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How to use Shortcuts on Mac | Apple Support

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Starting in macOS Monterey, you can save time by automating tasks with the Shortcuts app. When you open the app, you may see shortcuts synced from your other Apple devices via iCloud, and personalized shortcuts from Siri. You can explore the Gallery for premade shortcuts organized by categories like accessibility and Siri. To create a custom shortcut, such as setting up two apps in split screen, select and customize the shortcut, then add it. You can run shortcuts from various locations like Spotlight or the menu bar by dragging them to the desired spot. It’s a simple, one-click process to streamline your tasks.

Summary:
– Automate tasks with the Shortcuts app in macOS Monterey.
– Sync shortcuts across Apple devices using iCloud.
– Explore premade shortcuts in the Gallery, organized by categories.
– Customize and create shortcuts, such as setting up two apps in split screen.
– Run shortcuts from the menu bar, Spotlight, or Siri for quick access.

How to use Mail on your Mac | Apple Support

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To start using the Mail app on your Mac, open it and add your email account by entering your email address and password. You can choose to sync additional data like contacts and calendars. Once your emails download, you can send a new message by clicking the New Message button, entering the recipient’s address, adding a subject, and writing your message. You can also attach files and respond to emails using the Reply button. To organize your inbox, move messages between mailboxes or delete them as needed. Use the search function to find specific emails quickly.

Summary:
– Add your email account in the Mail app on your Mac by entering your email address and password.
– Send new emails by clicking “New Message,” entering the recipient, subject, and message.
– Attach files to emails and respond to messages using the “Reply” button.
– Organize your inbox by moving messages between mailboxes or deleting them.
– Use the search function to quickly find specific emails.

How AI Helps You Avoid Scams and Spam on Your iPhone

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If you’ve ever answered a strange call or opened a suspicious text, you know how unsettling scams can be. The good news is that your iPhone already has built-in protection. Thanks to artificial intelligence, or AI, your phone can quietly sort out what’s real and what’s risky. In this guide, you’ll learn how AI helps block scams, filter unwanted messages, and keep your personal information safe — all without needing to lift a finger.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI on your iPhone spots and blocks scam calls and spam texts automatically.
  • Messages from unknown or suspicious senders go into a “junk” or “filtered” folder.
  • Siri and Apple’s built-in spam detection learn from patterns to protect you better over time.
  • You can turn on extra settings for even stronger protection.
  • These tools work quietly in the background, keeping your privacy secure.

How AI Recognizes Scams and Spam

Every day, scammers send out millions of fake messages and calls trying to trick people into sharing personal information. AI steps in by learning to recognize patterns — such as unusual wording, fake links, or strange phone numbers.

For example:

  • Scam calls often come from numbers that don’t match the caller’s name or region.
  • Spam texts might promise prizes, claim you missed a delivery, or ask for urgent action.
    Your iPhone’s AI compares these details against known patterns of fraud. If something looks suspicious, it flags or filters the message before you even open it.

How Apple’s AI Protects You

Apple builds AI right into iOS, your iPhone’s operating system. That means your phone is always working to spot and stop threats without sending your data to outside servers. Here’s what it does:

  1. Message Filtering
    • When you receive a text from someone not in your contacts, your iPhone uses AI to decide whether it looks safe.
    • Suspicious texts are automatically sorted into a “Junk” or “Unknown Senders” folder.
    • You can review them later if needed, but most of the time they can be safely ignored.
  2. Scam Call Detection
    • The Silence Unknown Callers feature blocks calls from numbers you’ve never interacted with before.
    • AI checks for call patterns that match known scams, reducing those fake “bank” or “tech support” calls.
    • Real callers, like your doctor or delivery person, can still leave a voicemail.
  3. Mail and Safari Protection
    • Apple Mail can detect phishing emails that try to look like official messages.
    • Safari browser uses Fraudulent Website Warning to alert you if you’re about to open a risky page.

Turning On iPhone Safety Features

You don’t need to be a tech expert to use these tools. Here’s how to make sure they’re working for you:

To silence unknown callers:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Phone.
  3. Choose Silence Unknown Callers and turn it on.

To filter unknown senders in Messages:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Messages.
  3. Turn on Filter Unknown Senders.

To protect yourself in Safari:

  1. Go to Settings > Safari.
  2. Make sure Fraudulent Website Warning is turned on.

Once set, these tools quietly handle most scams so you can focus on what matters — staying connected safely.

