Why does this happen? Well lets explore a couple of culprits;

Bluetooth Problems; Just like any wireless headphones AirPods rely on Bluetooth technology to transmit audio. If there are connectivity issues or interference it can result in no sound even if the connection seems established.

Outdated Software; It’s important to ensure that both your iPhone software and AirPods firmware are up, to date. Outdated versions of operating systems or firmware can lead to syncing and pairing problems.

Incorrect Output Setting; Sometimes the audio output might accidentally be set to play through your iPhone speaker of automatically routing it to the AirPods.

App Permissions; Certain applications require additional permissions in order to send audio output via Bluetooth devices. This could explain why sound works in some apps but not others.

By addressing these causes and following troubleshooting steps accordingly you should be able to resolve the issue of your AirPods staying connected while the sound plays through your iPhone speaker.
Potential Hardware Issues; In instances problems like debris stuck in the charging ports, battery malfunctions or other hardware faults with the AirPods themselves might be causing the problem.

How to Resolve AirPods Playing Sound from iPhone Instead

Before attempting any troubleshooting steps it’s always best to start with the basics;

Restart Both Devices; Power off and then power on both your iPhone and AirPods. This will refresh their connections.

Check AirPods Fit; Ensure that both AirPods fit properly in your ears and that there are no obstructions affecting the sound.

Bring Devices Closer; During testing place your iPhone and AirPods within range in the same room to maintain a strong Bluetooth connection.

If you’re still experiencing issues with sound playing reliably through your AirPods proceed to try these steps;

1. Access Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone. Select “Forget Device” for your AirPods. Then. Hold the button on the back of the AirPod case to re pair them.

2. Confirm Audio Output Settings; Go to Settings > Bluetooth > tap on the “i” next to your AirPods. Choose “iPhone” as the audio source.

3. Check App Permissions; Under iPhone Settings locate and select each app > Bluetooth. Toggle on permissions to allow access to Bluetooth.

4. Update iOS Software; Make sure you have installed all software updates, for both your iPhone and AirPods firmware.

5.
To reset the network settings on your iPhone go to the “General” menu then select “Reset ” and finally choose “Reset Network Settings.” Just be aware that doing this will cause your device to forget all saved Wi Fi passwords and other network related preferences.

Next inspect the charging ports of AirPods for any signs of dust and debris. If you notice any issues carefully then clean them out.

Try using your AirPods with a device like an iPad or Mac. If the problem persists on another device it might indicate a hardware problem with the AirPods.

During troubleshooting pay attention to the sound cuts out. If it disconnects immediately before stopping it could suggest issues compared to cases where there was never proper audio routing from the beginning.

The key is to re establish and verify every link in the audio chain. Once you’ve ensured that basics like fitting, pairing and output are functioning correctly you can fine tune permissions and check for updates. It’s best to rule out software related culprits before delving into hardware problems.

Are you experiencing sound coming from your iPhone instead of your AirPods? In that case it might be necessary to replace your AirPods if you’ve already tried all troubleshooting steps such, as resetting them cleaning their ports updating firmware and checking app permissions. Intermittent sound disruptions, volumes that sound muffled or distorted at times during playback are common signs of a potential hardware defect.If your AirPods are giving you troubles it might be more worthwhile to consider getting a set rather than spending money on extensive troubleshooting or repairs. It’s also an idea to check out AppleCare for future protection of your AirPods investment.

The key here is to understand the symptoms and systematically try out different solutions starting from the simplest ones and moving towards more complex ones. Before assuming that there’s a hardware issue make sure to review Bluetooth settings and software configurations. With the troubleshooting approach you should be able to enjoy uninterrupted sound, from your AirPods in no time.

The post AirPods Connected But Sound Coming From Phone appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through several methods to identify your iPad’s model and year it was released to determine its age.

Check Your iPad’s Settings

The easiest way to find out your iPad’s age is to check its settings.

To view your iPad’s model and year:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPad’s home screen.

2. Select “General” and then “About.”

3. Under “Model,” you’ll find details about your specific iPad model.

4. The model year is typically in the name itself or in parentheses right next to it.

For example, you might see “iPad Air 2 (2015)” or “iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021).” This tells you your exact model and the year it was released.

Match Your Model Number

You can also find your iPad’s age by matching its model number to its release year.

To find your model number:

1. Go to Settings > General > About like in the steps above.

2. Scroll down to “Model Number” and you’ll see a long alphanumeric code. This is your iPad’s specific model number.

3. Search online for “[your model number] Apple” to bring up specific details about your iPad model. Online specs will list the release date or year it first went on sale.

For instance, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 5th generation has a model number iPad13,1. Searching for this brings up results showing this specific model was first released in April 2021.

Use Your iPad’s Serial Number

Still unsure on the manufacture date? You can use your iPad’s unique serial number to look up the exact date it was produced.

To find and check your serial number:

1. Locate the serial number printed on the back of your iPad near the bottom. It will be a long combination of letters and numbers unique to your device.

2. Go to Apple’s Online Service Assistant tool and enter your serial number. This will look up details linked to that serial and show you the exact date your iPad was manufactured.

3. Subtract the production year from the current year and that gives you your iPad’s age.

So if your serial number shows a June 2017 production date, and it’s currently 2024, your iPad would be nearly 7 years old.

Identify Physical Features

Sometimes it’s possible to estimate your iPad’s age by examining its physical features alone. Things like the logos, connectors, cameras, and bezels can provide clues as to whether you have an older or newer generation.

For instance, an iPad with a 30-pin dock connector is likely older than one with a Lightning port. An iPad mini with touch ID built into the home button indicates a newer 2nd, 3rd or 4th generation versus a 1st gen.

While the physical design cues alone won’t tell you an exact age, they can help you roughly narrow it down before investigating further using the steps above.

Check Your Purchase History

If you purchased your iPad directly from Apple or a major electronics retailer like Best Buy, you may be able to find the order date in your purchase history.

Dig through old emails for receipt confirmations from Apple or look up past orders on websites of major retailers. The exact purchase date, if available, will tell you precisely how long you’ve had your iPad.

Rebuild from iCloud or iTunes Backup

If none of the other methods provide a clear idea on your iPad’s age, you may be able to pinpoint it by examining any stored backups of the device.

