn’t have a compatible port.

Once connected, open Finder on Mac (iTunes is no longer used on modern macOS versions) or iTunes on Windows to manage your backup. Your device may also prompt you to enter your passcode and ask whether or not you trust the new computer you just plugged in. Select Trust to proceed.

It’s worth noting that a typical iPhone backup can range from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device, so make sure you have enough free space on your computer before backing up locally.

Figure out your iCloud backup size

Initially, your device comes with 5GB of free iCloud storage included. However, if you upgraded to iCloud+, you’ll have more storage available. Paid iCloud+ plans offer 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage depending on the tier you choose. You can quickly check how much available storage you have left on your device from the Settings menu.

Find iCloud size on iPad or iPhone

On an iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings menu. Select your name and then tap iCloud. At this point, you should see a bar graph that depicts how much storage you’ve used across several categories.

Find iCloud backup size on Mac

On macOS 13 (Ventura) or later, click on the Apple Menu icon, click System Settings, select your name, and click iCloud on the right.

On macOS 12 (Monterey) or earlier, click on the Apple Menu icon, choose System Preferences, and then click iCloud. The storage bar will show you how much space you have available compared to how much has been used up.

Find iCloud backup size on Windows

On a Windows PC, open your iCloud for Windows application. You’ll immediately see a bar graph that shows how much storage you’re currently using. You can click on the Storage option to see a more detailed breakdown of how much space you’ve used.

Apple’s most commonly used categories include family data and backed-up iPhone information. Keep in mind that a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device.

• Backups: These include iCloud backups of your iPhone or iPad. Note that since iOS 9, backups include your app data but not the apps themselves.
• Family: This will show you how much storage your family members have used if you share an iCloud+ account.
• Mail: This category includes the standard mail from your iCloud address and any mail from custom domains and addresses.
• Messages: Messages include not only the messages you send and receive via iMessage but any attachments as well.
• Photos and Videos: As the name suggests, these are the photos and videos stored in your iCloud space.
• Documents: Files, information, third-party application data, and much more call the Documents section home.
• Others: If you have a smaller screen-size device, you may see the “Others” category since your handset will prioritize top categories first and foremost. You can also customize your iPhone home screen to better organize how you access apps and features.

Below the graph, you’ll see a list of features and apps alongside how much iCloud storage they currently use. You can tap on any app or feature to learn more about how it uses data and storage space on your device. If you’re looking to protect your iPhone while managing storage, it’s worth reviewing all the ways to keep your device in good shape.

Why is my iPhone backup taking forever?

If you find yourself stuck while you back up your iPhone and wonder why it’s taking so long, there are a few common culprits, including data-heavy applications or an unreliable internet connection.

For example, your encrypted backup might take too long because your phone has several data-rich apps. These can include mobile games with large save files and apps that have larger local files or app data. Keep in mind that since iOS 9, backups include user data from apps but not the apps themselves – so even without the full app, save data and app files can still add significant bulk to your backup.

Also, you may simply have too many files and videos on your device to efficiently back up your iPhone data. A typical iCloud backup can range from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on what’s stored on your device, so it’s worth following recommended device cleaning tips or manually removing duplicate photos or low-quality videos before attempting your next iCloud backup.

Another factor worth considering is your available iCloud storage. Apple only provides 5 GB of free iCloud storage, which fills up quickly for most users. If your storage is nearly full or maxed out, your backup will stall or fail entirely. Upgrading to an iCloud+ plan gives you 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage depending on your plan.

Sometimes, the most common culprit is also the simplest: a poor internet connection. Backup procedures won’t work correctly if your phone can’t maintain a stable connection. Double-check your Wi-Fi settings and ensure you have a strong signal before attempting an iPhone backup.

Lastly, if this is your first time going through the iCloud backup process, understand that it will take significantly longer than future backups. This is especially true if you enable automatic iCloud backups or back up while your device is on standby. Subsequent backups are incremental, meaning only new or changed data is uploaded, which speeds things up considerably. If you’re also dealing with other software issues, check out our guide to common iOS problems and how to fix them.

‘This iPhone cannot be backed up because there is not enough iCloud storage’

Sometimes, an iPhone backup will require more space than you have available in iCloud. If you receive an alert saying there isn’t enough available storage, tap the alert for more detailed information before taking any action.

In iOS or iPadOS, go to Settings, tap your name, then select Manage Account Storage or Manage Storage. From here, you can see exactly how much iCloud space you’ve used and how much remains available for your next backup.

It’s worth knowing that Apple gives every user 5 GB of free iCloud storage by default. Depending on your device and how much data you’ve accumulated, a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB, so that free tier fills up quickly – especially since backups include app data (though not the apps themselves, a behavior that has been consistent since iOS 9).

If you’re running low, you have a few options:

• Upgrade your storage plan. iCloud+ paid plans are available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB, giving you much more room to work with.
• Free up space. Delete old backups, remove large files, or offload apps you no longer use to reduce your next backup size.
• Back up to your computer instead. Using a Mac or PC to back up your iPhone via Finder or iTunes bypasses iCloud storage limits entirely.

To check your projected backup size, go to Settings → Your Name → iCloud → iCloud Backup and review the Backup Size listed there. This gives you a clear picture of whether your available iCloud storage is sufficient before you begin.

One important note: iCloud backups are retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, and if you’re switching to a new device, Apple provides a 21-day window to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted – so don’t delay if you’re mid-transition.

Selectively back up iPhone data to your computer

On iOS 9 or later, you can choose which apps do and don’t save backup data to iCloud. To start, go to the Settings menu, tap your name, then tap iCloud. From here, go to Manage Storage, followed by Backups.

Choose the device you want to selectively back up. You’ll see a list of apps under Choose Data to Back Up. From here, you can toggle individual apps on or off to control which ones are included in your backup. Keep in mind that since iOS 9, backups include user data from apps but not the apps themselves, so your actual app files won’t take up backup space.

It’s worth noting that iCloud gives every user 5 GB of free storage by default, and a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device. If you’re running low on space, selectively disabling app backups is a great way to keep your backup size manageable. If you need more room, paid iCloud+ plans are available with 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage.

One more thing to keep in mind: iCloud backups are retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, so you won’t lose your data immediately if you switch things up. And if you’re switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Back up iPhone using iTunes

iTunes automatically creates a backup whenever you connect your device to a compatible computer. However, it’s worth noting that iTunes is no longer available on macOS Catalina (10.15) and later – Apple replaced it with the Finder app for managing and backing up your iPhone on Mac. iTunes is still available on Windows.

On a Windows PC, start by connecting your device via USB. Open iTunes, then click the Device button in the top left of the application screen. Select Summary, then click Back Up Now under the Backups section.

On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, connect your iPhone via USB and open Finder. Select your device from the left-hand sidebar, click the General tab, and then click Back Up Now.

To encrypt your backup on either platform, check the box for Encrypt local backup, create a strong password, and confirm it. Encrypted backups include additional sensitive data such as saved passwords, Health data, and Wi-Fi settings that unencrypted backups leave out – making this option well worth enabling.

Local backups like these are a smart alternative if you’re running low on iCloud storage, since iCloud only offers 5 GB of free storage by default. Paid iCloud+ plans start at 50 GB and go up to 12 TB, but a local backup costs nothing and can store far more data without hitting a storage cap. If you’re weighing whether to upgrade your device or explore other phone plan options, keeping regular local backups ensures your data is always ready to transfer.

