If you have trouble using the Google app, this troubleshooting guide will explore various suggestions and solutions to help you get it running normally again. Feel free to skip any fixes that don’t apply.

1. Restart the Google App

It’s best to begin by force-quitting and relaunching the Google app on your iPhone or iPad. This tends to clear minor glitches and temporary software issues causing the app to malfunction. Just:

1. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the App Switcher.
2. Drag the Google card up and out of the screen.
3. Relaunch the Google app and check if it works correctly.

2. Enable and Disable Airplane Mode

If the Google app loads web pages slowly or features like Google Search and Google Lens act sluggish, you might be dealing with slow internet connectivity. A quick way to fix the problem is to toggle Airplane Mode on and off.

Airplane Mode, when enabled, disables all wireless connections, including Wi-Fi and cellular data. This helps you shut down and reboot the networking hardware inside the iPhone and iPad.

1. Swipe down from the top right of the screen to open the Control Center. Double-click the Home button instead if you use an iPhone with Touch ID (e.g., the iPhone 8).
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon.
3. Wait 10 seconds and tap the same icon again.

If that doesn’t help, restart your router (if you’re connected to Wi-Fi), switch to another Wi-Fi connection, or use mobile data or vice versa. You can also reset your iPhone/iPad’s network settings to factory defaults.

3. Provide Mobile Data Permissions

If the Google app fails to work over mobile data, it’s worth examining your iPhone or iPad’s cellular settings. To do that:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Cellular.
3. Scroll down and make sure the switch next to Google is active.

4. Restart iPhone/iPad

If issues with the Google app continue, another quick fix is to restart your iPhone or iPad. This action often resolves many system-related issues preventing apps from working correctly. Here’s how:

1. Open Settings and tap General.
2. Scroll down and tap Shutdown.
3. Drag the Power icon to the right and wait 30 seconds.
4. Press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.
5. Enter the iOS passcode to regain access to the device.

5. Delete Cached Data

The Google app isn’t a dedicated browser like Apple Safari or Google Chrome, but it still caches websites you visit to speed things up. Consequently, cached data can go obsolete and create problems. Clear the Google app’s local web cache and check if that helps. Here’s how:

1. Open the Google app.
2. Tap your profile icon on the top right of the screen and select Settings.

3. Tap Privacy and Security.
4. Tap History.
5. Tap Clear next to App history and Cookies.

6. Change the Domain Name System

The Domain Name System (DNS) servers for a Wi-Fi connection can impact your iPhone or iPad’s ability to connect to various online services. Hence, switching to a different DNS service can resolve connectivity and loading issues.

As an example, here’s how to set up Google Public DNS for a Wi-Fi connection in iOS and iPadOS.

1. Open the Settings app and tap Wi-Fi.
2. Select the Info icon next to the active Wi-Fi network.
3. Scroll down and tap Configure DNS.
4. Replace the existing DNS servers with the following entries:

8.8.8.8

8.8.4.4

5. Tap Save.

Note: Changing the DNS servers for the cellular data connection on your iPhone or iPad is possible using a third-party app called DNS Override.

7. Enable Background App Refresh

Background App Refresh is a feature on iOS and iPadOS that allows apps to update their content in the background, ensuring they are ready to go when you open them. Ensuring this feature is active for the Google app helps improve performance and responsiveness.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap Google.
3. Turn on the switch next to Background App Refresh.

8. Check Notification Settings

You must check the app’s notification settings if you’re encountering notification issues with the Google app (e.g., you aren’t receiving authentication prompts while signing into Google’s services).

Begin by making sure that notifications are active for the Google app. To do that:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap Google.
3. Tap Notifications.
4. Enable the switch next to Allow Notifications if it’s inactive. Additionally, enable the Time Sensitive Notifications setting.
5. Review the rest of the notification preferences and ensure they’re set up correctly.

Next, review and enable the alert types you want to receive. Here’s how:

1. Open the Google app.
2. Tap your profile icon on the top right of the screen and select Settings.
3. Tap Notifications.
4. Tap Manage other notifications.
5. Enable the switches next to your preferred notification types—Security & Account Alerts, Weather alerts for changes and forecasts, Stories about your interests, etc.

9. Install Google App Updates

Outdated versions of apps can exhibit compatibility and technical issues on newer releases of iOS and iPadOS. If you continue encountering problems with the Google app, it’s essential to update it to its latest version. Just:

1. Open the App Store.
2. Switch to the Search tab and type Google into the search bar.
3. Tap Update next to Google among the search results.