When you back up an iPhone or iPad to iCloud or iTunes, details like the date and iOS version are associated with that backup snapshot.

You can view backup metadata by going into your iCloud settings or iTunes app preferences on a computer. Look for the date of the latest available backup of your iPad. If the date was when your first got your iPad, this can indicate how long you’ve had it.

In Summary

Figuring out your iPad’s age and model details is fast and simple by following our guide:

– Check Settings > General > About to see Apple’s model name with year
– Match the iPad’s model number to online specs showing release year
– Lookup manufacture date via serial number on Apple’s tool
– Examine physical design features for clues pointing to general age
– Retrieve purchase date from old receipts and order history
– View backup metadata in iTunes or iCloud settings

Knowing exactly how old your iPad is helps with troubleshooting, determining resale value and whether to upgrade. Follow the methods above to easily discover your iPad’s age.

The post How Old Is My iPad? appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

Apple AirTags is among the most reliable item finders on the contemporary market. By using Apple’s Find My app, owners of AirTags can harness the extended Bluetooth-finding range, which makes it nearly impossible to “not” find your phone, backpack, or other items with an AirTag placed on it. And I’m talking about precision finding here, iPhone owners!

It’s easy to get accustomed to this little gadget, but how long can you keep using it before you’ll need another one? Apple AirTags work on a replaceable battery, but I can’t give you a short answer to how long it will last since the answer depends on several factors. If you want to learn everything about your Apple AirTag battery life, you’ll find valuable information in the sections below.

How Long Do AirTags Last?

All Apple AirTags are equipped with a coin-shaped CR2032 Lithium battery. On average, the AirTag battery life is about a year. The frequency of use of this Apple device affects its battery lifespan. The more you use Apple’s Find My app, the more Apple AirTags are used, and the lower the battery’s life will be.

Apple Airtag’s battery is supposed to last about one year. It cannot last much longer than that but it can last much shorter for various reasons. People who have a habit of losing their items a bit too often will likely use the Find My app (and their Apple Airtags) every other day.

Replacing the provided battery with an off-brand C2032 of subpar quality may reduce battery life. Proper storage is also an important factor, as keeping the items with Apple’s AirTags in extremely hot, cold, or humid conditions can reduce the overall AirTag battery life as well.

Today, I want to help you understand what Apple AirTag’s battery is, which factors reduce its battery life, and ultimately, what to do when it dies.

What is CR2032 Battery?

The battery all Apple AirTags are supplied with is called CR2032. It is a Lithium 3V battery with approximately 235 mAh capacity-wise shaped like a coin with an operating temperature of 0-60 degrees Celsius.

One of the most important things you should know about CR2032 batteries is that they are non-rechargeable. More specifically, it’s not that you just can’t recharge them, you won’t need to, since they pack enough strength to last an entire year.

Another important thing to note is that you can’t buy CR2032 replacement batteries in Apple stores. Fortunately, dozens of brands sell these batteries with the most prominent being Duracell, Panasonic, Maxell, Renata, and Energizer.

Of course, dozens of other brands are making CR2032 batteries as well, but their methods, techniques, and ultimately battery lifespan of said batteries can’t compare to the leading firms I just mentioned.

Avoid Bitter-coated CR2032 Batteries

Not long after Apple released AirTags on the market, many users reported that the AirTag CR2032 replacement batteries they bought didn’t work. As conveyed by Apple’s spokesperson, this is mainly the issue for people that have bought bitter-coated Lithium CR2032 batteries, continuing that these should be avoided.

How to See the Battery Level of Your Apple AirTags?

Early on, you could see the battery status of your AirTag by opening the “Find My” app, selecting the “Items” tab, and clicking on the specific AirTag you want to inspect. However, Apple decided to disable this feature at some point. You shouldn’t worry, though, because you’ll receive a notification when the battery of your AirTag is low.

How to Maintain Optimal AirTag’s Battery Life?

Apple AirTags feature a non-rechargeable Lithium battery that can last for approximately a year before a replacement needs to be installed. By rationing the frequency of usage, ensuring that the AirTags attached to your items aren’t in harsh environments, and choosing reputable brands for replacement batteries, your AirTags will last the longest.

Like all other batteries, the CR2032 Lithium batteries Apple AirTags use will eventually run out of power. Unlike rechargeable batteries, the ones supplied to your AirTag can last about a year, but only if certain conditions are met.

More specifically, if you know the factors that affect your AirTag’s battery life, you can ensure that it will serve you for the longest duration possible. These factors include usage, operating temperature, and the quality of the battery itself.

Using Your AirTags

Apple designed its AirTag so that it is permanently on. This product wouldn’t be too useful if you had to worry about activating it right before you lost some of your valuable items. However, this does not mean that your AirTags have to be on all the time. In fact, if you keep them constantly powered, the battery will certainly degrade far quicker than usual.

It wouldn’t hurt to develop a habit of turning your AirTags off when they are not needed. For example, if you mainly use an AirTag to ensure you never lose your backpack while traveling, turn AirTags off when you’re at home after you’ve confirmed that your belongings are safe.

Disabling Your AirTags

Some articles I’ve read suggest that you should remove AirTag’s battery to turn the device off. Even though this is one method, it is impractical in certain situations and certainly not warranted when a safer, “gentler” alternative exists.

You can disable your AirTags remotely even if the battery is still inside the device with your “Find My” app. All you have to do is disconnect it from the “Find My” network, and it will go into a passive state. This “passive” state means that it will no longer give you information about your lost items, that only you can’t activate the “Lost Mode”, and nearly all of its primary features will now be disabled.

To do so, open the Apple Find My app, click “Items”, and choose the AirTag that you wish to disable. Tap “Instructions to Disable”, and you will see a text appear on your screen, guiding you through the rest of the process.

Keeping Your AirTags Out of Harm’s Way

Apple’s AirTag products are fairly durable, and the same can be said about the coin-shaped Lithium battery they are supplied with. However, CR2032 batteries aren’t impervious to elemental damage. One of the main tricks to ensuring the battery survives for a full year revolves around proper usage & storage.

Before diving any deeper, let me first say that the operating temperature of the AirTag’s battery spans between 0 and 60 degrees Celsius. Quality-made CR2032 batteries can endure freezing temperatures better (as low as -20 C), but you shouldn’t risk it anyway.

