Smartphones – Online Tech Tips https://www.online-tech-tips.com Computer Tips from a Computer Guy Sat, 23 Sep 2023 02:22:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.1 How to Reset a SIM Card https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-reset-a-sim-card/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-reset-a-sim-card/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Sat, 23 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=98227

Are you facing issues with your SIM card on your Android or iPhone? You may be experiencing poor network connectivity, SIM card errors, or you have a new phone or […]]]>
Are you facing issues with your SIM card on your Android or iPhone? You may be experiencing poor network connectivity, SIM card errors, or you have a new phone or SIM card and need to switch it out. Resetting the SIM card can often help resolve the problem and get your device back on track.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through resetting a SIM card on Android and iPhone devices. We’ll cover various methods and troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you have a Samsung Galaxy, an iPad, or any other mobile phone, we’ve got you covered.

Why Reset a SIM Card

SIM card’s an essential component in your mobile phones. It stores crucial information, such as your phone number, network data, and contacts. Without a properly functioning SIM card, your phone won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or connect to mobile data networks.

There are several situations when you may decide to reset your SIM card.

  • Poor network connectivity. If you’re experiencing constant drops in network signals or slow data speeds, a reset might help re-establish a connection with the mobile network.
  • SIM card errors. Sometimes, your phone may display messages like SIM card not detected or SIM card error. A reset can resolve these issues.
  • Switching to a new SIM card. When you replace an old SIM card with a new one from your service provider, you’ll need to reset your device to use the new SIM card’s data and phone number.
  • Troubleshooting other issues with your smartphone. If you’re facing any other unexplained issues related to your SIM card, resetting it can be a helpful troubleshooting step.

Back Up Your Data Before Resetting Your SIM

Before resetting your phone’s SIM card on either Android or iOS, back up your data to avoid losing critical information. Backing up your data will keep your contacts, text messages, photos, and other valuable data safe and easily restorable after the reset.

Here’s how to back up your Android and iPhone data.

For Android:

  1. To save your contacts, follow the path Settings > System or Accounts. Then enable the Back up my data option.
  2. For text messages, download a backup app from the Google Play Store and follow the instructions.
  3. Use Google Photos to back up your photos and videos. To do that, open the Google Photos app, go to Settings, and enable Backup & sync.
  4. Most apps and data will be backed up automatically, but double-check if any app needs specific settings.

For iPhone:

  1. Back up your contacts by going to the device’s Settings, then select your name, and enable Contacts under iCloud.
  2. iPhone automatically backs up your text messages to iCloud. Check if iCloud Backup is on in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud Backup.
  3. Use iCloud Photo Library to back up your photos and videos. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos and enable it.
  4. Apps and app data are included in iCloud Backup by default. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud Backup to ensure iCloud Backup is turned on.

Once you finish backing up, you can reset the SIM card without losing your important data. Regularly backing up your data is a good practice to keep it safe.

How to Reset a SIM Card on Android

You can use several methods to erase all data on a SIM card on your Android device. They include a factory reset, erasing all the data manually, and using a SIM card reader.

Method 1: Perform a Factory Reset

If you want to remove any connection between your SIM card and your phone, consider doing a factory reset. Please note that a factory reset will erase all data on your Android device. Make sure to back up your data before proceeding with this method.

To factory reset your Android phone, follow the steps below. The exact steps may differ depending on the model of your Android phone.

  1. On your smartphone, go to Settings.
  2. Scroll down and select System settings.
  3. Select Reset options / System reset / Back up and reset.
  4. Select Erase all data (factory reset) or Reset phone.
  5. Confirm your decision when prompted.

Your Android device will restart and then reset to its factory settings.

Method 2: Clear Your SIM Card Manually

After the factory reset, your SIM card’s data will remain there. You can manually erase the data from your SIM card by clearing the call logs and contacts from your cell phone.

To delete contacts and call logs stored on the SIM card, follow these steps:

  1. On your Android phone, open the Messages app.
  2. Tap the 3-dot menu icon in the top right corner.
  1. Select Settings.
  2. Select Advanced settings.
  1. Go to SIM card SMS messages.
  2. You’ll see a list of all SMS stored on your SIM card. Delete them one by one or in bulk by choosing Delete all.

Next, here’s how to delete call logs:

  1. Open the Calls or Phone app on your Android smartphone.
  2. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the upper right corner.
  3. Select Call History.
  4. Open the same menu and select Clear call history.

Some Android phones may also have a separate option to Erase contacts and call logs stored on this phone in the phone’s Settings app, which allows you to clear the SIM card memory quickly.

Method 3: Reset SIM Card Using USB Card Reader

If you want more control over erasing data from your SIM card, consider using a SIM card reader/writer. This affordable and portable device allows you to directly access the storage of your SIM card on your computer.

Note that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific SIM card reader/writer device and the software it uses. Be cautious while using this method, as it directly accesses and modifies the data on your SIM card. Make sure you have a backup of any important data before proceeding.

To erase the entire SIM card data using a SIM card reader, follow the steps below.

  1. Open the SD card drawer on the reader/writer device and place your SIM card in it. Alternatively, insert the SIM card into a designated slot on the device (similar to a USB stick).
  2. Connect the reader device to your computer using a USB cable.
  3. Install any third-party software and necessary drivers for the device.
  4. Once connected, you can see your SIM card’s content on your computer, just like a USB drive or external HDD.
  5. Select all the data and use the Delete button on your keyboard or the corresponding option in the software’s menu.
  6. Give necessary permissions, and double-check to ensure the data is completely erased. Then empty your Recycle Bin or Trash Bin on your computer.

How to Reset a SIM Card on iPhone

Unlike other phones, the iPhone doesn’t store any data on a SIM. So if you need to wipe your data from the phone, you can use the factory reset method like you would on Android.

The steps may vary depending on the version of iOS you have. The following steps apply to some iOS versions, but you should explore your specific device settings to confirm.

Here’s how to erase your data on iOS:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and select General.
  1. Find and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
  1. Select Erase all content and settings.
  1. Then select Erase iPhone. You may need to enter your password to confirm.

By following these steps, you can remove all data from your iPhone. You can also use a third-party app to delete your personal information from your iPhone, like Dr.Fone or iMyPhone.

Tips to Troubleshoot a Faulty SIM Card

If you have trouble making a call or get an error message on your phone saying your SIM card is not working, there are several ways to troubleshoot the problem. While resetting your SIM may solve the issues, the error may not be related to your SIM card. For example, the problem could be with your carrier settings.

Before resetting your SIM card, we recommend performing the following troubleshooting steps to see if they fix the problem.

  • Toggle Airplane Mode. If you encounter SIM card errors, try turning on Airplane mode, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it off again. This simple trick can resolve some software-related issues.
  • Update Carrier Settings. Check for carrier updates on your iPhone under General and About. For Android, search for Carrier Settings and tap Update Profile if available.
  • Reset Network Settings. As a last resort, reset your phone’s network settings or reset all settings, but be aware that it will also reset Bluetooth pairings and Wi-Fi passwords.
  • Restart Your Phone. Reboot your phone to clear out temporary glitches. Turn off your iPhone and wait a minute before turning it back on. On Android, swipe down from the top of the screen and select the Power icon.
  • Clean Your SIM Card. Ensure the card is clean and the SIM card contacts are clear. Gently wipe the card with a microfiber cloth, and use compressed air to remove debris. Make sure to keep your SIM card dry.
  • Remove and Reinstall the SIM Card. If the issue persists, reset your SIM card. Turn off your phone. Use the SIM card removal tool or a paperclip to pop out the SIM card tray, remove the card, and then carefully place the SIM card back into the SIM card slot. Then turn the back cover on if necessary and turn on the phone.
  • Test SIM Card in Another Device. Try the SIM card in another compatible device to see if it works. If it does, the problem may be with your phone, not the SIM card.

Reset Your SIM Card for a Fresh Start

Resetting your SIM card on Android and iPhone is vital for resolving issues and maintaining a smooth mobile experience. Whether you reset network settings, perform a factory reset, or use other methods, follow the steps carefully to avoid data loss.

Remember to back up your data before any reset, and consider contacting your service provider if you encounter persistent problems. By taking these actions, you can troubleshoot any SIM card-related issues effectively.

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How to Fix the “Invalid SIM Card” Error on Android https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-fix-the-invalid-sim-card-error-on-android/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-fix-the-invalid-sim-card-error-on-android/#disqus_thread Sydney Butler]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=98213

If your Samsung or other Android device hits you with an “Invalid SIM Card” error, you’re probably having a bad day, unable to make calls or access the internet. However, […]]]>
If your Samsung or other Android device hits you with an “Invalid SIM Card” error, you’re probably having a bad day, unable to make calls or access the internet.

However, before you start thinking about ordering a new SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card or — heaven forbid — begin shopping for a new mobile phone, know that this error is more often than not a result of software glitches rather than a hardware problem. That’s some good news, at least!

1. Reboot Your Android Phone

When confronted with this error on your Android device, the first line of defense is a simple reboot. Powering off and restarting can often clear minor glitches that cause this and other similar errors.

In most cases, it’s as simple as pressing and holding your phone’s power button until the reboot option appears, then selecting it. However, the exact details of how to power off or restart your phone can vary based on your Android version or phone model.

If you need help with how to proceed, check out How to Turn Off Your Android Phone, and you’ll know more ways to shut your phone down than you need or ever wanted to know. You’re welcome!

2. Turn Airplane Mode On and Off

Airplane mode is a one-touch solution for turning Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile services off and on. As the name suggests, it’s meant to make it easy to comply with Airline regulations around radio signals, but it’s also become a great troubleshooting tool.

Sometimes, toggling the airplane mode can resolve network-related issues. Navigate to your phone’s settings menu and turn on Airplane Mode. You can usually access Airplane Mode by swiping the shade from the top of the phone’s screen and tapping the airplane icon.

Please wait a few moments, then switch it back off. This gives your mobile network a mini “reboot,” which can fix minor connectivity issues.

3. Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card

A quick way to solve the SIM card problem is to remove the SIM card from your Android phone and reinsert it.

Power off your phone, open the back cover, and gently slide out the SIM card tray. Inspect your phone’s SIM card and its slot for any visible damage. If everything seems fine, reinsert your device’s SIM card and power.

Many newer phones no longer have a removable back, and the SIM card is accessed by ejecting a SIM tray using a SIM ejection tool. One should have been included with your phone, but if you’ve lost it, they are pretty cheap to buy online or from a mobile phone store. You can use a paperclip or other blunt metal pin in a pinch, but you risk damaging your phone if you’re not careful.

4. Correct Network Mode

Another common cause of the ‘Invalid SIM card’ error could be that your Android phone is set to the wrong network mode. Most phones offer GSM, LTE, or automatic options. Choosing the wrong one could lead to an invalid SIM error.

To rectify this, head to your settings menu, select Mobile Networks/Connections (or similar), then Network mode, and finally, pick the right option for your network provider.