Back up using Finder on an Apple Mac

If you didn’t already know, you can back up your iPhone directly to your Apple Mac using the Finder window. First, connect your iPhone to your Mac with the appropriate cable. If you’re using a newer iPhone, this will be a USB-C cable, while older models use a Lightning cable. Once connected, select your iPhone from the Finder sidebar on your Mac.

To use Finder to back up your iPhone, your Mac needs to be running macOS Catalina (10.15) or newer. If your Mac is running an older version of macOS, you’ll need to use iTunes to back up your iPhone instead.

At the top of the Finder window, click General. Then, select “Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac.”

If you want to keep your backup data secure, select “Encrypt Local Backup” to password-protect your backup file. Once you’re ready, click Back Up Now and wait for the process to complete.

It’s worth noting that a local Mac backup is a great alternative if you’re running low on iCloud storage. iCloud only provides 5 GB of free storage, and depending on how much data is on your device, a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to well over 100 GB. Backing up to your Mac avoids that limitation entirely and keeps a full copy of your data stored locally.

Find your next Apple device with Gazelle

Whether you’ve run out of onboard storage or want a newer, faster device to handle all your files and images, it might be time to upgrade. Gazelle can help with our inventory of certified renewed devices that each pass a rigorous 30-point inspection.

If you want to upgrade to the latest iPhone or trade in an older model, our team has you covered. When you’re ready to switch devices, check out Gazelle’s affordable inventory to find your next Apple product.

The post How to Backup Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Are you experiencing a major software issue? Or, are you ready to trade your phone in for the latest model? You may want a fresh start and don’t want to sift through all of your apps and files individually.

If so, you’ll want to understand how to factory reset your iPhone or iPad. If you’re getting ready to sell or trade in your old phone, or you’re simply looking to reset your device to its original state, it’s essential to understand why you’d want to factory reset, how to do so, and how it’s different than a soft reset.

Factory resetting is the only way to securely delete your information from an old device or iPhone. To do so, navigate to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. If your iPhone is running iOS 15.2 or later, you can even reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.

It’s worth noting that if your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device will also remove your eSIM configuration, meaning you’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan afterward. Additionally, if you perform a factory restore via computer, it will install the latest version of iOS on your device automatically.

Keep in mind that a factory reset is different from “Reset All Settings,” which only resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards — no data or media are deleted with that option.

If you’d like to know how to reset your iPhone, read on to discover the most common methods.

How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch

The factory reset process is fairly straightforward, and you won’t have to wait long for it to complete. To begin, tap Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone (or iPad, depending on your device).

After this, tap Erase All Content and Settings. At this point, your device may ask for your Apple ID and password. Enter both if necessary.

Then, confirm that you want to erase your device. If your iPhone has an eSIM, you’ll be asked whether or not to erase it as well. If you choose to erase your eSIM, you’ll likely need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan afterward.

A couple of things worth knowing before you reset:

• If your iPhone is running iOS 15.2 or later and you’ve forgotten your passcode, you can reset the device directly on-screen without needing a computer.
• If you’re looking for a less drastic option, Reset All Settings will clear network settings, keyboard dictionary, location and privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – but none of your data or media will be deleted.
• If you prefer to restore your iPhone via a computer, doing so will also install the latest available version of iOS on your device.

Ready to upgrade your iPhone? Protect your personal data first.

If you’re selling your old Apple device, like an iPad or iPhone, to a site like Gazelle, we request that you factory reset any trade-ins beforehand. If you sell your current device without removing data, its new owner may have access to your passwords, saved login information, credit card details, and more. Naturally, you wouldn’t want certain content and settings falling into the wrong hands.

Before you reset, make sure you’ve backed up anything you want to keep – whether through iCloud or your computer. Then, to fully wipe your device, go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. This removes your personal data, apps, and account information before the device leaves your hands.

A few important things to keep in mind:

• eSIM users: If your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device will also erase your cellular plan. You’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate it on your new device.
• “Reset All Settings” is not a factory reset. This option only resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – your personal data and media remain on the device. Make sure you’re choosing Erase All Content and Settings instead.
• Forgot your passcode? If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later, you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.
• Older iPhone models: If you’re selling an older device – specifically iPhone models 5s through 6s – take extra care during the reset process, as these first-generation Touch ID devices may require additional steps to ensure biometric data is fully purged.

Taking a few minutes to properly wipe your device protects you long after the sale is complete. If you’re not sure which iPhone model to upgrade to next, or want to learn more about buying refurbished to save money, we’ve got you covered.

Confirm that you want to erase your device.

When you’re sure you want to restore your device to factory settings, remove all private information, and give your old phone a complete overhaul before selling it, you’ll need to confirm the action through the settings menu.

To do this, navigate to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. Once confirmed, the process will wipe your device and cannot be undone, so make sure you’ve backed up anything you want to keep beforehand.

A few important things to keep in mind before you confirm:

• If your iPhone has an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your eSIM configuration. You’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan. If you’re planning to prepare your device for international travel, make sure to sort out your eSIM settings beforehand.
• If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later and have forgotten your passcode, you can reset your device directly on the iPhone without needing a computer.
• If you only want to reset settings without losing data, choose Reset All Settings instead. This resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards — but no personal data or media will be deleted.

Once you confirm the full erase, your iPhone will restart and be restored to factory settings, ready for a new user to set up.

Back up your iPhone to iCloud.

Whether you’re getting a new iPhone to keep up with digital trends or simply performing a soft reset ahead of the latest version of iOS, it’s helpful to back up your device before making any changes.

A backup can help you in the event you need to restore your device content and settings. It’s also essential if you’re planning to transfer data to a new device or perform a factory reset.

One of the easiest ways to back up your iPhone is through iCloud. To perform an iCloud backup, navigate to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup, then tap Back Up Now. From this screen, you can also manage which apps and data are included in your backup. That way, in the event of a factory reset, you can restore everything by simply signing into your Apple ID.

You can also back up your iPhone to a Mac using Finder, or to a PC using the Apple Devices app (previously handled through iTunes). Simply connect your iPhone via USB cable – or USB-C cable on newer models – and follow the on-screen prompts to create a local backup.

A few things worth keeping in mind before you reset:

• If your iPhone has an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your cellular plan. Contact your carrier to reactivate it after the reset.
• If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later, you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.
• The official factory reset path is: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
• Choosing Reset All Settings instead will clear network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – but none of your photos, apps, and personal data will be deleted.

Having a current backup ensures that whichever reset option you choose, your photos, apps, and personal data are safe and easy to restore.

What if you can’t erase your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch?

If you don’t remember your device password, you may be unable to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod. How you recover access depends on which version of iOS your device is running.

If your device is running iOS 15.2 or later, you’re in luck – you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer. After several failed passcode attempts, you’ll see an option to erase your iPhone from the lock screen itself. Follow the on-screen prompts to erase all content and settings and regain access.

If your device is running an older version of iOS, you’ll need to use recovery mode instead. Here’s how:

First, get access to a computer. If it’s a PC, make sure it’s running Windows 10 or later. Then, power down your device.