When you’re not using your AirTags, keep them in a dry, cool place, preferably not under direct sunlight or in excessively humid areas (e.g. next to an air humidifier, AC system, etc.).

If your AirTags are active and you’re visiting a place known for its harsh atmosphere, try to respond to the AirTag’s alerts as soon as possible.

Let’s say you went mountain climbing in a particularly cold region or went for a swim and you left the object with an AirTag on a smoldering hot beach. You’ll receive period alerts if you forgot to pick this item up, so keep this information in the back of your mind.

AirTags are IP67 Water Resistant but not waterproof

The IP (ingress protection) rating of 67 indicates that a device is highly water-resistant. AirTags boast this level of water resistance, meaning that they are completely dust proof and can survive immersion in water up to one meter for about 30 minutes. Act quickly if you went diving and dropped an AirTag-equipped item into the water.

FAQ

I wanted to answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Apple AirTag’s battery to give you even more insights into how to optimize its use.

Does AirTag run out of battery?
Yes, all Apple AirTag products are supplied with replaceable CR2032 Lithium batteries that are estimated to work for approximately one year.

Do you charge AirTags?
No, AirTags do not require recharging. Periodically check the remaining battery life, and once it is low, consider replacing the current battery with a new one.

Wrapping Up

All AirTags come equipped with the same battery, but it’s up to you how long this battery will last. The estimated lifespan of CR2032 batteries is about a year, so keep your AirTags away from extremely hot/cold environments and remember to disable them when you don’t need them.

The post How Long Do AirTags Last? (All About AirTag Battery Life) appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

Why Are My AirPods So Quiet?

Apple AirPods can become more quiet than usual for several reasons:

You left the Low Power Mode on.
Your Volume Limiter is on.
The interior is obstructed by debris.
Running on low battery.
Outdated software version.
Technical difficulties regarding hardware.
Each of these scenarios requires a slightly different approach. So take a deep breath and check out the most common issues and fixes to your “Why are my AirPods so quiet?” problem.

Reason 1: You Left the Low Power Mode On

Apple devices have a convenient function called “Low Power Mode.” It preserves as much battery as possible while enabling you to use most functions, albeit at reduced capacity. When this mode is turned on, your iPhone display won’t be as bright, for example. Similarly, the sounds coming from your device won’t be as loud. Even if your AirPods are fully charged, you’ll have low volume coming out.

Here’s how to disable Low Power Mode:

Open the iPad/iPhone Settings app.
Tap Battery.
Turn off Low Power Mode – if the slider is green (turned to the right), tap it until it grays out (turns to the left).
You can immediately check if this solution has fixed your problem. If not, let’s explore some other potential fixes.

Reason 2: Your Volume Limiter Is On

Volume limiter is an inbuilt function that sets the maximum volume limit on an Apple iPhone or iPad device. This volume control can be quite convenient at work or school, but many people forget to deactivate it. The volume limiter function is both togglable and customizable. Your iPhone/iPad will automatically use the 85 decibels settings when off. Remember that although you can set it up to 100 decibels, using volume settings over 85 decibels for extended periods is not considered safe.

To adjust the volume limit, follow these steps via Sound Settings:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone/iPad.
Tap Sounds & Haptics.
Tap Headphone Safety.
Toggle Reduce Loud Sounds to On (green slider turned to the right).
Set the decibels to your desired level using the volume slider shown in the image above.
Reason 3: Your AirPods Are Running On Low Battery

Low battery level is one of the most common reasons why your AirPods aren’t as loud as they should be. This situation is very different from Low Power Mode, as you can’t simply toggle a function to make the problem disappear. The ability to transmit and receive signals is diminished at critically low battery levels. Don’t be surprised if your AirPods periodically disconnect from your Apple iPhone and are a bit quieter than usual. This problem typically occurs when the battery drops to 10% or lower. Solution? Well, just charge your AirPods!

Reason 4: Your Apple Device Needs a Software Update

Dated software can cause a range of bugs, including muffled AirPods volume. Since all iPhone, iPad, and Mac models receive automatic software updates, you’d assume that this is not a common issue. However, there are several reasons why the device couldn’t receive an update. These include internet issues, a pre-existing bug that was not resolved with the latest update, problems on Apple’s end, or something simpler – the user deactivating automatic updates. Whatever the case, you may want to check if software updates are available for your iPad, iPhone, or Mac. To do so, simply tap “Settings,” go to “General,” and tap “Software Update “on your iPhone.

Reason 5: Your Equalizer Settings Are Not Suited for Music Listening

All modern smartphones feature inbuilt equalizers that allow users to customize frequency response and the soundstage of their phone. More specifically, an inbuilt music app is equipped with EQ settings that can be tweaked to make a custom audio setup. You may have lent your phone to a family member or a friend who did not like your equalizer settings and tweaked them to their liking. Consequentially, what used to be loud sounds may now be quieter, muffled, or barely audible noises.

To deactivate the Equalizer function, open the “Settings” app, tap on “Music,” tap “EQ,” and select “Off.”

Reason 6: Bluetooth Connectivity Problems

Bluetooth pairing is a two-way street in that both devices need to recognize and connect to each other. Sometimes, one or both devices may experience difficulties maintaining the connection and will periodically disconnect and automatically try to reconnect. Bluetooth connectivity problems can be easily solved by disconnecting and reconnecting the AirPods via Bluetooth settings.

To unpair your Apple AirPods from the playback device:

Put your AirPods in a case and keep the lid closed. Wait around 30 seconds before opening the lid.
After that, open the Settings app and tap on Bluetooth.
An option with a small “i” icon should appear next to the name of your AirPods. Tap this icon.
Now tap Forget This Device.
Long-press the button located on the charging case for about ten or so seconds. You can let go of the button once the indicator light begins flashing. This will unpair your devices, so pair them back again, and the problem should be solved.
Reason 7: Dust, Debris, Earwax, or Sweat Are Obstructing the Sound

When you bought your Apple AirPods, you received the instructions manual that describes how to charge and store them. Many people already know how to charge Apple products and skip these instructions. One of the most important parts points out that you should keep your AirPods safely tucked inside a case when they are not being used. Even though this describes the charging process, it is also a crucial element of basic maintenance.