If you’re roaming in another country, your phone may not support the local network mode. Sometimes, buying a local SIM card is necessary to use temporarily. Keep your old card in a zip lock bag to avoid losing it. Roaming charges can be steep, so it makes sense to use a local SIM, which will only affect your phone number and text messages. Data-based apps like Telegram or Whatsapp use internet data rather than cellular calling services.

5. Manual Network Selection

If your phone struggles to connect to the correct network automatically, manually choosing your network operator can clear up the issue.

Under Mobile Networks, select Network Operators, then Search Networks or uncheck Select Automatically, which will initialize a search.

Once the available networks appear, choose the correct one. Remember that menu locations and names differ between Android versions and phone brands, so you may have to improvise a little.

6. Reset Network Settings

Another potential solution is to reset your network settings. This action won’t delete your data but will remove any Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular network settings, including your saved networks and passwords.

While it’s a pain to have to enter all those passwords again, it may be necessary, and ultimately, this is a harmless fix. Ensure you know the passwords or connection settings for critical networks, such as your work Wi-Fi.

Navigate to Settings > System > Reset > Reset network settings, and confirm your choice. On our Samsung S22 Ultra test device, this setting was under System > General Management.

7. Boot Your Device Into Safe Mode

By booting your Android device into safe mode, you can determine if a third-party app might be causing your SIM card issue.

In safe mode, all third-party apps are disabled. If your SIM card works correctly in this mode, an app is likely the culprit. You can then remove recently installed apps to find the problem app.

For detailed instructions, head over to How to Start Your Android Phone in Safe Mode.

8. Clear Your Phone’s Cache

If you’ve used your Android device for a while, it’s accumulated a substantial cache. These temporary files can sometimes interfere with system operations, causing errors like the ‘Invalid SIM Card’ one.

The exact steps to clear your phone’s cache may differ from one handset to the next, but for an example of how it’s done, look at How to Clear Cache on Samsung Phones.

9. Factory Reset Your Phone

As a last resort, consider a factory reset. This step should only be taken after backing up all your essential data, as it will erase everything on your device and return it to its original settings.

Before proceeding, ensure your data is safely backed up on a cloud service like Google Drive, iCloud, or an external storage device.

Read How To Hard Reset a Frozen Apple iPhone or Android Device for detailed instructions and information on factory resetting your Android phone.

10. Buy a New SIM Card

If nothing has worked, and your SIM card fails to work on another device, you should buy a new one. SIM cards are only a few cents usually, and with a phone call (on another phone, obviously) or a visit to your network provider, you can have your mobile account ported to your new SIM.

If you have a newer handset with an embedded eSIM, you might be able to ditch physical SIM cards altogether. Contact your service provider and ask them if they support eSIMS on their network. If they do, follow their instructions.

And What If All Else Fails?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the ‘Invalid SIM Card’ error still needs to be fixed. In such instances, it’s worth checking if your device is under a network lock or has an issue with your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity).

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Why Are You Not Getting Snapchat Notifications? (And How to Fix It) https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/why-are-you-not-getting-snapchat-notifications-and-how-to-fix-it/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/why-are-you-not-getting-snapchat-notifications-and-how-to-fix-it/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=98139

Are you missing notifications from Snapchat on your iPhone or Android phone? Is this causing you to miss out on essential app announcements? Many items can cause Snapchat not to […]]]>
Are you missing notifications from Snapchat on your iPhone or Android phone? Is this causing you to miss out on essential app announcements? Many items can cause Snapchat not to send you alerts. Luckily, you can resolve the issue with ease in most cases, and we’ll show you how.

You aren’t getting Snapchat notifications because you’ve enabled your phone’s DND mode, your Snapchat alerts are disabled, Snapchat’s app cache is faulty, your app version is old, and more.

Fix Your Internet Connection Problems

As you know, Snapchat relies on your phone’s internet connection to send alerts about various items. If your phone’s internet connection isn’t working, that can cause Snapchat not to trigger any notifications.

You can check if your internet connection is faulty by opening a web browser on your phone and accessing a site. Your site won’t load if your connection is faulty. In this case, apply various internet troubleshooting tips to your iPhone or Android phone. This can include rebooting your router, enabling and disabling your phone’s flight mode, re-joining your Wi-Fi network, and more.

Turn Off Your Phone’s Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode

Focus mode on iPhone and Do Not Disturb mode on Android allow you to turn off all the notifications on your phone. This is to prevent your apps from distracting you when you’re working on something important.

You may have enabled the above mode on your phone, causing Snapchat not to send you any alerts. So, you can fix the issue by turning off your phone’s DND mode.

On Android

  1. Pull down twice from the top of your phone’s screen.
  2. Tap Do Not Disturb to turn off the mode.

On iPhone

  1. Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of your phone’s screen.
  2. Tap the Focus mode option to see various Focuses you’ve created.
  3. Disable all Focuses on the list to turn off the mode.

Enable Snapchat’s Notifications in Your iPhone or Android Settings

iPhone and Android allow you to control your app notifications from the system level. This means you can turn off any app’s notifications on your phone, and that app can’t send you alerts no matter what.

That may be the case with Snapchat on your phone. You or someone else may have toggled off Snaphat’s notifications in your phone’s settings menu, preventing the app from sending you any alerts.

You can fix that by re-enabling the app’s alerts from your phone’s Settings app.

On Android

  1. Access the app drawer, tap and hold on Snapchat, and select App info.
  2. Choose Manage notifications on the following screen.
  3. Enable the Allow notifications toggle.

On iPhone

  1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Select Notifications and choose Snapchat.
  3. Turn on the Allow Notifications toggle to re-activate the app’s alerts.

Activate Various Notifications in the Snapchat App

In addition to controlling Snapchat’s notifications from your phone’s Settings app, you can enable and disable various alerts from within the app. These in-app alerts may be disabled, causing you to miss your Snapchat notifications.

You can fix that by re-enabling all the alert options in your app.

  1. Open Snapchat on your phone.
  2. Select your profile icon or Bitmoji in the top-left corner.
  3. Choose Settings (a gear icon) in the top-right corner.
  1. Select Notifications in the open menu.
  2. Enable the alerts you’d like to receive from the app on your phone.

Clear Snapchat’s App Cache on Your Smartphone

Snapchat can fail to send notifications because the app’s cache files are corrupted. Such corruption can cause your app to malfunction and create many other problems.

But you can resolve your issue by clearing your app’s faulty cache files. Doing so doesn’t delete your account data.

  1. Launch Snapchat on your phone.
  2. Select your profile icon or Bitmoji in the top-left corner and Settings (a gear icon) in the top-right corner.
  3. Choose Clear Cache in the open menu.
  1. Select Continue (Android) or Clear All (iPhone) to delete your app’s cached data.
  2. Close and relaunch your app.

Update Snapchat on Your iPhone or Android Phone

An outdated app version often causes many issues. You may be running an old app version with many bugs and issues.

You can resolve that issue by updating your app to the latest version.

On Android

  1. Open Google Play Store on your phone.
  2. Search for Snapchat.
  3. Tap Update next to the app to update the app.

On iPhone

  1. Launch the App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Select Updates in the bottom bar.
  3. Choose Update next to Snapchat on the list.

Restart Your iPhone or Android Phone

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your apps but with your phone. Your iPhone or Android phone may have a minor glitch, causing Snapchat not to function as expected. In this case, you can resolve those minor problems by restarting your devices.

Restarting your iPhone or Android phone turns off and back on all your system features, possibly fixing issues with those items.

On Android

  1. Press and hold down the Power button on your phone.
  2. Select Restart in the menu.
  1. Launch Snapchat when your phone turns on.

On iPhone

  1. Press and hold down Volume Up + Side or Volume Down + Side on your phone.
  2. Drag the slider to turn off your phone.
  1. Turn on your phone by pressing and holding down the Side button.
  2. Open the Snapchat app.

Log Out and Back Into Your Account on Snapchat

If you still aren’t receiving notifications from Snapchat, your login session with the app may have a problem. The app may be experiencing issues authenticating your user details with the company’s servers, causing your issue.

You can fix that by signing out and back into your account in the app. Keep your login details handy.

  1. Open Snapchat and access the Settings menu.
  2. Scroll the menu to the bottom and choose Log Out.
  1. Select Log Out in the prompt.
  2. Close and reopen the app.
  3. Log back into your account in the app.

Remove and Reinstall Snapchat on Your Phone

If none of the above methods fixes your issue, your last option is to uninstall and reinstall the Snapchat app on your phone. Your problem may be due to the app’s faulty core files, which you can resolve by deleting the current app files and bringing working files.

On Android

  1. Open the app drawer, tap and hold on Snapchat, and select Uninstall.
  2. Choose Uninstall in the prompt.
  1. Launch Google Play Store, find Snapchat, and select Install.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Snapchat on your iPhone’s home screen.
  2. Choose Remove App > Delete App in the menu.
  3. Reinstall the app by opening the App Store, finding Snapchat, and tapping the download icon.

Get Timely Alerts From Snapchat

Snapchat fails to send you account alerts for various reasons. Not receiving notifications can be a big deal if you use this app exclusively to chat with your friends and family.

Follow the methods outlined above, hopefully resolving your Snapchat alert issue on your iPhone or Android device.

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What Is “Other” Storage on Android (And How to Clean It Up)? https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/what-is-other-storage-on-android-and-how-to-clean-it-up/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/what-is-other-storage-on-android-and-how-to-clean-it-up/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=98150

Android has made big improvements in its file management system and app efficiency. However, with larger operating system files, heavier apps, and resource-consuming games, Android devices can quickly fill up […]]]>
Android has made big improvements in its file management system and app efficiency. However, with larger operating system files, heavier apps, and resource-consuming games, Android devices can quickly fill up despite having large storage capacities. Apart from easily identifiable files like photos, videos, apps, and games, there’s a category called “Other” that includes unidentified storage files.

In this article, we’ll show you how to get rid of the files from the “Other” category and free up more storage space on your Android.

What Is “Other” Storage on Android?

In Android devices, the “Other” category refers to the storage space that is not specifically categorized under identifiable files like photos, videos, apps, or games. It includes various types of files that are not easily recognized by the system and fall into a miscellaneous or uncategorized group.

These files might include:

  • Private App Data. Some Android apps and games create data that doesn’t fit into the standard categories, such as additional downloaded files, cloud sync data, and temporary files from streaming services.
  • Failed Backups. Cloud backup services may encounter issues during backup, resulting in incomplete or failed backups, which end up in the “Other” section.
  • Failed OTA Updates. Over-the-air updates can sometimes fail due to poor network conditions or other reasons, leaving behind temporary installer files in the “Other” storage.
  • Hidden Cache Files & Temporary Data. Apps and games download temporary data files like images, videos, and text, which might not always get cleared properly, leading to their accumulation in the “Other” category.
  • Miscellaneous System Files. Some system files and data that don’t fit into standard categories may also contribute to the “Other” storage.

The “Other” storage is often a mix of various files that don’t have a clear distinction, making it challenging to identify and manage them individually. As a result, this category may grow over time, taking up valuable storage space on the device. Cleaning up the “Other” storage can help free up space and improve the overall performance of your Android device.

