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AI Jargon Explained: 20 Terms You Should Know

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If you have ever read about artificial intelligence and felt lost in the jargon, you are not alone. Words like “deep learning” or “GPT” can sound complicated, but the basic ideas are often easier to understand than they seem. This guide will walk you through 20 of the most common AI terms in plain English. You do not need any technical background. By the end, you will be able to follow AI conversations with more confidence.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI jargon can be confusing, but most terms have simple meanings.
  • Many AI concepts relate to how computers learn, process information, and make decisions.
  • Understanding these 20 terms will help you feel more comfortable with news and discussions about AI.

20 AI Terms Explained in Simple Language

Here are 20 common AI terms, explained as simply as possible:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): When computers are designed to do tasks that usually require human thinking, such as recognizing voices or making decisions.
  2. Machine Learning (ML): A way for computers to “learn” from data and improve over time without needing step-by-step instructions.
  3. Algorithm: A set of rules or instructions that a computer follows to solve a problem or complete a task.
  4. Neural Network: A computer system inspired by the human brain, made up of layers that process information and help with tasks like image recognition.
  5. Deep Learning: A type of machine learning that uses very large neural networks to solve complex problems, like recognizing faces in photos.
  6. Natural Language Processing (NLP): The ability of computers to understand and work with human language, like chatbots or translation apps.
  7. Chatbot: A program that talks with users in a human-like way, often used for customer service or virtual assistants.
  8. Generative AI: AI that creates new content, such as text, images, music, or video, instead of just analyzing existing information.
  9. GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer): A popular type of generative AI that can write text, answer questions, and have conversations.
  10. Training Data: The information used to teach an AI system, similar to how students learn from textbooks.
  11. Bias: When an AI system gives unfair results because the data it learned from was incomplete or unbalanced.
  12. Overfitting: When an AI learns too much from its training data and struggles to work well with new, unseen information.
  13. Model: The finished AI system after training, which can then make predictions or create content.
  14. Prompt: The text or question you give an AI system to get a response. For example, typing “Write me a recipe for chicken soup.”
  15. Token: A small chunk of text (like a word or part of a word) that AI systems break language into for processing.
  16. Computer Vision: The ability of AI to “see” and understand images or videos. Examples include facial recognition or self-driving cars.
  17. Voice Recognition: AI that understands spoken words, such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant.
  18. Reinforcement Learning: A way AI learns by trial and error, receiving rewards or penalties for its choices, like training a pet.
  19. Data Set: A collection of information used for training or testing AI systems.
  20. Automation: Using technology to perform tasks with little or no human involvement, such as sorting emails or powering self-checkout machines.

Real-Life Examples to Make It Clearer

  • When Netflix suggests a movie you might like, that is machine learning in action.
  • When you ask your phone, “What’s the weather today?” and it answers, that is natural language processing.
  • When an AI creates a picture of a cat wearing sunglasses, that is generative AI.

Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence may sound complicated, but once you break down the jargon, it becomes much easier to understand. Knowing these 20 terms gives you a solid foundation to follow the latest news, try out AI tools, or simply feel more confident in conversations about technology. If you would like to keep learning, you can explore guides on how AI is used in healthcare, education, or even in your daily smart devices.

Categories AI

How to organize apps with the VoiceOver rotor on your iPhone and iPad — Apple Support

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To create a folder using VoiceOver on your iPhone or iPad, first, rotate two fingers on the screen to access the rotor and select “Actions.” Enter edit mode by double-tapping when you hear “Started Editing.” Then, flick down until you hear “Drag Photos” and double-tap to confirm. Next, select the apps you want to include in the folder, such as Photos, FaceTime, and Camera. Once selected, flick down to “Create New Folder” and confirm by double-tapping. The folder is created with the chosen apps inside. Exit edit mode by double-tapping “Stop Editing Apps.”

Summary:
– Access rotor in VoiceOver settings.
– Enter edit mode and select “Drag Photos.”
– Choose apps like Photos, FaceTime, and Camera.
– Create a new folder and confirm.
– Exit edit mode to complete the process.

