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How to have your iPhone and iPad speak each word as you type — Apple Support

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To have your device read back each word as you type, start by opening the Settings app. Go to General, then Accessibility, and select Speech. Tap Typing Feedback and switch on the “Speak Words” option. Now, when you enter text, your device will read each word aloud, ensuring your message is accurately conveyed.

This feature can be especially helpful for users who are visually impaired or those who want to improve their spelling accuracy. It also provides real-time feedback, making typing more interactive and accessible.

Additionally, it can help users catch typing mistakes instantly, reducing the need for later corrections. Over time, this can improve typing confidence and overall communication efficiency.

Summary:
– Open the Settings app on your device.
– Navigate to General > Accessibility > Speech.
– Tap Typing Feedback.
– Switch on the “Speak Words” option.
– Your device will now read each word aloud as you type.

The Dark Side of Deepfakes: What You Need to Know

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Imagine seeing a video of a famous person saying something shocking—only to discover later it was never real. That’s the power of deepfakes, a type of computer-made video or audio that looks and sounds real, but isn’t.

While deepfake technology can be entertaining in movies or funny online clips, it also has a darker side. It can be used to spread lies, trick people out of money, or harm reputations.

In this article, we’ll break down what deepfakes are, how they work in simple terms, and why they matter. You don’t need any technical background—just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Deepfakes use AI to create fake but realistic-looking videos, images, or voices.
  • They can be fun in entertainment, but dangerous in politics, scams, or fake news.
  • Common risks include fraud, reputation damage, and public confusion.
  • You can protect yourself by learning to question suspicious videos and news.

What Are Deepfakes?

A deepfake is a video, audio clip, or picture made using artificial intelligence. The AI is trained to copy how someone looks, moves, or speaks, and then puts that information into a new scene.

For example:

  • A video might show a celebrity appearing to promote a product they’ve never heard of.
  • A phone scam might use a fake voice recording of a family member asking for money.
  • A politician could be shown making false statements they never said.

At first glance, these fakes can look very real—sometimes too real. That’s what makes them powerful and risky.

How Do Deepfakes Work? (Simple Version)

The word “deepfake” comes from deep learning, a type of AI that learns patterns.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

  1. The AI studies lots of photos, videos, or audio recordings of a person.
  2. It learns the person’s face, expressions, and voice patterns.
  3. The computer then creates new content—like a video of them speaking words they never actually said.

Think of it like a digital puppet. The AI can move the puppet’s mouth, voice, and expressions so smoothly that it looks real.

The Risks of Deepfakes

While deepfakes can be used in fun ways (like special effects in movies), they also bring real dangers. Let’s look at the main risks:

1. Politics and Fake News

  • A deepfake could show a leader saying something false right before an election.
  • This could confuse voters and spread misinformation quickly.
  • Even after the fake is proven wrong, some people may still believe it.

2. Scams and Fraud

  • Criminals use deepfake voices to trick people.
  • Example: A scammer calls pretending to be your grandchild, asking for money. The voice sounds real, making it easier to fall for.

3. Reputation Damage

  • Fake videos can be made to embarrass or harm someone’s reputation.
  • This is especially dangerous for celebrities, leaders, or anyone with an online presence.

4. Entertainment and Confusion

  • Some people share deepfakes as jokes. While harmless at first, they can still cause confusion when others don’t realize it’s fake.

Real-Life Examples

  • In 2019, criminals used a deepfake voice to trick a company CEO into transferring money—costing the company hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  • Fake celebrity videos often circulate online, showing stars in ads or clips they never took part in.
  • Political deepfakes have been spotted in different countries, stirring up public confusion.

How to Protect Yourself from Deepfakes

You don’t need technical skills to be cautious. Here are some practical tips:

  1. Be skeptical of shocking videos
     If something looks or sounds unusual, don’t take it at face value.
  2. Check reliable news sources
     See if trusted outlets are reporting the same story.
  3. Look for signs of fakery
    • Blurry or mismatched facial features
    • Strange blinking or lip movement
    • Background details that don’t fit
  4. Pause before sharing
     Ask yourself: Could this be fake? Sharing without checking spreads harm.
  5. Protect your own images and voice
     Limit what you post online. The less material available, the harder it is for someone to copy you.

The Future of Deepfakes

Deepfakes will likely become even more realistic and harder to detect. At the same time, researchers are creating tools to spot them. Social media platforms are also working to label or remove deepfake content.