How to Clean Up Other Storage and Free Up Storage Space on Android

There are different methods you can use to clean up the “Other” section in your Android device’s internal memory. You can try the following techniques one by one until you’re happy with the freed-up internal storage on your Android phone.

1. Use the Clean-Up Feature on Your Android

Most Android devices now offer a convenient Clean up feature within the Settings app, allowing you to easily free up your phone’s internal storage.

To use the Clean up feature on your smartphone, follow the steps below. Please note that the appearance and location of the Clean up feature might vary slightly depending on your device’s manufacturer and Android version.

  1. On your smartphone, open Settings.
  2. Inside the Settings app, scroll down until you find the Storage option. For Samsung devices, phone storage may be labeled as Device Care. If you have difficulty finding it, simply use the search bar at the top and type in Storage.
  3. Select Storage, and you’ll be presented with a breakdown of different categories, such as Photos, Videos, Other Media Files, Apps, Games, and more. You can select any of these categories to see more information about its contents.
  1. Within each category, you can identify files that are consuming space and decide which ones to delete. Tap on individual files or select multiple files to remove them from your device.
  2. While the Clean Up feature doesn’t allow you to remove the files from the Other category specifically, you can use it to perform a deep cleanup of your phone and free up a lot of space on your Android.

The Clean Up option helps you efficiently manage your Android storage by identifying and removing unnecessary files.

Some Android phone models also have the Clean storage option, which you can access by swiping down on the home screen. You’ll see the feature in the drop-down menu above the notification bar.

2. Clean Up Data Used by Proprietary Apps

Your Android device’s storage may be filling up due to app data, like hidden cached data, temporary files, as well as additional downloaded files. Luckily, Android devices have another built-in function to help you manage these large files – a memory scanner that can help you clean up the cache.

To clean up this data, follow the steps below.

  1. Open the phone’s Settings app.
  2. Navigate to the Storage Options section if applicable, or go to Storage > Apps.
  3. If your device allows, sort the apps based on their size. If not, manually check each app to find the ones with large data sizes.
  1. Open the app you want to manage (one that’s taking up a lot of storage space) and select the Clear Cache option.

If clearing the app cache doesn’t free up enough space, you can try tapping Clear Data.

Please note that selecting Clear Data will remove all app data, and you may need to log in again and download additional data that was needed during the initial installation. This option should be used with caution, as it may result in loss of app settings and preferences.

3. Clean Up Android/obb & Android/data Directories

When you uninstall apps from your device, sometimes their files are not completely removed from the system. This can happen because of certain issues with updates that are not compatible with the app, or it can be caused by third-party launchers that are not fully optimized for your specific device. As a result, some app files may remain in your device’s storage even after you have deleted the app.

If you have already tried the previous methods to clear the Other storage and it didn’t work, you can try this method to manually clean up leftover app files from deleted apps in your local storage.

Here’s how you can do it.

  1. Open your preferred File Manager app.
  2. Go to the Settings section of the File Manager and enable the option to Show System Files & Folders or Display hidden files.
  1. Navigate to the /Android/obb directory in your file manager. In this directory, most files will have names like com.ABC.XYZ, where ABC represents the developer name, and XYZ represents the app name.
  2. Look through this section to find names of apps that you have previously deleted. If you find any, go ahead and delete them.
  3. After you’re done with the /Android/obb directory, navigate to the /Android/data directory.
  1. Follow the same steps as before to identify leftover data from deleted apps. Delete any files related to apps you no longer use.

Finally, check your Other storage to see if the space has been freed up.

By manually cleaning up these directories, you may be able to clear up some storage space that was occupied by leftover files from previously deleted apps.

4. Clear Android Cache in Recovery Mode

You can also attempt to clear the Other storage category by clearing your user interface (UI) cache in Recovery Mode. You can use our comprehensive guide on How to Boot Into & Use Recovery Mode on Android to learn how to do it.

Please note that Recovery Mode is a sensitive menu, and making the wrong changes can potentially harm your Android device. Be cautious and proceed only if you feel confident in your technical abilities. If you are unsure, consider trying the next solution instead.

5. Return to the Original Stock ROM

If you have installed a custom ROM on your rooted device, there is a possibility that the custom ROM might have some glitches. Some major custom ROMs like Lineage OS, Pixel OS, and others have experienced issues where the file system duplicates itself, leading to storage space clogs and unidentified files in the Other section of the memory scanner.

If the previously mentioned solutions do not work, a good option to fix this problem is to go back to the stock ROM, which is the original operating system that came with your device. You can wait for an update from the developer of the custom ROM to fix the issue.

Additionally, you can also reach out for help by submitting a request on the developer’s Github account, especially if they are actively involved and responsive to bug reports.

6. Factory Reset Your Android Smartphone

If all else fails, consider resetting your device to its original factory settings. This can help improve the phone’s speed and give you a fresh start by clearing up storage issues.

Before proceeding with the reset, make sure to back up your device properly. You can back up your data to Google Drive, and Samsung devices have a feature called Smart Switch for backup.

Here’s how to perform a factory reset on your Android.

  1. Open the Settings app on your device.
  2. Use the search bar at the top to find the Factory reset or Reset phone option.
  3. Select this option to confirm.

Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the factory reset, which may vary depending on your phone’s user interface. After the reset, selectively restore your data back to your device and keep an eye on your device storage.

7. Use an External Storage Device

If the previous methods did not work to clear the Other storage section on your device, you may need to take more drastic measures to solve the issue. One option is to move your data to an SD card and then reset your phone.

Before you do that, we recommend backing up your data to Google Drive or other cloud storage to avoid losing any important information.

To move your data to an SD card, follow the steps below.

  1. Insert a high-capacity SD card into your device. If your device doesn’t have an SD card slot, you can use an OTG card reader.
  2. Create a manual backup of all your important data files.
  3. Back up your contacts and saved passwords onto the SD card.
  4. Reset your device to its factory settings.

Set up your device as new and restore your files and local contacts backup from the SD card. By following these steps, your Other storage should be cleared, and your device should return to normal.

8. Use a Third-Party App to Clean Up Your Other Storage

Finally, if you don’t want to go through the hassle of trying different methods to clean up your storage, try using a Storage Analyzer or File Manager app to gain a better understanding of your storage and disk usage. With an efficient file manager, you can easily examine the larger files stored on your device.

These apps allow you to sort files by size, making it easier to identify large files that may be contributing to the Other data. Additionally, you can view system files and hidden files on your local storage, which could be the main cause of the large amount of Other data. You can consult our comparison piece on the Best File Manager Apps for Android and take your pick of the app on Google Play Store.

Take a Smart Approach to Managing Your Android Storage

Managing Other storage on your Android device is crucial for optimizing performance and freeing up space. By regularly clearing cache, app data and using storage analyzer apps, you can identify and remove unnecessary files.

Be cautious when using more drastic measures like factory resetting, as they may lead to data loss. Taking proactive steps to clean up Other storage will result in a smoother and more efficient Android experience, with more available storage for your needs.

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Top 10 Best Mobile Games of 2023 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/top-10-best-mobile-games-of-2023/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/top-10-best-mobile-games-of-2023/#disqus_thread Kayla Dube]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97851

Mobile games have become an increasingly popular way to play video games, and as such, there are many notable games available to play on smartphone devices. Whether you’re looking for […]]]>
Mobile games have become an increasingly popular way to play video games, and as such, there are many notable games available to play on smartphone devices. Whether you’re looking for action and adventure, puzzle games, strategy, or any other genre, you can find all kinds of games on mobile devices.

We’ve chosen the top 10 best mobile games of 2023 across different genres. These are games you can find on both iOS and Android devices. This list contains Triple A games and games created by indie studios, but all are worthy of being played at least once.

1. Minecraft

Now considered a video game classic, Minecraft is well known as a creative open-world game where players can build structures, gather and craft items, encounter creatures, and much more. The game first rose to popularity in 2012; since then, it has remained popular.

You can play Minecraft directly from your mobile device and play with others in multiplayer mode. You can buy Minecraft for $6.99 on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Download Minecraft for iOS

Download Minecraft for Android

2. Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is a popular role-playing game released in 2020. It features open-world exploration and real-time battles. Gameplay centers mainly on its gacha mechanics, which allow you to obtain new characters to add to your party in-game. The game has been widely regarded for its battle mechanics and expansive environment.

Genshin Impact is available on mobile for free, though the game is monetized through the gacha element. Though you can enjoy the game on a smartphone, playing on a tablet is recommended for an enhanced experience.

Download Genshin Impact for iOS

Download Genshin Impact for Android

3. Pokemon Go

Though the initial hype for Pokemon Go has died down over the years, the game still has a substantial player base that keeps the game going strong. The game is based on catching Pokemon through AR technology, meaning you can see the Pokemon in the real world on your screen through your smartphone’s camera. You can also battle at Pokemon Gyms to vie for control over it with other players.

Pokemon Go is completely free to play and is often updated with new events and Pokemon to capture. You can even send some Pokemon you find into other games within the Pokemon franchise.

Download Pokemon Go for iOS

Download Pokemon Go for Android

4. Roblox

Roblox is another game that has been popular for quite some time. It’s a creative multiplayer game similar to Minecraft, though Roblox is more focused on game creation and programming. Players can also fully customize their avatars and buy and sell virtual items.

Roblox is free to play but monetized through an in-game currency known as Robux. Robux can be obtained through a Premium membership or by creating and selling your own items. Mobile is an excellent platform for playing Roblox, as you can take it anywhere.

Download Roblox for iOS

Download Roblox for Android

5. League of Legends: Wild Rift

League of Legends: Wild Rift is a MOBA, or multiplayer online battle arena. It’s a free to play, mobile version of the original League of Legends game for PC. Like the PC game, the objective is to capture the opposing team’s base. However, in the mobile game, map size is reduced, and respawn time is shortened, among other changes which result in shorter game times. If you’re a League of Legends fan, Wild Rift is the perfect way to take the game on the go.

Download League of Legends: Wild Rift for iOS

Download League of Legends: Wild Rift for Android

6. Monument Valley

This is a puzzle game developed by indie studio Ustwo Games. The focus is on guiding the main character, Princess Ida, through mazes of optical illusions. The game has ten levels, and each is beautifully designed and relaxing to play. This game looks wonderful on any device, but you may want to play on an iPad for the full effect. You can get this game for $3.99, and there’s also an expansion of more levels you can purchase for $1.99.

Download Monument Valley for iOS

Download Monument Valley for Android

7. Stardew Valley

One of the most beloved PC games can also be played on mobile devices, with only minor differences. For example, the mobile version has no co-op mode and is also a bit behind on game updates. However, mobile Stardew Valley does offer automatic saves. If you’ve never played Stardew, it’s a farming simulator where you can build your own farm, gather items, complete quests, and much more. All in a cute and colorful 2D pixel world.