How to share your screen in FaceTime on iPhone and iPad | Apple Support

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To share your screen during a FaceTime call, start or join the call and tap the screen to reveal the controls. Then, tap the “Share Screen” button and confirm by selecting “Share My Screen.” After a brief countdown, screen sharing begins, allowing others to view your entire screen while notifications are muted. Navigate to the desired app to share its content. To end screen sharing, access the FaceTime controls again and tap the “Share Screen” button. For further assistance and tips on iPhone and iPad usage, subscribe to the Apple Support channel or explore additional videos.

Summary:
– To share your screen during a FaceTime call, tap the screen to reveal controls.
– Select “Share Screen” and confirm by choosing “Share My Screen.”
– Screen sharing starts after a brief countdown, muting notifications.
– Navigate to the desired app or content to share.
– End screen sharing by accessing FaceTime controls and tapping “Share Screen” again.

How Teachers Are Using AI in the Classroom

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Artificial intelligence, or AI, is no longer just a futuristic idea. It has quietly made its way into classrooms around the world. Teachers are discovering new ways to use AI tools for tutoring, grading, and lesson planning. These tools can save time, make learning more personal, and even help struggling students keep up.

But with these opportunities come concerns. How can teachers make sure students don’t misuse AI for cheating? And how can schools keep education fair and personal when technology is doing more of the work? This article will walk you through the benefits, the risks, and real examples of how AI is being used in classrooms today.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI can support teachers with grading assignments, saving hours of work.
  • Tools like chatbots and apps provide tutoring help outside the classroom.
  • AI helps teachers plan lessons tailored to student needs.
  • Risks include plagiarism, over-reliance, and privacy concerns.
  • Teachers still play the most important role: guiding, encouraging, and teaching critical thinking.

How Teachers Use AI in the Classroom

1. AI for Tutoring

Think of AI tutoring as a digital assistant for students. Tools like chatbots or learning apps can answer homework questions, explain concepts in simple terms, and even quiz students.

  • For example, a student struggling with algebra can ask an AI app to explain step by step how to solve an equation.
  • Language learners use AI-powered tools to practice conversations and get instant corrections.
  • Some schools provide access to AI tutors so students can review lessons after class at their own pace.

This doesn’t replace teachers. Instead, it gives students extra support when a teacher isn’t available, like at home in the evening.

2. AI for Grading

Grading can take up hours of a teacher’s week. AI programs can help by quickly checking:

  • Multiple-choice tests
  • Short written answers
  • Even longer essays, by flagging grammar, spelling, and clarity issues

This means teachers spend less time on routine checking and more time giving personal feedback. For example, AI might highlight that many students struggled with the same question. The teacher can then review that topic in class.

Of course, teachers don’t simply accept whatever the AI suggests. They double-check results to make sure the grading is fair and accurate.

3. AI for Lesson Planning

Planning lessons for a classroom of students with different needs is tough. AI tools can help teachers design lesson plans by:

  • Suggesting activities based on the subject and grade level
  • Creating quizzes or practice questions in minutes
  • Recommending resources like videos or articles that match the curriculum

For example, a history teacher might ask an AI tool to create a set of discussion questions about World War II. The tool can provide options, which the teacher then adjusts to fit the class.

This doesn’t mean teachers are being replaced. Instead, it reduces repetitive work so they can spend more time actually teaching.

The Risks of Using AI in Education

While AI has many benefits, it also brings challenges. Teachers are careful about how and when to use it. Some of the main risks include:

  1. Plagiarism and Cheating
     Students may use AI tools to write essays or complete assignments without doing the work themselves. Teachers now use plagiarism checkers that can spot AI-generated writing.
  2. Over-Reliance on Technology
     If students always turn to AI for answers, they may not develop problem-solving or critical thinking skills. Teachers encourage balance: use AI for practice, but still learn the process.
  3. Privacy Concerns
     Many AI apps collect data on students’ performance. Schools need to make sure this information stays private and secure.
  4. Bias in AI Tools
     Sometimes AI programs give incorrect or biased answers. Teachers review and guide students to think critically about the information they receive.

