HOW TO: Video-call using Group FaceTime

With the whole community in isolation it’s no wonder many people are turning to video-calling apps to keep in touch with one another. We know that Apple has FaceTime where we can do video and audio calls to our loved ones, but did you know you can also do GROUP FaceTime video/audio calls? Here’s a helpful guide from Apple Support on how to use Group FaceTime on your iPhone, iPad or iPod. If you own a Mac, they also have a learning guide here too. So get together with the family with a virtual gathering via. FaceTime. There’s also many fun things you can do with the Camera Effects.

Mac OS Tip: Hide That Menu!

Here’s a quick Mac OS tip for you today to keep your desktop looking tidy.

Automatically hide the top menu bar by following these instructions…

SYSTEM PREFERENCES > GENERAL > ENABLE: “Automatically hide and show the menu bar”

Now whenever you bring your cursor to the top of your screen your menu will appear, and then disappear when you move away from it.

Quick iOS Tip: Photos everywhere!

Here’s a quick tip from Apple to have all your photos on all your devices. To see all your photos sync on your iOS device and Mac (via Photos app) go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > Photos and turn on iCloud Photos.

Coming Soon: Mac OS Catalina

With the fall season approaching fast (in the US) we are getting closer to Apple’s release of its new OS Catalina. There are a lot of new features coming through, such as Music, TV, and Podcasts. You’ll also be able to enjoy your iPad apps on your computer instead too! There’s also been improvements to familiar apps such as Photos, Notes, Reminders and Safari. The feature I’m looking most forward too is Sidecar which enables you to use your iPad as an extension of your desktop! Check out all the features of Catalina in further detail on Apple’s website!

Mojave's Dynamic Desktop

If you haven’t already, it’s a good time to update your Mac to Apple’s latest OS X Mojave (check if your Mac is compatible here). One of my favourite features is Mojave’s dynamic desktop. Now, it’s not a “life-changing” feature, but more of a fun novelty. Based off your location, your desktop background will change accordingly to the time of the day - so you’ll see a progression from day to night. Pretty cool right?

Curious? Here’s how to enable Dynamic Desktop for you Mac…

System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver > Desktop > Click on the drop-down menu and select Dynamic

…and you’re done!

You can also find and download more dynamic desktops online, or if you’re adventurous enough, make your own. I hope you find this feature just as interesting as I do!

What to do after changing your Apple ID or Password

At Setup, Sync and Learn your security and privacy is always important. It’s always good housekeeping to change your password at least once or twice every year. It does seem straight forward, but at times you might find yourself getting numerous notifications on your devices to sign-in again. So to make it a little less stressful for you here’s a short list of what to check after you’ve changed your Apple ID or Password…

Update your Apple ID and password on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC.

iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch

Go to Settings > (your name) > iTunes & App Store.

• If you're signed out, enter your updated Apple ID and password.

• If you're signed in with your previous Apple ID, tap your Apple ID, then tap Sign Out. Then enter your updated Apple ID and password.

Mac with OS X or Windows PC

1. Go to Apple’s website.

2. Click on the Shopping Bag icon, then click Account.

3. In the Account Settings section, click Apple ID and password.

4. Enter your updated Apple ID and password.

You will also have to update your login details by Signing Out then Signing back in to other apps such as FaceTime, iCloud, Find my iPhone, etc.

Click on this link to see a full list and instructions from Apple Support on what to do…

Technology Coach

Get Technologically Fit with Setup Sync & Learn!

We spend time and effort trying to keep physically fit, and it does require applying ourself regularly.  Some of us prefer to have a Fitness Coach, which certainly makes it somewhat 'easier' in terms of having someone there to help drive you, with your best interest in mind, and with the knowledge and desire to help you achieve your goals.

Well...why not do the same with technology, and stay technologically fit!  Having good knowledge around technology is an essential ingredient for most of our working lives now, so why not enlist a Technology Coach to help you with your goals.

3 common scenarios where we can help:

You're a manager or executive in a business, and your falling behind with your knowledge around technology.  Struggling to apply your amazing talents and experience through the use of computers or mobile devices to execute your ideas or initiatives.  Catch up or get ahead now!  We're here to help, using everyday language and great teaching techniques, all in a private session by appointment only - for individuals or small groups, and we come to you.  Enquire here

You're a teacher/educator, or in a role where you're expected to be this for others.  Many of your colleagues or students seem to be way ahead in terms of their knowledge around using technology, and you're feeling out of your depth or being left behind.  We can help you!

You're trying to get a promotion or looking for a new job, and you know you need to brush up on your technology know-how.  We can make you more Tech-savvy!  This is what we do!

 

Some common topics we can help you with:

• DOCUMENTS using Pages, Numbers, Keynote - Apple's equivalent of Microsoft's Word, Excel, Powerpoint
• EMAIL using Apple Mail - email App on Macs, iPhones, iPads
• Notes, Reminders, and Voice Memos - Apple's built in Apps to help with your task management and recording info
• Security & Backup - Passcode, Fingerprint, find my device, private web browsing and backing up data
• Calendars & Contacts - syncing with cloud services e.g. iCloud, Google and Exchange
• Working with PDF's - iBooks, Apple Mail, Evernote, PDF Expert - for managing, editing, syncing, and sharing
• Siri & Dictation - voice assistant to achieve most tasks handsfree & dictating emails and notes for example
• Social Apps - e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Skype, FaceTime, Viber

You invest in your physical and mental fitness/wellness, and now's the time to invest in your knowledge around technology - learn all of the shortcuts, tips & tricks that others always seem to know and yet you're still doing things the long, hard way.  Make your life easier now, and contact Reece at Setup Sync & Learn here to find out how we can tailor a session for you!

IMPORTANT: We are Apple Experts in Sydney NSW and Perth WA - if you use any Apple products such as a Mac computer, iPhone or iPad and Apple Apps and services, then you've come to the right place!  We also know a great deal about the many 3rd party peripherals, Apps and services that people tend to use with their Apple devices.  Ask us now how we can help YOU - enquire now

Mother's Day Gift - Sunday 14 May 2017

Happy Mother's Day from setup sync & learn

Bring your Mum into the 21st Century with a private technology lesson with an Apple Expert!

Let's face it, teaching your Mum about technology can be frustrating, and Mums - it can be frustrating for you trying to learn from your children (or partner) as they rush to impress you, and then you have NO idea what they just did, right?

Make it easy on everyone and give her a gift voucher for Setup Sync & Learn to help her understand and get more out of her Apple device/s e.g. iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch.  The voucher can be used toward a private individual or group session at home or in the office.

Why should Mums miss out on using this great technology for communicating and organising.  Mums reading this can always drop a hint for Sunday 14 May.  1 hour sessions start from just *$85 (inc GST) Voucher values available from $25 Find out more...

*conditions apply