Download Stardew Valley for iOS

Download Stardew Valley for Android

8. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp

Animal Crossing is a popular console game from Nintendo, but there is also a separate mobile Animal Crossing game that is just as fun to play and free! In this version, you run your campground, and animal campers can come to stay. You can fully customize your campground and character, participate in events, complete daily quests, and more. If you own the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game, you can link it to Pocket Camp to access new, unique items. Although the Pocket Camp is generally free to play, some in-app purchases are available for items or Leaf Tickets.

Download Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp for iOS

Download Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp for Android

9. Call of Duty: Mobile

The popular Call of Duty franchise has debuted on mobile, providing fans with a first-person shooter similar to its console counterpart. In COD: Mobile, you can play in ranked or unranked multiplayer matches. You can also play multiplayer against friends in a private game. There is also a battle royale mode and even a zombie mode for fans of this feature. The game is free, though you can make in-app purchases for items and skins.

Download Call of Duty: Mobile for iOS

Download Call of Duty: Mobile for Android

10. Subway Surfers

Subway Surfers is a long-time favorite that has increased in popularity in 2023. It’s a relatively simple endless runner game where you swipe to avoid obstacles for as long as possible. It is, however, extremely addicting and is great for beating boredom or killing some time. You can also collect coins in-game that can be used on powerups and customization. The game is free, but you can also purchase more coins and other items in-app.

Download Subway Surfers for iOS

Download Subway Surfers for Android

Try One of These Best Mobile Games In 2023

If you need a new game, you should try one of these as your first choice. Some of them have been favorites of many for a long time, while others are newer but have received praise.

Are there any other games that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

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Instagram Notes Not Showing/Working? 6 Ways to Fix https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/instagram-notes-not-showing-working-6-ways-to-fix/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/instagram-notes-not-showing-working-6-ways-to-fix/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97770

Instagram Notes is a feature that lets Instagram users leave short notes for those in their friends list to read. The problem is, some people report that the Notes option […]]]>
Instagram Notes is a feature that lets Instagram users leave short notes for those in their friends list to read. The problem is, some people report that the Notes option is disappearing from their Messages page.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explain how to use the Instagram Notes feature and what to do when Instagram Notes is not showing up.

How to Use Instagram Notes

Introduced in late 2022, Instagram Notes is a relatively new feature that lets you leave short text messages for your friends to read at the top of their Chats list. These messages are available on both Android and iOS devices and can be up to 60 characters long.

Instagram will delete Notes after 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories. However, they’re different from DMs. Instead of appearing in your Chats, it’ll show up as a thought bubble underneath your name.

To use the Notes feature:

  1. Open the Instagram app and select the Direct Messages icon at the top-right corner of the app (it looks like the arrow you press to send texts in the messenger).
  1. At the top of your Chats list, you should see your profile icon. Below this, there should be some text saying “Your note”. Select your profile picture.
  1. Tap Share a thought and write your new note.
  2. Choose who to share your note with. You can select Followers you follow back or your Close friends list.
  1. Tap Share.

So, what do you do if this trending feature isn’t showing up? First, you need to work out why. Here are some things that can cause the Instagram Notes feature to disappear:

  1. Your Instagram app is out of date. If you haven’t updated Instagram in a while, the Notes feature might not be installed yet. To fix this, you’ll need to update to the latest version of Instagram.
  2. It isn’t available in your region. The Notes feature isn’t available in every region. If you live in an area where the feature isn’t supported, there’s unfortunately nothing you can do to make it show up. You’ll just have to wait for the Instagram team to roll out the feature in a new update.
  3. The Instagram app is glitching. Occasional bugs and glitches can cause Instagram to stop working correctly. If you previously had the Instagram Notes feature, but it has disappeared, this is the most likely problem.

How to Fix Instagram Notes Not Working

If the Instagram Notes feature is missing, you can fix it as follows:

1. Restart the Instagram App (and Your Phone)

The quickest and easiest way to fix temporary problems on your phone is to restart the app. On your iPhone, swipe up to access the active apps menu, then swipe up on Instagram to close it. On Android, press the Recent apps button (it looks like three vertical lines), then swipe up on Instagram to close it.

If Instagram still doesn’t work, try restarting your phone. On Android, press and hold the power button and volume down button together until the menu appears. Then, press Restart. On iPhone, press and hold either volume button and the side button until the power-off slider appears. Drag the slider, then wait for 30 seconds before turning it back on.

2. Update Instagram

If the Notes feature still isn’t showing up, it’s time to try updating the Instagram app. To do so, open the Google Play Store (on Android) or App Store (on your iOS device) and search for Instagram. Select the Instagram app, then select Update to install the latest version of the app.

3. Enable Activity Status

When your Activity Status is turned on, people who follow you can see if you’re currently active (or when you last were). Some users report that if your Instagram account’s Activity Status is turned off, the Notes feature disappears.

To enable Activity Status:

  1. Open the Instagram app and tap your Profile icon.
  1. Press the More button (it looks like three horizontal lines).
  1. Select Settings and privacy.
  1. Tap Messages and story replies.
  1. Under How others can interact with you, tap Show Activity Status.

6. Check the box next to Show Activity Status.

4. Make a Close Friends List

Because the Notes feature is linked to your close friends list, you may need to create one before it appears. To do so:

  1. Open Instagram then tap your profile icon.
  2. Select the menu icon, then choose Close Friends.
  3. Add people to the contact list and tap Done.

5. Reinstall the Instagram App

The next thing to try is to reinstall the Instagram app. This should clear up any residual bugs and update it to the latest version.

On an Android phone:

  1. Tap and hold the Instagram app.
  2. Select Uninstall.
  1. Confirm your choice, then re-download the app via the Google Play Store.

On an iPhone:

  1. Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
  2. Select Instagram, then tap Offload App.
  3. Select Reinstall App and wait for the process to complete.

6. Contact Instagram Support

If all else fails, your last resort is the Instagram Support team. To do so:

  1. Open Instagram and tap your Instagram profile picture at the bottom-right corner.
  2. Select the Menu icon.
  3. Tap Settings.
  4. Tap Help.
  1. Select Report a problem.
  1. Describe your problem in detail, then select Next and submit the report.

Back to the ‘Gram

Instagram is one of the most popular social media apps on the market today. With a stack of useful features to keep in touch with friends and followers, like Instagram Reels, Stories, and Notes, you’ve got everything you need to blow up and go viral.

Hopefully, with this tutorial, you can get your Notes up and running again on your personal account.

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How to Delete Picsart Video Files on Android Devices https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-delete-picsart-video-files-on-android-devices/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-delete-picsart-video-files-on-android-devices/#disqus_thread Sodiq Olanrewaju]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97751

Picsart is one of the best photo and video editing apps for Android and iOS devices. The video editor offers a suite of effects, music, AI tools, and templates for […]]]>
Picsart is one of the best photo and video editing apps for Android and iOS devices. The video editor offers a suite of effects, music, AI tools, and templates for creating short clips, slideshows, and videos for social media—TikTok, Instagram, etc.

If you often edit videos with Picsart, unfinished projects and videos files can quickly consume your device’s storage space. This tutorial covers steps for deleting unneeded Picsart video files on Android devices.

Delete Picsart Video Files in Gallery

Picsart video files are accessible in your device’s Gallery or Picture app. Open your phone’s Picture or Gallery app and check the “Videos” folder or category.

Depending on the model of your Android device, you might also find Picsart video files in the “Recents” or “Recently Added Images” category.

Check thumbnails to locate the Picsart video file(s) you want to delete. Tap and hold the video, tap the Delete or Bin icon, and select Delete or Move to Trash.

Delete Picsart Video Files in Your File Manager

You can also find and delete saved Picsart edits through your phone’s built-in File Manager or any third-party file management app.

  1. Open the Videos category in your File Manager app.
  2. Tap the menu icon in the top-right corner, select View, and switch to a List or Detailed List view.
  1. Check for video clips whose filenames start with “Picsart.”

If there are many Picsart video files in the folder, use the creation date and time below to locate a specific video you want to delete. Double-check or preview the video to avoid deleting an important video/file.

  1. Tap and hold the video file(s) you want to delete and tap the Delete icon.
  2. Select Delete or Move to Trash to proceed.

You’ll also find Picsart video files in the “Movies” folder of your device’s internal storage. Return to your phone’s default Files app or File Manager and open the Internal storage folder.

  1. Locate and open the Movies folder.
  1. Select the three-dot icon next to the Picsart video file you want to delete and select Delete, Move to Trash, or Delete permanently.

Items in the Bin/Trash folder also take up your phone’s storage space. We advise deleting unneeded Picsart video files permanently to free up storage space.

Delete Unfinished Picsart Video Projects

Picsart allows users to save unfinished edits as video projects. Deleting Picsart video projects you don’t need can free up a tremendous amount of storage space on your device. Open the Picsart app and follow the steps below to delete unfinished video projects.

  1. Tap the Create or Plus icon.
  2. Head to the Videos tab and check the “My Projects” section for unfinished video projects.
  3. Tap See All to view all unfinished video projects.

Deleted video projects are not recoverable. Hence, we recommend previewing each project so you don’t delete the wrong video.

  1. Tap and hold the video project you want to delete and select Delete Project on the pop-up.

Can’t Find or Delete Picsart Video Files? Try These Fixes

Restart your Android phone and try deleting Picsart video files again. Update Picsart to the latest version if you still can’t find or delete videos created in the photo-editing app.

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Wendy’s App Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/wendys-app-not-working-heres-how-to-fix-it/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/wendys-app-not-working-heres-how-to-fix-it/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97375

Is your Wendy’s mobile app causing trouble while signing in to your account or ordering items? You may be dealing with a faulty application. There are many reasons an app […]]]>
Is your Wendy’s mobile app causing trouble while signing in to your account or ordering items? You may be dealing with a faulty application. There are many reasons an app becomes faulty on a smartphone. We’ll show you how to solve Wendy’s app problems on your iPhone or Android.

A few reasons your Wendy’s app causes issues are that your internet connection is inactive, your app cache is faulty, Wendy’s servers are down, your app files are broken, and more.

Check Your Internet Connection

Wendy’s relies on your phone’s internet connection to fetch your account information and other items. The app has trouble doing that if your phone has an inactive internet connection.

Check and ensure your phone’s internet is working. You can do that by opening a web browser on your phone and accessing a site. Your site won’t load if your phone has internet issues.

In that case, try to resolve your connection problems by rebooting your router, disconnecting and reconnecting to your network, and more.

Use an Alternate Internet Connection

Sometimes, your Wendy’s app doesn’t work even on an active internet connection. That’s because your connection is either unstable or poor. This creates issues for Wendy’s to retrieve menus and other items from the company’s servers.

In this case, switch your internet connection and see if that resolves your issue. You can switch to a Wi-Fi connection if you’re on mobile data or use cellular data if you’re currently on a wireless network.

Check if Wendy’s Servers Are Down

Wendy’s fetches your account data and other information from its company’s servers. You’ll have trouble using the app if those servers face an outage. It’s rare for servers to go down, but that does happen.

You can head to a site like Is It Down Right Now? to check if Wendy’s servers are down. The site will tell you if users have reported issues using the app on their phones.

If that site says Wendy’s servers are experiencing issues, wait until the company fixes those issues and brings the app services back up.