10. Update Your iPhone and iPad

Keeping your iPhone or iPad updated with the latest iOS version is essential for overall system stability and app compatibility. To update iOS or iPadOS:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to General > Software Update.
3. Wait until your iPhone scans for newer versions of the system software. If there’s a pending update, tap Download & Install.

11. Uninstall and Reinstall the Google App

If all else fails and the Google app continues to exhibit issues on your iPhone or iPad, reinstalling the app is a viable solution. This eliminates corrupt files or other app-related settings that cause problems. To do that:

1. Open the Settings app and go to General > iPhone Storage > Google.
2. Tap Delete App.

3. Redownload the Google app via the App Store and sign back in with your Google Account.

Uninstalling the Google app removes the Google widget from your iPhone or iPad’s Home Screen. To get it back:

1. Long-press a vacant area on the Home Screen and tap the Plus icon on the upper left corner of the screen.
2. Search for the Google widget and pick a size—Small or Medium.
3. Tap Add Widget.

Fix Google App Issues For Good on Your iPhone or iPad

Encountering issues with the Google app on your iPhone or iPad can be frustrating, but you can make them go away with standard troubleshooting.

For example, enabling Background App Refresh, updating the Google app, and keeping your iOS system up to date can be crucial for optimal performance. Additionally, exploring alternative DNS servers or reinstalling the Google app help resolve persistent issues.

By following the fixes outlined above, you can overcome common hurdles with the Google app and enjoy a seamless user experience on iPhone and iPad.

The Freeform app comes integrated with the latest iOS and macOS versions. You can draw, sketch, write, or add files to its blank canvas without ever worrying about the page size. All creative work done in Freeform will be saved in iCloud. That means you can use this app on multiple devices, and have them all sync so your work will never suffer.

Apple’s Freeform App as a Canvas and Collaboration Space

If you have a device that runs on iOS 16.2 and macOS Ventura 13.1 or newer, you already have Freeform preinstalled. If you can’t find it, you can download it from the App Store.

When you create a board, you’ll have an endless canvas at your disposal. As you add content, the canvas expands in all directions so you can use the drawing tools to take notes or to doodle all your creative ideas and save them in one space. You can also add different media such as images, audio and video files, or web links. Its flexibility is unlimited.

Among its tools, you’ll find a wide variety of brushes, colors, sticky notes, shapes, and diagrams, to sketch your ideas. The built-in alignment guides will help you organize your drawings and notes as well. You can drag and drop items not only from within the app but also from other apps on your device such as Files, Gallery, or Finder. Also, multiple video and audio files can play at the same time, and create a dynamic view of your board.

Take note that although Freeform supports Apple Pencil, you can use your fingers to draw on a blank canvas on the iPhone and iPad.

Apple’s Freeform App as a Collaborative Tool

The Freeform app is great for all those who like to work on the go. It’s easily accessible across devices, and even more easy to use. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find it useful if you’re working from a shared office.

You can add up to 100 collaborators on one board by simply dragging the invites into a Messages thread, or clicking a Share button. All members of that thread will automatically receive an invitation to join the board. You can also send invitations through email or with a direct link, and modify permissions for collaborators. Assign who can edit, who can invite more collaborators, or simply disable link invites for everyone. If you don’t want to invite others to your board but you still want to share it with them, you can take a screenshot, or export the canvas as PDF.

Follow the activity updates at the top of the Messages thread to see when your colleagues make changes on the board. iCloud integration and fast-sync capabilities of this app will let you see other people’s contributions and edits as soon as they are made. If you need a more direct way of communicating with your collaborators, especially in real-time, you can use iMessage or integrated FaceTime. Start a FaceTime call by simply tapping the collaboration button at the top-right side of the screen.

How to Create a Board in Freeform

Your first board will be ready to use as soon as you first start Apple’s Freeform app. It’ll be created automatically and you’ll notice it has a grid by default. That’s to make it easier for you to create content. But what if you want to create another board? It’s pretty simple.

Just go to the File menu and select New Board. You can also do it by pressing the Command + N keyboard shortcut on your Mac or Macbook. Finally, there’s a New Board icon on the toolbar. Click it to quickly open a new canvas from the existing one.