Leaving your Apple AirPods out makes them susceptible to dust, sand, and small debris that can infiltrate the buds through tiny openings (which were designed to help the device “breathe”). Even people that are always keeping their AirPods in closed containers after they’ve finished listening to music or podcasts can experience this issue. Namely, earwax can enter AirPods as well. The quick fix I recommend for this situation is cleaning your AirPods thoroughly. To ensure this issue doesn’t come back in the future, I recommend cleaning them with a soft, lint-free piece of cloth and/or cotton swabs.

FAQs About AirPods Volume

The issue of quiet AirPods is fairly common – even if you own AirPods Pro or AirPods Max. And knowing that there are more than a few potential causes, I’m sure you have a question or two about the process, or things like the ear tip fit test. In this section, I will answer some of the most popular questions regarding this topic.

Why is one of my AirPods quiet?

If both of your AirPods are not producing the same volume, dust, earwax, or debris likely entered one of them. Routinely cleaning both AirPods will significantly reduce the chance of this problem occurring again.

How to make AirPods louder?

To make your Apple AirPods louder, you should keep the playback device charged before you play music and deactivate the volume limit (if it’s active). You can also crank the EQ settings up to make AirPods louder at the expense of sound quality.

Why are my AirPods so quiet at full volume?

There are several reasons why AirPods can be quieter than usual. The most common reasons include the low battery on the playback device, poor AirPods maintenance, and outdated software on the playback device. You may also want to deactivate the Low Power Mode and adjust the volume limiter.

Why is the sound coming from my phone even if my AirPods are connected?

If you’re running into this issue, the problem may lie elsewhere. For example, you may need to turn off automatic ear detection. That being said, we have an entire guide surrounding this problem, so make sure to check it out for more in-depth solutions.

3 Most Common Reasons Why Your AirPods Are Too Quiet

I’ll wrap this one up with three of the most common reasons why your AirPods sound quieter:

You left the “Low Power” mode on – fix it by going to Settings > Battery > Turn off Low Power Mode.
Your volume limiter is on – fix it by opening Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety > Turn on Reduce Loud Sounds and set the volume slider to the desired level.
Your AirPods battery is low – fix it by charging them!
I hope I was helpful today. Stay safe!

The post Why Are My AirPods So Quiet? – How to Fix & Make Them Louder! appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

For people who may not be as tech-minded as my humble self, you were probably a bit confused when your Apple Airtags went dark all of a sudden. In rare cases, these Apple devices may malfunction, but I can almost guarantee that Airtag’s battery was dead. They work for about a year, require no recharge in the meantime, and you’ll need to manually insert a new one.

In this article, my aim is to help you learn what to do once the Apple AirTag’s battery level is depleted and where to get replacements, as well as give you a few tips and tricks about keeping the battery in the best condition possible. Let’s start from the top.

Do AirTags Need To Be Charged?
AirTags do not need to be recharged. These Apple devices work on CR2032 Lithium batteries that boast a lifespan of roughly one year, after which time a new battery needs to be inserted.

The simplest answer to this question is “No”, you won’t need to recharge your AirTags as long as Apple continues using CR2032 coin batteries. These batteries were meant to last for about a year, but you’ll need to keep your AirTags away from extremely hot and cold temperatures.

As soon as you see the “Low Battery” warning, tap the “Replace battery” option and install a new CR2032 in your AirTag.

Removing The Apple Airtag Battery
The AirTag battery isn’t rechargeable, but it is replaceable. Once the battery charge of the old battery runs out, it’s time to install a new one in its place. Since all Apple AirTags operate on CR2032 Lithium batteries, you can quickly restock in nearly any supermarket.

Replacing the battery is fairly simple, but since AirTags are small and slim, I recommend taking the process slowly and following the instructions as closely as you can.

The first thing you’ll need to do is apply a bit of pressure on the AirTag’s battery cover. In case you don’t know what the battery cover is, it’s the middle part with the Apple logo on it. Place your thumbs on each side of the Apple logo (indicated by stars on the photo above) and rotate it counter-clockwise.

It won’t be long before the cover pops open and you gain access to the battery. Safely remove the battery cover. Next, remove the AirTag’s battery from its base.

I warmly recommend returning the old battery to a local battery retailer; alternatively, find a bin for hazardous waste, but don’t simply throw it in your garbage bin. Most lithium batteries, including the CR2032, can leak lead and acid, so you’ll both eliminate an unnecessary risk to your home and help the world be a bit greener place this way.

Installing a New AirTag Battery
Once you’ve disposed of the old battery, you’ll need a new CR2032 battery so that your AirTag can work again. Apple doesn’t sell replacement batteries, so your best bet is to browse around neighborhood battery and electronic stores. I order my replacements on Amazon and use exclusively Duracell non-coated CR2032 batteries for my AirTags.

Before you place the new battery into the base, ensure that its positive side is face-up (the side with a little “+” symbol). You will hear a tiny beeping sound if you’ve installed the new battery correctly. Put the cover back into its place, and keep rotating it clockwise (again, it will stop after making a full circle rotation).

Battery Level and Where to Find It
One year, give or take a few months, is a long enough period for anyone to forget a task as trivial as replacing a battery, especially if this is your first AirTag. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about the battery level since you’ll receive a notification on your phone.

A text reading “AirTag Battery Is Low” will pop up (along with the notification time) on the screen. The quickest way to see more details about your AirTag’s battery status is to click on this notification.

As you may or may not know, Apple has removed the battery icon from AirTags. Previously, you could check the current status of your AirTag’s battery by opening up the Find My App but this is no longer the case. We’ll let you know if this changes in the future.

Where to Buy Apple AirTag Battery Replacements
Like most people, I tried ordering the replacement batteries for my AirTag on Apple’s official website but couldn’t find any. It didn’t take long for me to realize that they never sold them, so I dug around the web to see where can I find quality CR2032 batteries.

Most of the supermarkets in my neighborhood sell them, but off-brand batteries aren’t known for their reliability. One of the best manufacturers of high-quality AirTag battery replacements is Duracell, and you can find their CR2032 models either on the brand’s official website or on Amazon.

FAQ
Can AirTags be disabled? Are they rechargeable, and if so, how often do you need to do it? Let me answer some of these questions, and feel free to provide your own if you have any.