Restart Your iPhone or Android Phone

Your operating system’s minor glitches can cause Wendy’s app not to work. Although your installed apps are isolated from your phone’s system features, those apps still rely on some of your system functions. Your phone’s system having a minor issue can cause your apps not to work.

In this case, you can try to fix those minor issues by rebooting your phones.

On Android

  1. Press and hold down the Power button to open the Power menu.
  2. Select Restart in the menu to turn off and back on your device.
  1. Open your Wendy’s app.

On iPhone

  1. Press and hold down Volume Up + Side or Volume Down + Side buttons on your iPhone.
  2. Drag the slider to turn off your phone.
  1. Turn on your phone by pressing and holding down the Side button.
  2. Launch your Wendy’s app.

Clear Wendy’s App Cache

Many apps create and store cache files on your phone to improve your app experience. Sometimes, those app cache files become corrupted, causing your apps not to work or malfunction. This may be the case with your Wendy’s app.

Wendy’s app cache may have become faulty on your phone, causing the app not to function. Luckily, you can resolve this issue by clearing your app’s faulty files. You don’t lose your account data or other items when you do this.

Note that you can only clear an app’s cache files on Android. The iPhone doesn’t allow you to do that.

  1. Open the app drawer on your phone, tap and hold on Wendy’s, and select App info.
  2. Choose Storage usage on the following screen.
  3. Select Clear cache to delete your app’s cache files.
  1. Launch your Wendy’s app.

Update Wendy’s on Your iPhone or Android Phone

Outdated app versions are often the reason you have issues with your apps. An old app version usually has many issues. So, if you haven’t updated your app in a long time, that may be why you can’t use that app on your phone.

You can fix that by updating your app to the latest version.

On Android

  1. Open Google Play Store on your phone.
  2. Find Wendy’s in the store.
  1. Select Update to update the app.

On iPhone

  1. Launch App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Select Updates at the bottom.
  3. Choose Update next to Wendy’s on the list.

Sign Out and Back Into Your Wendy’s Account

If your Wendy’s app still refuses to work, log out and back into your account in the app to fix your issue possibly. This is because your app may be experiencing a login session problem, which logging out and back in helps resolve.

You’ll need your Wendy’s login credentials to log back in, so keep those details handy.

  1. Open Wendy’s on your phone.
  2. Select Account in the bottom-right corner.
  1. Choose Settings in the menu.
  1. Select Log Out to sign out of your account.
  2. Log back in using your login details.

Fix Wendy’s App Not Working by Reinstalling the App

If the above methods don’t resolve your problem, your app may be problematic. In this case, you can resolve the issue by uninstalling and reinstalling the app on your phone. Uninstalling the app deletes all the files from your phone, then redownloading the app brings all the working files back.

You’ll have to log back into your account when you re-download the app, so keep your Wendy’s logins ready.

On Android

  1. Find Wendy’s in your phone’s app drawer, tap and hold on the app, and select Uninstall.
  1. Choose OK in the prompt to remove the app.
  2. Reinstall your app by opening Play Store, finding Wendy’s, and selecting Install.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Wendy’s on your iPhone’s home screen.
  2. Choose Remove App > Delete App in the menu.
  3. Redownload the app by opening App Store, locating Wendy’s, and selecting the download icon.

Resolve Wendy’s App Problems on Your iPhone or Android

Wendy’s malfunctions or stops working on your phone for various reasons. You’ll have to find and fix the underlying item causing the issue to repair your app. The methods we’ve outlined above will help you do just that.

When your Wendy’s app issues are fixed, you can launch the app and start ordering your favorite items. Enjoy!

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How to Hide Your Instagram Posts Instead of Deleting Them https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-hide-your-instagram-posts-instead-of-deleting-them/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-hide-your-instagram-posts-instead-of-deleting-them/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97329

Instagram is a popular social media platform that allows you to share photos and videos with your friends and followers. While many users enjoy showcasing their posts to the world, […]]]>
Instagram is a popular social media platform that allows you to share photos and videos with your friends and followers. While many users enjoy showcasing their posts to the world, there are times when you might want to hide certain posts from public view.

Instead of deleting them permanently, Instagram offers a convenient feature that allows you to archive your posts. In this tutorial, we’ll explore why you might want to hide Instagram posts, show you how to hide Instagram posts, how to view your archived posts, and make them public again if you change your mind.

Why Hide Instagram Posts

One way to avoid unnecessary attention to your Instagram profile is to stop posting on the Instagram app and delete your old posts. However, you may feel nostalgic about them and still want to keep them to yourself. If that’s the case, hiding your Instagram content instead of deleting it is best.

Aside from that, there are other reasons why you should hide your Instagram posts instead of deleting them altogether. Here are some common scenarios where you may want to hide your Instagram posts aside from your privacy concerns:

  • Personal Reflection. You might want to take a step back and reflect on the content you have shared on Instagram. Hiding posts allows you to temporarily remove them from public view while you evaluate the appropriateness or relevance of specific posts in your feed.
  • Aesthetics and Style. Instagram has become a platform where users carefully curate their profiles to maintain a visually appealing aesthetic. If you feel that certain posts disrupt the overall theme of your Instagram account, hiding them can help you achieve a more consistent and pleasing look.
  • Strategic Content Management. Businesses and influencers often have specific strategies for their Instagram feeds. If that’s your case, you may want to hide certain posts to maintain a consistent brand image temporarily. Hiding posts allows a more strategic approach to content management and social media marketing.
  • Personal Circumstances. Life events and changes in personal relationships can make you reconsider the visibility of your Instagram posts. It could be a temporary situation where you prefer to hide posts until things change or a permanent decision to keep your Instagram account private. Hiding posts provides the flexibility to adapt to personal circumstances.

By hiding your posts from other Instagram users instead of deleting them, you can revisit and make them visible again when the time is right. This way, you can balance sharing content with your audience and maintaining control over your online presence.

How to Hide Your Posts on Instagram

To hide a selected post on Instagram, follow the steps below. The instructions are the same for iPhone and Android users.

  1. Open the Instagram app on your mobile device. Log in to your account.
  2. Navigate to the post you want to hide. Select your profile icon in the bottom right corner of the screen to open your profile page and find the post that you wish to hide.
  1. Select the post to view it in full screen.
  2. Select the three dots icon at the post’s top right corner to open the settings menu with various options.
  1. Select Archive at the top of the menu. This will move the post to your personal archive. You can also hide like count, turn off commenting, edit, delete, and pin your post from the same menu.

After you move an Instagram post to the archive, it won’t be visible to your Instagram followers anymore. Only you will be able to view the archived post.

Can You Hide Your Instagram Posts From a Specific User?

Unfortunately, Instagram doesn’t provide a direct option to hide posts from specific people. By default, your posts and videos are visible to everyone on Instagram or only to those you have allowed to follow you, depending on whether your profile is set to public or private.

However, there are alternative ways to limit someone’s access to your posts. One option is to block them, which restricts their ability to find your account, view your posts, or send you messages. You can unblock the said user at any point if you change your mind later.

Another approach is to make your Instagram account private. By doing so, only your approved followers will have access to your posts. Any new followers will need you to approve their follow request before they can join your followers list and view your posts.

When it comes to Instagram Stories, the situation is a little different. You can hide your Stories from specific individuals without blocking them or setting your account to private. In your Story settings, you can choose Hide story from and manually select who you want to hide your stories from.

How to View Archived Posts on Instagram

To view your archived posts on Instagram, follow the steps below.

  1. Open Instagram on your phone.
  2. Go to your profile page and select the hamburger menu at the top right corner of the screen to open Settings.
  3. From the menu, select Archive.
  1. Open the drop-down menu on top of the screen and select Posts archive.
  1. In the archive section, you will find your hidden posts. Scroll through the archive to find the specific post you want to view.

How to Make Your Archived Instagram Posts Public Again

If you change your mind after archiving your posts and decide to unhide them, you can easily do it using the Instagram settings. Here’s how to make your archived Instagram posts public again for everyone to see.

  1. Follow steps 1 through 4 above to access your posts archive on Instagram.
  2. Scroll through your archived posts and select the one you want to make visible on your profile again.
  3. Once you have found the post, select the three dots icon at the top right corner of the screen. From the options menu, select Show on Profile to make the post public.

The selected post will then be displayed on your Instagram profile in the same position where it was before you chose to archive it. Likes and comments will also remain on the post.

Hide Your Instagram Content from Prying Eyes

Hiding your Instagram posts is a practical feature that allows you to maintain control over your profile. Whether you want to hide posts temporarily or keep them hidden indefinitely, Instagram’s archive feature provides a convenient way to manage your content.

Following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you can easily hide, view, and unhide your posts on Instagram. Take advantage of this functionality to curate your profile and create the online presence that best represents you.

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Starbucks App Not Working? 9 Ways to Fix It https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/starbucks-app-not-working-9-ways-to-fix-it/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/starbucks-app-not-working-9-ways-to-fix-it/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97305

Are you experiencing issues using the Starbucks app on your Apple iPhone or Android phone? Your app may have technical glitches, or your internet connection may not be working. These […]]]>
Are you experiencing issues using the Starbucks app on your Apple iPhone or Android phone? Your app may have technical glitches, or your internet connection may not be working. These and other items can cause your app not to function. We’ll show you a few ways to get around this problem on your phone.

Some other reasons you can’t use the Starbucks app are that your phone has a minor glitch, Starbucks’ servers are down, you have an outdated app version, your login session has a problem, your app’s core files are corrupted, and more.

1. Close and Reopen Starbucks on Your Phone

When you experience issues using an app, a basic fix you can apply to potentially fix your issues is to restart the app. You can quit and relaunch your Starbucks app to resolve your app problems.

On Android

  1. Press the Recents button on your phone to access your open apps.
  2. Find and swipe up on Starbucks to close the app.
  1. Relaunch the app by tapping Starbucks in your phone’s app drawer.

If your app doesn’t work even after a restart, force-close and reopen the app on your phone to potentially fix your issue.

  1. Tap and hold on Starbucks in your phone’s app drawer and choose App info.
  2. Select Force stop on the following page.
  1. Choose Force stop in the prompt.
  2. Reopen the app by accessing your app drawer and tapping Starbucks.

On iPhone

  1. Swipe up from the bottom of your phone’s screen and pause in the middle.
  2. Swipe up on Starbucks to close the app.
  3. Tap Starbucks on your home screen to launch the app.

2. Check Your Phone’s Internet Connection

If your Starbucks app doesn’t work even after a simple reboot, check and ensure your phone’s internet connection is working. The app requires access to the internet to load various content. An inactive connection prevents the app from doing that.

You can check your phone’s connection status by launching a web browser and opening a site. If your site fails to load, your connection is the culprit. In this case, you can try to fix the issue by restarting your router, reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network, or using your phone’s mobile data.

3. Fix Starbucks App Not Working by Restarting Your Phone

If you still have issues with your Starbucks app, your iPhone or Android phone may be experiencing technical issues. In this case, you can try to resolve those issues by restarting your phone.

Make sure to save your unsaved work before powering off your phone.