Real-Life Example

Imagine getting a text that says, “Your package is delayed. Click here to reschedule.” It might look real, but your iPhone’s AI can notice that the link leads to a fake website or the wording doesn’t match normal delivery messages. Instead of landing in your inbox, that text is filtered away. You never even see it — and that’s the beauty of AI protection.

Privacy Matters Too

One of the best parts about Apple’s approach is privacy. Unlike some services that send your data to the cloud for scanning, Apple’s AI works on your device. That means your messages, calls, and browsing history stay private while still benefiting from strong protection.

You stay safe without giving up your personal information.

Tips for Extra Safety

Even though your iPhone’s AI does a great job, a few simple habits can make you even safer:

  • Don’t tap links in texts or emails from unknown senders.
  • Never share personal details like passwords, bank info, or one-time codes by message.
  • Use two-factor authentication for your accounts when possible.
  • Keep your iPhone updated — new updates often include stronger AI protections.

These steps work hand in hand with your phone’s AI to create a powerful safety net.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are getting trickier, but your iPhone’s AI is getting smarter. It quietly guards your messages, filters calls, and blocks fake websites so you don’t have to worry. By turning on the right settings and trusting these built-in tools, you’re already taking the most important steps to protect yourself online.

Remember: staying safe doesn’t mean you need to be tech-savvy — it just means letting your iPhone’s AI do what it does best.

Categories AI

How to move a Final Cut Pro library to an external drive on your Mac | Apple Support

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To save space on your internal hard drive when using Final Cut Pro, you can move your library to an external drive. Start by connecting and formatting your external drive with APFS, and remove generated files from the library for a quicker move. In Final Cut Pro, select the library, consolidate your media files, and then reveal the library in Finder. Quit Final Cut Pro, drag the library file to the external drive, and reopen it from there. Finally, select the library in Final Cut Pro, consolidate the media, and continue working while it consolidates in the background.

Summary:
– Connect and format your external drive with APFS.
– In Final Cut Pro, select the library and consolidate media files.
– Reveal the library in Finder and quit Final Cut Pro.
– Drag the library file to the external drive and reopen it.
– Consolidate the media in Final Cut Pro while continuing to work.

AI Tools That Help You Stay in Touch With Family Effortlessly

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Staying connected with loved ones has never been easier, thanks to the quiet help of artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you want to send a quick text, chat with relatives who speak another language, or reply without typing, your phone already has tools that can make it all simple. You don’t need to be a tech expert — just a few taps or voice commands can help you feel closer to your family, wherever they are.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Voice dictation lets you speak your messages instead of typing.
  • Translation tools help you chat easily across different languages.
  • Smart replies offer quick, ready-to-send responses.
  • Siri and AI assistants can read, write, or send messages for you.
  • These tools are built into most phones and apps — no extra setup needed.

Speak, Don’t Type: Using Dictation for Messages

Typing on a small screen can be tiring, especially for longer messages. Dictation takes the effort out of texting. You simply speak your message aloud, and your phone turns your words into text instantly.

Here’s how it works on most devices:

  1. Open your Messages or Mail app.
  2. Tap the microphone icon on your keyboard.
  3. Speak naturally — you can even say punctuation like “comma” or “question mark.”
  4. Check your message, then tap Send.

It’s especially handy if your hands are busy or if you have vision or dexterity challenges. You can even dictate reminders, notes, or emails. The more you use it, the better it gets at recognizing your voice and favorite phrases.

Breaking the Language Barrier: Translation Tools

Do you have relatives who prefer another language? AI translation tools make conversations smooth and natural. Apps like Apple Translate, Google Translate, and even Messages on iPhone can instantly turn your words into another language — and back again.

For example:

  • You say “How are you?” in English.
  • The app shows and speaks the same message in Spanish or Chinese.
  • Your family member replies in their language, and it’s translated back for you.

Many phones even offer real-time conversation mode, where you both speak naturally, and AI does the translating as you go. It feels almost like having an interpreter in your pocket.

If you use FaceTime or video calls, subtitles can also appear in your chosen language, making family chats more comfortable and inclusive.

Reply in a Tap: Smart Responses

Sometimes, all you need is a quick “Thank you!” or “Sounds good!” AI can save you from typing these short replies again and again.