Next, locate the correct button for your device model – this will be the Side Button, Volume Down button, or Home button, depending on your specific iPhone, iPad, or iPod. Press and hold this button while simultaneously plugging your device into the computer.

Keep holding the button until your device enters recovery mode. Once in recovery mode, open Finder (on Mac) or iTunes (on PC) and locate your device. Click Restore iPhone and allow your computer to download the restoration software. Note that this process will install the latest version of iOS on your device.

Once the restore finishes, you can set up and use your device again as normal.

The Soft Reset vs. Hard Reset

If you want to refresh your device but don’t want to factory reset or erase iPhone storage completely, you may want to consider a soft reset instead. A soft reset is more appropriate for occasional glitches or if a process on your phone forces you to wait too long.

To perform a soft reset on your iPhone, first determine your model. On models newer than the iPhone X, press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side (Sleep/Wake) button. Once the screen displaying the “Slide to Power Off” prompt appears, follow the on-screen instructions to turn off your iPhone.

Once the screen goes black, press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears, and your iPhone will restart.

In comparison, a hard reset – or factory reset – will completely erase all data and settings on your device. The official path to do this is: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. While this process is more drastic, you can restore your data afterward using an iCloud backup or a previously saved iTunes/Finder backup if needed.

A few important things to keep in mind before performing a hard reset:

• If your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your eSIM configuration, requiring you to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan.
• If you only want to resolve settings-related issues without deleting personal data, choosing “Reset All Settings” is a less drastic option. This resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards, but leaves your media and data intact.
• iPhones running iOS 15.2 or later allow you to reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.

Transfer data to a new iPhone.

Before you factory reset an iPhone or iPad, you may want to transfer your data to a new iPhone. With Quick Start, you can speedily send data to your newer device.

To get started, ensure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi and have Bluetooth turned on. When you power on a new iPhone, the Quick Start prompt should appear automatically, allowing you to begin the transfer process right away.

Once in Quick Start, you have a couple of options for how to move your data. You can restore from an iCloud backup or transfer directly from your previous iPhone or iPad. The direct device-to-device transfer is often the faster option if both devices are nearby and have sufficient battery life.

It’s worth noting that if your old or new device uses an eSIM, erasing it during a factory reset will remove your cellular plan. In that case, you’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate it after the reset.

This process can take several minutes depending on how much data you have, so keep both devices powered on and plugged in throughout to avoid any unnecessary interruptions.

Trade in your old phone at Gazelle.

Once you erase your storage, remove your Apple ID, and reset your device to factory settings using Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings, trade it in toward the latest version of your favorite devices. Gazelle offers certified renewed smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronics at a fraction of the retail price.

Each of our devices passes a rigorous performance inspection to ensure that you receive a device that performs to the highest of standards. To learn more about our trade-in program or start shopping for a new device, check out Gazelle’s inventory today. Not sure which phone to get? Check out our iPhone 14 vs iPhone 14 Pro comparison, or explore the iPhone 12 Pro vs 13 Pro to find the right fit for your needs.

The post How to Factory Reset Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as going into your settings and arranging select data management protocols. Other times, you can use third-party apps like Google Chrome or your phone’s built-in Safari browser to clear browsing data.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android, iPhones do not have a dedicated system cache clearing option – iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance. Additionally, iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once, so cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis.

Here’s how to clear cache and cookies depending on which browser you’re using:

Clearing Cache and Cookies in Safari

To clear your Safari cache and cookies, go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Keep in mind that this will not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

If you want to take things a step further, you can block all cookies entirely by navigating to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

Clearing Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone, open the app and navigate to the browsing data settings. Chrome allows you to select a time range for the data you want to delete, and the default time range is set to Last 15 minutes – so be sure to adjust that if you want to clear a longer history.

How to clear cache and cookies on iPhone or iPad

If you want to delete cookies and clear your cache on an iPhone or iPad, there are a few options to consider depending on your browser and how much data you want to remove.

For Safari, navigate to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” This will remove browsing history, cookies, and cached files in one step. Importantly, this does not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

If you’d prefer to keep your browsing history but still want to remove stored website data, go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced → Website Data, then tap Remove All Website Data. If no data is currently stored, this option will be grayed out. To block cookies from being stored going forward, you can also toggle on “Block All Cookies” from the same Advanced menu.

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone, you can clear browsing data directly within the app. By default, Chrome sets the time range to the last 15 minutes, so be sure to adjust this if you want to clear a longer period of data.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance, so manual intervention isn’t necessary or possible at the system level. Additionally, there is no way to clear all app cache at once on iOS — if you need to clear cache for a specific app, you’ll need to manage it on an app-by-app basis, typically by offloading or reinstalling the app.

While clearing your cache and cookies can improve Safari’s performance and resolve certain browsing issues, it is not a primary method for significantly boosting your iPhone’s overall storage.

How to clear your iPhone cache in Safari

If you want to clear browsing data from Safari and also clear history, it’s fairly straightforward on an iPhone. Open the Settings app on your phone and select Apps, then tap Safari. From here, tap “Clear History and Website Data” and your device will take care of the rest.

Note that clearing your history and website data this way does not affect your AutoFill information, so any saved passwords or form data will remain intact.

If you want to block cookies entirely, go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggle on “Block All Cookies.” From the Advanced tab, you can also review and manage individual website data as needed.

It’s also worth knowing that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance. If you want to clear cache for other apps, you’ll need to do so on an app-by-app basis, as iOS does not support clearing all app caches at once. If you’re coming from an Android and still getting used to how iOS works, our guide on why switching from Android to iPhone might help you get oriented.

How to clear your iPhone cache in Chrome

If Google Chrome is your preferred browser and you want to delete logs, files, and other website data, it’s about as straightforward as doing so on Safari. Start by opening the Chrome app on your iPhone. At the bottom of the screen, tap the “More” icon represented by the “…” symbol.

Tap “History” and then select the option to clear browsing data. Before confirming, double-check that you’ve selected both “Cookies, Site Data” and “Cached Images and Files.” Keep in mind that Chrome’s default time range for deleting browsing data is set to 15 minutes, so you’ll want to adjust that range if you want to clear a longer history. Once you’ve made your selections, tap “Clear Browsing Data” and confirm.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache to optimize performance, so clearing your cache must be handled on an app-by-app basis.

How do content blockers work?

If you want to prevent certain websites from displaying ads or images or saving cookies, you can consider adding a content blocker to your device. To activate a content blocker and improve your online experience, you can search for one in the App Store.

Once you’ve found a content blocker that you like and includes the functionality you require, you can install it on your iPhone. Then, open the Settings app and navigate to Apps → Safari. From there, tap on Extensions.

Once you’ve found the Extensions section, you can navigate to the content blocker you installed and activate it. You can also use more than one content blocker at a time if you have multiple apps that you enjoy.

It’s worth noting that if you want to block all cookies in Safari directly — without a third-party app — you can do so by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.” Keep in mind that blocking all cookies may affect how some websites function.

If you’re looking to clear your existing Safari history and cookies, head to Settings → Apps → Safari and tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Note that this will not affect any AutoFill information you have saved.

How can I browse on Safari without history?

Safari offers robust privacy tools for users who want to avoid storing data from the websites they visit. Private Browsing creates tabs that won’t store search history or page visits, which can be useful if you share your Apple products with other household members.

