Instagram Privacy Settings You Should Review

Instagram has several settings that give you control over who can interact with your account, see your content, mention or tag you and send you message requests. Reviewing these settings regularly can help you decide how you want to use Instagram and who you want to interact with.

Some privacy controls also help reduce unwanted comments, messages and other interactions on the platform.

Account Privacy

One of the main privacy settings to review is whether your Instagram account is public or private.

With a private account, you approve the people who can follow you and see your posts. A public account allows people to view content that is available publicly without requiring approval to follow you.

If you prefer to control who follows you and sees your posts, a private account may be more suitable.

Story Privacy

Instagram provides controls for managing who can see your Stories.

You can hide your Stories from specific people and use Close Friends when you want to share a Story with a selected group.

Review these settings if you regularly share personal updates through Stories and want more control over who sees them.

Activity Status

Activity Status controls whether other people can see when you are active or were recently active on Instagram.

If you do not want other people to see your activity status, you can turn the feature off.

Keep in mind that turning off your activity status also means you will not be able to see the activity status of other people.

Message Requests

Instagram provides controls for managing who can send you message requests.

You can review how requests from different types of accounts are handled and adjust the available options according to your preferences.

These controls can help you manage unwanted messages and reduce interactions from accounts you do not want to hear from.

Mentions

You can control who is allowed to mention your Instagram account.

Instagram provides options that can allow everyone, people you follow or no one to mention you in comments, captions or Stories.

If you receive unwanted mentions, reviewing this setting can help you limit them.

Tags

Instagram also lets you manage who can tag you.

You can control who is allowed to tag your account and use available controls for managing tagged posts.

Review these settings if you do not want other accounts adding your username to posts without your approval.

Comments

Instagram provides controls for managing comments on your posts.

You can limit who can comment and use tools to restrict unwanted comments. Instagram also provides filtering features that can hide comments containing words or phrases you choose.

These settings can be useful if you receive spam, offensive comments or other unwanted interactions.

Hidden Words

Hidden Words can help filter unwanted comments and message requests.

You can use Instagram's filtering options to hide comments and message requests containing offensive or unwanted words, phrases and emojis. You can also add your own words or phrases to the custom list.

This can be useful for reducing spam and other unwanted interactions.

Limits

Instagram's Limits feature can help reduce unwanted interactions during periods when you receive a large number of comments or message requests.

Depending on the available options, you can limit interactions from people who do not follow you or who have only recently followed you.

This can be particularly useful when an account suddenly receives a large amount of unwanted attention.

Restricted Accounts

Restrict is another option for managing interactions with specific accounts without blocking them.

When you restrict someone, their interactions with your account are handled differently. For example, comments from a restricted account can be managed before other people see them and you do not receive notifications for comments from that account.

Use the Restricted Accounts section to review accounts you have previously restricted and remove restrictions when they are no longer necessary.

Blocked Accounts

It is also worth reviewing your blocked accounts.

Blocking prevents an account from interacting with you in various ways on Instagram. Instagram also provides an option that can extend blocking to other accounts that a person may already have or create.

Review your blocked accounts occasionally and make changes when necessary.

Connected Apps And Websites

If you have previously connected third-party apps or websites to Instagram, review the services that have access to your account.

Remove access from apps or websites you no longer use or do not recognise.

Meta provides account controls that allow users to review permissions and the apps they have given access to their information.

Account Security

Security settings are separate from privacy settings, but they are important to review alongside them.

Check your password, login activity and two-factor authentication settings. Review the devices or sessions connected to your account and take action if you notice activity you do not recognise.

These checks can help you protect your account from unauthorised access.

Review Your Instagram Privacy Settings Regularly

Instagram's privacy and interaction controls give you several ways to manage who can contact you, interact with your content, mention you and tag you.

Review your account privacy, Stories, messages, mentions, tags, comments, Hidden Words, Limits, restricted accounts and blocked accounts from time to time.

It is also worth reviewing connected apps and your account security settings so you know which services have access to your account and which devices are signed in.

Taking a few minutes to review these settings can help you maintain better control over your Instagram account and your interactions on the platform.

How To Create Google Forms

Google Forms makes it easy to create online forms for collecting information, responses, registrations, feedback and other types of data. You can create a form from your phone or computer and share it with other people.

Whether you want to create a questionnaire for a school project, collect customer information or organise an event, Google Forms provides different question types and settings to help you build the form you need.

What Is Google Forms?

Google Forms is an online tool for creating forms, surveys and quizzes and collecting responses. You can add different types of questions, organise them into sections and customise the appearance of your form.

Responses are collected in Google Forms and can also be linked to Google Sheets when you need to organise or analyse the information in a spreadsheet.

How To Create Google Forms

1. Open your web browser and go to forms.google.com.
2. Sign in to your Google Account if required.
3. Select Blank form to create a new form.
4. Enter a name or title for your form.
5. Add a description if you want to explain what the form is about.
6. Select Add question.
7. Enter your question and choose the type of answer you want.
8. Add the available answer options when required.
9. Turn on Required for questions that respondents must answer.
10. Add more questions as needed.
11. Use the available settings to control how people can respond.
12. Preview the form to check how it will appear.
13. Publish the form when you are ready to allow respondents to access it.