For everyday people, awareness is the best defense. By learning what deepfakes are and how they’re used, you’re less likely to be fooled.

Final Thoughts

Deepfakes can be fascinating, but they also carry risks that affect politics, safety, and trust online. By staying alert and cautious, you can protect yourself from falling victim to scams or misinformation.

Remember, not everything you see or hear on the internet is real. The more you practice spotting the signs, the more confident you’ll feel.

Categories AI

How to show a continuous overlay for Voice Control on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch — Apple Support

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To precisely adjust a slider with VoiceOver on your iPhone, start by going to Settings, then General, and selecting Accessibility. From there, tap VoiceOver to activate it. Once VoiceOver is on, flick right until you reach the speaking rate slider. Double-tap and hold your finger on the screen until you hear three rising tones. Slide your finger right or left to adjust the speaking rate slider to your desired setting, such as 50%, 52%, or 66%. This method gives you total control over the slider adjustments.

Summary:
– Go to Settings, then General, and select Accessibility.
– Tap VoiceOver to activate it.
– Flick right to reach the speaking rate slider.
– Double-tap and hold until you hear three rising tones.
– Slide your finger right or left to adjust the speaking rate to your desired level.

How to fine-tune a slider using VoiceOver on your iPhone and iPad – Apple Support

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VoiceOver changes how you navigate your iPhone, including how you drag sliders precisely. To fine-tune the speaking rate slider in VoiceOver settings, go to Settings, tap General, then Accessibility, and select VoiceOver. Turn on VoiceOver, flick right on the screen to select the speaking rate slider, and double-tap and hold your finger on the screen. When you hear three rising tones, slide your finger right or left to adjust the slider to your desired rate. This method gives you total control over the slider adjustment.

Summary:
– VoiceOver alters iPhone navigation gestures.
– Access VoiceOver settings through Settings > General > Accessibility.
– Turn on VoiceOver and select the speaking rate slider.
– Double-tap and hold, then slide your finger to adjust the slider.
– This method allows precise control over slider adjustments.

AI in Travel: Smarter Booking, Maps, and Trip Planning

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Travel has always been exciting, but it can also be stressful. From finding affordable flights to figuring out how to get around a new city, planning can feel overwhelming. The good news is that artificial intelligence (AI) is making travel easier than ever. Whether you are booking a flight, using Google Maps, or planning a full vacation, AI can help simplify decisions and personalize your journey.

This guide will walk you through how AI is shaping travel today, in simple terms. You will learn how to take advantage of these tools yourself, even if you are not very tech-savvy.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI helps find cheaper and smarter flight options by comparing millions of choices quickly.
  • Google Maps uses AI to provide real-time traffic, walking routes, and even public transport updates.
  • Personalized trip planning tools suggest activities, hotels, and itineraries based on your preferences.
  • You can try many of these tools for free on your phone or computer.
  • Using AI in travel can save time, reduce stress, and make your trips more enjoyable.

Smarter Flight Booking with AI

One of the biggest challenges in travel is finding the right flight. Prices can change quickly, and it is easy to feel unsure about when to book. AI-powered flight search engines, like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper, make this easier.

How it works:

  • AI scans thousands of flight options in seconds.
  • It predicts price changes, telling you whether to book now or wait.
  • Some apps send notifications when prices drop.

Example:
 Imagine you want to visit Paris. You search on Google Flights, and it shows not only the cheapest tickets but also predictions like “Prices are unlikely to drop in the next week.” This helps you book with confidence instead of guessing.

Try it yourself:

  1. Go to Google Flights.
  2. Type in your departure city and destination.
  3. Look at the calendar view to see the cheapest dates to fly.
  4. Set up a price alert to get an email if the price changes.

Smarter Maps with AI

Getting around in a new place can be stressful, but AI-powered maps take away much of the guesswork. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all use AI to provide real-time navigation.

What AI adds to maps:

  • Traffic predictions so you know the fastest route.
  • Walking and biking directions that adapt to your speed.
  • Public transit schedules with live updates on delays.
  • Indoor maps for airports, malls, and big train stations.

Example:
 Let’s say you are in Rome. You open Google Maps to get from your hotel to the Colosseum. AI checks the traffic and shows whether a bus, subway, or walking will be fastest right now. It even tells you how crowded the bus might be.

Try it yourself:

  1. Open Google Maps on your phone.
  2. Search for a nearby destination.
  3. Tap on “Directions” and compare driving, walking, and public transit options.
  4. Check the “Live” features to see real-time conditions.