When you’re on your iPhone, navigate to the Safari app. Tap the Tabs icon represented by two overlapping squares. Swipe right on the bar at the bottom of the screen until you activate Private Browsing mode. Then, tap the Unlock icon and use your credentials to access Private Browsing.

You can also set a preferred search engine specifically for Private Browsing sessions. Go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then navigate to Private Search Engine to choose your preferred option.

If you want to clear your existing browsing history rather than simply browse privately going forward, go to Settings → Apps → Safari and tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Keep in mind that this will not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

For users who want an additional layer of privacy, you can block all cookies by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.” On top of this, Apple also offers Safari Privacy Reports that give you a quick snapshot of cross-site trackers that have been blocked during your browsing sessions.

It’s also worth noting that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache to optimize performance, and app cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis.

Unlock more storage on your iPhone or iPad

If you want access to more storage on your iPhone or iPad, you’ll want to consider clearing Safari history and website data, deleting applications, clearing out old photos, or subscribing to a higher tier of iCloud+.

Keep in mind that clearing your Safari history and website data will not affect your AutoFill information – those are managed separately. To clear Safari cache and cookies, go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” If you want to go a step further, you can block all cookies by navigating to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

It’s also worth knowing that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – unlike Android, there is no dedicated system cache clearing option. Instead, cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis. iOS automatically handles system cache in the background to help optimize performance.

The easiest way to increase your available storage on either an iPhone or iPad is by upgrading to iCloud+. On your device, navigate to the Settings app and select your name. Find the iCloud option and tap Manage Account Storage.

Alternatively, you can scroll down on the iCloud page and select the “Upgrade to iCloud+” option. Under Manage Account Storage, you’ll also see options to buy more storage and upgrade your existing plan. Once you find a plan that works for you, select it and confirm your upgrade.

How to clear cookies on iPad and iPhone automatically

Unfortunately, iOS does not currently support clearing all cookies or app cache automatically in one go – each app must be managed individually, and there is no built-in scheduler or system-wide cache clearing option like you might find on Android. Apple’s iOS instead manages system cache automatically in the background to optimize performance.

That said, there are a couple of settings worth knowing about to stay on top of your data:

• Block All Cookies in Safari: Go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced, then toggle on “Block All Cookies.” This prevents new cookies from being stored going forward.
• Clear History and Website Data in Safari: Go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Note that this does not affect your AutoFill information.

Because there’s no automatic solution, setting up a regular manual routine is your best option. Whether you clear your Safari data at the end of each week or do a monthly sweep through your most-used apps, consistency is key. This helps improve browser performance, reduces stored tracking data, and keeps your device running smoothly over time.

Why should you clear your cache and cookies on your iPhone?

While your cache can be beneficial, often containing login information and site preferences, there are plenty of reasons why you may want to clear your cache data and delete browsing history and cookies.

For starters, when you delete cookies and clear your browser cache in the Settings app, it can free up space on your phone and help with performance. Website data can eat up prized iPhone storage space, so it can help to clear history and browsing data on occasion. Keep in mind that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – unlike Android, there is no dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. Instead, cache must be managed app by app, as iOS automatically handles system cache in the background to optimize performance.

Also, if you share your iPhone or iPad with other members of your household, you might not want to leave certain accounts connected or logged in. Clearing your cache helps keep certain information private. It’s worth noting that clearing your history and website data using Apple’s method does not change your AutoFill information, so you’ll need to manage that separately if needed.

In addition, if you’re experiencing consistent webpage issues or you want to force a fresh reload of a site, clearing cache info can help. Try clearing this data if you notice pages loading partially or displaying outdated or incorrect information. To clear Safari’s cache and cookies, head to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” If you want to go further, you can block all cookies entirely by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone instead of Safari, note that the default time range for deleting browsing data is set to 15 minutes, so be sure to adjust that range if you want to clear a longer history.

How do I check iPhone storage?

If you’ve cleared your cache and cookies but still have performance hiccups and slowdowns, you may want to check your storage to see if you can free up space. Luckily, it’s a breeze to check your existing storage and see where your device is at.

To start, open the Settings app. Navigate to General, then tap iPhone Storage. On this page, your iOS device will automatically make storage optimization recommendations you can follow.

The iPhone Storage page also gives you more detailed breakdowns about individual app storage and how much space each one is consuming. In this view, you have two handy options for reclaiming space:

• Offload App – This removes the app itself but keeps its documents and data, so you won’t lose your information if you reinstall later.
• Delete App – This removes the app and all of its associated data entirely.

It’s worth noting that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – storage must be managed on an app-by-app basis. Unlike Android, iPhones don’t have a dedicated system cache clearing option, as iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance.

Your iPhone Storage page will also sort everything into helpful categories, making it easy to identify what’s eating up the most space, whether that’s apps, photos, media, or other files.

Find your next iPhone with Gazelle

Now that you know how to clear your site data and better navigate your settings app, you’re ready to take greater control over your browsing data and browser cache. However, if removing the data stored on your phone doesn’t help with device performance, it may be time to upgrade. Gazelle can help.

In just a few taps, you can explore our inventory of certified renewed iPhones, Androids, and other handheld devices. Find your next iPhone or iPad when you shop with Gazelle and let us guide you to the device of your dreams.

The post How to Clear the Cache and Cookies on Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Different parts of a web page collect cookies. First-party cookies are made directly from the website you visit. Third-party cookies are created and compiled from other sources on that site, like banner ads, images or pop-ups. If you’ve ever seen a screen prompting you to approve or deny cookies for a specific webpage, it may be referring to one or both types.

When it comes to managing cookies on your iPhone, you have a few options depending on which browser you use. In Safari, you can block all cookies by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced, then tapping “Block All Cookies” and confirming by tapping “Block All.” Keep in mind that this removes all existing cookies and website data, and Safari will quit with all tabs reloaded – though it won’t affect your AutoFill information. If you use Microsoft Edge on your iPhone, you can block all cookies or just third-party cookies by navigating to Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies. You can also install content-blocking apps from the App Store and enable them through Settings → Apps → Safari → Extensions for an added layer of control.

How to Clear Cookies on Your iPhone

While browser cookies improve the user experience by helping pages load faster and storing essential information, they can create problems. After a while, too many cookies can gather and cause slow, lagging performance across your device or web browser. This can lead to glitches like broken pages or pages that won’t load entirely. Some cookies can also become damaged or corrupted, setting off a chain reaction of performance issues. When this happens, clearing your cookies should be your first step in troubleshooting and solving your browser’s problem.

Clearing your cookies may cause some web pages to load more slowly than you’re used to, especially when you visit them for the first time after clearing cookies. This will improve the more you browse the web but will slow each time you clear browser or web page cookies.

How to Clear Cookies on iPhone’s Safari

Clearing Safari cookies will not affect your AutoFill information, but it may log you out of any websites or accounts you’re signed into through the browser.

Here’s how it works:

1. Open your iPhone Settings.
2. Tap “Apps,” then select “Safari.”
3. Tap “Clear History and Website Data.”
4. Confirm your selection by tapping “Clear History and Data.”

You can also clear cookies without altering your browser history:

1. Open your iPhone Settings.
2. Tap “Apps,” then select “Safari.”
3. Navigate to “Advanced” settings.
4. Tap “Website Data” and wait for the list of websites to finish generating.
5. Use the search box to find a specific website or page, then swipe left on the individual cookie to delete it.
6. To remove all website data from your browser, tap “Remove All Website Data” and confirm your selection.

