Technology

How to Make the Most of Your New iPhone: 23 Expert Tips

Published

2 years ago

December 27, 2023

Fred Wilson

Introduction

Hi, I’m June Wan, a tech journalist and an avid iPhone user. I’ve been covering Apple products for over a decade, and I’ve tested every iPhone model since the original one. I love discovering new ways to make the most of my iPhone, and I’m here to share some of my best tips with you.

Whether you’ve just got a new iPhone 15, or you’re still rocking an older model, there are plenty of features and settings that you can tweak to improve your experience. From customizing your home screen to managing your battery life, from taking stunning photos to securing your privacy, I’ll show you how to use your iPhone like a pro.

In this article, you’ll learn 23 expert tips that will help you get the most out of your new iPhone. These tips are based on the latest iOS 16 software, but most of them will also work on older versions. Ready to level up your iPhone skills? Let’s dive in!

Tip 1: Switch to USB-C for faster charging and data transfer

One of the biggest changes in the new iPhone 15 models is the switch from Lightning to USB-C. This means you can use the same cable and charger that you use for your iPad, MacBook, or other USB-C devices. USB-C offers faster charging and data transfer speeds than Lightning, and it’s also more widely compatible with other accessories and gadgets.

If you have an older iPhone model that still uses Lightning, you can still benefit from USB-C by getting a Lightning to USB-C cable and a USB-C power adapter. This will allow you to charge your iPhone faster than using the standard 5W charger that comes in the box. You can also use a USB-C to Lightning cable to connect your iPhone to your MacBook or iPad and transfer files or sync data.

Tip 2: Add widgets to your home screen for quick access to information and actions

Widgets are small boxes that display information or let you perform actions from your home screen. You can add widgets for various apps, such as weather, calendar, music, photos, and more. Widgets can help you stay updated, access your favorite content, and launch common tasks with a tap.

To add widgets to your home screen, press and hold anywhere until the app icons start wiggling, then tap the + button on the top left. Tap an app and select a widget size and it’ll appear right on your home screen. You can drag and drop the widget to rearrange it, or tap and hold it to edit it. You can also swipe left on your home screen to access the Today View, where you can add more widgets.

Tip 3: Use the Action Button to quickly access your most-used apps and settings

The new iPhone 15 models have a new feature called the Action Button, which is a small circle that floats on the top-right corner of your screen. You can tap the Action Button to access a customizable menu of your most-used apps and settings. You can also swipe the Action Button to perform actions such as going back, switching apps, or taking a screenshot.

To customize the Action Button, go to Settings > Accessibility > Action Button. You can choose which apps and settings you want to include in the menu, as well as the actions you want to assign to the swipes. You can also turn off the Action Button if you don’t want to use it.

Tip 4: Enable Dynamic Island to hide the notch and get more screen space

The notch is the black area at the top of your iPhone screen that houses the front-facing camera and other sensors. Some people don’t mind the notch, but others find it annoying or distracting. If you’re one of them, you can enable a new feature called Dynamic Island, which hides the notch and gives you more screen space.

Dynamic Island is a small graphic that appears at the top of your screen and changes depending on what you’re doing. For example, when you’re on the home screen, it shows the time and battery level. When you’re in an app, it shows the app icon and name. When you’re watching a video or playing a game, it disappears completely.

To enable Dynamic Island, go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Dynamic Island. You can choose between three modes: Always On, Adaptive, or Off. Always On mode keeps the Dynamic Island on at all times, Adaptive mode turns it on or off depending on the app, and Off mode turns it off completely.

Tip 5: Take advantage of the new 5x zoom camera and ProRes video recording

The new iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models have a new 5x optical zoom camera, which lets you get closer to your subject without losing quality. You can also use digital zoom up to 15x, but the quality will degrade as you zoom in more. The 5x zoom camera is great for capturing distant objects, such as wildlife, landmarks, or sports.

Another new feature for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models is the ProRes video recording, which lets you record high-quality videos with more detail and dynamic range. ProRes is a professional video format that is widely used in the film and TV industry, and it gives you more flexibility and control when editing your videos. However, ProRes videos also take up a lot of storage space, so you’ll need to have enough space on your iPhone or iCloud.

To use the 5x zoom camera, open the Camera app and tap the 1x button on the bottom-right corner. Swipe left or right to adjust the zoom level, or tap the 5x button to jump to the maximum zoom. To use the ProRes video recording, go to Settings > Camera > Formats and turn on Apple ProRes. Then, open the Camera app and swipe to the Video mode. Tap the HD button on the top-right corner and choose 4K ProRes. You can also adjust the frame rate by tapping the 30 or 60 button.

Tip 6: Use Face ID with a mask or glasses

Face ID is a feature that lets you unlock your iPhone with your face. It’s fast, secure, and convenient, but it can also be tricky to use if you’re wearing a mask or glasses. Fortunately, there are some ways to make Face ID work better with these accessories.

If you’re wearing a mask, you can use a new feature called Unlock with Apple Watch, which lets you unlock your iPhone with your Apple Watch instead of your face. To enable this feature, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and turn on Unlock with Apple Watch. You’ll need to have an Apple Watch that is paired with your iPhone, and both devices need to have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on. You’ll also need to have a passcode on your Apple Watch.

If you’re wearing glasses, you can try to improve Face ID’s accuracy by re-scanning your face. To do this, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and tap Reset Face ID. Then, tap Set Up Face ID and follow the instructions. Make sure to scan your face in a well-lit area, and hold your iPhone about 10-20 inches away from your face. You can also scan your face with and without glasses, to make Face ID more adaptable.