Personalized Trip Planning with AI

Planning a trip involves more than flights and maps. Where should you stay? What should you see? This is where AI-powered planning apps can help.

Websites and apps like TripIt, Roam Around, and GuideGeek use AI to create personalized itineraries.

How they help:

  • AI looks at your interests, such as museums, nature, or food.
  • It creates daily schedules, suggesting attractions and restaurants.
  • Some tools even book activities for you.

Example:
 If you tell an AI travel planner that you enjoy art and food, it might suggest a morning at the Louvre, lunch at a nearby café, and a walking tour through Paris’s Latin Quarter.

Try it yourself:

  1. Visit a site like TripIt or Roam Around.
  2. Enter your destination and travel dates.
  3. Add details about your interests.
  4. Explore the personalized itinerary it generates.

Real-Life Benefits of AI in Travel

Here are some simple ways AI makes trips smoother:

Final Thoughts

Traveling should be fun, not stressful. With AI tools, you can book smarter flights, navigate with ease, and enjoy trips planned around your own interests. The best part is that many of these tools are free and easy to use on your phone or computer.

Next time you plan a vacation, try using one or two of these AI-powered services. You may be surprised at how much simpler and more enjoyable travel can become.

Categories AI

How to turn on Emoji Suffix with VoiceOver on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch | Apple Support

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To have VoiceOver clearly identify emojis, you can turn on Emoji Suffix. First, go to your accessibility settings and select VoiceOver. Then, double-tap to open VoiceOver settings and select Verbosity. Swipe until you find Emoji Suffix and double-tap to turn it on. Now, when VoiceOver reads an emoji, it will include the word “emoji” at the end, making it clearer. For example, instead of just saying “face with heart-shaped eyes,” it will say “face with heart-shaped eyes emoji.” This feature helps to better identify emojis with VoiceOver.

Summary:
– Go to accessibility settings and select VoiceOver.
– Open VoiceOver settings and select Verbosity.
– Swipe to find Emoji Suffix.
– Double-tap to turn Emoji Suffix on.
– VoiceOver will now clearly identify emojis by adding “emoji” at the end.

Can AI Be Creative? Surprising Examples in Art and Writing

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When we think about creativity, we often imagine artists painting on canvas, writers filling notebooks, or musicians composing melodies. But today, machines can also make art, write poems, and even generate music. Artificial intelligence (AI) is stepping into creative spaces once thought to belong only to humans.

Some of its results are surprisingly beautiful, while others feel a bit mechanical. In this article, we’ll explore real examples of AI creativity, show you how to try it yourself, and help you understand how human imagination is still unique.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI can generate art, poetry, music, and stories that sometimes look and sound human-made.
  • These creations are based on patterns and data, not personal feelings or lived experiences.
  • Anyone can try AI creativity at home with free or simple online tools.
  • Human imagination is still special because it carries meaning, emotion, and individuality.

The Rise of AI Art

AI-generated art has become incredibly popular in recent years. Tools like DALL·E, Stable Diffusion, and MidJourney can turn written prompts into images that look like professional artwork.

Imagine typing:

“A watercolor painting of a cozy cabin in the snow, with smoke rising from the chimney.”

In seconds, the program creates multiple images of that scene, each slightly different.

Real-World Example

In 2018, an AI-created portrait called Edmond de Belamy was auctioned at Christie’s for over $400,000. The sale shocked the art world and sparked debates about whether AI-generated art should be considered “real” art.

Try It Yourself

  1. Visit a free tool like Craiyon.com.
  2. Type in a prompt, such as “a futuristic city floating in the clouds.”
  3. Compare the images to what you imagined. Do they surprise you?
  4. Now try creating the same scene yourself with pencil and paper, and notice the difference in personal touch.

This side-by-side comparison shows how AI can generate ideas instantly, but your own version carries your personality and perspective.

AI and Poetry

Poetry is known for its emotion and rhythm. Yet AI can now produce short poems that mimic human writing.

For example, if you ask an AI:

“Write a short poem about the sea at night.”

It might produce lines about waves, moonlight, and reflection.

What’s Missing?

While the words may sound poetic, they don’t come from lived memories. A human poet might recall the salty smell of the ocean, a walk along the shore, or the comfort of hearing waves as a child. That personal connection is what makes human poems deeply moving.