Real-Life Examples

  • In some U.S. classrooms, teachers use AI programs to track student progress. If a student struggles with fractions, the program alerts the teacher so they can provide extra help.
  • Language classes often use AI-powered tools for speech practice. Students can speak into the app, and it gives feedback on pronunciation.
  • Teachers in busy schools report saving several hours each week by using AI to generate practice quizzes and review questions.

Beginner’s Classroom AI Toolkit

Here is a simple step-by-step starting guide for teachers who want to explore AI safely and effectively:

  1. Start Small
     Pick one task where you need extra help, like quiz creation or grading short answers. Try a single AI tool for that task before adding more.
  2. Safe Tutoring Apps
  3. Grading Helpers
    • Gradescope (helps grade multiple-choice and written responses)
    • Turnitin Draft Coach (checks writing and flags possible plagiarism)
  4. Lesson Planning Tools
    • ChatGPT or similar AI assistants (generate ideas, quizzes, and lesson outlines)
    • Curipod (creates interactive presentations and class activities)
  5. Keep Human Oversight
     Always review AI suggestions before using them with students. Think of AI as a teaching assistant, not a replacement.
  6. Discuss AI with Students
     Explain how these tools work and set clear rules. Encourage them to use AI as a helper, not as a shortcut for doing assignments.
  7. Stay Updated
     AI in education is growing fast. Check with your school or district for approved tools and best practices.

Final Thoughts

AI is not here to replace teachers. It is a tool, much like calculators or computers once were. Used wisely, AI can make classrooms more efficient, give students extra support, and free up teachers to focus on what matters most: guiding young minds.

The key is balance. By understanding both the benefits and risks, schools can use AI in a way that improves learning while still keeping education personal and fair.

Categories AI

How to find and replace text on iPad | Apple Support

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With iPadOS 16, finding and replacing text on your iPad has become faster. In a document or note, simply double-tap the word you want to replace, then tap “Find Selection.” Next, tap the magnifying glass above the keyboard and select “Find and Replace.” In the replace field, type the word you want to replace with, then tap “Replace” to execute the change. Repeat this process for any additional replacements needed. Once done, tap “Done” to finish. This feature streamlines the process of replacing words efficiently.

Summary:
– With iPadOS 16, text finding and replacing is expedited on iPads.
– Double-tap the word to be replaced in a document or note.
– Select “Find Selection” and tap the magnifying glass.
– Choose “Find and Replace” and input the replacement word.
– Tap “Replace” to execute and “Done” when finished, enhancing efficiency in text editing.

How to add photos or videos in Freeform on iPhone or iPad | Apple Support

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To enhance a board in Freeform with photos and videos, tap the media button within the board. Then, select either photos or videos and choose the desired media to add by tapping on it. Once added, adjust the size by dragging the handles, move it around the board by dragging, or rotate it using two fingers. With these simple steps, you can transform your board into a vibrant space for brainstorming and collaboration.

Summary:
– In Freeform, tap the media button within the board.
– Choose between photos or videos.
– Select the desired media and tap “Add” to include it in the board.
– Adjust size, position, and rotation using drag handles and gestures.
– Transform the board into a lively space for brainstorming and collaboration.

Smart Homes of the Future: Everyday Life with AI

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Imagine waking up to the smell of fresh coffee, lights gently turning on, and a friendly voice reminding you of today’s appointments—all without you lifting a finger. This is no longer a futuristic dream. With the help of AI-powered smart devices like Alexa, Google Home, smart refrigerators, and advanced security systems, many households are already enjoying a new level of comfort and safety.

If technology sometimes feels overwhelming, don’t worry. This guide is written in simple terms to help you understand what a “smart home” really means and how these tools can fit into your everyday routine. We’ll also give you practical, step-by-step tips you can try at home.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home act as central hubs to control lights, music, reminders, and more.
  • Smart appliances make daily chores easier, from ovens that preheat themselves to fridges that suggest recipes.
  • Security systems powered by AI can detect unusual activity, notify you instantly, and keep your family safe.
  • Smart homes are not just about gadgets—they are about saving time, reducing stress, and increasing peace of mind.
  • You can start small with one device and gradually build up a system that suits your needs.

