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8 Hidden MacBook Features Every User Should Know

8 Hidden MacBook Features Every User Should Know

Apple’s MacBooks are among the most sought-after laptops worldwide, with around 100 million active users. They have several cutting-edge features, such as spectacular displays, sufficient storage capacity, and a long battery life. Moreover, they look great and are available in different shades. That said, many users aren’t aware of the hidden capabilities of Apple’s laptops and thus fail to unlock their full potential. Here are eight such lesser-known MacBook features to check out right away.

1. Pin a file or folder to the macOS dock
Besides frequently used apps, users can pin files and folders to the dock at the bottom of the Mac screen. To pin files and folders to the dock, one should locate the element on the Finder app, single-click it, open the “File” menu, and choose “Add to dock.” The “Add to dock” option is hidden; it appears only when one presses and holds the Shift key. One can also complete this action by pressing Ctrl + Cmd + Shift + T simultaneously on the keyboard.

2. Set up hot corners
Hot corners is a feature that enables users to perform specific actions by hovering the mouse over the corners of their MacBook screens. Users can activate this feature by selecting System Preferences > Mission Control > Hot Corners. Hot corners may be used as shortcuts for locking the screen, starting the screensaver, and other tasks.

3. Have a quick glimpse at files and folders
Opening every file and folder to check its contents can be cumbersome. MacBooks make this task easier by letting users preview files and folders from the outside without opening them. One may preview files and folders by selecting the file and pressing the spacebar. This feature can help open any file, including images, PDFs, and Microsoft Office documents.

4. Automatically have apps opened at boot
Some people customarily open certain apps every time they start up their laptops. MacBook users can adjust a few settings so these apps automatically open at boot. This option may be enabled by going to System Preferences > Users and Groups. In this menu, one should click the plus button, select the “Applications” tab, and double-click the program they would like opened on their systems as soon as they log in.

5. Double-click to minimize a window
By default, app windows automatically maximize to fit the screen size when opened. However, MacBook users can simply double-click the window’s title bar to minimize it. This feature isn’t automatically enabled; one may activate it by going to System Preferences > Dock and Menu Bar. Here, users must choose “minimize” from the dropdown menu titled “Double-click a window’s title bar to.”

6. Choose from a range of emojis using the emoji picker
MacBooks are equipped with emoji pickers, which one can easily open by pressing Cmd + Ctrl + Space simultaneously. It can also be pulled up through the menu bar. Users can enable this feature in the menu bar by selecting System Preferences > Input Sources and then clicking the “Show input menu in menu bar” checkbox. Emojis can now be viewed by selecting the “Show Emojis and Symbols” option on the menu bar.

7. Use macOS’s tool to take screenshots and record the screen
Not many know about MacBook’s built-in tool to capture screenshots and record the screen. This tool entails a host of options to take screenshots and record specific parts of the display. Users can also record screen content with the microphone and mouse pointer enabled. This app may be accessed using the shortcut Cmd + Shift + 5.

8. Use Spotlight for conversions
Users who need quick assistance with mathematical conversions need nothing but the macOS Spotlight feature. It may be opened using the shortcut “Cmd + spacebar” or by clicking the magnifying glass icon on the menu bar. Spotlight makes accurate conversions in no time, whether dollars to yen or feet to meters.

Choosing the right macOS device
Individuals can choose from a wide range of Apple laptops and desktops based on their requirements. For instance, a Mac mini is perfect for those looking for a compact but feature-filled desktop. The MacBook Pro is ideal for users looking for powerful, durable laptops for personal and/or professional use. The Mac Pro equipped with the M2 Ultra (a powerful chip 20% faster than the M1 Ultra) is a good choice for professional desktops.

One should also choose a preferred display size based on their requirements and preferences. For instance, a 14-inch MacBook, 15-inch MacBook Air, or 16-inch MacBook may be suitable for gamers requiring larger displays or those intending to watch videos on the device. In contrast, individuals requiring a sleek device for travel would be satisfied with a compact 13-inch MacBook or the Mac Mini (M2 or M2 Pro).