Try It Yourself

  1. Use a free AI like ChatGPT or Verse by Verse (from Google).
  2. Ask it to write a poem about a favorite memory, such as a holiday or a birthday.
  3. Then, write your own version of the same poem.
  4. Compare: Which feels more emotional? Which one captures a memory only you could have written?

AI and Storytelling

AI can also spin stories, from short tales to full-length novels. Writing assistants like Sudowrite or ChatGPT can continue your story, suggest plot twists, or develop dialogue.

Real Example

In Japan, an AI-written short story once made it past the first round of a national writing contest. The judges were impressed by its structure and flow but later realized something was missing: deep character emotions.

Try It Yourself

  1. Start with a sentence:
    “On a rainy afternoon, I discovered a locked box under my bed.”
  2. Ask an AI writing tool to continue the story.
  3. Read what it creates. Does it surprise you?
  4. Now add your own twist. Maybe the box holds old family letters or a forgotten childhood toy.

This activity shows how AI can create interesting setups but still needs your imagination to bring warmth and depth to the story.

AI in Music

AI doesn’t stop with words and images. It can also create music. Programs like AIVA, Soundraw, and Boomy let anyone compose songs, even without knowing how to play an instrument.

Real Example

AIVA, an AI music composer, has created classical-style pieces that sound like they could have been written centuries ago. Some musicians even use AI to help brainstorm melodies before finishing the piece themselves.

Try It Yourself

  1. Visit Boomy.com (it’s free to start).
  2. Choose a style, like “lo-fi chill” or “pop upbeat.”
  3. Click “Create Song” and let the AI generate music for you.
  4. Listen to your song, then think: does it sound catchy? Does it feel personal?

Now, compare it to a favorite song you love. Notice how the human-made one often carries emotion or storytelling in the lyrics, something AI music usually lacks.

Collaborative Creativity: Humans + AI

One of the most exciting uses of AI is not replacing creativity but enhancing it. Many artists and writers use AI as a partner, not a competitor.

For example:

  • A painter might use AI to quickly sketch ideas before choosing one to paint.
  • A writer might use AI to brainstorm titles or dialogue.
  • A musician could use AI to generate background beats, then add their own lyrics.

Try It Yourself

  1. Pick a creative project you enjoy—drawing, writing, or music.
  2. Use an AI tool to generate a starting point (an image, a story idea, or a melody).
  3. Add your personal touch to make it your own.

This way, you’ll see how AI can be a helper, but the most meaningful parts still come from you.

Creativity: Human vs. Machine

So, is AI truly creative? It depends on how we define creativity.

  • AI creativity comes from patterns and data. It copies and recombines what it has learned.
  • Human creativity comes from emotion, memory, and lived experience.

Think of it this way: AI can paint a sunset, but only you can paint the sunset you saw on your honeymoon, with the feelings you had in that moment. That personal story cannot be copied.

Why This Matters

AI creativity is fascinating, but it also reminds us of what makes humans unique. AI can inspire, speed up, or expand our creative process, but it cannot replace the depth of human stories and emotions. For older adults or beginners, experimenting with these tools can be a fun way to explore technology without needing special skills.

Final Thoughts

AI can now paint, write, and compose music. Some of its creations are impressive enough to win contests or sell at auctions. But the difference is clear: AI rearranges patterns, while humans create from personal experience and emotion.

If you’re curious, try one of the step-by-step activities shared in this article. You may discover that AI can be a fun creative partner. Just remember, the heart of creativity still belongs to you.

Categories AI

How to use Point and Speak on iPhone or iPad | Apple Support

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If you are blind or have low vision, you can use Point and Speak on your iPhone or iPad with LiDAR to have text read aloud. In Magnifier, tap the Detection Mode button or enable it by triple-tapping with four fingers if using VoiceOver. Tap the Point and Speak button, then point your camera at the text you want to hear. Point your finger at the text to have it read aloud. When finished, tap Done. This feature requires an iPhone or iPad with LiDAR and the latest iOS or iPadOS, and it’s not available in all regions.

Summary:
– Use Point and Speak on iPhone/iPad with LiDAR to have text read aloud.
– Enable Detection Mode in Magnifier or via VoiceOver triple-tap.
– Tap Point and Speak, then point camera at text and your finger at the text to hear it.
– Tap Done when finished.
– Requires latest iOS/iPadOS and LiDAR; not available in all regions.