On Android

  1. Press and hold down the Power button on your phone.
  2. Select Restart in the menu.
  1. Open Starbucks when your phone restarts.

On iPhone

  1. Press and hold down Volume Up + Side or Volume Down + Side on your phone.
  2. Drag the on-screen slider to the right to power off your phone.
  1. Power on your phone by pressing and holding down the Side button.
  2. Open the Starbucks app.

4. Check if Starbucks Server Is Down

Sometimes, you can’t use the Starbucks mobile app because the company’s app servers are down. This outage prevents your app from fetching information from those servers, leading to various issues.

You can check if Starbucks is down using the Downdetector site. If this site says that the company’s servers are down, you’ll have to wait until the company fixes those faulty servers and brings the service back up.

5. Give Starbucks Access to Your Location

The Starbucks app requires access to your location to deliver your orders. If you’ve denied this permission to the app on your phone, that may be why you can’t use the app. In this case, access your phone’s permission settings and give Starbucks all the permissions it needs.

On Android

  1. Tap and hold on Starbucks in your app drawer and choose App info.
  2. Select Permissions on the following page.
  3. Choose Location on the screen that opens.
  4. Turn on the Allow only while using the app option.
  1. Open your Starbucks app.

On iPhone

  1. Launch Settings on your phone.
  2. Select Privacy > Location Services in Settings.
  3. Find and select Starbucks on the list.
  4. Choose While Using the App.
  1. Launch your Starbucks app.

6. Clear Starbucks App Cache

The Starbucks app creates and saves cache files on your phone to enhance your app experience. These cache files are vulnerable to corruption, and your app’s cache may have become corrupted, leading to app issues.

In this case, you can get rid of all the cache files of your app to fix your issue. You don’t lose your order history or other account data when you do this. Note that you can only clear an app’s cache files on Android. You’ll have to remove and reinstall the app on an iPhone to delete an app’s cache files.

  1. Tap and hold on Starbucks in your app drawer and select App info.
  2. Choose Storage usage on the following screen.
  3. Select Clear cache to remove the app’s cached files.
  1. Launch your Starbucks app.

7. Update Your Starbucks App

One reason you have trouble using Starbucks is that your app version may be outdated. Older versions are known to cause many issues, and this may be the case with your app.

You can fix that by updating your app to the latest version from your phone’s respective app store.

On Android

  1. Open Play Store on your phone.
  2. Find Starbucks.
  1. Tap Update to update the app.

On iPhone

  1. Launch App Store on your phone.
  2. Select Updates at the bottom.
  3. Choose Update next to Starbucks on the list.

8. Log Out and Back Into Your Account in Starbucks

If your updated Starbucks app refuses to work, your current login session may be problematic. The app may have trouble locating your account or there may be another issue.

In this case, sign out and back into your account in the app to fix your issue. You’ll need your Starbucks login credentials, so keep those handy.

  1. Open Starbucks on your phone.
  2. Select the Account option in the top-right corner.
  1. Scroll down the page and choose Log Out.
  2. Close and reopen the app.
  3. Log in to your account.

9. Remove and Reinstall Starbucks on Your Phone

If your Starbucks app doesn’t work despite following the above methods, your app’s system files may be corrupted. Such corruption can break your app’s features or make certain features completely unavailable.

In this case, you can resolve the issue by uninstalling and reinstalling the app on your phone. Doing so removes all the app files and brings new files.

On Android

  1. Access your app drawer, tap and hold on Starbucks, and choose Uninstall.
  1. Select OK in the prompt to remove the app.
  2. Open Play Store, find Starbucks, and tap Install.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Starbucks on your phone’s home screen.
  2. Select Remove App > Delete App in the menu.
  3. Open App Store, find Starbucks, and select the download icon.

Resolve Starbucks’ App Issues and Start Ordering Your Favorite Coffee

If you rely on Starbucks for your morning coffee, it’s really frustrating to find that your app doesn’t work. Luckily, your app issues won’t last too long, as our methods outlined above should fix all your app problems.

Once you’ve repaired the Starbucks app, fire up the app, and you should be able to order all your favorite items. Enjoy!

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How to Fix the C14A Snapchat Error https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-fix-the-c14a-snapchat-error/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-fix-the-c14a-snapchat-error/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Mon, 17 Jul 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97040

Trying to log in to your Snapchat account only to be greeted with an error message and a C14A code? The platform’s servers may be down, causing login issues everywhere. […]]]>
Trying to log in to your Snapchat account only to be greeted with an error message and a C14A code? The platform’s servers may be down, causing login issues everywhere. There are other causes of this issue as well. We’ll show you how to fix the items that may be causing this error in Snapchat on your Apple iPhone or Android phone.

Other reasons you can’t log in to your Snapchat account are that your app has a minor problem, your VPN isn’t working well with the app, your app cache is faulty, you’re using an outdated app version, and more.

Check if Snapchat Is Down

When you can’t log in to your account in Snapchat, the first thing to check is if the platform’s servers are down. Snapchat’s servers may be experiencing an outage, breaking various features of the app.

You can use a site like Downdetector to check if Snapchat is down. If the site tells you that Snapchat is indeed experiencing problems, you have no option but to wait until the company resolves the issue and brings the service back up.

Quit and Relaunch Snapchat on Your Phone

In case you haven’t already done so, close and reopen the Snapchat app on your phone to potentially fix your app problems. Your app may have minor glitches, which you can resolve by quitting and reopening the app.

On Android

  1. Access your phone’s open app list by pressing the Recents button.
  2. Find and swipe up on Snapchat to close the app.
  1. Access your phone’s app drawer and tap Snapchat to relaunch the app.
  2. Sign in to your account in the app.

On iPhone

  1. Bring up your open app list by swiping up from the bottom of your iPhone’s screen and pausing in the middle.
  2. Swipe up on Snapchat to close the app.
  1. Relaunch the app by selecting Snapchat on your home screen.
  2. Log in to your account in the app.

Fix Snapchat Login Issue by Restarting Your iPhone or Android Phone

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your apps but with your phone. Your iPhone or Android device may have a minor glitch, causing Snapchat to display a C14A error code. In this case, you can try to resolve your problem by restarting your phone.

On Android

  1. Access the Power menu by pressing and holding down the Power button.
  2. Select Restart in the menu to turn off and back on your phone.
  1. Launch Snapchat and try to log in to your account.

On iPhone

  1. Press Volume Up + Side or Volume Down + Side on your iPhone.
  2. Swipe the slider to turn off your phone.
  1. Turn your phone back on by pressing and holding down the Side button.
  2. Launch Snapchat and sign in to your account.

Turn Off Your VPN to Resolve a Snapchat Error Code C14A

When you have issues using an internet-enabled app like Snapchat, turn off your VPN service and see if that resolves your issue. Sometimes, a VPN app isn’t compatible with your internet apps, causing your apps not to work.

You can turn off your VPN by launching your app and disabling the service option. Then, open Snapchat and try to log in to your account.

If you succeed in logging in to your Snapchat account, your VPN is the culprit. In this case, either choose a new location in your VPN or get a new VPN.

Clear Your Snapchat App Cache

Nearly all apps create and store cache files on your phone to enhance your app usage experience. It’s possible Snapchat’s cache files have become corrupted, causing a C14A error in the app.

In this case, clear your app’s cache files, and your issue will be resolved. You don’t lose your messages or other account data when you do this. Note that clearing an app’s cache is only possible on an Android phone.

  1. Access your phone’s app drawer and find Snapchat.
  2. Tap and hold on the app and select App info.
  3. Choose Storage usage on the following screen.
  4. Select Clear cache to clear the app’s cached files.
  1. Launch the app and sign in to your account.

Fix Snapchat Support Code C14A by Updating Your App

One possible reason you get a C14A error is that your Snapchat app version is outdated. Older app versions often cause many issues, and one way to fix those issues is to bring your apps to the latest version.

On Android

  1. Open Google Play Store on your phone.
  2. Search for Snapchat.
  3. Select Update to update the application.

On iPhone

  1. Launch App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Select Updates at the bottom.
  3. Choose Update next to Snapchat on the list.

Uninstall and Reinstall Snapchat

If you continue to get a C14A error while trying to sign in to your account in Snapchat, reinstall your app to possibly fix your issue. This is because your app itself may be faulty, preventing you from accessing your account.

On Android

  1. Tap and hold on Snapchat in your app drawer and select Uninstall.
  1. Choose OK in the prompt.
  2. Open Play Store, find Snapchat, and select Install to reinstall the app.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Snapchat on your phone’s home screen.
  2. Choose Remove App > Delete App in the menu.
  3. Redownload the app by opening App Store, finding Snapchat, and tapping the download icon.

Contact Snapchat Support

If the above methods haven’t resolved your issue, your last resort is to contact Snapchat’s support team. The issue may not be on your end but on Snapchat’s end, which the company’s support team can help you with.

  1. Access the Snapchat Support site in your web browser.
  2. Select I can’t access my account from the available options.
  3. Choose I see an error message when I log in.
  1. Select Yes when the site asks if you still need help.
  2. Fill in the form with your Snapchat account details and submit the form.
  3. Wait to receive a response from Snapchat.

Bypass the C14A Error and Log In to Your Snapchat Account Successfully

Snapchat’s login error C14A prevents you from accessing your account and using the app’s various features. This error occurs for various reasons, as explained above. Luckily, you can resolve the issue and sign in to your account successfully using the methods above.

When you’ve fixed your login issue, you can start sending GIFs, Snaps, and messages from Snapchat on your phone.

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When Is the Best Time to Post on Instagram? https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/when-is-the-best-time-to-post-on-instagram/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/when-is-the-best-time-to-post-on-instagram/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Sat, 15 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=96988

If you’re an active social media and Instagram user, you may have wondered about the best time to share your posts for maximum visibility and engagement. Influencers know the best […]]]>
If you’re an active social media and Instagram user, you may have wondered about the best time to share your posts for maximum visibility and engagement. Influencers know the best and worst times to post depending on your time zone, type of content, and target audience. If you’re serious about social media management, you must know when to post for higher Instagram engagement.

In this article, we’ll explore the best time to post on Instagram and provide some tips to help you optimize your posting schedule.

Why Does Timing Matter on Instagram?

Timing plays a crucial role in the success of your Instagram posts. Understanding why timing matters on Instagram can help you optimize your posting strategy and increase your chances of reaching a larger audience.

Here are some key reasons why timing is essential on the platform.