Add Questions To Your Google Form

After creating the form, you can add different questions depending on the information you want to collect.

Google Forms provides question types such as short answer, paragraph, multiple choice, checkboxes, dropdown and file upload. You can select the option that best matches each question.

For example, you can use a short-answer question to collect a name, multiple choice when respondents should select one option or checkboxes when they can select more than one answer.

Make Questions Required

If a question must be answered, you can make it required.

Select the question and turn on the Required option. Respondents will then need to provide an answer before they can submit the form.

This can be useful when collecting important information such as names, email addresses or registration details.

Add Sections To Your Google Form

You can divide a longer form into different sections to make it easier to complete.

Select Add section and give the section a suitable title. You can then place related questions together.

For example, a registration form could have separate sections for personal information, contact details and other required information. Each section starts on a new page.

Customise Your Google Form

Google Forms lets you change the appearance of your form.

You can choose a theme, change the colour and background colour, add a header image and adjust the font style. These options can help you make the form suitable for its purpose while keeping it easy to read.

Preview Your Google Form

Before publishing your form, preview it to see what respondents will see.

Check the title, questions, answer options and required questions. It is also a good idea to test the form yourself before sending it to other people.

This can help you find missing questions or incorrect answer options before responses start coming in. Google Forms provides a Preview option at the top right of the form.

How To Publish And Share Your Google Form

Google Forms now requires you to publish a form before respondents can access it.

When your form is ready:

1. Select Publish at the top right.
2. Choose who should be able to respond to the form.
3. Manage the responder access settings if necessary.
4. Select Publish.

Depending on your settings, you can give access to specific people, groups or anyone with the link. After publishing, you can share the form through email, social media or other supported methods. You can also copy the responder link and share it through WhatsApp or other messaging platforms.

How To Control Who Can Respond To Your Google Form

Google Forms gives you control over who can access and respond to your form.

You can share a form with specific people or groups and, where available, allow anyone with the link to respond. You can also limit a form to one response per person or allow respondents to edit their responses after submitting them.

These settings can be useful when creating forms for registrations, surveys, applications or other situations where you need to control access.

How To View Google Forms Responses

Google Forms collects responses when people submit your published form.

Open the form and select Responses to view the information that has been submitted. You can view a summary of responses or review individual submissions.

If you need to organise or analyse the responses in a spreadsheet, you can link the form to Google Sheets from the Responses section. You can also download responses as a CSV file.

How To Stop Accepting Responses

You can stop accepting new responses when you no longer need to collect information.

Open your published form and select Published at the top right. Under Accepting responses, turn off the option to stop receiving new submissions.

Google Forms also allows you to set a closing date and time or automatically stop accepting responses after reaching a specified number of responses. You can also customise the message respondents see when the form is closed.

Can You Create Google Forms On Your Phone?

Yes. You can create and manage Google Forms from a phone using a web browser. Google provides forms.google.com as the starting point for creating a new form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need A Google Account To Create A Google Form?

You generally need to sign in to a Google Account to create and manage your own forms.

Can I Share A Google Form On WhatsApp?

Yes. After publishing the form, you can copy its responder link and share it through WhatsApp or other messaging and social media platforms.

Can Google Forms Collect Responses Automatically?

Yes. Responses are collected when people submit your form and can be viewed from the Responses section. You can also link the responses to Google Sheets for easier organisation and analysis.

Can I Stop A Google Form From Receiving Responses?

Yes. You can turn off Accepting responses or set a close date or response limit to stop collecting new submissions.

Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro: Specifications, Features and Performance

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro is a large-screen smartphone designed for users who want a long-lasting battery, smooth everyday performance and useful features. It combines a 6.9-inch 120Hz display with a 7,500mAh battery, a 50MP main camera and stereo speakers.

The phone also runs Android 16 with HyperOS 3 and is powered by the MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra chipset. With expandable storage, dual-SIM support and a 3.5mm headphone jack, it offers several practical features for everyday use.

Design and Build Quality

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro has a large body measuring 170.1 x 78.4 x 8.8 mm and weighs 232g. Its size and weight are noticeable, but they also make room for the large display and high-capacity battery.

The front is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, while the back is made from plastic or silicone polymer with an eco-leather finish depending on the version. The frame is also made from plastic.

The phone has an IP64 rating for dust protection and resistance to water splashes. It also supports two Nano-SIM cards.

The Poco C95 Pro is available in Green, Blue and Black.

Display

The phone features a 6.9-inch IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate. The higher refresh rate makes scrolling through menus, websites and supported apps feel smoother.

The display has a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, a 20:9 aspect ratio and approximately 254 pixels per inch.

Brightness is rated at 675 nits typically and up to 825 nits in High Brightness Mode. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i.