In Messages, Mail, and even apps like WhatsApp, you’ll often see small buttons under received texts with suggested responses. These are called smart replies.

For example, if someone texts, “Want to call tonight?” you might see options like:

  • “Sure!”
  • “Maybe tomorrow.”
  • “Sounds good.”

You just tap one and send — no typing needed. These AI suggestions learn from your habits, so they start sounding more like you over time.

Let Siri or Google Assistant Handle It

If you prefer to stay hands-free, voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant can take care of your communication for you. You can say things like:

  • “Hey Siri, text Emma that I’ll call her later.”
  • “Hey Google, read my last message from Sam.”

These assistants can send messages, start calls, read new texts aloud, or even translate short phrases. They’re especially helpful when you’re cooking, driving, or just relaxing with your phone across the room.

You can also ask Siri to announce messages through your AirPods, so you can hear and respond without looking at your screen.

Real-Life Example: Staying Close Across Generations

Imagine this: your grandson is studying abroad in France. He texts you in French, but you’re not sure what it means. You open his message in the Translate app, tap “Detect Language,” and instantly see the English version. You reply in English, and it’s automatically sent in French.

Or maybe your hands ache from typing — so you tell Siri, “Text Lily: I love the photos you sent!” and your message is ready in seconds.

Small conveniences like these add up. They make staying in touch less about effort and more about connection.

Tips for Getting Started

  • Try one tool at a time. Start with dictation before moving on to translation or smart replies.
  • Speak clearly and naturally. AI tools improve when they hear your voice regularly.
  • Check for updates. Keeping your apps and phone software up to date ensures smoother performance.
  • Use Wi-Fi when possible. Translation and voice features work faster with a stable internet connection.
  • Practice with friends. Experiment with short messages or simple phrases before using these tools for longer chats.

Final Thoughts

Technology doesn’t have to make communication harder — it can actually make it more personal. With AI-powered tools like dictation, translation, and smart replies, you can stay close to your family no matter where they are or what language they speak.

Think of these tools as quiet helpers, ready to step in when you need them. Try one the next time you send a message or make a call — you might be surprised by how easy and natural it feels to stay connected.

Categories AI

How to update macOS on your Mac | Apple Support

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To update macOS and get the latest features and security enhancements, start by ensuring your Mac is plugged into power, connected to the internet, and backed up using Time Machine. For macOS Ventura, go to the Apple menu, select System Settings, then Software Update. Enable automatic updates if desired, or click Update Now and follow the prompts. For macOS Monterey or earlier, go to System Preferences and Software Update, then either select updates manually or choose automatic updates. During installation, your Mac may restart or dim; just wait for the process to complete, then log back in and continue using your Mac.

Summary:
– Ensure your Mac is plugged in, connected to the internet, and backed up.
– For macOS Ventura, go to System Settings > Software Update and enable or start updates.
– For macOS Monterey or earlier, go to System Preferences > Software Update.
– Select updates manually or enable automatic updates.
– Let the installation complete, then log back in to use your Mac.

Let Siri Help You: How Voice Commands Make Your iPhone Easier to Use

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If you’ve ever wished your iPhone could do what you want without all the tapping and typing, Siri is your friendly helper. With just your voice, you can send a message, make a call, or get directions — all without lifting a finger. This guide will show you how to use Siri step by step, even if you’ve never tried it before.

By the end, you’ll see how simple and helpful voice commands can be — especially when your hands are full or you just prefer talking over typing.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Siri lets you control your iPhone using only your voice.
  • You can use it to make calls, send texts, set reminders, and more.
  • Just say “Hey Siri” (or press a button) to get started.
  • Great for hands-free use, accessibility, or when you’re on the go.
  • Siri can answer questions, tell you the weather, or look things up online.

How to Start Using Siri

Before you begin, make sure Siri is turned on:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Siri & Search.
  3. Turn on Listen for “Hey Siri” and Press Side Button for Siri.

Once that’s done, you can either say “Hey Siri” or hold down the side button (on newer iPhones) or the Home button (on older models).

Try saying something simple like:

  • “Hey Siri, what’s the time?”
  • “Hey Siri, what’s the weather today?”

Siri will respond out loud and show the answer on your screen.

Making Phone Calls with Siri

You can make calls without touching your screen. Just say:

  • “Hey Siri, call John.”
  • “Hey Siri, call Mom on speaker.”