Tip 7: Use Siri to automate tasks and control your smart home

Siri is a voice assistant that can help you with various tasks and questions. You can use Siri to make calls, send messages, set reminders, play music, get directions, check the weather, and more. You can also use Siri to automate tasks and control your smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, cameras, and locks.

To use Siri, you can either say “Hey Siri” or press and hold the side button on your iPhone. Then, say what you want Siri to do, such as “Call Mom”, “Remind me to buy milk”, or “Play some jazz”. You can also ask Siri questions, such as “What’s the capital of France?”, “How many calories are in a banana?”, or “Who won the Oscars?”.

To use Siri to automate tasks, you can use a feature called Shortcuts, which lets you create custom commands that trigger a series of actions. For example, you can create a shortcut that says “Good morning”, and have Siri turn on your lights, read your calendar, and play your favorite playlist. To create shortcuts, go to Settings > Shortcuts and tap Add Shortcut. You can also download ready-made shortcuts from the Gallery, or from third-party apps that support shortcuts.

To use Siri to control your smart home devices, you’ll need to have devices that are compatible with HomeKit, Apple’s smart home platform. You’ll also need to set up your devices in the Home app, which lets you organize and manage your smart home. To use Siri to control your devices, you can say commands like “Turn on the living room lights”, “Set the thermostat to 72 degrees”, or “Show me the front door camera”.

Tip 8: Use Dark Mode to save battery and reduce eye strain

Dark Mode is a feature that changes the appearance of your iPhone’s interface, making it darker and easier on the eyes. Dark Mode can also help you save battery life, especially if you have an iPhone with an OLED display, such as the iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 14, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 13

Tip 9: Use App Library to organize and access your apps

App Library is a feature that automatically organizes your apps into categories, such as Social, Productivity, Entertainment, and more. You can access the App Library by swiping left on your home screen until you reach the end. You can also search for apps by name or use the alphabetical list on the right.

App Library can help you keep your home screen clutter-free and find your apps faster. You can also hide the apps that you don’t use often from your home screen and access them only from the App Library. To do this, press and hold anywhere on your home screen until the app icons start wiggling, then tap the – button on the top-left corner of an app. Tap Remove App and choose Move to App Library.

Photo by Daniel Romero on Unsplash

Tip 10: Use Picture-in-Picture to watch videos while using other apps

Picture-in-Picture is a feature that lets you watch videos in a small window while using other apps. You can use Picture-in-Picture with apps that support it, such as YouTube, Netflix, FaceTime, and more. You can also use Picture-in-Picture with Safari, by playing a video on a website and tapping the Picture-in-Picture button on the video player.

To use Picture-in-Picture, start playing a video in a supported app, then swipe up from the bottom of the screen to go to the home screen or switch to another app. The video will continue playing in a small window that you can move around, resize, or hide. You can also control the playback, pause, or close the video from the window.

Tip 11: Use Back Tap to launch actions or shortcuts with a double or triple tap on the back of your iPhone

Back Tap is a feature that lets you launch actions or shortcuts with a double or triple tap on the back of your iPhone. You can use Back Tap to do things like take a screenshot, lock your screen, open the Control Center, or activate Siri. You can also use Back Tap to run shortcuts that you’ve created or downloaded.

To enable and customize Back Tap, go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. You can choose what you want to happen when you double or triple tap on the back of your iPhone. You can also test the feature by tapping on the back of your iPhone and seeing the result.

Tip 12: Use App Clips to try apps without downloading them

App Clips are mini versions of apps that let you try them without downloading them. You can use App Clips to do things like order food, rent a bike, pay for parking, or join a game. App Clips are fast, lightweight, and secure, and they disappear after you use them.

You can access App Clips from various sources, such as QR codes, NFC tags, Safari, Messages, or Maps. You can also use the App Clip Code Scanner, which is a new feature that lets you scan App Clip Codes, which are special codes that look like colorful patterns. To use the App Clip Code Scanner, go to Settings > Control Center and add the App Clip Code Scanner. Then, swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open the Control Center and tap the App Clip Code Scanner. Point your camera at an App Clip Code and tap Open to launch the App Clip.

Tip 13: Use Translate to communicate in different languages

Translate is a new app that lets you communicate in different languages. You can use Translate to translate text or speech, or have a conversation with someone who speaks a different language. Translate supports 12 languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, and more.

To use Translate, open the app and choose the languages that you want to translate between. You can type or paste text, or tap the microphone button and speak. You can also tap the Conversation button and turn your iPhone to landscape mode to have a two-way conversation. You can also download languages for offline use, or use the Safari extension to translate web pages.

Tip 14: Use CarPlay to connect your iPhone to your car

CarPlay is a feature that lets you connect your iPhone to your car’s display and use your favorite apps while driving. You can use CarPlay to make calls, send messages, get directions, play music, and more. You can also use Siri to control CarPlay with your voice, or use the touch screen or knobs on your car.

To use CarPlay, you’ll need a car that supports CarPlay, or a compatible aftermarket system. You’ll also need an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, and a Lightning or USB-C cable. To connect your iPhone to your car, plug one end of the cable into your iPhone and the other end into your car’s USB port. Your car’s display should show the CarPlay logo and your iPhone’s home screen. You can also use wireless CarPlay if your car supports it, which lets you connect your iPhone to your car without a cable.

Tip 15: Use AirPods to listen to audio and interact with Siri

AirPods are wireless earbuds that let you listen to audio and interact with Siri on your iPhone. You can use AirPods to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, phone calls, and more. You can also use AirPods to control your iPhone with Siri, such as asking questions, setting reminders, adjusting the volume, and more.