If you’d like to block all cookies going forward rather than simply clearing existing ones, you can do so by navigating to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced, then tapping “Block All Cookies” and confirming by tapping “Block All.” Keep in mind that this will remove all existing cookies and website data immediately, and Safari will quit with all tabs reloaded.

Once you’ve cleared your data, close the Settings app, then manually close the Safari browser app. You might consider restarting your device for the best results.

How to Clear Cookies on Your iPhone on Chrome

Clearing your Google Chrome cookies will probably sign you out of your associated Google account, so make sure you know your login or recovery information before you proceed. You may also need to adjust some settings that could reset to their defaults during the process.

Follow these steps to clear your Chrome cookies:

1. Open your Chrome app.
2. Tap the “More” button at the bottom of the screen, symbolized by three horizontal dots.
3. Tap “History.”
4. Select “Clear Browsing Data.”
5. Check the box next to “Cookies, Site Data” and “Cached Images and Files.”
6. Tap “Clear Browsing Data” to confirm.

You can also clear cookies from a specific page or website instead of erasing all of them at once:

1. Open your Chrome app.
2. Navigate to “Settings.”
3. Select “Privacy and Security.”
4. Select “Cookies and Other Site Data.”
5. Use the search field in the top right to find the specific website’s name.
6. Tap the delete/trash can icon next to the site you want to erase cookies from.

You can also select a specific time frame for cookie deletion:

1. Tap the “More” button, symbolized by three horizontal dots.
2. Select “Clear Browsing Data.”
3. Tap the dropdown next to “Time Range.”
4. Choose your desired time period, such as the last hour or last month.
5. Check the box next to “Cookies and Other Site Data.”
6. Unselect any data you don’t want erased, such as browsing history.
7. Tap “Clear Browsing Data” to confirm.

Once you’ve cleared your data, close the Settings app, then manually close the Chrome browser app. You might consider restarting your device for the best results.

Blocking Cookies on Your iPhone

Some iPhone users prefer to block cookie collection entirely because they enjoy the privacy that comes with more anonymous browsing or don’t want web pages or third-party advertisers to collect any information about them or their habits. In this case, you can easily prevent your browser from collecting and storing any cookies at all or only block specific web pages.

Blocking Cookies on Safari

Open your Settings app, navigate to Apps → Safari → Advanced and choose one of these options:

• Prevent cross-site tracking: This prevents site trackers from following you and tracking your browsing habits or collecting data after leaving a page.
• Block all cookies: Though not generally recommended for ease of use, you can tap “Block All Cookies” and confirm by tapping “Block All.” Note that this will immediately remove all existing cookies and website data, and Safari will quit with all tabs reloaded. This does not affect your AutoFill information.
• Manage website data: Get more information on which websites have collected cookies from you and what data they may have accessed. You can also clear your cache and cookies on your iPhone to remove this data entirely.

You can also enable content-blocking apps downloaded from the App Store via Settings → Apps → Safari → Extensions for additional cookie and tracker control.

Blocking Cookies on Google Chrome

Block cookies by default on Chrome by opening your Chrome app, tapping “Settings,” selecting “Privacy and Security,” then choosing “Cookies and Other Site Data.” Choose one of the following options:

1. Block all cookies: Though Google doesn’t recommend this setting for optimal performance, you can disable all cookie collections from any website or page.
2. Block third-party cookies in incognito: This blocks third-party cookie collection while you’re browsing in Chrome’s incognito mode. Please note, you may still be subject to first-party cookie collection, depending on the page or site.
3. Block third-party cookies: Blocking third-party cookies prevents all websites from collecting data from you, even if it’s on your exception list elsewhere. Some sites may still collect first-party cookies.

Blocking Cookies on Microsoft Edge

If you use Microsoft Edge on your iPhone, you can manage cookie collection by opening the Edge app, tapping “Settings,” then navigating to “Privacy and Security” → “Cookies.” From there, you can choose to block all cookies or only third-party cookies, giving you flexible control over how websites track your browsing activity.

Get More iPhone How-Tos at Gazelle

Both Safari and Chrome collect cookies and use them to create a faster, more personalized experience while you’re online. If you’re having any performance issues on your iPhone’s web browser, clearing your browser cookies is a great first step for identifying and fixing the problem.

If you’d like to block cookies in Safari entirely, head to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced, then tap “Block All Cookies” and confirm by tapping “Block All.” Keep in mind this will remove all existing cookies and website data, and Safari will quit with all tabs reloaded – though your AutoFill information will remain intact. You can also extend Safari’s privacy features by enabling content-blocking apps from the App Store via Settings → Apps → Safari → Extensions.

If you use Microsoft Edge on your iPhone, you have additional flexibility – you can block all cookies or only third-party cookies by going to Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies.

Get into a habit of clearing your cookies regularly, closing your browser app when you’re not using it, and restarting your phone often for optimal browsing performance. If you’re looking to upgrade, check out our guide to Gazelle refurbished devices to see how you can save money while helping the environment, or read about how an iPhone gets refurbished before you buy.

Check out Gazelle’s website for more how-to guides, or browse the Gazelle shop to find a certified refurbished smartphone for you today!

The post How to Clear or Block Cookies on Your iPhone Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

What to Consider When Weighing Whether to Repair or Replace Your iPhone

There are a few critical fundamentals to consider when you’re trying to decide whether it’s better to repair or replace your iPhone. Here are the most important details to keep in mind.

Warranty

Warranties on your phone typically cover specific malfunctions related to mechanical or electrical operations. The warranty you have on your iPhone may cover the cost of the damage depending on how old your phone is and what the damage is. Contact your provider and see if your warranty is still valid or if it can be extended.

Remember that your warranty may not cover certain damages, such as a cracked screen. If you have an iPhone, you can check if it is still under warranty by going into the settings app. Your phone settings will also give you more information, such as the model of your phone, the current software and the storage capacity, which can be helpful when deciding whether to get a newer phone.

Extent of Damage

Assess the extent of damage on your iPhone before determining if it’s worth replacing or not. Enough damage to your phone may leave you with no other option than to replace it entirely, but this may not always be the case. If the damage is only minor, such as a partially cracked screen, it most likely wouldn’t need to be completely replaced.

A cracked iPhone screen or chipped camera can sometimes be repaired for less money than the cost of a used or new iPhone. Third-party screen replacements typically range from $79 to $329 depending on the model, which is often far less than the cost of a new device. However, if your phone has encountered severe damage, such as being dropped from a very high surface or extensive water damage, it may be deserving of replacement.

Phone Age

Think about how long you’ve had your phone when analyzing the benefits and drawbacks to repairing versus replacing an iPhone after damage. If it’s under a year or two old, you likely won’t need an upgrade. If your phone is older, you can more easily justify buying a used or new device because you might’ve wanted an upgrade soon anyway.