The large screen makes the Poco C95 Pro suitable for watching videos, browsing the web, using social media and playing games. The 120Hz refresh rate also gives everyday navigation a smoother feel.

Performance and Processor

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra chipset, built on a 12nm process.

Its octa-core CPU consists of two Cortex-A75 cores running at up to 2.0GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores running at up to 1.8GHz. Graphics are handled by the Mali-G52 MC2 GPU.

The phone comes with either 6GB RAM and 128GB storage or 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Storage can also be expanded using a microSDXC card, although the card shares the slot with one of the SIM cards.

The hardware is suited to everyday activities such as messaging, social media, web browsing, video streaming and regular app use. More demanding games will depend on the game and graphics settings.

Camera Features

The Poco C95 Pro has a dual rear camera setup led by a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and PDAF. An auxiliary lens is also included alongside an LED flash.

The rear camera supports HDR and can record video at up to 1080p at 30 frames per second.

For selfies, the phone has an 8MP front camera with an f/2.1 aperture. It also supports HDR and 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second.

The camera system is aimed at everyday photography, including outdoor photos, social media content, selfies and video calls.

Battery and Charging

Battery life is one of the strongest features of the Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro.

The phone packs a 7,500mAh silicon-carbon lithium-ion battery, giving it a much larger capacity than the 5,000mAh battery commonly found in smartphones.

It supports 45W wired charging and USB Power Delivery. A full charge from 0 to 100 per cent is listed at around 96 minutes.

The phone also supports 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to provide power to compatible devices.

The large battery makes the Poco C95 Pro particularly suited to users who spend a lot of time browsing, streaming videos, using social media or playing games.

Software and Features

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro runs Android 16 with HyperOS 3.

The phone includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric security. Other sensors include an accelerometer, compass and virtual proximity sensing.

It also features stereo speakers, which can provide a fuller sound experience when watching videos or playing games.

Unlike many newer smartphones, the Poco C95 Pro retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect wired headphones without an adapter.

For connectivity, the phone supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BDS. NFC is also available depending on the market or region.

Specifications

Feature	Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro
Network	GSM / HSPA / LTE
SIM	Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Dimensions	170.1 x 78.4 x 8.8 mm
Weight	232g
Build	Glass front, plastic back or eco-leather, plastic frame
Water Resistance	IP64
Display	6.9-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz
Resolution	720 x 1600 pixels
Protection	Gorilla Glass 7i
Operating System	Android 16, HyperOS 3
Chipset	MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra
CPU	Octa-core, up to 2.0GHz
GPU	Mali-G52 MC2
RAM	6GB / 8GB
Storage	128GB / 256GB
Memory Card	microSDXC
Rear Camera	50MP, f/1.8, PDAF
Front Camera	8MP, f/2.1
Rear Video	1080p at 30fps
Front Video	1080p at 30fps
Speakers	Stereo
Headphone Jack	3.5mm
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
Bluetooth	5.4
NFC	Yes, market/region dependent
Radio	FM radio
USB	USB Type-C 2.0, OTG
Fingerprint Sensor	Side-mounted
Battery	7,500mAh
Charging	45W wired, PD
Reverse Charging	22.5W wired
Colours	Green, Blue, Black

Gaming and Everyday Performance

The MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra places the Poco C95 Pro in the entry-level to lower mid-range performance category.

For everyday activities such as WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, browsing and streaming, the phone is equipped for regular use. The 120Hz display also helps make navigation and scrolling feel smoother.

The 6GB and 8GB RAM options give users a choice depending on their storage and multitasking needs. More demanding games may require lower graphics settings for a smoother experience.

The large display provides plenty of screen space for gaming, while the stereo speakers add to the experience when playing without headphones.

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro Experience

The Xiaomi Poco C95 Pro focuses on features that matter to everyday smartphone users, particularly its large 120Hz display and 7,500mAh battery.

Its 45W charging helps reduce the time needed to recharge the large battery, while reverse wired charging adds another useful feature for powering compatible devices.

The 50MP main camera provides the main photography hardware, while the 8MP front camera handles selfies and video calls. Expandable storage, stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack and dual-SIM support also add to the phone's everyday practicality.

With Android 16 and HyperOS 3, the Poco C95 Pro brings together a large display, substantial battery and practical hardware in a phone aimed at users who prioritise battery life and everyday functionality.

Best Apps For Converting Text Into Voice

Converting written text into spoken audio can be useful when you want to listen to documents, articles, books or other content instead of reading everything on your screen. Text-to-speech apps can also help with studying, accessibility and listening while doing other activities.

There are several apps that can read text aloud, but their features are not exactly the same. Some focus on documents and webpages while others offer more voice options, audio controls or the ability to save spoken content.

Here are some of the best apps for converting text into voice.

ElevenReader

ElevenReader is a dedicated text-to-speech app from ElevenLabs that can turn books, PDFs, documents, webpages and other written content into spoken audio.