The Mac Studio, a great addition to Apple’s desktop collection, is perfect for a high-performance, lightning-fast experience, thanks to its M2 Ultra and M2 Max chips.

When choosing a macOS device, one must consider their requirements and budget. Learning about the hidden features discussed above is also essential to make life easier and get the most out of the device.

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Top 10 expected Black Friday deals on vacuum cleaners

A clean space helps maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, with the daily responsibilities and chores, it is almost impossible to clean the home regularly. A good vacuum cleaner will make your daily household work easier. It will save you time and pick up on the dust, dirt, and dander. Since buying a vacuum cleaner for full price can be expensive, here are some of the top expected vacuum cleaner deals for Black Friday 2022. Top 10 expected vacuum cleaner deals 2022 On Black Friday, starting November 25, 2022, you will find some of the best vacuum deals. Various retailers are selling their products at lower prices than usual, and you can find some incredible appliances without burning a hole in your pocket. Scroll down to check them out! ROOMIE TEC Wireless Vacuum Cleaner with Stick This ROOMIE TEC vacuum cleaner comes with a stick attached to it, making it easier to clean spaces without bending. The product is easy to empty and has a stainless steel filter. Thanks to Black Friday deals, you can expect this appliance for $87.99. This wireless vacuum has a rechargeable battery, 120 watts of suction power, a stainless steel cover, and a HEPA filter. Shark Rocket Vacuum Cleaner with Corded Stick Get this amazing corded Shark Rocket vacuum cleaner at an attractive price this shopping season. This product might be available at Appliances Connection on Black Friday for just $99. The best part about it is its brush roll, which you can use for self-cleaning, saving you extra labor. Dyson Vacuum Cleaner Pick up the Dyson Ball vacuum cleaner from Best Buy during the Black Friday sale at an anticipated $289.5. It comes with a special HEPA feature and an easy steering feature. This cleaner is great for those who have pets at home as it can pick up pet hair from all sorts of surfaces. You may also get free shipping thanks to the Black Friday offer. BISSELL Helix Turbo Vacuum Cleaner Appliances Connection and Best Buy are likely to offer you the best price for this vacuum cleaner on Black Friday. You might be able to save 50% off on this product and also avail of free shipping. The BISSELL Helix has a dirt differentiation system and is lightweight enough that you can use it without any strain. AeroSwift Vacuum Upright Cleaner This AeroSwift vacuum cleaner comes with easy-to-use features. You might get the appliance for $42 at Best Buy due to Black Friday offers. It comes in handy when cleaning hard floors. Also, check out its Scatter-Free feature, which helps to collect dirt without scattering it. iRobot Roomba Robotic Vacuum Cleaner This high-tech vacuum cleaner offers customized cleaning options for you. It has a rubber brush that is 30% wider as compared to other cleaners. Aside from Google Assistant and Alexa connectivity, the appliance comes with a recharge and resume feature, along with dual brush faces. You might be able to buy this product at around $185. Tineco Cordless Vacuum Cleaner The Tineco Cordless Vacuum Cleaner comes with a brushless motor, making it a quiet machine when in-use. Therefore, it is great for use in spaces that require silence. Deep clean hard floors with its suction feature and take advantage of its wet and dry clean options. Best Buy is likely to offer this appliance for $279. Shark Navigator Vacuum Cleaner This Shark Navigator Vacuum Cleaner comes with a swivel feature, making it easy to carry and clean. With a HEPA filter, lift-away pod, and large dust storage cup, it is a steal for its expected price of $99. Shark ION Vacuum Cleaner This Shark ION vacuum cleaner has an option for Wi-Fi connection, enabling automatic Alexa cleaning suggestions. The smart sensor navigator makes it easy for teenagers to use this as well. Expect to get this for around $219. Robot Roomba i3 Vacuum Cleaner This vacuum cleaner comes with Wi-Fi connectivity and is perfect for houses with pets. It has vacuum sensors to navigate the room with maps. Appliances Connection might offer this product for around $349 and also provide free shipping.