How to share an AirTag in Find My on iPhone, iPad, or Mac | Apple Support

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To share an AirTag with friends or family using the Find My app, ensure two-factor authentication is turned on for your Apple ID, and everyone is signed into iCloud with iCloud Keychain enabled. To share, tap the Items tab, select the AirTag, drag up and tap “Add Person.” Choose a contact and tap “Share.” The recipient must accept the invitation in the Items tab to track the AirTag. To stop sharing, tap the shared AirTag, drag up, select the contact, and tap “Remove.” Confirm by tapping “Stop Sharing.” This process helps everyone track shared items seamlessly.

Summary:
– Ensure two-factor authentication and iCloud Keychain are enabled.
– In the Find My app, tap Items, select the AirTag, drag up, and tap “Add Person.”
– Choose a contact and tap “Share.”
– The recipient must accept the invitation in the Items tab.
– To stop sharing, select the shared AirTag, drag up, choose the contact, and tap “Remove.”

How AI Helps Small Businesses Compete

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Running a small business can feel like a constant uphill climb. Big companies have more money, staff, and resources. But here’s some good news: artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer out of reach. Today, affordable AI tools can help you do things faster, smarter, and often better than before.

In this article, we will look at easy-to-use AI options for marketing, bookkeeping, and customer service. Even if you don’t think of yourself as “tech-savvy,” you’ll see that these tools are designed to be beginner-friendly and budget-conscious.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • AI tools are now affordable and designed for small businesses.
  • Marketing AI can help attract and keep more customers.
  • AI bookkeeping tools save time and reduce errors.
  • Chatbots and virtual assistants improve customer service around the clock.
  • You don’t need technical skills to start using most of these tools.

AI in Marketing: Attracting More Customers

Marketing is often the hardest part of running a small business. You want to reach new customers but don’t have the budget for big advertising campaigns. AI tools can make marketing more effective without costing a fortune.

Examples of Affordable Tools

  • Canva with AI features: Helps you design eye-catching social media posts, flyers, or ads in minutes.
  • Mailchimp: Uses AI to suggest the best times to send emails so more people read them.
  • Lumen5: Turns blog posts into short videos automatically, great for social media promotion.

Real-Life Example

Imagine you own a small bakery. Instead of spending hours designing a Facebook post, you could use Canva to generate ready-made templates. Then, Mailchimp can help you send out a weekly newsletter with promotions at the time your customers are most likely to check their inbox.

AI for Bookkeeping and Finances

Keeping track of money is one of the least enjoyable tasks for most small business owners. AI-powered bookkeeping tools can help you stay on top of expenses, invoices, and even taxes.

Examples of Affordable Tools

  • QuickBooks: Automatically categorizes your expenses and generates reports.
  • FreshBooks: Helps with invoicing and tracks time for service-based businesses.
  • Wave: A free tool for simple accounting and receipt scanning.

Real-Life Example

Let’s say you run a small landscaping service. Instead of juggling paper receipts, you can snap photos with Wave’s mobile app. The AI system will read and organize them, saving you hours of work at tax time.

AI in Customer Service: Being Available 24/7

Customers today expect quick answers, even outside business hours. Hiring full-time staff to cover every question isn’t realistic for small businesses. This is where AI-powered chatbots shine.

Examples of Affordable Tools

  • Tidio: Adds a chatbot to your website that can answer common questions.
  • ManyChat: Connects with Facebook Messenger to handle customer inquiries.
  • Zendesk with AI: Helps manage email and chat requests in one place.

Real-Life Example

Picture a local gift shop with an online store. A customer visits the website at 10 p.m. and asks, “Do you ship to other states?” Instead of waiting until morning, a chatbot like Tidio can give an instant answer, keeping that sale from slipping away.

How to Get Started with AI (Step-by-Step)

If you’re curious but not sure where to begin, here’s a simple roadmap:

  1. Pick one area to improve first: Marketing, bookkeeping, or customer service.
  2. Try a free version: Many AI tools offer free plans or trial periods.
  3. Test with one task: For example, use Canva to create your next flyer or try Wave for your next expense report.
  4. Measure results: Did it save you time? Did you reach more customers?
  5. Decide to upgrade: If it works, consider moving to a paid plan for extra features.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t just for big corporations anymore. Small businesses can use these tools to save time, reduce stress, and reach more customers without breaking the bank. The best part is you don’t need a tech background to get started.

Think of AI as an extra pair of hands that never gets tired. By starting small, you can gradually bring in more AI support and stay competitive, even against larger companies.

Categories AI