Can AirTags go offline?
Yes, you can deactivate your AirTags via the Find My app. This will preserve some of the battery’s life but will disable most of AirTag’s primary functions (data transmitting, Bluetooth, etc.).

How often do AirTags need to be charged?
Never, AirTag batteries are non-rechargeable. Once they run out of charge, you’ll need to install a replacement CR2032 battery. There is no charging port, you just need to replace the battery.

How long does AirTag battery last?
The coin-shaped Lithium battery AirTags are supplied with can last about one year. If you don’t use your AirTags all the time and keep them away from extreme temperatures, you’ll ensure that you can use the battery for the maximum duration.

Wrapping Up
Having a non-rechargeable battery that lasts as long as one year can be both convenient and a nuisance, depending on who you ask. As you can see, AirTags are different from most other Apple devices, but it’s not rocket science. I hope that this article helped you learn what to do with your AirTag’s battery.

The post Do AirTags Need To Be Charged? appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

A sluggish charging iPad can certainly test your patience. While an iPad battery charging from 0% to 100% normally takes around 2-3 hours,Anything substantially longer than that is considered slow. If you’ve noticed your iPad has started charging slower than it used to, there are several potential culprits to investigate. The good news is that slow iPad charging issues can often be reversed with some simple troubleshooting and maintenance.

Reasons Why Your iPad is Charging Slowly

Before frustration sets in, let’s examine the common reasons your iPad won’t charge faster, and what you can do to speed things up again:

Old Battery
The lithium-ion batteries that power Apple tablets degrade naturally over time and through charge cycles. Letting the battery discharge completely then topping it off accelerates aging too. If your iPad is several years old with heavy usage, the battery holds less total juice now and requires longer to recharge. Replacing worn batteries restores normal charging rates.

Cable Issues
Damaged charging cables are a prime cause of charging problems and slow power transfer. Carefully inspect your Lightning cable for any bends, cracks, exposed wires or loose connections that impair electricity flow to the iPad battery. Swap damaged cables for Apple MFi-certified replacements. Using third party knock-offs often delivers unreliable charging too.

Wall Adapter Weakness
While the Lightning cable funnels electricity directly into the iPad itself, the wall adapter originates all that electrical current. Subpar adapters lacking enough wattage capacity for stable iPad charging will require Lengthier charge times. Verify your adapter is at least 10W+ rating.

Extreme Temperatures
Battery chemistry reacts poorly to both high heat and cold temperatures. Attempting to charge your iPad in very hot or very cold ambient environments forces longer charge durations. For fastest charging, operate within moderate room temperatures between 50-85°F if feasible.

Background Usage
Heavily multitasking while simultaneously charging your iPad also lengthens charge times. Memory-intensive apps, larger file transfers, video streaming, gameplay, and extensive browsing eat battery faster than the charger can replenish it. Minimize activity usage during charging for best results.

iOS or iPadOS Outdated
Apple releases software updates periodically not just for new features, but also essential charging performance patches. Failing to update to the latest iOS/iPadOS firmware often introduces charging inefficiencies causing slower charge rates. Always download the most current updates for your device.

How to Fix iPad Charging Slowly Issues

Now that you know what typically throws off iPad charging speeds, here are some troubleshooting tips to overcome sluggish power-ups when you need a quick battery boost:

Update iOS/iPadOS
Open Settings > General > Software Update and install any pending iOS or iPadOS updates available to ensure optimal charging operations governed by the latest Apple firmware.

Toggle Airplane Mode
Radios that enable Wi-Fi and cellular data discharge battery much faster, slowing apparent charging speed. Activate Airplane mode via Settings or Control Center when charging to eliminate radio drain and channel maximum electrical current into charging only.

Close Power-Hungry Apps
Double-tap the iPad’s home button to reveal recently used apps, then swipe upward to force quit any non-essential apps gobbling up battery in the background. Limit activity only to critical apps when charging.

Alter Display Settings
Bright screen backlighting and animated interface effects like parallax wallpaper drain substantial power too. Dim screen brightness levels under Settings > Display & Brightness and disable unnecessary animations via Accessibility settings to scale back battery drain.

Disable Background App Refresh
Apps that continually update content in the background are also prime battery offenders. Scaling back this auto refresh functionality speeds up charging and conserves power in between charges too. Adjust these settings under General > Background App Refresh.

Use Alternative Charger
If your adapter/cable combination still yields consistently sluggish charging, try alternative charger equipment like the higher-wattage 12W iPad charger. Also experiment charging from a computer USB port instead (slower, but charges nonetheless).

Have Apple Diagnose Issue
For recurring slow iPad charging after methodically trying the above troubleshooting, have Apple techs investigate for underlying hardware faults impeding charging velocity. Make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store, contact Apple Support directly online or via phone. Provide charge logs and troubleshooting details to aid analysis.

Replace Aging Battery
As lithium-ion batteries inevitably lose maximum charge capacity over hundreds of cumulative charge cycles, the only permanent remedy for slower charging is getting the iPad battery replaced. Apple authorized service centers can handle secure battery replacement to restore your iPad’s charging performance and extend usefulness.

Prevent Future Charging Problems

Beyond resolving current slow iPad charging problems, you can proactively avoid charging issues resurfacing through some ongoing maintenance best practices:

• Avoid exposing your iPad to temperature extremes
• Be gentle with charging cables to prevent damage
• Don’t discharge battery completely to 0% too often
• Use Made-for-iPhone/iPad (MFi) certified Lightning accessories
• Update to newest iOS/iPadOS versions promptly
• Turn off background app refresh functionality when not needed

By understanding what typically drags down iPad charging speeds and applying troubleshooting techniques, those aggravatingly sluggish power-up sessions will hopefully now be a thing of the past. Consistently slow charging that persists likely indicates a worn battery due for professional replacement. But otherwise, a few adjustment and maintenance tips can have you charging your iPad swiftly again.

The post Why Is My iPad Charging So Slow? appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

Software Crashes/Glitches

One of the most common triggers for an iPad shutting down unexpectedly is software crashes or glitches. Apps freezing or the system becoming unresponsive can prompt an automatic restart. This acts as a reset to try clearing any temporary software problems.