How AI Fits Into Daily Home Life

1. Voice Assistants: Your Personal Helper

Devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Home respond to simple voice commands. You can ask them to:

  • Play your favorite music
  • Read out the news or weather
  • Remind you to take medication
  • Turn off the lights without leaving the couch

They also connect to other smart devices, so with one request, you can set the thermostat, lock the doors, or even start the coffee maker.

Try It Yourself:

  1. Buy a basic voice assistant (Amazon Echo Dot or Google Nest Mini are affordable starters).
  2. Plug it in and connect it to your Wi-Fi using the free app on your phone.
  3. Try saying, “What’s the weather today?” or “Set a timer for 10 minutes.”
  4. Explore skills like playing music, creating shopping lists, or controlling smart plugs.

Real-life example: Imagine your hands are full while cooking. Instead of reaching for your phone, you simply say, “Alexa, set a timer for 20 minutes,” and it’s done.

2. Smart Appliances: Everyday Chores Made Easier

Appliances are becoming smarter and more interactive.

Examples include:

These tools not only save time but can also reduce waste and help you stay organized.

Try It Yourself:

  1. Start with something simple like a robotic vacuum. Many affordable models connect to Wi-Fi.
  2. Download the companion app and schedule it to clean while you’re out.
  3. For cooking, some smart ovens let you scan food packaging with your phone to set the right temperature automatically.

Real-life example: Your fridge notices you’re low on milk and sends a reminder to your phone while you’re at the store.

3. Smart Security: Peace of Mind at Home and Away

One of the most valuable uses of AI in homes is security. Smart systems can:

  • Send alerts when motion is detected
  • Recognize familiar faces and ignore them, while alerting you about strangers
  • Allow you to check live video from your phone anytime
  • Lock doors automatically if you forget

Try It Yourself:

  1. Install a video doorbell such as Ring or Google Nest Hello.
  2. Connect it to your phone and test the live video feature.
  3. Enable motion alerts so you get a notification if someone approaches your door.
  4. If you feel comfortable, connect it with a smart lock to unlock doors remotely.

Real-life example: You’re on vacation, and your door camera notifies you of a package delivery. You can unlock the door for the courier and lock it again once they leave—all from your phone.

4. Safety and Accessibility for Older Adults

AI smart homes are especially helpful for older adults or anyone who may need extra support.

Some examples:

  • Voice assistants can remind you to take medicine or attend an appointment.
  • Smart lighting can automatically turn on at night to prevent falls.
  • Emergency alerts can notify family members if something unusual happens.

Try It Yourself:

  1. Set a daily voice reminder: “Hey Google, remind me to take my medication at 8 a.m.”
  2. Add motion-sensor night lights in hallways or bathrooms.
  3. If you use a smart watch, connect it to your home system for fall detection alerts.

These features give both independence and peace of mind.

5. The Bigger Picture: Saving Energy and Money

AI-powered homes often come with energy-saving features:

  • Smart thermostats learn your routines and adjust temperatures.
  • Smart lights turn off when no one is in the room.
  • Appliances can run during off-peak hours to lower bills.

Try It Yourself:

  1. Install a smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee).
  2. Use the app to set your preferred temperature schedule.
  3. After a week, the thermostat will begin adjusting automatically based on your habits.
  4. Track your energy usage in the app to see savings over time.

Real-life example: In summer, the thermostat lowers cooling while you’re at work and cools down the house just before you get home.

How to Start Building Your Own Smart Home

If the idea of connecting all these devices feels overwhelming, remember you don’t need to do everything at once.

Step 1: Pick a Hub
 Choose either Alexa or Google Home as your main assistant. Both work with most devices, so you can expand later.

Step 2: Add One Device at a Time
 Start small. A smart speaker, a light bulb, or a plug you can control with your voice is a great way to begin.