To use AirPods, you’ll need an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, and a pair of AirPods or AirPods Pro. To connect your AirPods to your iPhone, open the AirPods case and hold it near your iPhone. A pop-up will appear on your iPhone, asking you to connect. Tap Connect and follow the instructions. You can also switch between your iPhone and other Apple devices that are signed in with the same Apple ID.

To use Siri with your AirPods, you can either say “Hey Siri” or tap the AirPods twice. Then, say what you want Siri to do, such as “Play some rock music”, “Call Dad”, or “What’s the weather like?”. You can also adjust the settings and features of your AirPods, such as noise cancellation, spatial audio, battery level, and more, by going to Settings > Bluetooth and tapping the i button next to your AirPods.

Tip 16: Use Wallet to store and use your cards, tickets, and passes

Wallet is an app that lets you store and use your cards, tickets, and passes on your iPhone. You can use Wallet to pay with Apple Pay, which is a secure and convenient way to pay with your iPhone. You can also use Wallet to store and access your boarding passes, movie tickets, loyalty cards, coupons, and more.

To use Wallet, you’ll need an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, and a compatible card, ticket, or pass. To add a card to Wallet, open the Wallet app and tap the + button on the top-right corner. Then, follow the instructions to scan or enter your card details. You can also add cards from supported apps or websites, or by scanning a QR code.

To use Apple Pay, you’ll need to have a card added to Wallet, and a device that supports Apple Pay, such as a terminal, vending machine, or online checkout. To pay with Apple Pay, you can either use Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, depending on your iPhone model. To use Face ID, double-click the side button and glance at your iPhone, then hold it near the reader. To use Touch ID, rest your finger on the Home button and hold your iPhone near the reader. To use a passcode, double-click the side button and enter your passcode, then hold your iPhone near the reader.

To add a ticket or pass to Wallet, you can either use an app or website that supports Wallet, or scan a QR code or barcode. To use a ticket or pass, open the Wallet app and tap the ticket or pass that you want to use. You can also access your tickets or passes from the lock screen, by double-clicking the side button or the Home button.

Tip 17: Use Health to track and improve your health and fitness

Health is an app that lets you track and improve your health and fitness on your iPhone. You can use Health to monitor your activity, sleep, heart rate, blood pressure, nutrition, and more. You can also use Health to store and share your medical records, allergies, medications, and emergency contacts.

To use Health, you’ll need an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, and a compatible device or app that can measure or record your health data, such as an Apple Watch, a fitness tracker, a blood pressure monitor, or a nutrition app. To add a device or app to Health, go to Settings > Health > Data Access & Devices and tap the device or app that you want to add. Then, turn on the categories that you want to share with Health.

To view your health data, open the Health app and tap the Browse tab. You can see various categories of health data, such as Activity, Sleep, Heart, Nutrition, and more. You can also tap the Summary tab to see a dashboard of your most important health data, such as your steps, calories, sleep hours, and more. You can also customize your Summary by tapping Edit and adding or removing the data that you want to see.

To manage your medical records, allergies, medications, and emergency contacts, open the Health app and tap the Profile icon on the top-right corner. Then, tap Medical ID and fill in the information that you want to store and share. You can also turn on Show When Locked, which allows emergency responders to access your Medical ID from your lock screen.

Image by: https://www.zdnet.com/

Tip 18: Use Maps to explore and navigate the world

Maps is an app that lets you explore and navigate the world on your iPhone. You can use Maps to find places, get directions, see traffic, transit, and weather information, and more. You can also use Maps to discover new places, such as restaurants, landmarks, museums, and more.

To use Maps, open the app and type or speak the place that you want to find. You can also tap the compass icon on the top-right corner to see your current location. You can zoom in or out, swipe, or rotate the map to see different views. You can also tap the i button on the top-left corner to change the map type, such as satellite, hybrid, or terrain.

To get directions, tap the Directions button on the bottom-left corner and choose your mode of transportation, such as driving, walking, cycling, or transit. Then, enter your destination and tap Go. You can also add multiple stops, avoid tolls or highways, or share your ETA with your contacts. You can also use Siri to get directions, such as “Hey Siri, take me home” or “Hey Siri, how do I get to the airport?”.

To see traffic, transit, and weather information, tap the i button on the top-left corner and turn on the layers that you want to see. You can see the traffic conditions, such as green for clear, yellow for moderate, or red for heavy. You can also see the transit lines, such as buses, trains, or subways. You can also see the weather forecast, such as sunny, cloudy, or rainy.

To discover new places, tap the Search button on the bottom-right corner and browse the categories, such as Food, Shopping, Travel, and more. You can also tap the Guides button to see curated collections of places, such as Best of New York, Must-See Museums, or Hidden Gems. You can also create your own guides, or follow guides from trusted sources, such as Lonely Planet, The Washington Post, or Zagat.

Tip 19: Use Messages to chat and have fun with your friends and family

Messages is an app that lets you chat and have fun with your friends and family on your iPhone. You can use Messages to send and receive text messages, photos, videos, audio messages, stickers, emojis, and more. You can also use Messages to make voice or video calls, play games, send money, and more.

To use Messages, open the app and tap the New Message button on the top-right corner. Then, enter the name, phone number, or email address of the person that you want to chat with. You can also tap the + button to add more people and create a group chat. Then, type your message and tap the Send button. You can also tap the Camera button to take a photo or video, or tap the Photo Library button to choose a photo or video from your iPhone. You can also tap the Microphone button to record an audio message, or tap the App Store button to access various apps and features, such as stickers, games, Apple Pay, and more.