You can also paste or type text into the app and listen to it using its selection of natural-sounding voices. It supports formats including EPUB, PDF, DOCX and TXT, as well as webpages and scanned pages. ElevenReader is available on Android, iPhone, iPad and the web.

The app is particularly useful if you want to listen to longer written content such as books, articles or documents.

Speechify

Speechify is a text-to-speech app designed to turn written content into spoken audio. It can read PDFs, documents, books and other text while allowing you to adjust the reading speed.

The app also supports more than 60 languages and can scan printed material with a phone camera before reading it aloud. Speechify is available on Android, iPhone and other platforms.

It is a useful option for students, professionals and anyone who prefers listening to written content.

NaturalReader

NaturalReader converts written content into speech and supports a wide range of files. These include PDFs, TXT files, EPUB, Word documents, PowerPoint files, spreadsheets, images and webpages.

Its mobile apps are available for Android and iPhone. The app also offers different voices and playback controls, while some advanced features such as MP3 conversion and OCR require a subscription.

NaturalReader is a good choice if you regularly work with different types of documents.

Voiser

Voiser is an AI voice app that can convert text into spoken audio. It is designed for users who want to create voice content from written text and also offers features such as voice cloning and AI dubbing.

The service has mobile apps and supports multiple languages. Its mobile app is available through both the App Store and Google Play.

Voiser can be useful for people who want to turn written scripts into voice content rather than simply listen to documents.

Text to Speech

Text to Speech by Alpaca Works is a straightforward option for converting written content into spoken audio. You can enter text directly into the app or use it to read webpages and supported document files.

The app supports PDF, TXT, DOCX, XLSX, PPTX and several other file formats. It also lets users adjust reading speed and pitch and save the resulting speech as an audio file.

It is a practical option if you want a simple text-to-speech app with support for different file types and audio saving.

Which Text-to-Speech App Should You Choose?

The best choice depends on what you want to do with your text.

If you mainly want to listen to books, articles and documents, ElevenReader, Speechify and NaturalReader are strong options. If your focus is creating voice content from written scripts, Voiser may be more suitable. For a simpler option that supports several document formats and can save audio files, Text to Speech by Alpaca Works is worth considering.

Before choosing an app, check its available voices, supported file formats, language options and free features to make sure they match how you intend to use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a text-to-speech app?

A text-to-speech app converts written text into spoken audio so you can listen to the content instead of reading it on screen.

Can text-to-speech apps read PDF files?

Yes. Many text-to-speech apps can read PDF files, although the supported features and document handling can vary between apps.

Can I save text as an audio file?

Some text-to-speech apps allow you to save converted speech as an audio file. Whether this feature is available for free depends on the app.

Can text-to-speech apps read webpages?

Yes. Several apps can read webpages aloud either by accepting a webpage link or through built-in browser and sharing features.

How To Connect Smartwatch To Your Phone

Connecting a smartwatch to your phone lets you receive notifications, track activities, check calls and use other features from your wrist. Most smartwatches connect to a phone using Bluetooth and a companion app, although the exact setup can vary depending on the device.

Whether you use an Android phone or an iPhone, the process is generally straightforward once the smartwatch and phone are compatible.

Check Your Smartwatch Compatibility

Before trying to connect the smartwatch, make sure it supports your phone.

Some smartwatches work with both Android and iPhone while others only support certain phones or operating systems. Check the smartwatch instructions or the manufacturer's support information to confirm compatibility.

Also make sure your phone is running a supported version of its operating system.

Charge And Turn On The Smartwatch

Charge the smartwatch and your phone before starting the setup.

Turn on the smartwatch and follow any initial instructions that appear on its screen. Some watches may ask you to select a language or accept terms before you can begin pairing.

Keeping both devices sufficiently charged can also prevent the setup from being interrupted.

Install The Companion App

Many smartwatches require a companion app on your phone for the initial setup and to manage the watch afterwards.

Search for the appropriate app in the Google Play Store or App Store and install it on your phone. Use the app that is recommended for your particular smartwatch.

Some watches may use a different setup process, so follow the instructions shown in the companion app.

Turn On Bluetooth

Bluetooth needs to be enabled on your phone before you start pairing.

On Android, open Settings and turn on Bluetooth. On iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn it on. Keep the smartwatch close to the phone during the setup.

How To Connect A Smartwatch To Android

After installing the required companion app and turning on Bluetooth:

1. Turn on the smartwatch and keep it close to your phone.
2. Open the smartwatch's companion app.
3. Select the option to add, pair or set up a new smartwatch.
4. Wait for your smartwatch to appear.
5. Tap the name of the smartwatch when it appears.
6. Follow the instructions displayed on your phone and smartwatch.
7. Confirm the pairing code if one is shown on both devices.
8. Allow the requested permissions to complete the setup.

The exact names of the buttons and menus can vary between smartwatches and Android phones. Some supported devices may also offer a quicker pairing process through Android's Bluetooth or Fast Pair features.