Adding Content to Boards

There are a myriad of possibilities with the Freeform app. You can use it for improving your business, or for planning simple day-to-day tasks. If you’re a creative person and already have experience with similar software, you’ll find Freeform’s toolset already familiar and easy to use.

Let’s see how you can use Freeform’s tools and features to brainstorm or sketch your creative ideas.

Adding Notes

Tap the Note icon. You’ll find it at the bottom-left corner of the screen. A colorful note will instantly pop on the board. Double-tap it to enter text. The toolbar above the keyboard will let you manage font size, style, and text alignment.

Resize the note by tapping the note and holding the blue dot on any of its corners. You’ll then drag it out to increase or decrease its size. You can move the note around the canvas by just pressing, holding, and dragging it. If you need more advanced editing options, tap the note to bring them up, and then select the tree-dotted icon (More). There, you’ll find options such as Manage layers, Cut or Copy, Lock, Description, and more.

Adding Shapes

The shape icon is right next to the notes icon. Tap it to bring out the Shape gallery. Because this gallery is large, you can use the search icon to find the one you need at the given time. Once you find the right shape, select it and drop it on the board. You can resize it by pulling on the blue dots.

There are many ways in which you can edit the appearance of a shape. Tap the shape icon and play with the menu. You can change its color, or the color and thickness of its borders. Add or adjust text size, color, and alignment, and duplicate or delete it.

Adding a Text Box

Tap the A icon in the center of the tool menu. This’ll open a text box that you can place anywhere on Canvas. You can resize the text box by pulling on the blue dots.

Double-tap to enter the text. If you want more options such as changing text size, color, or font, to duplicate it or delete it, simply tap the text box.

Drawing

To bring up the brushes menu, tap on the Markup icon (the second last in the toolbar). Select the brush or a pencil and start drawing. To edit your brush or pen, long-press the tool to bring up the menu. Here you can change its size, thickness, and opacity.

To edit a drawing, simply tap it, select another pencil, brush, or eraser, and perform your edit. Once you’re finished, tap Done.

Inserting photos, videos, documents, and links

The very last icon on the toolbar will let you perform different tasks.

The Insert option will redirect you to the Files app. From here you can insert PDF files, photos, videos, and more.

The Link option will let you type or paste any web link into a designated spot. You can later edit the link. Note that the link will always be opened in your device’s default browser.

The Scan feature uses the built-in scanner of iPhone and iPad to scan and insert different documents into the Freeform app.

The Camera option will let you use your device’s camera to capture and insert real-time photos and videos. You’ll also get access to the accompanying toolbar that’ll let you edit, crop, duplicate or delete the media files.

The Apple Freeform App is an awesome tool for people looking to keep track of their social calendars, brainstorm, and get creative. Whether you’re looking for a way to share your ideas with your team or just trying out something different that won’t take up too much storage space, the Apple Freeform App is a reliable tool for organizing your ideas.

In this article, we’ll look at these two email services in detail and find out which one is the best email client for you.

Apple Mail vs. Microsoft Outlook: First Impressions

Right off the bat, it seems like Microsoft Outlook has more to offer. With MS Outlook as your email client, you get an entire set of tools within Microsoft 365. These Microsoft Office products include Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Publisher, and Access (Publisher and Access are available to Windows users only). That way, aside from an excellent mail client, you also get a number of top-notch MS Office programs.

Apple Mail app has been the standard and default email client application for macOS since OS X 10.0. It’s a free app that comes pre-installed on your Mac and is easy to use if you want to be more organized and spend less time on your emails. Mac users also get Pages, which is the equivalent of Word.

The two main MS power tools are Excel and PowerPoint. Mac users get Numbers (an Excel equivalent) and Keynote (a PowerPoint equivalent). However, Numbers is a more simplified tool compared to Excel, and if you need to create complex spreadsheets, you won’t be able to do it as effortlessly as you would using Excel.

Compared to PowerPoint, Keynote is a more sophisticated application which allows you to create slides that are more techy and look better design-wise. At the same time, the app is more complicated than MS PowerPoint, and if you don’t have any previous experience creating presentations, you’ll have to go through a bit of a learning curve first.

All things considered, Microsoft Outlook wins over Mac Mail when we talk about capabilities. But what about functionality?

Functionality & Features

Apple Mail is a simple email application that you can use to send and receive emails. There are plenty of customization options to choose from if you want to change themes, fonts, colors, and the overall appearance of the app.

Aside from the basic customization options, Apple Mail includes some advanced features like flagging your emails. You can add flags to your emails and change their colors to organize your email list.