To make voice or video calls, tap the Contact button on the top-right corner and choose Audio or FaceTime. You can also use Siri to make calls, such as “Hey Siri, call Mom” or “Hey Siri, FaceTime John”. You can also join or start group FaceTime calls with up to 32 people, and use fun effects, such as Animoji, Memoji, filters, and stickers.

To have more fun with Messages, you can use various features, such as:

Tap and hold the Send button to access the Message Effects, which let you add animations and expressions to your messages, such as balloons, confetti, fireworks, or slam.
Tap the Memoji button to create and use your own personalized emoji, or use the Animoji button to use animated emoji, such as a monkey, a unicorn, or a robot.
Tap the Emoji button to access the emoji keyboard, which lets you choose from hundreds of emoji, or use the Tapback feature, which lets you react to messages with emoji, such as a heart, a thumbs up, or a question mark.
Tap the Digital Touch button to send sketches, taps, or heartbeats, or use the Handwriting feature, which lets you write messages with your finger.

Tip 20: Use Photos to capture and edit your memories

Photos is an app that lets you capture and edit your memories on your iPhone. You can use Photos to take photos and videos, apply filters and effects, crop and rotate, adjust the color and light, and more. You can also use Photos to organize and manage your photos and videos, create albums and slideshows, and share them with your friends and family.

To use Photos, open the app and tap the Camera button on the bottom-right corner. Then, choose the mode that you want to use, such as Photo, Video, Portrait, or Pano. You can also swipe up or down to access more modes, such as Time-Lapse, Slo-Mo, or Night Mode. You can also tap the Flash button to turn on or off the flash, tap the Live Photo button to capture a short video with your photo, or tap the HDR button to capture a high dynamic range photo. You can also tap the Filter button to apply a filter, such as Vivid, Mono, or Noir.

To edit your photos and videos, open the Photos app and tap the photo or video that you want to edit. Then, tap the Edit button on the top-right corner. You can use various tools, such as:

Tap the Crop button to crop, rotate, flip, or straighten your photo or video.
Tap the Adjust button to adjust the color and light, such as exposure, contrast, saturation, or warmth.
Tap the Filter button to apply or change a filter, such as Vivid, Mono, or Noir.
Tap the Markup button to draw, write, or add shapes to your photo or video.
Tap the More button to access more features, such as retouch, sharpen, or reduce noise.

To organize and manage your photos and videos, open the Photos app and tap the Albums tab. You can see various albums, such as Recents, Favorites, People, Places, and more. You can also create your own albums, or use the Smart Albums, which automatically group your photos and videos based on criteria, such as date, location, or person. You can also tap the Search tab to search for photos and videos by keywords, such as “dog”, “beach”, or “birthday”.

To create albums and slideshows, open the Photos app and tap the + button on the top-left corner. Then, choose New Album or New Slideshow. You can name your album or slideshow, and choose the photos and videos that you want to include. You can also edit your album or slideshow, such as adding or removing photos and videos, changing the order, or adding music, transitions, or themes.

To share your photos and videos, open the Photos app and tap the photo or video that you want to share. Then, tap the Share button on the bottom-left corner. You can choose how you want to share, such as Messages, Mail, AirDrop, or social media. You can also use iCloud Photo Sharing, which lets you create and join shared albums with your friends and family, and comment and like each other’s photos and videos.

Tip 21: Use Music to listen to your favorite songs and discover new ones

Music is an app that lets you listen to your favorite songs and discover new ones on your iPhone. You can use Music to access your music library, stream millions of songs with Apple Music, listen to live radio stations, and more. You can also use Music to create and manage playlists, download songs for offline listening, and share your music with your friends and family.

To use Music, open the app and tap the Library tab. You can see your music library, which includes the songs that you’ve added from your computer, iTunes Store, or Apple Music. You can also tap the Browse tab to explore various categories, such as New Music, Playlists, Genres, and more. You can also tap the Radio tab to listen to live radio stations, such as Beats 1, NPR, or BBC. You can also tap the Search tab to search for songs, artists, albums, or playlists.

To stream millions of songs with Apple Music, you’ll need to have a subscription, which costs $9.99 per month, or $14.99 per month for a family plan. You can also try Apple Music for free for three months, and cancel anytime. To sign up for Apple Music, open the Music app and tap the For You tab. Then, tap the Try It Free button and follow the instructions. You can also use Siri to play songs from Apple Music, such as “Hey Siri, play the latest album by Taylor Swift” or “Hey Siri, play some jazz music”.

To create and manage playlists, open the Music app and tap the Library tab. Then, tap the Playlists button and tap the New Playlist button. You can name your playlist, add a description, and choose a cover image. Then, tap the Add Music button and choose the songs that you want to include. You can also edit your playlist, such as adding or removing songs, changing the order, or renaming it.

To download songs for offline listening, open the Music app and tap the song, album, or playlist that you want to download. Then, tap the Cloud button to download it to your iPhone. You can also turn on Automatic Downloads, which automatically downloads the songs that you add to your library.

Tip 22: Use Reminders to create and manage your tasks and lists

Reminders is an app that lets you create and manage your tasks and lists on your iPhone. You can use Reminders to set reminders for things that you need to do, such as buy groceries, pay bills, or call someone. You can also use Reminders to organize your tasks into lists, such as Work, Personal, or Family.

To use Reminders, open the app and tap the New Reminder button on the bottom-right corner. Then, type your reminder and tap the i button to add more details, such as a due date, a location, a priority, or a note. You can also tap the Flag button to mark your reminder as important, or tap the Camera button to add a photo or scan a document. You can also use Siri to create reminders, such as “Hey Siri, remind me to buy milk tomorrow” or “Hey Siri, remind me to call Mom when I get home”.