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Top 11 Features of the Apple Vision Pro Headset

Apple will launch its first-ever mixed-reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro, in early 2024. The company unveiled the device in June 2023, and Apple fans and tech enthusiasts have been waiting for its launch. As per Apple, the Vision Pro is a spatial headset that allows users to connect seamlessly to the digital and real worlds. Here are a few exciting features of the Apple Vision Pro, so watch when it eventually goes on sale. Visual specs One of the standout features of the Vision Pro is its display technology. It boasts 4K micro OLED displays for both eyes, with 23 million pixels. These high-resolution displays ensure the user's mixed reality experience is sharp, detailed, and immersive. Whether exploring augmented reality to stay in touch with the physical world or completely immersing in virtual worlds, the users will undoubtedly experience high-quality visuals. Augmented reality The Vision Pro has multiple cameras and sensors that map out the user's surroundings in real-time to create a seamless augmented reality experience. By projecting the real world to the user, the Vision Pro creates the illusion of digital content in the user's physical environment. Virtual reality When users wish to immerse themselves in the virtual world, the Vision Pro can shut off the AR cameras and create a completely virtual environment. The user can easily switch between the AR and VR modes with the Vision Pro's Digital Crown. VisionOS The Vision Pro runs on its dedicated operating system called visionOS. This OS allows users to position their apps and windows anywhere in their visual space. It is a unique approach to multitasking and will change how one interacts with the digital world. Intuitive control Apple has designed the Vision Pro focusing on intuitive interaction. Instead of traditional controllers, it uses eye and hand gesture tracking for navigation and control. It means the users can simply look at an app or feature to highlight it and use certain hand gestures for various actions, such as launching the app, zooming in and out, rotating, etc. Security The Vision Pro features iris-scanning sensors and cameras inside the headset to add a layer of security. Apple has named this feature as 'Optic ID.' It ensures the device unlocks only for its designated user by scanning their iris. Audio specs With built-in spatial audio, the Vision Pro offers a truly immersive auditory experience. The straps of the headset have integrated speakers positioned on either side. Additionally, the headset's sound technology allows it to adapt its audio to fit the user's environment for an accurate augmented reality experience. Furthermore, the Vision Pro has multiple mics, allowing users to make phone calls and accept voice commands. Powerful hardware The Vision Pro houses two Apple silicon chips, including the M2 chip in Mac devices. The M2 chip handles processing and graphics. The Vision Pro also houses a new R1 chip for managing input from cameras, sensors, and microphones. Photography and video shooting The Vision Pro can capture 3D photos and videos with the headset's camera. The headset can also display existing photos and videos in an immersive and larger-than-life manner, adding a new dimension to the user's media. Mac integration The Vision Pro extends its functionality beyond the device itself. One can connect it to a Mac, using the headset as an external display for Mac content. This opens up a world of possibilities for creative work and productivity. Existing apps in visionOS With the introduction of Apple's Vision Pro, their existing apps have transformed visionOS. Since this dedicated operating system brings a novel dimension to digital interaction, apps like Safari, FaceTime, Messages, and more have been reimagined to integrate into its 3D environment seamlessly. The price and its future As per Apple, the Vision Pro will be available with a starting price of around $3,500. However, even before it is available for sale, Apple is already looking into its future. There are rumors that a more affordable version of this device is in the works, potentially bringing the spatial computing experience to a broader audience. Either way, shoppers must watch for the headset's availability at lower prices. Not only because of the rumors but soon enough after its release, the Vision Pro might be available on sale at discounted prices. So, one must keep an eye out for secret sales or discounts and be prepared to embrace a new era of computing when the Apple Vision Pro becomes available.

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Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
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Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
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Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

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