Another option you can use to keep your emails organized is the VIP feature. You can make any of your contacts VIP, which in turn will help you track the emails from and to recipients who are important to you. You can choose up to 100 VIPs, and Apple Mail will prioritize your email communication with them and send notifications when you receive a message from a VIP sender.

Mac Mail supports IMAP, POP3, and SMTP email protocols. The app has all the features you need to send, receive, and organize your emails, but that’s all it can offer. There’s no support for add-ins or third-party integration.

At the same time, MS Outlook has productivity features that you can use to make your work more efficient. For example, Outlook has a built-in calendar that you can use to schedule meetings and keep up with any upcoming events. Thanks to notes, you can create to-do lists and add reminders for important meetings and follow-up emails to keep not just your email account but your whole life organized.

Outlook also allows Exchange server users to set up their profile in Cached Exchange Mode, so they can access their emails even when the system is offline. Outlook is well-integrated with other Microsoft apps and tools, such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. If you ever decide to switch from Outlook to a different email client, migration and backup are also accessible. You can export your emails from Outlook to PST format and save your emails in portable formats, like TXT, MSG, and HTML.

Interface and Ease of Use

When it comes to the user interface, the two apps are entirely different. Apple Mail is a simple app with an intuitive interface – a great option for beginner users who don’t want to go through a learning curve before they feel confident using the app. As a typical Apple product, the Mail app is definitely an ergonomic app that fits well among other parts of your macOS system.

However, while Apple Mail can be considered more user-friendly in terms of complexity if you’re after additional features and a more effective UI, MS Outlook would be a better pick for you.

The Outlook app looks bigger and more complicated, but it’s packed with additional features. The built-in Calendar feature is displayed in the column layout view so that you can keep on top of your plans and upcoming events at all times. This also makes MS Outlook a better option for working within a big team and for people with tight schedules.

Outlook also supports third-party add-ins in case you’re missing some functionality within the app.

Organizing Your Emails

Apple Mail makes organizing your emails easy. Besides the standard email mailboxes, you get a number of advanced email search options. For example, you can search for unread emails, emails from a specific date (using smart mailboxes), and emails that contain attachments. You can also use different color flags to mark different types of emails and then use the flags to search for these emails in the app.

Outlook has even more options when it comes to organizing your emails. You can create theme-specific folders for easy access to your emails, use Outlook rules to automatically sort your emails for you, use labels to categorize your mail (similar to flags in Apple Mail), block spam, and find lost emails.

Once you get the hang of it, you can explore the more advanced features and add-ons in Outlook to take your email productivity to a new level. Outlook offers an option to ignore entire email conversations if you don’t feel like they’re important to you. It gives you access to My Templates which you can use to draft similar emails faster and automate routine, repetitive tasks like forwarding emails using Quick Steps.

If you also take into account Microsoft Calendar and Microsoft To Do, it becomes clear that Outlook is a superior app in terms of organizing your emails and making your workflow more efficient.

CPU Usage

Another important factor to consider when choosing between the two email clients is CPU resource usage. If you don’t have a lot of it, you have to think of task management before anything else, and since you’ll likely use your email service every day, it’s important to make the right choice here.

Microsoft Outlook is a big system that’s also a part of Microsoft 365 (formerly known as Office 365), so it takes a lot of CPU to run. On the other hand, Apple Mail is pretty basic software. If you only use it to send emails and see the emails you receive, the application doesn’t do any complicated calculations. Unlike MS Outlook. Plus, Mail by Apple is integrated within the macOS system, and because of that, it doesn’t take as much CPU and is generally much lighter.

Platform Compatibility

Apple Mail is made for Apple users and can only be used on Apple products (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Mac). You can also install the Apple Mail app on a Windows computer, but it’s a more complicated process, and you’ll need an iCloud account to do that. Apple Mail is compatible with all products and applications from Apple, making it easier to communicate with other Apple users.

Apple users can also freely install Outlook for Mac on their devices. You can run MS Outlook on any system – Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, or in your web browser. If you correspond more with other Outlook users and tend to use other Microsoft products like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint, then this app is a better choice for you.

At the same time, if you’re used to Apple software like Pages and Mac’s presentation apps, it’s best to choose Apple Mail to avoid compatibility problems. For example, you won’t be able to just open a Pages document in Microsoft Word, you have to convert it to the right format first. Your email client follows the same principle.