Even if your older phone was in good working condition before the damage, replacing it altogether can save you from having to pay for both repairing and replacing costs. Several parts of your phone may not work as well as they used to – a sign that your phone may be too old and need replacing. Some things to look out for in an older phone could be that:

• The power or reset button no longer works well
• The touchscreen is slow to respond
• The camera takes a long time to capture a photo
• One or more of your apps crash while you are using them

Budget

Your budget might be one of the most significant deciding factors when considering repairing or replacing your iPhone. You want to ensure you are getting the best possible value for your money. The needs you have for your phone, such as storage and software requirements, may influence how much you are willing to spend on repairing or replacing it. Some damage may be so extensive that it would actually be cheaper to buy a newer phone altogether.

It’s also worth factoring in trade-in value. A broken iPhone can lose 50-70% of its resale value – for example, an iPhone 13 with a cracked screen may only fetch around $150 as a trade-in, compared to roughly $300 if repaired first. In some cases, paying for a repair upfront can actually improve your return when trading in or selling your device.

Some may argue that a phone is a crucial investment. So much can be done on mobile apps, such as banking, emailing, searching the web and keeping you in contact with loved ones who live far away. Luckily, if you are in immediate need of replacing your iPhone, some can come refurbished for around $100 in good condition. If your phone is relatively new and can be fixed with minimal time and money, that might be a more reasonable option.

Storage

Think about what you use the most on your phone and how much storage you usually have. iPhones and smartphones typically have storage capacities ranging anywhere from 512GB to 1TB. You may love to take lots of photos and videos on your phone but consistently run out of storage or have to delete apps and pictures to free up storage.

In this situation, along with whatever damage you may have, it might be a logical idea to upgrade to a new phone that offers more storage. If you don’t feel that you need more space, repairing the phone you currently have is probably more ideal for you.

How Much You Need Your Phone

If you are an excessive daily iPhone user, such as for sending and receiving money or scrolling on social media for hours at a time, factor that in when deciding to repair or replace your phone. You may need your phone on you at all times for other essential reasons, such as caring for a loved one or working remotely.

Smartphones largely play some kind of role in many people’s workdays. In this case, you would need to determine how long it may take to repair your phone and if the waiting period is worth it. Otherwise, it may be more efficient to purchase a newer one online. If you don’t use your phone very often, you might not feel that replacing it is necessary.

When to Consider Repair

Deciding to repair instead of replacing your phone with a brand new model may be both more environmentally friendly and less costly. Though a newer phone may be tempting, you might not have any valid reason to get rid of your current phone if the repair costs are not too high. Most smartphones nowadays can typically provide you with three to four years of use before you need to consider replacing or upgrading them.

The environmental case for repair is significant. According to the UN Global E-waste Monitor, 5.3 billion phones were discarded globally in 2024, and less than 20% of e-waste is properly recycled. Choosing to repair rather than replace is one of the simplest ways to reduce your contribution to this growing problem.

Additionally, you may not be eligible for an upgrade, which would mean that buying a new phone through your phone carrier could cost you a lot of money out of pocket. Choosing to repair your phone may also allow you to enjoy it longer.

Another reason that repairing might be the right route is if you often damage or drop your phone. If so, it may be a better idea to repair your phone instead of buying a newer one that may end up with similar damage eventually anyway.

If you’re comfortable with a hands-on approach, DIY repair kits from providers like iFixit can save you an additional $34-$49 compared to Apple’s out-of-warranty repair costs, particularly for common fixes like battery replacement.

Repairing a phone is typically cheaper than buying a new one if there is minimal damage. With the money you may save choosing to repair your phone, it would be wise to buy a sturdy, protective iPhone case to protect your phone from needing future repairs if you don’t already have one.

Consider a repair if:

• There’s minor damage: If the damage on your phone is something minor, such as cosmetic damages that don’t actually impair any of the functions, it may be more cost-effective to go with a repair. Cracked screens and battery issues account for a large share of common repairs, and they are usually straightforward to fix if the damage isn’t too extensive.
• You don’t need new features or storage: If you don’t take many pictures or use tons of different apps, you probably won’t need more storage. This is something to think about if the damaged phone belongs to a young child or an elderly person who doesn’t have any use for tons of storage space. This may also be the case if you usually only use your phone for contact reasons, which you probably won’t need or want any fancy new features for.
• You don’t need your phone for work and other commitments: If you only use your phone to call others or send emails and texts, a new phone might not seem reasonable to you. For those who don’t spend a lot of time during the day using their phone for work or social media, it might be better to repair your phone instead of replacing it.

When to Choose Replacement

If your phone is damaged beyond repair, a replacement might be the best route. An old or outdated phone may not even be worth the cost of the repairs you need. These older models may also have programming that does not automatically update, making it more difficult to use your phone as time goes on because it will become less compatible with newer apps.

Repair costs can add up quickly depending on your model. As of 2026, Apple’s out-of-warranty battery replacement fees range from $69 for older models like the iPhone SE and iPhone 8, up to $119 for the iPhone 17 Pro series. Screen repairs through third parties can run anywhere from $79 to $329. If you’re looking at multiple repairs on an aging device, replacement may make more financial sense.

Another benefit to replacing your phone is that newer iPhones are usually waterproof to some degree, which can be an essential protection if your phone has experienced water damage. Here are some additional areas you should think about when leaning toward replacing your iPhone:

• The damage is extensive or costly: If your phone often shuts down involuntarily, overheats quickly or has consistent issues maintaining battery power, this may merit a replacement. Internal issues may be more difficult and expensive to fix, which may take up more time than setting up a newer phone. Remember the 50% rule – if the repair of the damage will cost you more than half of the price to replace it, don’t go through with the repairs.
• The phone is consistently out of storage: You may have a job or hobby that requires you to use your phone for most of the day, such as a photographer, social media manager or remote worker. This may cause your phone to frequently be out of storage if you use too many apps, receive dozens of emails a day, take hundreds of pictures or do other work on your phone. If this happens, it might be beneficial to upgrade to a newer phone with increased storage.
• Your phone can no longer update: Depending on your carrier or provider, your phone may no longer have consistent physical or software upgrades available, which can lead to several other technical issues. If your phone is more than a few years old, it may be practical to consider replacing it so you know it will stay up to date with your needs.
• Your phone is essential: If you constantly need your phone to stay in contact with others for work or personal reasons or simply feel your phone is an added safety measure, replacing it is worthwhile. If you’re unable to go a day or two without your phone, the repair process may seem too long.

How Much Does Replacing an iPhone Cost?

If you have taken the time to weigh your options and determined that replacing your iPhone fits your needs better, there are many options available. Even if you wish to replace your current iPhone with a newer device, it doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of used and refurbished phone options that allow you to find what works for you. Purchasing a pre-owned phone is a less costly alternative, and it’s more eco-friendly than buying a new one.

Some of the newest iPhone models that are used or refurbished may also be on clearance, where they are much cheaper. Depending on the type of iPhone you currently have and the one you want, you can still find various newer refurbished models with different pricing options. Replacing your iPhone with a used or refurbished one allows you to customize it to your needs just as you can when purchasing a new one in the store.

This customization can include factors such as what carriers it will work on, the condition of the phone, the storage size and color. There are dozens of different options available online for affordable iPhones that are like-new, especially compared to a brand new model. Here are some of the most popular ones:

iPhone 11

This generation of iPhone comes in these models:

• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max

iPhone 12

Consider these models for the iPhone 12:

• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max

iPhone 13

Consider these models for the iPhone 13:

• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 Mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max

iPhone 14

Consider these models for the iPhone 14:

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus

• FAQs

  Should I repair or replace my damaged iPhone?