To create and manage lists, open the Reminders app and tap the Add List button on the bottom-left corner. Then, name your list and choose a color and an icon. You can also tap the Edit button on the top-right corner to edit, delete, or rearrange your lists. You can also share your lists with your contacts, and collaborate on tasks together.

Tip 23: Use Find My to locate and protect your iPhone and other devices

Find My is an app that lets you locate and protect your iPhone and other devices, such as your iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, or AirTag. You can use Find My to see your devices on a map, play a sound, lock or erase them, or mark them as lost. You can also use Find My to find your friends and family, and share your location with them.

To use Find My, you’ll need to have an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, and a device that supports Find My, such as an iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, or AirTag. You’ll also need to turn on Find My on your devices, by going to Settings > Your Name > Find My and turning on Find My iPhone, Find My Network, and Send Last Location. You can also use Siri to locate your devices, such as “Hey Siri, where are my AirPods?” or “Hey Siri, find my Mac”.

To locate and protect your devices, open the Find My app and tap the Devices tab. You can see your devices on a map, and tap on them to see more options, such as:

Play Sound: This will make your device play a loud sound, which can help you find it if it’s nearby or lost.
Directions: This will open the Maps app and give you directions to your device’s location.
Notifications: This will let you choose to receive a notification when your device is found, or when it’s moved.
Mark As Lost: This will lock your device with a passcode and display a message with your contact information. It will also disable Apple Pay and other services on your device, and track its location history.
Erase This Device: This will erase all the data and settings on your device, and remove it from your account. This option should only be used as a last resort, as you won’t be able to locate or recover your device after erasing it.

To find your friends and family, open the Find My app and tap the People tab. You can see your contacts who have shared their location with you, and tap on them to see more options, such as:

Contact: This will let you call, message, or FaceTime your contact.
Directions: This will open the Maps app and give you directions to your contact’s location.
Notifications: This will let you choose to receive a notification when your contact arrives or leaves a certain place, or when they share their location with you.
Add to Favorites: This will add your contact to your favorites, which will make them easier to find and access.
Stop Sharing My Location: This will stop sharing your location with your contact, and remove them from your list.

To share your location with your friends and family, open the Find My app and tap the Me tab. You can see your current location and status, and tap the Share My Location button to choose who you want to share your location with. You can also turn on or off Share My Location, which will let you control whether your location is visible to others or not. You can also use Siri to share your location, such as “Hey Siri, share my location with John” or “Hey Siri, stop sharing my location with everyone”.

I hope you enjoyed these 23 expert tips to make the most of your new iPhone. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know. Thank you for reading!

Author

Fred Wilson

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Business

Oracle 1Z0-1050-25 Payroll Cloud 2025 Certification Guide

Published

4 hours ago

August 27, 2025

mehmoodali

Reviewed
By Amaya Olive

Oracle 1Z0-1050-25 Payroll Cloud 2025 Certification Guide for professionals preparing for the Oracle Payroll Cloud exam.

Introduction

In the fast moving world of work digital tools shape how companies run payroll manage employees and stay on track with laws and rules. If you’re a professional in human resources payroll or technology earning a certification in cloud payroll systems can give your career a big boost. The Oracle Payroll Cloud 2025 Implementation Professional certification also called 1Z0-1050-25 is one such credential that can set you apart.

This blog explains what the 1Z0-1050-25 exam covers why it matters how to study for it what skills you will build and how it can help you in your job search. You’ll learn clear steps and helpful tips all in plain language. Let’s dive in!

What Is the 1Z0-1050-25 Certification?

The Oracle Payroll Cloud 2025 Implementation Professional certification also called 1Z0-1050-25 is a highly respected credential offered by Oracle. It is designed for professionals who want to prove their ability to work with Oracle Payroll Cloud a part of the larger Oracle Human Capital Management (HCM) suite. This exam confirms that you have the knowledge and skills to configure manage and maintain payroll systems on the cloud. In simple words passing this certification shows that you can handle payroll operations in a modern digital workplace.

Payroll is one of the most important functions in any business. Every company needs to ensure that employees are paid accurately on time and in compliance with local laws. Mistakes in payroll can cause serious issues from employee dissatisfaction to legal penalties. Oracle Payroll Cloud provides a secure automated and flexible solution to handle these tasks. The 1Z0-1050-25 certification validates that you know how to set up this system properly configure its features and keep payroll running smoothly.

Why This Certification Can Help Your Career

In today’s world of work companies are moving fast toward digital and cloud based payroll systems. Employers no longer want manual processes that are slow and risky. Instead they look for professionals who can manage payroll with modern tools that are accurate secure and flexible. This is why the Oracle Payroll Cloud 2025 Implementation Professional certification (1Z0-1050-25) is so valuable. It proves that you are prepared for today’s payroll challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. Let’s look at the main reasons why this credential can truly support your career.

1. Focus on Real World Cloud Payroll Skills

The exam does not just test theory or definitions. It is carefully designed to reflect real tasks you will perform in a payroll job. For example you learn how to configure payroll settings manage flows handle costing generate reports and make sure that payroll runs according to compliance rules. These are exactly the things you would do if you worked as a payroll consultant analyst or implementation specialist. By passing this certification you show employers that you can apply knowledge directly to real business needs.

2. Builds Trust with Employers

When companies hire they want to reduce risks. Payroll mistakes can cause financial loss and unhappy employees. Employers want someone they can trust with such a critical task. An Oracle certification provides that trust. Since Oracle is a world leader in cloud technology its certifications carry strong weight in the job market. By holding the 1Z0-1050-25 credential you reassure managers and recruiters that you understand best practices proven methods and reliable payroll processes. This trust often gives you an advantage in hiring and promotions.