If you notice the shut downs happen when using certain apps or features, that points to a possible software incompatibility. Updating iOS, the apps in question, and any extensions/plugins is advised. Delete and reinstall problematic apps as a last resort if they become unusable. Streaming high-res video, using graphics/memory intensive apps, or connecting multiple accessories increases system load and the chance of glitches occurring.

Overheating

Another major cause of frequent unexpected shutdowns on iPads is overheating. The internal temperature exceeding certain thresholds triggers an automatic power off to avoid component damage.

Using processor-intensive apps for prolonged periods can heat up the battery/chipsets. Make sure to give your device breaks if running hot. Also check it is not in direct sunlight or enclosed in a case while active. Clean out dust, pet hair and debris trapped internally that reduces airflow and cooling. Configure settings like auto-brightness and background app refresh to be less taxing.

Battery Related Issues

An iPad suddenly shutting down when not hot generally points to some kind of battery related problem. The charge capacity wearing out from age/use or a faulty power component can prevent delivering sufficient voltage to keep the device running.

If your tablet is more than a few years old, deteriorating battery life is likely the culprit. Letting it drain completely then recharging sometimes helps temporarily but replacing the battery is the ultimate fix. Unexpected shutdowns on newer iPads may indicate hardware defects requiring repair or replacement.

Faulty Power Button

While not as common, a faulty power button that triggers erroneous shut downs has been reported on some iPad models. If there is no clear pattern to the spontaneous restarts a sticky button could be the issue.

Check if just lightly pressing the power button cuts off power. If so, try enabling Assistive Touch to avoid using the button. Otherwise, contact Apple support regarding possible hardware servicing to replace the faulty mechanism.

Jailbreaking Issues

For users who have jailbroken their iPad to bypass restrictions, added tweaks and customizations can sometimes cause stability issues leading to crashes. Too many background processes, untested/buggy jailbreak tweaks or device incompatibility can be contributing factors.

Check crash logs after rebooting to help identify problematic jailbreak addons. Disabling recent customizations, clearing app caches and reverting firmware modifications may stop excessive shutting down. Restore root system access if the situation fails to improve.

Hardware Faults

In some cases, unexplained random iPad shutdowns stem from irreparable hardware faults like bad capacitors or degradation from liquid damage. If software fixes and replacing the battery do not solve the issue, motherboard level failures could be preventing normal operation.

Diagnostic testing can rule out underlying component defects. Contact Apple support and arrange service for systems still under warranty exhibiting shutdowns without clear software triggers. Out of warranty devices with hardware issues generally require replacing the device.

How to Troubleshoot iPad Shut Downs

– Update iOS, apps and accessories to latest firmware
– Monitor shutdown patterns and check device temperature
– Reduce system load by closing active apps and limiting multitasking
– Charge battery to 100% then drain fully to recalibrate
– Backup data and restore iPad to factory settings
– Boot in safe mode to isolate software related issues
– Reset all device settings if crashes persist after standard fixes
– Arrange Apple service for units under warranty

When to Contact Apple Support

Contact Apple support if you continue experiencing random shutdowns after trying the typical troubleshooting steps. Advisors can run diagnostics to uncover any underlying hardware defects or faulty components triggering theproblems. Issues stemming from manufacturing defects or quality assurance failures typically show up within the one year limited warranty period.

Get in touch with customer service right away in such cases to expedite the claims process for free repair or replacement. For older devices with shutdown issues, you can still utilize Apple’s out of warranty servicess though some fees may apply regarding parts, labor and shipping. Before proceeding with any paid repairs, weigh the cost versus simply upgrading to a newer iPad model.

Preventing iPad Shutdowns

While occasional random reboots are hard to avoid completely, the following best practices help minimize stability issues:

– Refrain from jailbreaking devices or only install reputable tweaks
– Never use a iPad that has water damage or exposed circuits
– Prevent overheating by adding ventilation space behind case
– Utilize factory reset when software issues persist
– Maintain latest iOS version and upgrade aged batteries
– Use trusted accessories that meet Apple standards

Conclusion

Unexpected shutdowns on iPads usually link back to software crashes, overheating or battery related problems. Fixing these common triggers along updated firmware and apps can typically resolve them. Faulty hardware buttons, jailbreaking instability and component deterioration can also be culprits. Use Apple diagnostic tools and arrangement warranted service when dealing with seemingly random restarts not addressed by basic troubleshooting. With proper maintenance and care, your reliable iPad should stay powered on.

The post Why Does My iPad Keep Shutting Down? appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

If you just bought your first Apple AirTags, you are probably wondering if they are supposed to make beeping sounds. If they are, doesn’t that defeat the purpose? Anyone could pick up your lost items. if not, how are you supposed to find a lost AirTag? These are just some of the things I’ll discuss in detail throughout the rest of this article, so let’s start from the top.

Do AirTags Make Noise?

Yes, Apple AirTags will emit a beeping sound when tracking lost items via Apple’s Find My app and upon initial setup, as well as when their batteries were replaced. Apple AirTags can continue emitting chiming noises even when they aren’t tracking connected items if the device is experiencing software issues.

One of the most common reasons for Airtag making noise is when the device is tracking lost items. When the Lost Mode is active, the owner can mark the connected Airtag item, like a backpack or a wallet, as lost. As long as the Lost Mode remains on, Airtag will continue to emit noises until either someone finds the item or the Lost Mode setting is disabled.

Diving into the topic a little deeper, the following sections are dedicated to explaining when and why your Apple AirTags will produce sounds, as well as how to recognize what each type of chiming means. Without any further ado, let’s begin.

Scenario 1: Airtag Sounds During the Initial Setup

Let’s assume that you’ve just bought your first Apple AirTag. Before you can use it, you’ll need to set it up. During the installation phase, you will hear an Airtag sound coming from the device if you’ve prepared your smartphone for pairing. As soon as you remove AirTag’s wrap and pull the small tab out, its battery will activate and you’ll hear a small chime once.

This noise is essentially an indicator that the first step of the setup has been completed. You won’t hear it unless your phone is ready for pairing.

To prepare your iPhone, you’ll need to ensure these settings have been enabled:

Two-factor authentication – open “Settings”, tap on the name of your device, and go to “Password and Security”. Click “Turn On Two-Factor Authentication”.

Apple Find My app – open “Settings”, click on the name of your device, then select “Find My”, and select “Share My Location”. When prompted, enable location data sharing.