If you have more than one number for someone, Siri will ask which one to use — mobile, home, or work.

You can also say:

  • “Hey Siri, redial my last call.”
  • “Hey Siri, call my voicemail.”

This feature is especially helpful if you’re driving, cooking, or simply can’t hold your phone.

Sending Messages by Voice

Typing isn’t always easy, but with Siri, you can dictate messages hands-free. Try saying:

  • “Hey Siri, send a message to Anna saying I’ll be there in ten minutes.”

Siri will read the message back and ask if you’d like to send it. You can say “Send” or “Change it” if you want to fix something.

You can even ask:

  • “Hey Siri, read my new messages.”
  • “Hey Siri, reply to that message and say thank you.”

This makes staying in touch easy, even if you’re not near your phone’s keyboard.

Getting Information and Help

Siri can do more than make calls or send texts. You can use it as your personal assistant for quick answers:

  • “Hey Siri, what’s on my calendar today?”
  • “Hey Siri, set a reminder to water the plants at 6 p.m.”
  • “Hey Siri, where’s the nearest pharmacy?”
  • “Hey Siri, how do you spell ‘accommodate’?”

You can even ask follow-up questions. For example:

  • “Hey Siri, what’s the weather in New York?”
    Then follow with, “How about tomorrow?” — and Siri will understand you’re still talking about New York’s weather.

Using Siri for Everyday Convenience

Here are a few other handy things Siri can do:

  • Timers and Alarms: “Hey Siri, set a timer for 10 minutes” or “Wake me up at 7 a.m.”
  • Directions: “Hey Siri, give me directions to the nearest gas station.”
  • Music and Podcasts: “Hey Siri, play some relaxing music.”
  • Notes and Lists: “Hey Siri, add eggs to my grocery list.”
  • Translations: “Hey Siri, how do you say ‘thank you’ in French?”

You don’t have to remember every phrase. Siri understands natural speech, so just talk the way you normally would.

Tips for Better Results

  • Speak clearly and at a normal pace.
  • Keep your iPhone nearby so Siri can hear you.
  • If Siri doesn’t respond, check your internet connection or microphone.
  • You can say “Hey Siri, what can you do?” to see a list of suggestions.

Over time, Siri learns how you speak and what you often ask, making it even more helpful and accurate.

Final Thoughts

Siri is like having a personal helper right in your pocket. It can save you time, reduce typing, and make your iPhone easier to use — especially if you prefer speaking over tapping. Once you get comfortable, you might find yourself using voice commands for almost everything.

Start small with simple requests, and before long, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without Siri’s help.

Categories AI

How to use video effects with Continuity Camera with iPhone on Mac | Apple Support

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To add video effects while using Continuity Camera for FaceTime on a Mac, start a FaceTime call and use your iPhone as a webcam. Open Control Center and click “Video Effects” to choose from options like Center Stage, which keeps you centered in the frame, Portrait mode to blur the background, and Studio Light to illuminate your face. You can apply one effect or combine multiple effects simultaneously for a polished look during your call.

Summary:
– Start a FaceTime call using Continuity Camera with your iPhone as a webcam.
– Open Control Center and select “Video Effects.”
– Choose Center Stage to keep you centered in the frame.
– Apply Portrait mode to blur the background or Studio Light to illuminate your face.
– Combine effects or use them individually for enhanced video during your call.

How to crop and straighten photos on your Mac | Apple Support

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To edit a photo taken at an odd angle or skewed perspective on your Mac, open the Photos app and double-click the photo you want to edit. Click “Edit” in the top-right corner, then select “Crop.” You can adjust the crop by dragging the corners of the photo. Use the Straighten slider to modify the photo’s angle. For further adjustments, drag the Vertical or Horizontal sliders to correct the perspective. Once you’re satisfied with the edits, click “Done.” This process allows you to easily give your photos a new perspective and correct any skewed angles.

Summary:
– Open the Photos app on your Mac and double-click the photo you want to edit.
– Click “Edit” in the top-right corner and select “Crop.”
– Adjust the crop by dragging the corners and use the Straighten slider to change the photo’s angle.
– Use the Vertical or Horizontal sliders to modify the photo’s perspective.
– Click “Done” to save your edits.