  Consider the extent of damage, phone age, budget, and warranty status. Minor damage like a cracked screen is often cheaper to repair, while extensive damage on an older device may justify replacement.

  How much does a third-party iPhone screen repair cost?

  Third-party screen replacements typically range from $79 to $329 depending on the iPhone model, which is often significantly less than purchasing a new or used device.

  When does replacing an iPhone make more financial sense?

  Use the 50% rule — if repair costs exceed half the price of a replacement, replacing is the smarter choice. Multiple repairs on an aging device can also quickly outweigh replacement costs.

  Can I buy an affordable refurbished iPhone as a replacement?

  Yes, refurbished iPhones are widely available online and can cost as little as $100 in good condition, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to buying brand new.

  Does repairing my iPhone help the environment?

  Yes. Repairing reduces e-waste — 5.3 billion phones were discarded globally in 2024, with less than 20% properly recycled. Choosing repair over replacement is a simple way to minimize your environmental impact.

  The post Repairing vs. Replacing Your iPhone Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

  ]]> https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/08/10/repairing-vs-replacing-your-iphone/feed/ 0 https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/07/05/increase-your-productivity-with-these-google-calendar-tips/ https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/07/05/increase-your-productivity-with-these-google-calendar-tips/#respond Wed, 05 Jul 2023 14:59:17 +0000 https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/?p=10260 While Google Calendar is a widely used tool for scheduling, planning, and organizing, it comes packaged with many…

  The post Increase Your Productivity With These Google Calendar Tips Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

  ]]> While Google Calendar is a widely used tool for scheduling, planning, and organizing, it comes packaged with many features that the average user may never try. Though the app’s bread and butter may be simple events and reminders, it can also help you keep track of your agenda, quickly set tasks, and import holiday calendars that are a breeze to follow. 

   

  Whether you’re getting started with Google Calendar features for the first time on a new device, or you’re looking to boost productivity, using a few of our favorite Google Calendar features and tips can help you improve efficiency and increase productivity while making the most of handy automation tools that keep you on schedule. 

  Schedule group meetings and video calls. 

  Google makes scheduling meetings from your calendar easier than many other platforms. Google Meets are an intuitive way to connect with others on video calls, whether you’re reaching out to classmates for peer review or incorporating video chats to improve productivity in the workplace. 

   

  Once you’ve created an event, click on it and navigate to “more options.” This is where you’ll get the chance to add conferencing, including Hangouts and Meets links that go out to anyone with an event invite. When you’re done adding conferencing, you can start adding attendees and guests without leaving the Google Calendar app. 

   

  If an event attendee is already within your contacts list, Google Calendar will autofill their email when you start typing it in the invite field. Otherwise, you’ll have to manually add guests and confirm invites. Using Google’s Hangout functionality is the best way to save time, especially if you don’t want to pay for Zoom sessions that go beyond 40 minutes or you don’t want to connect a third-party video conferencing app with your email and calendar. 

  Set automatic reminders for tasks and events. 

  While having a calendar that holds all of your classes, meetings, and upcoming events is helpful, it’s also beneficial to get reminders, especially when you book something like a concert or a dinner reservation several months in advance. Luckily, Google Calendar features make it simple to set automatic reminders for any of your tasks or upcoming events. 

   

  From any event or task’s settings menu, you can navigate to event notifications and start to customize your reminders. For some events, you may want to set reminders an hour before. For a big vacation that requires you to miss classes or work, you can consider setting your reminder several days in advance to give you time to pack, plan, and organize. 

  Quickly plan recurring events or extended calendar alerts. 

  By dragging your cursor across your weekly or monthly view of the Google Calendar, you can quickly set up events or reminders that span several days all at once. This tip is incredibly helpful for blocking off study periods, setting up a weekly work schedule, or adding recurring tasks to your ongoing calendar. 

   

  When you’ve set up an extended event, you can adjust it like any other calendar event or task. There are options to invite people, set reminders, add locations, and more. This is one of the best Google Calendar tips for students because it makes it easy to set up regular study periods or daily class times you want to track. The drag-and-drop functionality also benefits work productivity, especially when you’re scheduling a time that you will be out of the office or out visiting an industry conference or event. 

  Send yourself a regular agenda. 

  Using your Google Calendar’s automated email settings, you can plan it so the app sends you your daily itinerary at the start of each morning — or even the night before. If you’re someone who benefits from looking at your entire day before diving into work, school assignments, or classes, you’ll enjoy the agenda feature. 

   

  Under the general settings menu, you’ll spot an option listed as “Settings for my calendars.” If you click that and go to “General Notifications,” you’ll find the option to set a schedule for your agenda. Using a daily agenda feature is one of the best productivity hacks if you’re juggling a challenging class schedule, balancing school and work, or attending several meetings every week. 

  Add holidays to your calendar view in a few simple steps. 

  Using existing calendar views, you can keep track of national holidays and fill in the gaps with any additional days your school or workplace observes. When you log into Google Calendar, you can navigate to the three dots next to “My Calendar” and go to the “Settings & Sharing” option. 

   

  Once you’re here, you’ll see an area to add a new calendar. When you click that, Google shows you several options, including religious and regional calendars. While the default in many areas is the Christian holiday calendar, Google offers one for every religion, which makes it easy to observe classmate and employee holidays. You can also filter by holidays in your specific country or region to add any to your calendar that may not fall under a religious category. 

   

  Along these lines, you can easily view world clocks on your default Google Calendar. Using the world clock makes it easy to keep track of remote coworkers in different timezones, exchange students, or friends you met while studying abroad. 

  View classmate and coworker schedules in a few quick clicks. 

  If you’re setting up a Google Calendar as part of a workspace with other members, it’s easy to take a quick look at their schedules. By sharing classmate or coworker schedules, you can quickly find time to collaborate, meet over projects, or connect on questions and concerns. You can also see when your colleagues are busy or out of the office, so you don’t contact them on those days. 

   

  To view someone else’s schedule in a shared workspace, look for the field on the left-hand side of the Calendar screen that says “Add Calendar.” Then, start typing your classmate’s school email or your coworker’s professional email into the field. Unless the user has open permissions on their calendar and events, you’ll have to request access and wait for the calendar owner to grant it. 

  Keep your tasks separate from events and other calendar items. 

  Google Calendar features aren’t strictly for setting up events and meetings. You can also set reminders, recurring tasks, and to-do items. The app recognizes these as distinct options within the platform so you can quickly tell the difference between tasks, upcoming Google Meets or Zoom events, and your average calendar item. 

   

  The task features within Google Calendar enable you to boost productivity by setting to-do lists, sub-tasks, and due dates. Of course, you can also set reminders for these, so you know when you have an upcoming task or milestone due date. 

  Schedule breaks, downtime, and focus time. 

  Technology makes it easier than ever to connect at all hours of the day. However, if your calendar reflects round-the-clock availability, it could lead you to overscheduling or overcommitting to plans, events, and meetings. At best, this can create scheduling conflicts. At worst, it can lead to burnout and unhappiness. 

   

  Though it’s not necessarily a productivity hack, one of the best Google Calendar tips and tricks for students and workers alike is to build break time, study time, or focus time into your day. Set aside periods of different days where you need alone time to work or time away from meetings. You can increase productivity by taking regular breaks to refresh and reorganize if required. 