Bluetooth – swipe down on your phone’s home screen, and tap on the Bluetooth icon to activate it.

Wi-Fi – swipe down on the home screen, and tap on the Wi-Fi symbol to activate it.

Location Services – open “Settings”, tap “Privacy”, select “Location Services” and click on the slider to enable it.

If all of the aforementioned settings are enabled, you will be able to pair your smartphone with Apple Airtag. When the wrap is removed, Airtag will notify you that it is ready to connect to your phone.

Scenario 2: Airtag Makes Noise When Tracking Lost Items via Find My App

The main purpose of Apple AirTags is to track things that their users have misplaced. When the owner of the AirTag marks it as lost, it will start producing noises to alert nearby people. It’s important to note that the beeping of lost AirTags is completely optional; you can disable the noises coming from the device and use the directional arrows to help you locate the item instead.

First things first, to label a lost AirTag as lost, you’ll need to enable the Lost Mode setting. Open Apple’s Find My app and click on the “Items” section located on the lower-left side of your phone’s screen. Choose the name of your lost item to mark it as lost, and tap “Enable” under “Lost Mode”.

You will then receive instructions on how to proceed. When prompted, enter the number of the phone that whoever finds your lost item can use to reach you. Alternatively, select “Use an email address” if you don’t wish to divulge your personal phone number.

With Lost Mode active, the AirTag will start beeping in short intervals. If you’re close enough, you will be able to hear it. The effective range of AirTag is about 30 feet; the direction arrows will be accurate if the item is in this range, but don’t worry if your Airtag is even further away.

The Find My app uses Bluetooth sensors of other people that may be nearby of your lost AirTag. The info you may receive via notifications in your Find My app may be slightly less precise but someone will eventually hear your AirTag and contact you.

Scenario 3: Someone Else Dropped Their AirTag Into Your Belongings

AirTags are petite in size (1.26 inches in diameter, to be precise). Let’s say you went for a jog in a nearby park and accidentally bumped into someone. If that person had an AirTag in their rucksack, it could theoretically bounce off from it and land in your pocket. That’s not very likely, however.

A more likely scenario revolves around someone wanting to track your location. This is quite common among parents who want to know where their children are without them knowing. Since AirTags start emitting noises when they’re not near their “parent” phone, it will eventually start beeping once out of range (30 feet).

Owners of iPhone devices aren’t likely to fall for this trick since these smartphones will automatically detect foreign AirTags. The sound AirTags produce when they leave the Bluetooth range of the connected device is different from the chime emitted during the setup stage.

Scenario 4: A Glitch in the System

Your AirTags have been recently updated; the connected device isn’t lost, and you’re sure that your internet connection is in pristine condition. So why is your AirTag still beeping? It’s likely that your AirTag has encountered a simple glitch that prevents it from functioning normally.

Fortunately, this problem is quite easy to solve. All you need to do is reset your AirTags. To do this, apply a bit of pressure on your AirTag’s cover, and then rotate the cover counter-clockwise. Gently remove the cover along with the battery. After a couple of seconds, return the AirTag battery. Repeat this process several times until you hear a thin chime from your AirTag’s speaker.

Scenario 5: Replacing a Depleted Battery

Apple AirTags are powered by a single CR2032 Lithium coin battery that can withstand at least one year of use. If the battery is dead, the AirTag cannot produce any sounds. However, once you’ve placed a new battery, it will emit a single chime to inform you that it is active once again.

FAQ

Apple AirTags can make noises in several different situations. In case you still have a few questions about this topic, let me answer some of the most frequently asked ones.

Why Does My AirTag Make Noises?

The most common reasons why Apple AirTags make noise include tracking lost items, detecting a foreign AirTag, installing the AirTag, encountering a glitch, or when replacing a dead battery.

Wrapping Up

AirTags make noises to notify you of their presence. You can also use the guiding arrows and the Find My app to locate your lost items, although relying on the beeping sounds is much faster.

You can customize a host of different settings regarding your AirTag in Apple’s Find My application, so I warmly recommend inspecting these options to personalize your AirTag experience.

The post Do AirTags Make Noise? (And Reasons) appeared first on TechdrivenHome.

What Causes This Notification?

The Lightning port found on iPhones and other iOS devices is equipped with a built in liquid contact indicator that activates when it senses moisture. Several factors could trigger this indicator;

Actual liquid. If you have exposed your charging port to water, juice, soda or any other liquids it could activate the sensor. Over time this liquid could lead to corrosion.

Accumulated debris/dirt. Pocket lint, dust particles and other grime that accumulate in your Lightning port might fool the sensor into assuming there is present.

Malfunction. In rare cases the sensor may malfunction and trigger falsely.

Essentially this message is iOSs way of alerting you about liquid damage and urging you to take appropriate action.

Is it a Serious Issue?

Don’t panic if you encounter this message. It does not necessarily indicate significant liquid damage has occurred. The sensor is intentionally designed to be highly sensitive. Can be triggered quite easily in many instances.
Don’t worry much right away about potential damage.

Actually in cases receiving this message doesn’t indicate any actual problems with your phone. It’s more of a warning than a sign of issues. Long as your iPhone continues to charge and sync properly after addressing the message it’s unlikely that any liquid has reached the internal components.

Here’s what you can do to fix the “Lightning Connector Liquid” message;

1.. Inspect the Lightning port

Start by unplugging your iPhone cable and carefully examine the charging port using a flashlight. Look for any signs of moisture. Trapped debris. If you see any try to remove it using a toothpick or soft brush. Just avoid using anything metallic.

2. Dry out with airflow

If there is liquid or if the sensor keeps triggering thoroughly dry out the Lightning port. Direct a fan, air compressor or canned air into the port, for minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture. This should help eliminate readings.

3. Clean out debris

Alternatively pocket lint or other debris might be causing the issue.
Here’s a step by step guide to troubleshoot issues with your iPhones charging port;

1. Begin by using a non conductive object like a wooden toothpick to carefully remove any dust or debris that may be stuck in the charging port. This can help dislodge anything that might be triggering liquid sensor readings.

2. Inspect both ends of your Lightning cable for any signs of damage or debris. Sometimes something stuck inside the connector can cause problems. It’s also an idea to try using different charging cables and bricks if available as faulty cables can sometimes cause detection issues.