Seeing and Hearing Better With AI: Accessibility Features You’ll Love

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Technology can do amazing things, especially when it’s designed to make life easier for everyone. If you sometimes struggle to read small text, hear sounds clearly, or type on your phone, Apple’s AI-powered accessibility tools can lend a hand. These features quietly work in the background, helping you see, hear, and communicate more confidently — no tech expertise required.

In this article, we’ll explore simple yet powerful ways AI can support better vision and hearing on your iPhone.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI helps you read text in the real world. Use Live Text to copy or hear printed words instantly.
  • Voice Control lets you navigate and type using only your voice.
  • Sound Recognition alerts you to important noises like a doorbell or baby crying.
  • Siri and dictation tools make communication easier for those with limited mobility or hearing.
  • You don’t need special apps — most of these features are already built into your iPhone.

Seeing Better With AI

1. Live Text: Turn the Real World Into Readable Text

Imagine pointing your iPhone’s camera at a restaurant menu or medicine label — and the words become clear, readable text you can copy, zoom in on, or have read aloud. That’s Live Text, an AI feature built right into your Camera and Photos apps.

Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open your Camera and point it at printed text.
  2. When yellow brackets appear, tap the Live Text icon.
  3. You can then copy, translate, or speak the words.

This is especially helpful if you have trouble reading small print or foreign languages. For example, you can translate a French menu while traveling or listen to a food label being read aloud at home.

2. Magnifier: Your Digital Hand Lens

AI also enhances the Magnifier app, which uses your camera to enlarge small text or objects. It can even automatically detect people and objects, adjusting lighting and contrast for clearer viewing.

Tip: Add Magnifier to your Control Center for quick access — just go to Settings > Control Center > Magnifier.

Hearing Better With AI

1. Sound Recognition: AI That Listens for You

If you don’t always hear alerts, your iPhone can help. The Sound Recognition feature uses AI to detect specific noises like a smoke alarm, doorbell, or running water.

When one of these sounds is recognized, you’ll get a vibration or visual alert on your screen. It’s like having an extra set of ears keeping watch.

To turn it on:

  • Go to Settings > Accessibility > Sound Recognition
  • Choose the sounds you want your phone to monitor

You can even train your iPhone to recognize custom sounds, like a particular appliance or alarm tone.

2. Live Listen: Turn Your iPhone Into a Hearing Helper

If you use AirPods or certain hearing aids, Live Listen turns your iPhone into a mini microphone. Place it near the person speaking, and their voice is sent directly to your ears through your AirPods or hearing device.

It’s great for conversations in noisy places or when someone’s speaking softly.

To try it:

  1. Connect your AirPods or hearing aids.
  2. Go to Control Center > Hearing icon (ear symbol).
  3. Tap Live Listen to begin.

Hands-Free Help With Voice AI

1. Voice Control

Typing or swiping can be tough at times. Voice Control lets you do almost anything on your iPhone with spoken commands. You can open apps, scroll, dictate messages, and even edit text — all with your voice.

For example, you can say:

  • “Open Messages”
  • “Tap Send”
  • “Replace ‘hello’ with ‘hi’”

To enable it, go to Settings > Accessibility > Voice Control, and follow the on-screen setup.

2. Siri and Dictation

Siri is Apple’s friendly voice assistant, and it’s powered by AI to understand natural speech. Whether you need to send a quick text, set a reminder, or check the weather, Siri can handle it hands-free.

Try saying:

  • “Hey Siri, read my last message.”
  • “Hey Siri, what’s on my calendar today?”

If you prefer typing less but don’t want full Voice Control, Dictation lets you speak instead of type in any text field — perfect for notes or emails.

Combining Features for Everyday Ease

The best part? These features work beautifully together. For example:

  • Use Live Text to read a handwritten recipe, then ask Siri to set a timer while you cook.
  • Turn on Sound Recognition while using Live Listen, so you won’t miss a doorbell or phone ring.
  • Use Voice Control with Magnifier for a totally hands-free experience when your hands are busy or vision is limited.

AI is quietly doing the heavy lifting — you just enjoy the results.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t just about fancy robots or futuristic tech. It’s about real, practical help for everyday life. Whether you want to read a sign more easily, hear a friend clearly, or control your phone with your voice, these accessibility features make your iPhone more personal and empowering.

So take a few minutes to explore them in your settings. You might be surprised at how much easier — and more enjoyable — your phone becomes when it truly adapts to you.

Categories AI