  • Maximizing Visibility. Instagram’s algorithm determines the order in which posts appear on users’ feeds. When you post at the right time, you increase the likelihood of your content being shown to your followers. This means more people will see and interact with your posts.
  • Capitalizing on Active Users. Timing your posts when your target audience is most active on Instagram is essential. It increases the chances of your content appearing on the feeds of your most active Instagram followers.
  • Considering time zones. Understanding the time zones of your target audience is crucial, especially if you have a global or international following. By posting at peak times when your audience is most active in their respective time zones, you ensure your content reaches them when they’re more likely to be online.
  • Talking into Account Your Audience Behavior Patterns. Different audiences may have distinct online behavior patterns. For example, some individuals may be more active on Instagram during their lunch breaks, while others may prefer scrolling through their feeds during the evenings.
  • Discoverability and Hashtags. The timing of your posts can also impact your discoverability through hashtags. Posting when more users are actively searching for and exploring specific hashtags related to your content can increase the chances of your posts being discovered by new audiences.
  • Beating the Algorithm. Instagram’s algorithm considers various factors when prioritizing content, including the engagement rate shortly after a post is published. If your post receives high engagement in the first hours, it signals to the algorithm that your content is valuable and relevant. This can increase visibility and potentially be featured on the Explore page, attracting even more users to your profile.

These are all you need to consider if you’re just getting into social media marketing and Instagram marketing in particular. Many Instagram scheduling tools can help you get higher engagement on your posts, create content calendars, and grow your Instagram account faster.

However, you’ll likely have to determine the best posting times yourself.

When Is the Best Time to Post on Instagram?

When you post at the right time, you have a higher chance of appearing on your followers’ feeds when they’re actively browsing the app. The best time to post on Instagram can vary depending on your specific audience, industry, and location. Analyzing your Instagram Insights will help you identify the most optimal times for your posts.

Overall, several factors can help you determine the specific times when you get the most engagement on your Instagram posts. These include your target audience, their demographics, different time zones, and their online behavior patterns.

It’s important to consider these factors when creating your social media strategy. If you don’t like using Instagram analytics, you can also use third-party analytics tools to gather information about your Instagram content performance. Alternatively, a good starting point would be to use the research from Hootsuite, Later, Influencer Marketing Hub, and Sprout Social, which regularly survey engagement metrics for millions of Instagram posts worldwide and use it to determine the best times to post content on your Instagram feed.

Overall Best Time to Post on Instagram for Likes and Comments

If you’re not a business account owner and simply want to get more likes and comments on your Instagram stories and posts, you can use the following general patterns to choose the best day of the week or time of day to post.

  1. Weekdays vs. Weekends. In general, weekdays tend to have higher engagement rates compared to weekends. Many users are more active on Instagram during their work week or school days, increasing online time. However, this can vary based on your audience demographics and their online behavior patterns.
  1. Morning Hours. Posting in the early morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM (local time), has proven to be the best time for getting likes and comments. During this time, people often check their phones shortly after waking up, during their commute to work or school, or their morning break. If you manage to capture their attention during these early hours, it can lead to increased engagement.
  1. Lunchtime. Posting around lunch hour, between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, is also a good idea for interacting with your Instagram audience. Many people take a break from their daily activities to scroll through their Instagram feeds while enjoying their meals.
  1. After-Work Hours. The period between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM tends to be a popular time for Instagram activity. As people finish their workday or school, they often relax and catch up on social media. Posting during this window can increase the chances of your content being seen by more people.
  1. Evening and Night. Instagram usage remains steady during the evening and nighttime hours, especially between 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Many users unwind and spend more time on the app during these hours. By posting fun content during this time, you can engage with users likely to interact with your posts.

You can use these suggested time slots as starting points for your Instagram marketing strategy. However, the best way is to monitor your Instagram engagement, do some tests, and find your own data instead of sticking to a fixed template of best times.

Experiment with different posting times and then see which posts get higher engagement, i.e., more likes and comments, to create your own posting schedule tailored to your audience.

The Best Time to Post Reels on Instagram

Thanks to TikTok, Instagram Reels became one of the crucial tools when it comes to growing your engagement rates on Instagram. Many researchers suggest posting one Reel per day for the best results. But what’s the best time to post that one Reel?

According to Hootsuite, the best times for posting your Reels are 9 am and 12 pm Monday through Thursday. My personal experience with Reels tells me that the times when you get the most engagement on your Reels are 8-10 pm on work days excluding Friday. However, both results are based on specific audiences and demographics.

Once again, to find out the best time to post Reels to your Instagram account, you’ll have to hold your own experiment and see what works best for you and your followers.

When Should You NOT Post on Instagram?

We’ve already discussed the best times to post on Instagram, but it’s just as important to know when is the worst times or days when your posts may get less visibility and interaction. Understanding when not to post can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure your content receives the attention it deserves.

One of the worst days to post on Instagram is Sunday. Many people use Sundays as a day of relaxation, spending time with family and friends, or simply taking a break from social media. As a result, user activity and engagement on Instagram are lower on Sundays. This means your posts may get buried in the feed and receive less attention compared to other days of the week.

Don’t forget to consider time zones when determining the worst times to post on Instagram. If you’re in the Pacific Standard Time (PST) zone, the early morning hours between 3 AM and 5 AM PST can be some of the worst for posting. During this time, most Instagram users in other time zones, such as the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone, are either sleeping or have yet to start their day.

Tips for Finding Your Best Time to Post on Instagram

Here are a few tips you can use to find your ideal time to post on Instagram.

  • Check Instagram Insights. Use the data in your Instagram Insights to see when your audience is most active and engaged.
  • Experiment with different times. Try posting at different times of the day to determine when you get the highest engagement.
  • Consider your target audience. Understand your target audience’s characteristics and time zones to adjust your posting schedule accordingly.
  • Use third-party scheduling tools. Take advantage of Instagram scheduling tools that offer insights and suggest optimal posting times.
  • Engage with your audience. Interact with your followers and ask for their feedback on your posting schedule.
  • Stay informed. Keep up with industry trends and changes in user behavior on Instagram.

When Should You Post on Instagram?

Finding the best time to post on Instagram is an ongoing process. It requires monitoring, analyzing data, and adapting your strategy based on your audience’s behavior and preferences. What works for one account may not work for another, so it’s important to tailor your approach to your unique audience and goals.

By consistently evaluating and optimizing your posting schedule, you can ensure that your content reaches the right people at the right time, driving higher engagement and helping you achieve your Instagram goals.

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How to Use Bold, Italics, and Strikethrough in WhatsApp Messages https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-use-bold-italics-and-strikethrough-in-whatsapp-messages/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-use-bold-italics-and-strikethrough-in-whatsapp-messages/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Fri, 14 Jul 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=96978

WhatsApp is a popular social media app used by millions of people worldwide for instant messaging. It provides a range of features to enhance your messaging experience, including the ability […]]]>
WhatsApp is a popular social media app used by millions of people worldwide for instant messaging. It provides a range of features to enhance your messaging experience, including the ability to format your text. Using WhatsApp formatting options like bold, italics, and strikethrough, you can make your messages stand out and express yourself more effectively.

In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to use these formatting options in a WhatsApp chat, whether you’re using an Android device, Apple iPhone, or WhatsApp Web on your computer.

Why Use Bold, Italics, and Strikethrough in WhatsApp Messages

Although over the years, voice and video calling on WhatsApp sort of took over the traditional messaging as the new trends, the app first started as a messenger that people used to exchange texts. And who wants to send or receive plain texts when you can use text formatting to make them stand out?

The option to format text in messaging apps allows you to add emphasis, clarity, and style to your messages. Whether you share important information, express emotions, or simply engage in a conversation, formatting options help convey your message effectively. It’s a way to underline text in your messages and make them more engaging and visually appealing.

Additionally, formatted text can be useful in group chats as an alternative to stickers or GIFs. By using bold, italics, or strikethrough, you can make specific parts of your message more noticeable and make sure the important information doesn’t get lost in the conversation.

How to Format Text in WhatsApp

Most messaging apps only allow you to send plain text. Unlike them, WhatsApp offers various formatting options to make your text messages more appealing. To diversify your WhatsApp texts, you can use bold text, italic text, strikethrough text, and monospaced text.

You can combine several formatting options to create more complex formatting styles. For example, you can use bold italics in your text message for a more dramatic effect.

There are two ways to format text on WhatsApp: by using your phone’s built-in functionality to select bold, italics, strikethrough, and monospace or by using specific formatting shortcuts.

As WhatsApp aims to provide a consistent user experience across different platforms, the formatting options work similarly on both Android and iOS devices. The same formatting techniques also work on WhatsApp Web, if you prefer using the app on your computer.

How to Format Text in WhatsApp Using the Built-in Visual Editor

The easiest way to format text in WhatsApp is by using the built-in visual editor. That way, you don’t have to remember any cheat codes or shortcuts to change the look of your text.

To format your text using the visual editor in WhatsApp, follow the steps below:

  1. Open WhatsApp on your device.
  2. Navigate to the chat where you want to send a formatted message.
  3. Type your message in the text box.
  4. On Android, tap and hold a word that you want to format. On iOS, double tap the word. This will reveal a text formatting menu. If you want to select several words, use the buttons on the sides of the text to expand the selection.
  1. On Android, select one of the formatting options from the menu: Bold, Italic, Strikethrough, or Monospace. If the app isn’t showing all of them, select the three-dots icon on the right side of the message box.
  1. On iPhone or iPad, select BIU > Bold, Italic, Strikethrough, or Monospace.
  2. Review your message and select Send to share it.

You can use multiple formatting options on the same word. Just repeat the process of selecting a different option again to overlap the formatting effects.

The built-in visual editor in WhatsApp makes the process of formatting your text simple. It’s a convenient option for quickly applying formatting to your messages if you don’t want to remember specific characters or codes.

How to Use Formatting Shortcuts in WhatsApp

Apart from the visual editor, WhatsApp also provides formatting shortcuts that allow you to format your text directly while typing. This method is better to use if you’re typing quickly and need to apply formatting to a big chunk of text. However, the downside of this technique is that you’ll have to remember these shortcuts or Google them beforehand every time you want to use them.

Here are the formatting shortcuts you can use:

  • To format text as bold, add an asterisk (*) at the beginning and end of the desired text. Example: *text*.
  • To format text as italics, enclose your text in underscores (_). Example: _text_.
  • To format text as strikethrough, add a tilde (~) at the start and end of your message. Example: ~text~.
  • To format text as monospace, put three backticks (“`) on each side of your text. Example: “`text“`.

These formatting shortcuts work seamlessly while typing in WhatsApp, and apply formatting to your text in real time.

How to Format Text in WhatsApp Web

If you prefer using WhatsApp on your computer through WhatsApp Web, you’ll be glad that the formatting options are also available on the web version. You can format your text using the same techniques mentioned earlier, including the built-in visual editor and formatting shortcuts.

To access WhatsApp Web, follow the steps below:

  1. Open a web browser on your computer and visit web.whatsapp.com.
  2. On your smartphone, open WhatsApp and select the three-dot menu icon > Settings (Android) or the Settings tab (iPhone).
  3. Select WhatsApp Web or WhatsApp Web/Desktop.
  4. Scan the QR code displayed on the web page using your phone’s camera.

This will pair WhatsApp on your phone with the WhatsApp web client. In order for the web client to work, your phone needs to stay connected to the internet.

Once connected, you can use the same formatting options as you would on your phone to format text in WhatsApp Web. Bear in mind that, unlike on mobile, on WhatsApp Web you won’t see the applied effect until you send the message.