3. Before plugging your iPhone in restart it. This will reset connections. Allow the liquid detection sensor to recalibrate. Often a simple reboot can resolve any sensor warnings.

4. Ensure that your iPhone is running the iOS software version. Apple regularly releases updates that include bug fixes and improvements for sensor responsiveness. Updating your device gives you the chance of it functioning properly.

If you’ve followed all these troubleshooting steps thoroughly and are still experiencing warnings, malfunctions or unreliable charging it may indicate a more serious problem. In cases it’s advisable to take your device to an Apple store for inspection or service if there are concerns, about moisture reaching internal components.
Here are some signs that indicate liquid damage requiring repair;

If you can see corrosion inside the Lightning port.
If you hear tapping or shaking sounds coming from inside the phone.
If the charging is inconsistent or not working all.
If the speakers or microphone are not functioning.
If the buttons are unresponsive.

If you notice any of these issues it’s best not to continue using your iPhone. Internal short circuit damage can worsen quickly. It’s advisable to bring your device in for service without delay if you encounter problems.

To prevent issues with wet Lightning ports consider these precautions;

Avoid exposing your iPhone to moisture in places like bathrooms, rain, sprinklers and when washing hands.
Make sure your hands are thoroughly dry before handling your device.
Use a protective case when using it outdoors.
Regularly clean and clear any debris from your charging port.
Never have drinks or food near your phone as accidental spills can occur.

Although occasionally seeing a “Liquid Detected” message may be harmless excessive water exposure poses a risk of internal corrosion over time. Take precautions to keep liquids away from the vulnerable charging inlet of your iPhone.

To summarize in most cases encountering a “Liquid Detected in Lightning Connector” message on your iPhone shouldn’t cause panic. Simple cleaning and troubleshooting usually resolve the issue. Get things back, to normal.To resolve the warning triggered by moisture or debris you can try using a fan, air duster or a non conductive pick to clear them out.

However if the problems persist or if you notice any damage inside the port it is advisable to take your device to a repair shop immediately. The liquid sensor warning is designed to give you an indication of potential issues before they escalate. By addressing charge port moisture you can prevent long term corrosion damage, to your iPhones delicate electronics. In cases minor liquid or debris issues can be resolved easily on your own with prompt attention.

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Fortunately, iOS and iPadOS offer powerful parental control features to easily block YouTube as needed, so your kids stay focused and safe from questionable videos. In this post, we’ll explore the most effective methods to block YouTube on both supervised and non-supervised iPads. Let’s dive in!

Why Block YouTube on An iPad?

Before looking into specific blocking techniques, let’s review the reasons you may want to prohibit YouTube access on a child’s iPad:

– Age-inappropriate content – While YouTube offers lots of great content, it also contains mature videos unsuitable for kids. Explicit music videos, scary stuff, inappropriate humor, etc.

– Time-wasting recommended videos – YouTube’s algorithm can suck kids into an endless stream of auto-playing videos unrelated to their original search. Making it hard to stop binging.

– Advertising overload – Excessive ads also disrupt and distract kids from more productive activities.

– Schoolwork avoidance – Unlimited YouTube access often proves tempting for kids when homework beckons. Time limits help focus attention.

Block YouTube on Supervised iPad

The simplest approach for restricting YouTube lies with Apple’s built-in parental control tools for supervised devices. To block YouTube via iPad supervision:

1. Enable supervision under your child’s iCloud account from Family Sharing by tapping “Supervise Child.”

2. On your parent device with the child’s account signed in, navigate to Screen Time settings.

3. Select “Content & Privacy Restrictions” then toggle Block or Allow Apps individually.

4. Locate YouTube in the apps list and toggle the switch to red, blocking app access.

You can also set daily Screen Time limits for YouTube specifically or outright App Store and Safari restrictions to prevent YouTube web access or app downloads without approval.

Set Restrictions Through Family Sharing

For non-supervised iPad users you still want to manage YouTube access for, employ the following Family Sharing restrictions:

1. Open Settings > Screen Time> Family Sharing on your device.

2. Choose your child’s name from the family member list.

3. Enable “Use Screen Time Passcode” to lock preferences using a secure PIN.

4. Tap Content & Privacy to reveal YouTube settings. Toggle to block access.

5. You can tailor time limits and permissions from the central parental dashboard remotely.

Utilize Third-Party Parental Apps

Robust parental control apps augment iOS/iPadOS options for expanded YouTube blocking functionality:

– Qustodio – Leading cross-platform parental app offering customizable YouTube restrictions by age rating or full blocking.

– Norton Family Premier – Monitors YouTube searches, viewing history and enforces approved video lists or total bans.

– Mobicip – Filters and monitors inappropriate YouTube content while locking preferences behind parent PIN code for security

– Screen Time Kids – Grants parents granular control over iPad YouTube access with category blocking and enforced downtime.

Change YouTube Account Age

For kids with personal YouTube accounts, you can restrict more age-sensitive content by modifying account birthdate in profile settings to under 18 years old. This automatically filters videos to a more kid-friendly subset.

Further Tips for Blocking YouTube

Beyond core account restrictions, parents can take additional precautions limiting YouTube exposure:

– Utilize Apple’s “Guided Access” on the iPad lock screen to temporarily disable app switching capabilities. Great for enforcing YouTube non-usage durations.

– Bookmark kid-safe YouTube channels and playlists for quick access or homepage pinning. Reduces video rabbit holes.

– Activate YouTube’s “Restricted Mode” to help filter age-inappropriate content within the app itself .

– Periodically check YouTube watch and search histories for concerning patterns from within Google account dashboard and adjust restrictions accordingly.

The Right Level of YouTube Control

While completely blocking YouTube on an iPad denies access to genuinely engaging educational videos and channels, unlimited YouTube also poses clear downsides for kids. The right level of intelligent restriction, tailored for each child’s maturity level and needs, proves most effective.

Fortunately iPadOS hands parents robust tools for striking the right balance from total YouTube bans to customized guardrails. So leverage Apple’s built-in controls, third-party apps and additional precautions to thoughtfully govern your kids’ iPad YouTube habits. Restrict access as appropriate, but allow enriching usage too and handle requests openly.

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