3. Keeps You Current with Payroll Technology

Payroll technology is not standing still. New features like AI automation mobile pay slips and advanced reporting are changing how companies run payroll. Oracle Cloud Payroll integrates all these tools to make payroll smarter and more efficient. By earning this certification you prove that you are up to date with the latest technology. This makes you more competitive against other professionals who may still rely on older systems or outdated knowledge.

4. Supports Career Growth

This certification is also a career booster. Whether you want to become a payroll specialist HR systems analyst implementation consultant or cloud integration expert the credential opens doors. It shows that you can handle complex projects lead payroll implementations and support global businesses. It may also increase your chances of earning higher salaries gaining leadership roles or joining top consulting firms.

In short the 1Z0-1050-25 certification is more than just a title on your resume. It is proof of your skills a sign of your professionalism and a powerful step toward career growth in the world of HR and payroll technology.

What You Need to Know for the Exam

The exam topics are broad and cover end to end implementation of payroll features. Here’s what you need to learn and be able to do:

1. Payroll Core Configuration

Understand how to capture employee data
Work with calculation cards and values
Manage organization payment methods and object groups
Set up payroll with country specific law compliance
Configure balanced definitions and core payroll setups

2. Earnings and Deductions Setup

Define earning and deduction elements
Manage input values for these elements
Set eligibility rules for when these apply

3. Valuesets and Lookups

Know different types of valuesets like list of codes or amounts
Maintain these values
Use lookup tables and reference data for clean data management

4. Event Groups and Rate Definitions

Create retroactive or proration event groups for payroll adjustments
Set up rate definitions (e.g. hourly rates and calculation values)

5. Payroll Costing Rules

Configure cost flexfields for payroll
Choose costing types fixed variable etc.
Balance cost accounts and pass to general ledger or sub ledger

6. Payslips EFT and SLAs

Set up electronic funds transfer (EFT) for employee payments
Generate payslips in various formats
Post payroll data to subledger accounting

7. Payroll Flows Management

Build and manage payroll flows the tasks that run in sequence
Know how to run and monitor flows for payroll processing

8. Security and Profiles

Assign security profiles to payroll elements
Use role based access control (RBAC) for different payroll users

9. AI Mobile Automation and Redwood UI

Learn about AI/ML mobile features and automation tools in payroll
Understand Redwood UI capabilities Oracle’s modern visual interface

How to Prepare for the 1Z0-1050-25 Exam

Here’s a step by step plan in plain words:

1. Review the Official Syllabus

Start by studying the exam topics one by one. List all the key areas mentioned above and plan to cover each fully.

2. Use Oracle Training Materials

Oracle offers official training and self study courses aligned to the exam objectives. These are great for learning the system in detail.

3. Practice Hands On

Working through a sandbox or demo environment helps cement learning. Try setting up a payroll process creating flows configuration costing and running sample transactions.

4. Use Practice Exams

Practice tests help you get familiar with the format and timing. They can highlight which areas need more practice.

5. Review Link Concepts and Simplify

Use flashcards visuals or notes to link ideas together like how an element links to costing and rules. Use your own words to explain each feature. The simpler you explain the better you understand.

6. Manage Time and Focus on Weak Areas

Track your progress. Spend more time on topics you find tricky like automation costing rules or subledger accounting.

7. Practice under Real Exam Conditions

Time yourself with 50 questions in 90 minutes. Practice how to pace yourself so you don’t rush or run out of time.

8. Final Review before Exam Day

Go through your notes. Focus on key definitions like valuesets flexfields or what AI features are available. Be clear on vocabulary what is a flow? An event group? A flexfield?

Tips for the Exam Day

Read each question carefully Easy to miss details can change answers.
Manage your time Roughly 1.8 minutes per question. Skip hard ones and return later.
Use elimination Even if you don’t know the full answer eliminate options that are clearly wrong to improve your chance.
Stay calm and confident You have planned and practiced. Trust your preparation.

Conclusion

The Oracle 1Z0-1050-25 Payroll Cloud 2025 Certification is a great step toward advancing your cloud technology and payroll career. It proves that you know how to work with Oracle’s powerful payroll tools in real business environments.

Whether you’re a consultant, HR tech specialist, or someone switching to cloud-based systems, this certification opens the door to high-value roles and greater opportunities. With the right preparation, a solid study plan, and hands-on practice, you can confidently pass the exam and boost your professional journey.

Make your mark in the world of Oracle Cloud and payroll technology—one topic, one test, and one achievement at a time.

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mehmoodali

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Technology

How Can Car Dealers in Manchester Use Local SEO to Sell More?

Published

1 day ago

August 26, 2025

barkhagupta

Reviewed
By Ola

How Car Dealers in Manchester Can Use Local SEO to Sell More

In today’s competitive automotive market, car dealers car dealers in Manchester can’t rely solely on traditional advertising or word-of-mouth referrals.

Many buyers begin their car search online, entering queries like “best car dealerships near me” or “used cars in Manchester.” This is where Local SEO Services in Manchester become essential.

By adopting effective local search engine optimization strategies, car dealerships can connect with motivated buyers right when they’re ready to make a purchase.

If you’re a car dealer looking to increase foot traffic, inquiries, and sales, implementing Local SEO can be transformative. This guide outlines how dealerships in Manchester can effectively boost visibility and drive conversions.

Why Local SEO Matters for Car Dealers in Manchester

Car dealerships thrive on local customers. When someone in London searches for “car dealers,” it won’t help a dealership in Manchester. Local SEO ensures your dealership appears prominently when nearby customers search for vehicles or related services.