Chat Clearly With WhatsApp Text Formatting

Formatting text in WhatsApp is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your messaging experience. Whether you’re using the built-in visual editor, formatting shortcuts, or WhatsApp Web, you can easily apply bold, italics, and strikethrough to your text.

These formatting options allow you to express yourself more effectively, emphasize important information, and make your messages stand out.

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How to (Indirectly) Turn off Read Receipts on Instagram https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-indirectly-turn-off-read-receipts-on-instagram/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-indirectly-turn-off-read-receipts-on-instagram/#disqus_thread Ben Stockton]]> Thu, 13 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=96936

Instagram is a popular platform for sharing photos, videos, and messages, but there’s one downside—unwanted interactions. You may want a bit of peace from the messages you receive, but if […]]]>
Instagram is a popular platform for sharing photos, videos, and messages, but there’s one downside—unwanted interactions. You may want a bit of peace from the messages you receive, but if you open up a direct message, the sender will know you’ve read it straight away.

There isn’t a way to turn off read receipts on Instagram, but there are some workarounds if you want a quick peek at a message without alerting the sender. If you want to control your read receipts on Instagram, follow the steps below.

Can You Turn Off Read Receipts on Instagram?

There isn’t a setting to turn off read receipts on Instagram (at this time). However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to stop read receipts from being sent—temporarily, at least.

There isn’t a permanent method to stop them, but you can use airplane mode on your device as a workaround to view messages without sending read receipts immediately. This works by blocking Instagram from updating its servers (and thus the sender) that you’ve read the message.

However, once you turn off airplane mode and connect to the internet again, the read receipts will be sent. You’ll need to keep this in mind.

How to Disable Instagram Read Receipts Using Airplane Mode

One way to indirectly disable read receipts on Instagram is by using the airplane mode feature on your device. This method allows you to read messages without notifying the sender that you’ve seen them.

As we’ve mentioned already, this isn’t a permanent solution. It’ll only give you a quick way to view your Instagram messages, and only if the app has loaded the messages for you without opening the message thread directly.

This should happen if you open your Instagram app’s messages ‘folder.’ However, if you’ve missed out on a long thread of messages, you may only see that a small selection of them load (or they don’t load at all).

To use airplane mode to read messages on Instagram, follow the steps below.

  1. Launch the Instagram app on your device and tap the messages icon in the top-right to open your message inbox. Allow the messages to load, but don’t open or read them just yet.
  1. Before opening any message, you’ll need to enable airplane mode. To do this on Android, swipe down from the notifications panel and tap the airplane mode or flight mode icon (depending on your device). Recent iPhone users can do this by swiping from the top-right and tapping the airplane icon in the Control Center.
  1. Airplane Mode will disable all wireless connections on your device, including Wi-Fi and mobile data. Ensure the Wi-Fi symbol is grayed out or has a line through it before proceeding.
  2. Next, return to the Instagram app and open the message you want to read. Since your device is not connected to the internet, Instagram cannot register that you’ve read the message.
  1. After reading the message, close the Instagram app and make sure it’s not running in the background.
  2. When you’re ready, open your notifications panel (on Android) or Control Center (on iPhone and iPad) to disable airplane mode and reconnect your device to your Wi-Fi network or mobile data.

With any luck, Instagram will still not show the message as read, because it wasn’t connected to the internet when you opened it. However, this may not last for long (or work at all), so your mileage may vary.

How to Disable Instagram Message Notifications

If you tap a message notification on Instagram, it’ll take you straight to the message (and send a read receipt in the process). If you’re worried about your privacy, it’s probably a good idea to disable these message notifications.

This will stop you from accidentally opening up a message without intending to. You’ll need to manually check and open any messages you receive afterward.

To disable message notifications on Instagram, follow these steps.

  1. Open the Instagram app on your device and navigate to your profile by tapping your profile icon at the bottom, then tap the menu icon (with three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner.
  1. Next, tap the Settings and privacy option (with the gear icon) located at the top of the pop-up menu.
  1. Select Notifications from the list of available settings.
  1. Next, tap Messages and calls.
  1. Tap the Off option next to each setting in the Messages and calls section to disable all message notifications in your Instagram app.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll no longer receive message notifications from Instagram. This means you can access your messages at your own pace and read them without the sender knowing instantly that you’ve seen their message.

However, don’t forget to check your Instagram inbox regularly to avoid missing any important messages.

Managing Your Instagram Account

While you can’t directly turn off read receipts on Instagram, you can use the workarounds above to help you avoid them (at least temporarily).

Having trouble sending messages on Instagram yourself? You’ll need to troubleshoot the problem by reinstalling the app or signing out of your profile.

Don’t forget; if you’re worried about your privacy, you can always delete your Instagram account and switch to another platform.

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Reddit App Not Working? 9 Ways to Fix the App https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/reddit-app-not-working-9-ways-to-fix-the-app/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/reddit-app-not-working-9-ways-to-fix-the-app/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=96923

Reddit’s app for iPhone and Android is a great way to browse the platform’s content. However, if you’re experiencing issues using the app, that can ruin your browsing experience. In […]]]>
Reddit’s app for iPhone and Android is a great way to browse the platform’s content. However, if you’re experiencing issues using the app, that can ruin your browsing experience. In this guide, we’ll show you a few tweaks you can apply to fix the app on your phone. Let’s get started.

A few reasons you can’t use the Reddit app on your phone are that your app has a minor glitch, your internet connection isn’t working, the app’s cache files are faulty, your app version is outdated, your login session is corrupted, and more.

1. Force Close and Reopen Reddit on Your Phone

One easy fix to apply when you have trouble using an app is to force quit and relaunch the app. Doing so gives the app a fresh chance to load, fixing minor problems. You can do that with the Reddit app on your phone to resolve your app problem.

On Android

  1. Close Reddit as usual if the app is open on your phone.
  2. Tap and hold on Reddit in your app drawer and select App info.
  3. Choose Force stop to force the app to close.
  1. Select Force stop in the prompt.
  2. Open your app drawer and tap Reddit to relaunch the app.

On iPhone

  1. Swipe up from the bottom of your phone’s screen and pause in the middle.
  2. Find the Reddit app by swiping left or right.
  3. Swipe up on Reddit to close the app.
  4. Relaunch the app by tapping Reddit on your phone’s home screen.

2. Reboot Your iPhone or Android Phone

If your Reddit app still doesn’t work, give your iPhone or Android phone a quick restart. Doing so helps resolve your phone’s minor problems, some of which may be interfering with Reddit.

Make sure to save your unsaved work before turning off your phone.

On Android

  1. Press and hold down the Power button on your phone.
  2. Select Restart in the menu.
  1. Launch Reddit when your phone turns on.

On iPhone

  1. Press and hold down either Volume Down + Side or Volume Up + Side on your phone.
  2. Drag the slider to power off your phone.
  1. Turn your phone back on by pressing and holding down the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
  2. Launch the Reddit app.

3. Check Your Internet Connection

Reddit is an internet-enabled app, meaning the app connects to the internet to retrieve data. One reason the app doesn’t work on your phone is that your phone’s internet connection isn’t working. This causes Reddit not to load new data.

In this case, check your phone’s connection status by opening a web browser and launching a site. If your site loads, your phone’s internet connection is fine. In this case, move to the next fix.

If your site doesn’t load, your internet connection is the culprit. In this case, try to resolve the issue by rebooting your Wi-Fi router, resetting your router, or contacting your internet service provider (ISP).

4. Make Sure Reddit Isn’t Down

After verifying that your internet connection is working, ensure Reddit’s servers are up. Your app may not work if the platform’s servers are facing an outage, which rarely happens, but it does.

You can check the platform’s server status using sites like Reddit Status and Downdetector. These sites will tell you if Reddit is experiencing issues.

If Reddit is indeed down, you’ll have to be patient and wait until the company resolves the issue. There’s nothing you can do on your end to fix the issue.

5. Disable Reddit’s Video Auto-Play Feature

If you’ve noticed, Reddit automatically plays the videos that come up in your regular feed. Sometimes, the app faces issues loading these videos, which causes the app not to work.

In this case, it’s worth toggling off that auto-play feature to potentially fix your issue.

  1. Open Reddit on your phone.
  2. Select your profile icon in the top-right corner and choose Settings.
  3. Select Autoplay on the following page.
  1. Choose Never in the menu to stop Reddit from automatically playing videos.
  1. Close and reopen Reddit.

6. Clear Reddit’s App Cache on Your Phone

Reddit stores cache files to provide you with your requested content quickly. Sometimes, these cached files become corrupted, leading the app to malfunction. This may be the cause of your issue.

In this case, delete your app’s cached content and your issue will likely be resolved. You don’t lose your personal data when you do this.

Note that you can only clear an app’s cache on Android. The iPhone requires you to delete the app to remove the app’s cached files.

  1. Launch your phone’s app drawer, tap and hold on Reddit, and select App info.
  2. Choose Storage usage on the following screen.
  3. Select Clear cache to remove the app’s cached files.
  1. Close Settings and launch your Reddit app.

7. Update Reddit on Your iPhone or Android Phone

If clearing the cache didn’t fix your issue, you may be using an old version of the app on your phone. Such versions are known to have issues, and one way to resolve those problems is by updating your app version.

Updating Reddit on your phone lets you fix many bugs in the app and possibly get new features.

On Android

  1. Open Play Store on your phone.
  2. Find Reddit.
  3. Tap the Update button to update the app.

On iPhone

  1. Launch App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Select Updates in the bottom bar.
  3. Choose Update next to Reddit on the app list.

8. Log Out and Back Into Your Account in the Reddit App

One way to fix a broken Reddit app is by signing out and back into your account in the app. This fixes many issues related to your login session, allowing you to use your app normally.

Note that you’ll have to enter your Reddit username and password to log back into your account, so keep those details handy.

  1. Open Reddit on your phone.
  2. Select your profile icon in the app’s top-right corner.
  3. Choose your username.
  4. Select the right-arrow icon next to your username.
  5. Select Log out in the prompt.
  1. Close and reopen Reddit, then log in to your account.

9. Remove and Reinstall Reddit on Your iPhone or Android Phone

If none of the above methods fixed your issue, your last option is to uninstall and reinstall Reddit on your phone. Doing so removes all the app files from your phone, some of which may be problematic.

Then, reinstalling the app brings a fresh copy of all the app files. This fixes all your app-related issues. Note that you’ll have to sign back into your account when you reinstall the app, so keep your login credentials ready.

On Android

  1. Open your phone’s app drawer, tap and hold on Reddit, and choose Uninstall.
  1. Select Uninstall in the prompt.
  2. Launch Play Store, find Reddit, and tap Install.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Reddit on your iPhone’s home screen.
  2. Choose X in the app’s top-left corner.
  3. Select Delete in the prompt.
  4. Open App Store, find Reddit, and tap the download icon.

Fix a Broken Reddit App on Your iPhone or Android Phone

A faulty Reddit app prevents you from browsing your feed and performing other activities in the app. If you find your app misbehaving, use the methods outlined above to bring the app back to its original state.

You can then browse your feed as usual, make posts, search content, and perform any other activities you want in the app.

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