How To Connect A Smartwatch To iPhone

To connect a compatible smartwatch to an iPhone:

1. Turn on the smartwatch and keep it close to your iPhone.
2. Turn on Bluetooth from Settings > Bluetooth.
3. Open the companion app recommended for the smartwatch.
4. Select the option to add or set up a smartwatch.
5. Choose your smartwatch when it appears.
6. Follow the instructions shown on the iPhone and smartwatch.
7. Confirm the pairing request or code if required.
8. Complete the remaining setup in the companion app.

Some compatible smartwatches can also be paired through the iPhone's Bluetooth settings, but others require you to complete the connection through their companion app. Follow the setup method provided for your smartwatch.

Allow The Necessary Permissions

During setup, the companion app may request permission to access features such as notifications, Bluetooth, location or other phone functions.

Review the permissions and allow the ones required for the smartwatch features you want to use.

If you deny an important permission, some features may not work properly.

Set Up Notifications

Once the smartwatch is connected, open its companion app and check the notification settings.

You may be able to choose which apps can send notifications to the smartwatch. Depending on the device, you may also be able to manage calls, messages and other alerts.

If notifications are not appearing, check both the smartwatch app and your phone's notification settings.

Check That The Smartwatch Is Connected

After completing the setup, check the companion app to confirm that the smartwatch shows as connected.

You can also check the Bluetooth settings on your phone. If the connection is working properly, the smartwatch should remain connected while it is within the required range and both devices have Bluetooth enabled.

What To Do If Your Smartwatch Will Not Connect

If the smartwatch refuses to connect, try these steps:

• Make sure the smartwatch and phone are close to each other.
• Check that Bluetooth is turned on.
• Make sure both devices have enough battery.
• Restart the smartwatch and phone.
• Update the companion app.
• Check for available phone software updates.
• Make sure the smartwatch is compatible with your phone.
• Remove the smartwatch from your phone's Bluetooth settings and try pairing again.
• Open the companion app and start the setup process again.

If the problem continues, check the smartwatch's official setup instructions because the troubleshooting steps can differ between devices.

Can A Smartwatch Connect To Both Android And iPhone?

Some smartwatches support both Android phones and iPhones, but compatibility and available features can differ between the two platforms.

A smartwatch that works with Android should not automatically be assumed to work with an iPhone. Always check whether your particular smartwatch supports the phone you want to use.

Can I Connect A Smartwatch To A New Phone?

Yes, but the process depends on the smartwatch.

Some watches can be moved to another phone through their companion app while others may require you to disconnect or reset the smartwatch before pairing it with the new phone. Some smartwatches can only be connected to one phone at a time.

If the watch is still connected to your previous phone, disconnect it properly before trying to set it up with another phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Bluetooth to connect a smartwatch to my phone?

Yes, Bluetooth is commonly used to connect a smartwatch to a phone. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on during the pairing process.

Do I need an app to connect a smartwatch?

Many smartwatches require a companion app for setup and management, although the exact process depends on the device.

Why is my smartwatch not showing up on my phone?

Make sure the smartwatch is turned on, close to your phone and ready for pairing. Check Bluetooth, confirm compatibility and restart both devices if necessary.

Can I use a smartwatch without connecting it to a phone?

Some smartwatches can perform certain functions without a phone, but many features require a phone connection or companion app. The available features depend on the smartwatch.

Things To Check Before Buying A Used iPhone

Buying a used iPhone can save you money, but it is important to check the device properly before handing over your money. A phone may look clean on the outside while having battery, display, camera or software issues.

Whether you are buying from a shop, online seller or another individual, taking a few minutes to test the iPhone can help you avoid buying a device with problems.

Check The iPhone Model And Storage

Start by confirming the exact iPhone model and storage capacity. You can check this under Settings > General > About.

Make sure the information shown on the phone matches what the seller told you. Check the model name, storage capacity and other details before continuing with the purchase.

Check The Activation Lock Status

Activation Lock is an important security feature on iPhone. Before buying a used device, make sure it is no longer linked to the previous owner's Apple Account.

If the iPhone displays an Activation Lock screen or asks for the previous owner's Apple Account details during setup, do not buy it. The previous owner needs to remove the device from their account before you can use it properly.

Check The Battery Health

Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging to check the battery's maximum capacity.

A used iPhone with a lower battery capacity may need to be charged more frequently. Also check whether the phone displays any important battery messages.

Keep in mind that battery-health information may not be accurate if the battery cannot be verified as genuine.

Check The Parts And Service History

On supported iPhone models and iOS versions, you can check whether the device has had parts replaced.

Go to Settings > General > About and look for Parts and Service History. Depending on the device, you may see information about the battery, display, camera or other components.

Pay attention to any Unknown or Unverified part messages and ask the seller about repairs before buying.

Inspect The Display

Carefully inspect the screen for cracks, deep scratches, dead pixels, unusual lines or areas that do not respond properly to touch.

Open different apps and move your finger across the screen to make sure touch works across the entire display.

Also check the display at different brightness levels to spot issues that may not be obvious at first.

Test Face ID Or Touch ID

Test the biometric security feature available on the iPhone.