Key Benefits of Local SEO

Higher Visibility: Your dealership will show up in local search results when potential buyers look for cars in Manchester.
Increased Foot Traffic: Optimized listings drive more visits to your showroom.
Better Lead Quality: Attract people actively searching for cars nearby.
Competitive Edge: Stand out from rival dealerships that overlook local optimization.

When executed effectively, Local SEO Services in Manchester connect car dealerships with serious buyers, making it one of the most cost-effective marketing strategies.

Strategies Car Dealers Can Use to Sell More with Local SEO

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

A well-optimized Google Business Profile (GBP) is the cornerstone of Local SEO. Here’s how car dealers can enhance their GBP:

Accurate Information: Ensure your business name, address, and phone number are correct.
Quality Images: Upload high-quality photos of your showroom, cars, and staff.
Detailed Categories: Include relevant business categories like “car dealership” or “used car dealer.”
Regular Updates: Post updates about promotions or new arrivals.
Encourage Reviews: Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews.

A strong GBP significantly boosts visibility in Google Maps and “near me” searches.

2. Use Location-Specific Keywords

Customers often search using specific terms. Instead of just “car dealer,” they might type “used car dealer in Manchester” or “affordable SUVs in Manchester.”

Dealers should integrate these local keywords into:

Website Content: Use them in your site’s text and meta descriptions.
Blog Posts: Write articles relevant to the Manchester car market.
Service Pages: Include these keywords in your product descriptions.

Using local SEO keywords naturally helps Google recognize your relevance to local searches.

3. Develop Localized Content

Creating content tailored to Manchester buyers builds trust and boosts search rankings. Here are some ideas:

Blog Posts: Write about topics like “Best Family Cars for Manchester Roads.”
Comparison Articles: Compare fuel-efficient cars suitable for city driving.
Seasonal Tips: Share advice like “Top Winter Car Maintenance Tips in Manchester.”

This type of content not only improves rankings but also positions your dealership as a local authority.

4. Build Local Citations

Consistency is key in Local SEO. Your dealership’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) should match across:

Online Directories: Ensure information is consistent on sites like Yelp and Autotrader.
Social Media: Keep your profiles updated with the same information.
Local Listings: Verify that your NAP matches across various local business listings.

Partnering with a reputable Local SEO Company can help maintain this consistency.

5. Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Car purchases require a high level of trust, and online reviews can greatly influence a customer’s decision. Encourage satisfied buyers to leave positive reviews on:

Google Business Profile: Crucial for local visibility.
Facebook: Engage with customers on social media.
Industry Platforms: Use automotive-specific platforms.

Responding professionally to both positive and negative feedback demonstrates credibility and can improve your rankings.

6. Leverage Local Link Building

Backlinks from reputable Manchester-based websites enhance your dealership’s authority. Consider:

Collaborating: Work with local bloggers or automotive magazines.
Sponsoring Events: Get involved with local events or sports teams.
Partnering with Local Services: Collaborate with nearby insurance or repair shops.

Quality backlinks boost your dealership’s visibility and local search ranking.

7. Optimize for Mobile Search

Most car buyers use smartphones to research vehicles. Ensure your website is:

Mobile-Friendly: Optimize for quick loading and easy navigation.
Click-to-Call Buttons: Include buttons that allow for easy contact.
Directions: Provide clear directions to your showroom via Google Maps.

Optimizing for mobile makes it easier for nearby buyers to reach out instantly.

8. Use Structured Data Markup

Structured data helps search engines understand your business better. For car dealers, this can include:

Business Hours: Clearly state when you are open.
Reviews and Ratings: Showcase reviews to improve credibility.
Vehicle Listings: Display your inventory in search results.

Rich snippets make your listing more appealing, increasing click-through rates.

9. Run Local SEO Campaigns for Special Offers

Promotions like “End-of-Summer Car Sale in Manchester” or “Exclusive Financing Options” can be highlighted using optimized landing pages and posts on your Google Business Profile. Local campaigns attract customers looking for deals in their area.

10. Track and Analyze Performance

No Local SEO strategy is complete without tracking results. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to measure:

Keyword Performance: Identify which keywords drive traffic.
Conversion Rates: Track how many visitors turn into inquiries.
Content Effectiveness: Evaluate how well your content performs.

Regular monitoring allows you to adjust your strategies to stay ahead of competitors.

The Role of a Local SEO Company for Car Dealers

While car dealers can manage some optimization tasks themselves, partnering with a professional Local SEO company often leads to faster, clearer results. Experts can:

Conduct Keyword Research: Focused on Manchester’s car market.
Build a Content Strategy: Create a plan that resonates with local buyers.
Manage Listings and Reviews: Maintain a consistent and engaging online presence.
Monitor Competitors: Keep track of what others are doing.

Outsourcing Local SEO lets car dealers focus on selling cars while specialists enhance digital visibility.

Final Thoughts

For car dealers in Manchester, Local SEO is essential for growth. By optimizing Google Business Profiles, creating localized content, building citations, and leveraging reviews, dealerships can significantly boost both online visibility and showroom traffic. Partnering with a professional Local SEO Company ensures consistent execution and measurable outcomes.

FAQs

Why is Local SEO important for car dealers in Manchester?
Local SEO helps your dealership appear in local searches, attracting nearby buyers who are more likely to visit your showroom and buy a car.

How long does it take to see results from Local SEO Services in Manchester?
Some improvements may be observed within weeks, but significant results typically take three to six months.

Can a Local SEO Company help with managing online reviews?
Yes, many SEO agencies assist with reputation management by encouraging positive reviews and professionally responding to negative feedback.

Do car dealers need to update their Google Business Profile regularly?
Absolutely. Keeping your GBP updated with promotions, new arrivals, and photos keeps your profile fresh and appealing to potential buyers.