  Sync your Google Calendar with your phone. 

  Perhaps the best way to stay on top of your schedule is to always keep it with you. By downloading the Google Calendar app on an Android or Apple device, you can get alerts, notifications, reminders, and event invites sent directly to your smartphone. Plus, the calendar has enough smart settings to pause from refreshing or updating unless connected to WiFi, so you don’t use up data. 

   

  Though Google apps work exceptionally well with Android devices, iPhones allow you to import your Google Calendar directly into your iPhone calendar so you can see events, contacts, and emails at a quick glance. 

  Make the most of your calendar with a device from Gazelle. 

  Between scheduling downtime to help you optimize your workflow and using a smartphone app to set up video conferencing with classmates and coworkers, there’s so much you can do with our Google Calendar hacks. Using a few handy tips can help you boost work productivity and school efficiency so you’re making the most of your time. 

   

  Google Calendar works best on compatible devices like laptops and smartphones. Having Google Calendar on your smartphone makes it a cinch to keep track of your schedule, plan meetings, and organize your days. When you’re ready to maximize the benefits of this calendar application, you can reach out to Gazelle to find the perfect device upgrade to match. 

   

  We have dozens of certified pre-owned smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices that work with Google Calendar. Our devices pass a thorough 30-point inspection and come backed by our guarantee. Take a look at Gazelle’s inventory today if you’re ready to find your next device packed with productivity hacks.

   

   

  The post Increase Your Productivity With These Google Calendar Tips Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

  ]]> https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/07/05/increase-your-productivity-with-these-google-calendar-tips/feed/ 0 https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/06/02/common-ios-16-problems-and-how-to-fix-them/ https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/2023/06/02/common-ios-16-problems-and-how-to-fix-them/#respond Fri, 02 Jun 2023 18:05:42 +0000 https://www.gazelle.com/thehorn/?p=10218 Are you an iPhone user experiencing issues after a recent iOS update? You’re not alone. Whether you’ve just…

  The post Common iOS 16 Problems and How to Fix Them Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

  ]]> Are you an iPhone user experiencing issues after a recent iOS update? You’re not alone. Whether you’ve just upgraded to the latest iOS 18 or you’re running an older version, software updates often come with their fair share of growing pains. From battery drain to app crashes and frozen screens, many users encounter frustrating problems after updating. Don’t worry though – in this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common iOS problems and how to fix them so you can get the most out of your iPhone once again.

  Common iOS 16 Problems

  Battery Drain

  One of the most common problems that iPhone users have reported after updating their iOS is battery drain. Many users have noticed that their battery life is draining much faster than before the update. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your phone for work or other important tasks. It’s also worth noting that new iPhones typically have a battery break-in period that can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more, so some initial drain after a new device setup or major update is normal.

  Fortunately, there are several solutions to this problem.

  First, check for any apps that may be running in the background and draining your battery. To do this, go to Settings > Battery and see which apps are using the most power. Close any apps that you are not using and limit the usage of those that are draining your battery excessively.

  Another solution is to adjust the settings on your phone. Turn off features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location services when not in use. Also, lower your screen brightness and enable the Low Power Mode option in your battery settings for an extra boost in battery life. By implementing these solutions, you can help reduce battery drain and prolong the life of your iPhone.

  Connectivity Issues

  One of the common issues that iPhone users have been facing after updating their iOS is Wi-Fi connectivity problems. Users have complained of slow or inconsistent Wi-Fi connections, dropped connections, and even the inability to connect to Wi-Fi networks at all. This is especially annoying when you rely on Wi-Fi for many of your daily activities.

  Another issue that has been reported by users is Bluetooth connectivity problems. Some users have experienced issues with their Bluetooth devices not connecting properly, or not being able to connect to Bluetooth at all. This can be especially problematic if you use Bluetooth devices such as headphones or speakers regularly.

  If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, there are a few things you can try to fix the problem. First, make sure your Wi-Fi or cellular data is turned on and that you’re within range of a strong signal. If that doesn’t work, try resetting your network settings by going to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will erase all your saved Wi-Fi passwords, so make sure you have them handy before you do this.

  If all else fails, contact Apple support for further assistance.

  App Crashes

  One of the most frustrating problems with iOS updates has been the occasional spike in app crashes. Many iPhone users report that apps unexpectedly shut down or freeze, making it difficult to get anything done on their phones. The problem is typically caused by a variety of factors, including glitches in the operating system and compatibility issues with certain apps that haven’t yet been updated to support the latest iOS version.

  If your app keeps crashing, don’t panic! There are a few simple solutions you can try. First, try force quitting the app by swiping up on the app preview in the app switcher. If that doesn’t work, make sure your app is up to date by checking for updates in the App Store. Keeping your iOS itself up to date is equally important, as Apple regularly releases patches that address crash-related bugs.

  Slow Performance

  Another common problem users have reported after iOS updates has been slow performance. This can be especially irritating when you’re trying to get things done quickly on your phone. The issue is often caused by a variety of factors, including outdated apps, a cluttered device, and even a lack of available storage space. It’s also worth noting that on the iPhone 16, the 8 GB of RAM handles most daily tasks well, but can show strain under heavy AI-intensive workloads. But don’t worry – there are a few things you can do to fix the problem and get your iPhone running smoothly again.

  If you’re experiencing slow performance on your device, there are a few simple solutions you can try.

  First, try clearing your device’s storage by deleting any unused apps or files. This can free up space and improve overall performance.

  Additionally, restarting your device can also help resolve any issues causing slow performance. Give these solutions a try before seeking further assistance.

  Display Issues

  If you’ve ever noticed a lag in motion or a flickering screen on your iPhone, you’re not alone. Display issues are among the more commonly reported problems following iOS updates. These can include a flickering screen, screen freezing, or touch response problems – all of which can impact the overall usability of your device.

  It’s worth noting that display behavior can vary significantly depending on your iPhone model. Pro models feature a 120Hz ProMotion display, which can sometimes expose refresh rate-related quirks more noticeably than the standard 60Hz displays found on non-Pro models. Apple has addressed some of these concerns over time – for example, a frozen screen issue was specifically fixed in the iOS 18.0.1 update, which also resolved a camera freeze bug affecting 4K Ultra Wide video recording in macro mode on iPhone 16 Pro models.

  If you’re experiencing display issues, there are a few solutions you can try. First, try adjusting your display settings by going to Settings > Display & Brightness and making sure the settings are optimized for your preferences. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your device by holding down the side button and either volume button, then sliding to power off. This can clear up temporary display issues.

  If the problem persists, it may be worth contacting Apple support for further assistance or ensuring your device is running the latest available iOS version.

  Addressing iOS Hurdles Is Easier Than You Think

  If you’re one of the unlucky people that has happened to run into any of these issues – or others – it’s always worth attempting to troubleshoot the bugs yourself. Sometimes a software problem has a fix as easy as restarting your device, while there may be times that you need some assistance from tech experts.

  If you’re looking to upgrade to a newer device or trade in your current one, you can do both with Gazelle! Our convenient online trade-in tool makes selling your device a cinch. Then, you can peruse our inventory to upgrade to your next device at a fraction of the retail price tag. Take a look and start shopping and selling the smarter way, today!

  The post Common iOS 16 Problems and How to Fix Them Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

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