For models with Face ID, make sure Face ID can recognise your face and unlock the phone normally. For models with Touch ID, test the fingerprint sensor several times.

If the feature does not work, find out why before considering the purchase.

Test The Cameras

Open the Camera app and test both the front and rear cameras.

Take photos and record videos to check for blurry images, strange spots, focusing problems or other camera issues. Test different camera modes where available and make sure the camera switches between lenses properly.

Test The Speakers And Microphone

Play a video or song to test the speakers and listen for distortion or unusually low sound.

You should also record a short voice note and play it back to check the microphone. Making a test call can provide another way to check the microphone and speaker.

Check The Charging Port And Charging

Connect a compatible charging cable to the iPhone and make sure it charges normally.

Check the charging port for dirt, damage or loose connections. If possible, leave the phone connected for a few minutes to make sure the charging connection remains stable.

Check The Network And SIM

Insert your SIM card and check whether the iPhone connects to the network.

Test calls, mobile data and SMS if possible. You can also check the network-lock status under Settings > General > About. If the device shows No SIM restrictions, it is unlocked.

Check The Buttons And Other Physical Controls

Test the volume buttons, side button, Ring/Silent switch or Action button, depending on the iPhone model.

Make sure each button responds properly and does not feel unusually loose or difficult to press.

Also test Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to make sure the phone can connect to other devices and networks.

Inspect The Body For Damage

Look closely at the front, back, frame and camera area.

Minor scratches are normal on some used iPhones, but cracks, major dents or damage around important components deserve closer attention.

Remove any case or protective cover if the seller allows it so you can inspect the actual condition of the device.

Check For Signs Of Water Damage

Inspect the iPhone for signs that it may have been exposed to liquid.

Look for corrosion, unusual behaviour or other physical signs of liquid damage. Water resistance does not mean an iPhone is completely protected from liquid damage, especially on a used device.

Check The IMEI And Serial Number

Check the iPhone's IMEI and serial number under Settings > General > About.

Compare the details with the information provided by the seller and, where possible, with the device or its original packaging. If anything does not match, ask the seller for an explanation before buying.

Test The iPhone Before Paying

Do not rely only on the seller's description or photographs.

Use the iPhone yourself and test the important features before completing the purchase. This includes the display, cameras, speakers, microphone, charging, buttons, network connection, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and biometric security.

Testing the device yourself gives you a better idea of its actual condition.

Check The Seller And Return Policy

Consider who you are buying from and whether the seller provides any return period or warranty.

A reputable seller should be willing to let you inspect and test the device before payment. Be cautious if the seller refuses basic checks or pressures you to pay immediately.

Compare The Price With The Phone's Condition

Do not judge the deal by the price alone.

Consider the iPhone model, storage capacity, battery health, physical condition, repair history and included accessories. A cheaper iPhone may require additional spending if it has a weak battery, damaged display or other problems.

Make Your Final Checks

Before completing the purchase, go through the important checks again and make sure there are no unresolved issues.

Confirm that the iPhone is not Activation Locked, check the battery health, review the Parts and Service History, test the major hardware features and make sure the device connects properly to the network.

Once you are satisfied with the phone's condition and the seller's terms, you can proceed with the purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check if a used iPhone is Activation Locked?

Turn on the iPhone and begin the setup process. If it asks for the previous owner's Apple Account details, the device is still linked to that account and should not be purchased until the previous owner removes the Activation Lock.

What battery health is good for a used iPhone?

A higher maximum capacity generally means the battery has more capacity remaining. However, battery health is only one part of assessing a used iPhone, so also consider the phone's overall condition and repair history.

How can I check if an iPhone has been repaired?

Go to Settings > General > About and look for Parts and Service History on supported models and iOS versions. This can show information about certain replaced components.

Should I test a used iPhone before paying?

Yes. Test the major features of the iPhone before paying, including the display, cameras, speakers, microphone, charging, buttons, network connection and biometric security.

Important Things To Check Before Applying For Google AdSense

Applying for Google AdSense is more than creating an account and placing an ad code on your website. Before submitting your application, it is worth taking time to check whether your website is ready to be reviewed.

Google looks at the site submitted for AdSense and checks whether it has original content, follows its policies and provides a good experience for visitors. Your website also needs to be accessible to you so you can make the required changes and connect it to AdSense.

If you are planning to monetise a blog, news website or another content-based site, these are some of the important things to check first.

1. Make Sure Your Website Has Original Content

Your website should offer content that is useful and relevant to its audience. Google says AdSense applicants should have their own unique and interesting content that is high quality and attracts an audience.

Simply having many articles is not enough. Look through your existing posts and ask whether they provide useful information or a clear reason for someone to visit your website.

If your site contains a lot of copied material, lightly rewritten articles or pages that add little value, it is worth addressing those issues before applying.

2. Check The Quality Of Your Articles

Go through your important articles and look at them from a visitor's perspective.

Check for incomplete information, unnecessary repetition, poor formatting, spelling mistakes, broken images and articles that do not properly satisfy what their titles promise.