Step 3: Explore Routines
 In the app, you can create routines like:

  • “Good Morning” → turns on lights, tells you the weather, and plays the news.
  • “Good Night” → locks the doors, lowers the thermostat, and plays calming music.

Step 4: Expand as Needed
 Once you feel comfortable, add smart locks, cameras, or appliances. Each step makes your home more connected.

Beginner’s Smart Home Setup Checklist

Here’s a simple checklist you can follow or even print out:

✅ Choose your main hub (Alexa or Google Home)
✅ Set up your first smart speaker or display
✅ Connect to Wi-Fi and practice with simple voice commands
✅ Add one smart device (light bulb, plug, or switch)
✅ Try creating a routine (morning or bedtime)
✅ Add a security device (video doorbell or camera)
✅ Explore energy-saving tools like smart thermostats
✅ Gradually expand with appliances or additional devices
✅ Test everything and make sure family members know how to use it

Final Thoughts

Smart homes of the future are not about having flashy gadgets. They are about making everyday life simpler, safer, and more enjoyable. From voice assistants that answer your questions to security systems that keep an eye on your home, AI-powered devices can provide real peace of mind.

If you’re new to this technology, start small—maybe with a voice assistant or a smart light bulb—and see how it fits into your routine. Step by step, you can build a home that feels more supportive and connected.

Your home should be a place of comfort. With AI, that comfort is becoming smarter every day.

Categories AI

How to view photo collections in Messages on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch | Apple Support

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In Messages, when you receive multiple photos and messages, you can view them as a collection and swipe through each one seamlessly. Simply tap on the grid view button to see all the photos at once, or swipe through a stack of photos individually. You can tap on a photo to view it in full size and then swipe to see the others. To save, share, reply, or send a tap back, use the buttons along the bottom. To return to grid view, tap the button in the top right corner. Additionally, you can touch and hold a photo to send a tap back. Enjoy exploring photos from your friends!

Summary:
– In Messages, view multiple photos and messages as a collection.
– Swipe through a stack of photos or tap grid view to see them all at once.
– Tap a photo to view it full size and swipe to see others.
– Use buttons along the bottom to save, share, reply, or send a tap back.
– Touch and hold a photo to send a tap back or return to grid view by tapping the button in the top right corner.

AI and Privacy: How Your Data Is Collected and Used

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Every time you go online, you leave little footprints of information. Maybe you ask Siri about the weather, search for recipes, or watch videos on social media. Behind the scenes, artificial intelligence (AI) helps collect, organize, and learn from those actions.

For many people, this can feel overwhelming. Is my phone listening to me? What happens to all that data? The good news is that you do not need to be a tech expert to understand what is happening or to take steps to protect yourself.

This guide will explain how AI collects your information, why it matters, and the risks to be aware of. Most importantly, it includes a simple, step-by-step “privacy checkup” you can do today to feel more in control.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI collects data from searches, voice commands, apps, and devices you use.
  • Companies use this information to improve services, personalize content, and target ads.
  • Risks include loss of privacy, unwanted ads, and possible data leaks.
  • A privacy checkup on your phone, browser, and social media can greatly reduce these risks.

How AI Collects Your Data

AI systems need information to function, and that information often comes from you. Here are the most common ways:

  1. Search Engines – When you type in a question, AI records what you search and how you respond to results.
  2. Voice Assistants – Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant store short samples of your voice to learn your speech patterns.
  3. Social Media – Likes, comments, and what you watch are all tracked to personalize your feed.
  4. Apps and Devices – A fitness tracker might save your daily steps, while a shopping app records your buying habits.
  5. Photos and Videos – AI can recognize faces, places, and even emotions in images you upload.

Why Companies Collect Data

It may feel like companies just want to spy on you, but there are clear business reasons:

  • Improving Tools: Data teaches AI how to give better answers and predictions.
  • Personalization: You see music, movies, or news that match your interests.
  • Advertising: Targeted ads keep many apps and websites free.
  • Innovation: The more data AI has, the more advanced it becomes—for example, helping doctors diagnose diseases.