Is Local SEO more cost-effective than traditional advertising?
Yes, Local SEO targets customers looking for cars in Manchester, making it more affordable than broad advertising campaigns.

Local SEO Company

Local SEO Services Manchester

Author

barkhagupta

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Technology

Get in Touch with us at Epson Printer USA | Contact Us

Published

1 day ago

August 26, 2025

adamsmithh

Reviewed
By Ola

Epson builds trusted printers, scanners, and projectors for homes and workplaces, and most days they simply work. When they do not, timely, accurate support matters. Contacting Epson customer service connects you with trained specialists who can guide installation, fix print quality problems, resolve connection glitches, and coordinate repairs under warranty. This guide explains all the effective ways to get help, how to prepare before you reach out, and what to expect during and after your interaction so you can return to smooth, reliable printing. Epson Printer Helpline: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Printer Helpline Number: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Customer Service Number: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Printer Customer Service Number: +1-804-460-7160

Support

Click Here

When it makes sense to contact Epson

Reach out whenever you face stubborn setup issues, recurring paper jams, blank or faded pages, wireless drop-offs, driver conflicts, or mysterious error messages on the control panel. Customer service can also help with account questions, extended service options, replacing parts and consumables, or locating an authorized service location if your device needs hands-on work.

The main support channels

Phone support. Speaking to a representative is the fastest path for urgent or complex problems. A live agent can observe results in real time as you try steps on the printer or computer, guide advanced diagnostics, and determine whether repair is appropriate.

Live chat. If calling is inconvenient, open a chat session on Epson’s support +1-804-460-7160 portal for quick, text-based guidance. Chat is great for multitasking and for sharing screenshots, photos of error screens, or sample printouts that show streaks, banding, or color shifts.

Email support. For non-urgent issues, send a detailed message describing the symptom, your environment, and steps already attempted. Email creates a written trail you can refer back to, which is helpful for multi-day troubleshooting or when several people share the same printer.

Online resources. Epson’s support pages include drivers, firmware, manuals, setup videos, and step-by-step articles for each model. Many problems are solved by downloading the correct driver package, updating firmware, or following a guided cleaning, alignment, or reset procedure.

Community and social channels. Peer discussions and official responses on community spaces can surface quick fixes and best practices. Social messaging can also draw attention to time-sensitive issues, especially when you can attach photos or short clips that reveal the exact behavior.

Authorized service centers. If a representative suspects a hardware fault, they will point you to a certified repair location. Using an authorized center protects warranty coverage and ensures genuine parts and tested procedures.

Prepare before you reach out

Good preparation shortens the conversation and speeds resolution.

Have the exact printer model name ready, along with the operating system and whether you print over wireless, ethernet, or a direct cable.
Note the symptom precisely. Examples include jobs stuck in the queue, pages feeding with no ink, colors shifting toward a single hue, or scanning software failing to detect the device.
Capture information that proves the behavior: screenshots of driver dialogs, photos of printed pages, or the wording that appears on the control panel.
List what you have already tried, such as reinstalling drivers, restarting the router, running a nozzle check, or cleaning the printhead through the maintenance menu.
Keep purchase information available if a warranty discussion comes up.

How to describe the issue clearly

Start with one sentence that states the symptom, then add brief context and the attempts you have made. For example: the printer produces blank pages after a recent cartridge change; you ran a nozzle check and a cleaning cycle; the pattern still shows gaps. Concise, chronological facts help the agent choose the right next step. Avoid changing several variables at once. Perform one action, observe the result, and report it. This methodical rhythm leads to faster, more confident fixes. Epson Printer Helpline: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Printer Helpline Number: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Customer Service Number: +1-804-460-7160, Epson Printer Customer Service Number: +1-804-460-7160

Making the most of a phone or chat session

Set the device near your computer so you can follow instructions while staying on the line. Enable speaker or hands-free mode to keep both hands available. When the agent suggests a step, repeat it back so you both agree on the action. If a process takes time, such as a deep cleaning or firmware update, ask how long it should run and what a normal result looks like. If you need to pause and resume later, request a case reference so the next representative can see the history and pick up exactly where you left off.

When to request escalation

If the usual checks do not resolve the problem, ask for advanced diagnostics or a senior specialist. Explain your goal in practical terms, such as consistent black text for invoices or reliable scan-to-cloud for remote work. If a hardware issue seems likely, request guidance on protecting the printer during transport, what to remove before drop-off, and how repair approvals work. Clarify turnaround expectations and whether temporary workarounds are available while you wait.

After the conversation

Follow the plan step by step. Typical sequences include updating drivers, applying firmware, power cycling devices in a specific order, running a nozzle check, and printing a short document on plain paper to verify results. If the outcome improves but is not perfect, document what changed and reconnect with support using your case reference. Iterative fixes are common with print quality issues, and clear notes prevent repeating prior steps.

Tips that reduce future support needs

Keep your driver and firmware current. Use high-quality paper and genuine consumables to maintain predictable results. Place the printer where airflow is good and dust is limited. If you print rarely, run a small text page or a color sample every so often to keep the nozzles active. When your network changes, such as a new router or a different mesh configuration, revisit the wireless setup so the printer joins the correct network with a strong signal.

Final thoughts

Epson printer customer service number +1-804-460-7160 exists to restore confidence when your device disrupts a deadline. Choose the channel that fits your urgency, prepare a crisp description, share proof of the behavior, and keep a written record of the plan you build with the agent. With that approach, even stubborn issues become manageable, and you finish the day with a working printer, a clear path for future maintenance, and the peace of mind that expert help is close at hand whenever you need it.