Google's guidance says sites should contain unique, relevant content and provide a good user experience.

For a news or information website, this also means making sure articles are readable, properly structured and useful beyond simply repeating information from another source.

3. Make Sure Your Website Is Fully Built

Do not rush to apply while your website still looks unfinished.

Your homepage, navigation, categories and important pages should work properly. Visitors should not encounter large numbers of empty sections, placeholder text or unfinished pages.

Google says a site that is not ready may have issues such as being unreachable, having insufficient unique content or failing to provide a good user experience.

Take a final look at the website as if you were visiting it for the first time.

4. Check Your Website Navigation

Your visitors should be able to move around the website without confusion.

Make sure the main menu works, categories lead to the correct pages and important links are easy to find. Avoid navigation that sends visitors to unrelated pages or makes them click through unnecessary steps.

Google's AdSense policies specifically require sites showing ads to be easy to navigate and prohibit deceptive navigation designed to generate clicks or views.

A simple and organised website is easier for both visitors and search engines to understand.

5. Review Google AdSense Policies

Before applying, read the current AdSense Programme Policies and Google Publisher Policies.

This is important because Google can restrict or disable ad serving when a site violates its policies. Google also states that publishers are responsible for keeping up with policy changes.

Do not assume that an article is acceptable simply because other websites publish similar content. Your website is responsible for complying with Google's current requirements.

6. Remove Copied Or Scraped Content

Review articles that were created using information from other websites.

Using external sources is normal for many types of websites, particularly news websites. The problem is publishing content that does not provide enough original value.

Google says publishers should create unique and relevant content and may take action against domains that do not add value to users.

Before applying, identify pages that are largely copied or provide little beyond information already available elsewhere and improve them where necessary.

7. Check Your Important Website Pages

Your website should have the basic pages visitors would reasonably expect from a professional website.

Depending on the type of site, these may include:

• About Us
• Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

These pages also make it easier for visitors to understand who operates the website and how they can contact you.

They should not simply exist for the sake of AdSense. Make sure the information on them is accurate and the links work properly.

8. Make Sure Your Website Works Well On Mobile

A large percentage of website visitors may access your content from smartphones, so check the mobile version before applying.

Open your website on a phone and test the homepage, menus, articles, images, buttons and forms.

Make sure text is readable and important elements are not hidden behind other parts of the page. A visitor should be able to read an article and move around the website without struggling with the layout.

9. Fix Broken Links And Unfinished Pages

Before submitting your application, click through your website and look for problems.

Pay particular attention to:

• Broken links
• Missing images
• Empty categories
• Error pages
• Placeholder text
• Incomplete articles
• Buttons that do not work
• Menus leading to the wrong pages

These may seem like small issues, but they can make a website look unfinished and create a poor user experience.

10. Check Your Website's Loading Experience

Your pages should load properly without unnecessary delays.

Large images, excessive scripts, poorly configured plugins and unnecessary third-party elements can make a website slower.

You do not need to turn your website into a technically perfect site before applying, but it is worth removing obvious problems that make pages difficult to use.

Google's AdSense guidance places emphasis on providing a good user experience, alongside unique and relevant content.

11. Make Sure Google Can Access Your Website

Your website needs to be live and accessible when it is submitted for review.

Check that your domain opens correctly and that important pages are not accidentally blocked.

You also need access to the site's HTML source code so you can connect the website to AdSense. Google specifically lists access to the site's HTML source code as an eligibility consideration.

For WordPress users, this means you should have sufficient access to your website to add the required AdSense code when needed.

12. Review Your Traffic Sources

Take a look at where your website visitors are coming from.

There is no need to chase traffic through questionable services simply to make your website appear more popular. Google monitors traffic quality and prohibits methods that artificially generate clicks or impressions.

Invalid traffic includes clicks or impressions generated through automated tools, repeated activity and encouraging people to click ads.

Build your audience through legitimate sources and keep an eye on unusual traffic patterns.

13. Avoid Invalid Traffic And Artificial Clicks

This is particularly important once you start displaying Google ads.

Never click your own ads or ask friends, readers or anyone else to click them. Google also prohibits artificial methods used to increase clicks or impressions.

Even accidental or third-party activity can become a problem if it results in invalid traffic. Google says publishers are ultimately responsible for ensuring that traffic to their ads is valid.

The safest approach is to let visitors interact with advertisements naturally.

14. Check Your Ad Placement If You Already Use Ads

If another advertising network is already running on your website, review how the ads are displayed.

Your pages should remain focused on their actual content rather than being dominated by advertisements. Google advises publishers not to place more ads than content on a page and prohibits ad implementations that can mislead users.

Remove unnecessary or intrusive placements that interfere with navigation or make it difficult for visitors to find the content.

15. Confirm Your AdSense Account Details

Make sure the information you provide when setting up your AdSense account is accurate.

Google's eligibility requirements state that applicants must be at least 18 years old and have their own content that complies with its policies.