The Risks of Data Collection

The benefits are real, but there are also risks:

  • Loss of Privacy – Companies may know more about your habits than you expect.
  • Targeted Ads That Feel Uncanny – Ads can sometimes feel like they are reading your mind.
  • Data Breaches – Hackers may steal personal information from company databases.
  • Unintended Uses – Information given for one purpose, like fitness tracking, might later be used for marketing.

Step-by-Step Privacy Checkup

Now for the practical part. Here is a beginner-friendly privacy checkup you can do today. It is broken down into three areas: your phone, your browser, and your social media accounts.

1. On Your Phone

  • Update Your Software
    • Go to Settings > Software Update and make sure your phone has the latest version. Updates fix security holes.
  • Review App Permissions
    • On iPhone: Settings > Privacy & Security > App Permissions
    • On Android: Settings > Apps > Permissions Manager
    • Look for apps that have access to your location, microphone, or camera. Turn off any that seem unnecessary.
  • Check Location Settings
    • Only allow apps to use your location “while using the app,” not “always.”
  • Use a Strong Lock Screen
    • Choose a PIN, password, or fingerprint instead of “swipe to unlock.”

2. In Your Web Browser

  • Clear Cookies and History
  • Turn On Private Browsing
    • In Chrome, it is called “Incognito Mode.” In Safari, it is “Private Browsing.” This prevents your searches from being saved.
  • Install Privacy Extensions
    • Tools like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger can block trackers.
  • Consider a Privacy-Friendly Search Engine
    • DuckDuckGo and Startpage do not track your searches.

3. On Social Media

  • Adjust Privacy Settings
    • Facebook: Go to Settings > Privacy Checkup to control who sees your posts.
    • Instagram: Switch to a private account if you want more control.
    • TikTok: Limit who can comment, duet, or message you.
  • Be Mindful of What You Share
    • Ask yourself: “Would I be comfortable if this was public forever?”
  • Turn Off Ad Personalization
    • Many platforms let you opt out of targeted ads in their ad settings.

Extra Tips for Everyday Safety

  • Use Different Passwords for different accounts. A password manager can remember them for you.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) where available. This usually means entering a code sent to your phone in addition to your password.
  • Think Twice Before Clicking Links in emails or messages. Some are phishing scams designed to steal your data.

Real-Life Example

Imagine you download a free game. During setup, it asks for permission to access your camera, microphone, and contacts. A simple privacy checkup habit would tell you this is unnecessary. By denying those permissions, you keep extra data safe.

Final Thoughts

AI is part of daily life, from search engines to smart speakers. It works best when it has data, but that does not mean you have to give away more than you are comfortable with.

By following the privacy checkup steps, you can enjoy the benefits of AI—like personalized recommendations and useful apps—while keeping control of your personal information. Small habits, like checking settings and being mindful about sharing, go a long way toward protecting your privacy.

Remember, privacy is not about avoiding technology. It is about using it wisely and staying in charge of your data.

Categories AI

How to restore an iPhone or iPad from an iCloud backup | Apple Support

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To restore your iPhone from an iCloud backup, start by turning on the device and following the setup until you reach the Quick Start screen. Choose “Setup Manually” and connect to Wi-Fi. Set up Face ID if needed and create a device passcode. On the “Apps & Data” screen, select “Restore from iCloud Backup” and sign in with your iCloud credentials. Choose the relevant backup from the list and proceed, agreeing to terms and conditions. Continue setup for features like Apple Pay and Siri settings. Ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection throughout the process, and once the progress bar completes, your device will be ready with apps, photos, and other data restored.

Summary:
– Turn on your iPhone and proceed to the Quick Start screen.
– Choose “Setup Manually” and connect to Wi-Fi.
– Select “Restore from iCloud Backup” on the “Apps & Data” screen.
– Sign in with your iCloud credentials and choose the relevant backup.
– Continue setup, ensuring a stable Wi-Fi connection until the progress bar completes, restoring your device with apps and data.