Google also reviews payment information as part of the account setup process. Its current sign-up guidance says identity verification may also be required before an account can start showing ads and receiving payments.

Avoid creating multiple AdSense accounts for yourself. Google says publishers are permitted to have only one AdSense account.

16. Do Not Focus On A Fixed Number Of Articles

One of the most common questions about AdSense is how many articles a website needs before applying.

Google does not publish a fixed minimum number of articles as an eligibility requirement. Its guidance instead focuses on original, high-quality content, policy compliance and whether the site is ready for review.

That means publishing 50 articles does not automatically make a website ready, just as having fewer articles does not automatically make it ineligible.

The quality, originality and usefulness of the content matter more than chasing an arbitrary article count.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many articles do I need before applying for Google AdSense?

Google does not specify a fixed number of articles. Your website should have enough original and useful content for Google to properly evaluate the site.

Does Google AdSense require a certain amount of traffic?

Google's published eligibility requirements do not state a minimum traffic figure. The focus is on having your own content and complying with AdSense policies.

Can a new website apply for Google AdSense?

Yes. A new website can apply if it meets Google's eligibility requirements, has suitable content and complies with the relevant policies.

Can copied content affect an AdSense application?

Yes. Google expects websites to provide unique and relevant content and warns against content that does not add sufficient value.

How To Enable Data Saver On Android

Mobile data can run out faster than expected when apps continue using the internet in the background. Social media apps, cloud services, automatic updates and other apps can consume data even when you are not actively using them.

Android has a built-in Data Saver feature that can help reduce this background data usage. When enabled, most apps and services are restricted from sending or receiving data in the background unless you are actively using them.

The exact steps can vary slightly depending on your Android phone and the version of Android installed, but the option is generally available through the Settings app.

Open Your Phone's Settings

Start by opening the Settings app on your Android phone.

You can usually find it in your app drawer or by tapping the gear icon from the quick settings panel.

Go To Network And Internet

Scroll through Settings and look for an option such as Network & internet, Connections or Mobile network.

The name can differ between Android phones. Samsung Galaxy devices, for example, use Connections, while some other Android phones use Network & internet.

Open Data Saver

Look for Data Saver within the network or mobile data settings.

On some phones, you may need to open Data usage or Mobile data usage first before finding the Data Saver option.

Turn On Data Saver

Tap Data Saver and switch on the Use Data Saver option.

Once enabled, Android will limit background mobile data usage for most apps and services.

Apps you are actively using can still access the internet normally, so Data Saver does not completely block mobile data.

Allow Specific Apps To Use Data In The Background

You can choose which apps can continue using unrestricted data if you need them to work normally in the background.

After opening Data Saver, look for an option such as Unrestricted data, Apps that can use data while Data Saver is on or a similar setting.

Select the apps you want to allow.

For example, you may want certain messaging or email apps to continue receiving notifications even when Data Saver is enabled.

Use Data Saver With Wi-Fi

Data Saver mainly controls mobile data usage. It does not mean that your phone will stop using Wi-Fi.

If you are connected to Wi-Fi, apps can generally continue using the connection normally. This makes Data Saver particularly useful when you are relying on a limited mobile data bundle.

Check Which Apps Use The Most Data

Data Saver can help reduce background usage, but it is also useful to check which apps are consuming the most data.

Go to your phone's mobile data or data usage settings and review the usage for individual apps. If one app is using an unusually large amount of data, you can restrict its background data or adjust its settings.

This can be more effective than simply turning Data Saver on and leaving everything else unchanged.

Turn Off Automatic Updates Over Mobile Data

App updates can also use a significant amount of mobile data, especially when several apps need updates at the same time.

Open the Google Play Store settings and check the network preferences for app downloads and updates. Setting updates to happen over Wi-Fi can help prevent unexpected mobile data usage.

What Happens When Data Saver Is On?

When Data Saver is enabled, some apps may not refresh their content as frequently in the background. You may also notice that some notifications or updates arrive only after you open the relevant app.

This is normal because Android is limiting background data activity to help reduce mobile data consumption.

You can still use the internet normally in apps that you have open.

How To Turn Off Data Saver On Android

If you no longer want to use Data Saver, you can turn it off from the same settings menu.

Open Settings, go to your network or mobile data settings, select Data Saver and switch off Use Data Saver.

Your apps will then be allowed to use background mobile data according to their individual settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Data Saver reduce mobile data usage?

Yes. Data Saver is designed to reduce background mobile data usage by restricting how apps access mobile data when you are not actively using them.

Will Data Saver stop WhatsApp notifications?

It can affect how some apps receive background updates. If you need WhatsApp or another messaging app to continue working normally in the background, you can allow it to use unrestricted data while Data Saver is enabled.

Does Data Saver make internet slower?

Data Saver does not directly reduce your network speed. However, some apps may load or refresh content differently because their background data activity is restricted.

Can I choose which apps can use unrestricted data?

Yes. Android allows you to add selected apps to the unrestricted data list, although the exact wording and location of this option can vary between phone brands.