Pricing

At first glance, the pricing situation seems obvious for both contestants – Apple Mail is free, and Microsoft Outlook subscription costs money. But it’s not that simple.

It’s true that Apple Mail is free and comes pre-installed on your Apple device. However, if you need more iCloud storage than the standard free 5GB, the storage plans start at $0.99 for 50GB and go up to $9.99 per month for 2TB.

Things are not that straightforward with MS Outlook either. The cheapest plan for Microsoft Outlook is $69.99 per year or $6.99 per month. However, you also get 1TB of storage and a whole set of other Microsoft apps. You can also get a Microsoft Office for Windows and Mac called Office Home and Student 2021 for a fixed price of $150 with no subscription, which makes getting MS Outlook on your Apple device an even more viable option.

With all that in mind, it’s fair to say that pricing doesn’t play the main role when it comes to choosing one email client over the other. Apple Mail is an easy-to-use app that offers integration with other Apple products, and you don’t have to buy it separately. On the other hand, Outlook offers more than just a simple email service and comes with a bundle of features and tools which will be worth the money for some people.

Apple Mail vs. Microsoft Outlook: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, Apple Mail or Mac Mail is more of a straightforward send-and-receive mail application. It’s simple, free, and makes your email communication effortless in a lot of ways.

Microsoft Outlook is a more complex application, especially for first-time users. It has a lot to offer if you’re after better productivity and a more professional platform. However, it also requires buying a subscription and some getting used to it.

If, after all, you cannot make a choice between the two apps, have a look at alternative email clients, such as Gmail, Thunderbird, or Blue Mail.

Install Outlook on Your Apple Watch

Unlike Google’s Gmail, Microsoft offers an official Outlook app for watchOS. You can install Outlook directly from the App Store on your Watch for free with in-app purchases for Microsoft 365. The app works with Microsoft Exchange, Office 365, and Outlook.com accounts.

1. Access your apps on the Apple Watch and select the App Store to open it.
2. Use the Search box to find the Outlook app. You can use the microphone to dictate or canvas to scribble “Outlook” in the Search field.
3. Once you locate the app, tap Get to install it. If you’ve installed it previously or on your other Apple devices, use the Download icon (cloud with an arrow) instead.

4. Tap Open to launch Outlook or select it in your list of apps.
5. If prompted, sign into your Microsoft account. You’ll then see the Inbox, Calendar, and Note to Self options to get started.

Manage Outlook Emails on Apple Watch

You can view your emails and read, reply, flag, archive, or delete a message in Outlook on your Apple Watch. You can also switch between the Focused and Other inboxes.

1. Select Inbox on the main Outlook screen.
2. To change inboxes, scroll to the bottom of the message list. Then, tap Focused inbox or Other inbox, depending on which one displays. You’ll then switch to the other.

3. Next, choose an email to open it. If you can’t see the entire message, tap Load More.
4. Move to the bottom of the email using the Digital Crown if you’d like to take action. Choose Reply, Mark as Unread, Flag, Archive, or Delete. Note: If you pick Archive or Delete, you will not be asked to confirm.

Unfortunately, as of this writing, you cannot create a new email in Outlook on Apple Watch. Alternatively, you can set up your Outlook account in Apple’s Mail app and create new messages from there on your Apple Watch.

Use Outlook Calendar on Apple Watch

If you want to check your schedule for the day in Outlook, you can view it easily in the Outlook Calendar on your Apple Watch.

1. Select the Calendar on the main Outlook screen.
2. You’ll then see all your calendar appointments listed by date.
3. Choose an event to view the full details. If necessary, you have the option to remove the event from your calendar. Tap Delete and confirm by tapping Delete once more.

Send a Note to Yourself on Apple Watch

A key feature of Outlook on Apple Watch is capturing a quick note when you’re on the go. When you speak, scribble, or use the iPhone keyboard to create the note, it’s emailed to your same Outlook account for you to access when needed.

1. Select Note to Self on the main Outlook screen.
2. Choose the method you want to use to enter the note. Select the Microphone icon to use voice dictation, Scribble icon to draw the letters, or Keyboard icon to use your iPhone’s keyboard.
3. Select Done when you finish.

You’ll then see the note being sent to your Outlook account and can then access it in your inbox.

Enable Outlook Notifications on Apple Watch

You can also receive notifications for new emails from Outlook on your wrist. While you can’t customize the notifications directly on Apple Watch, you can mirror the setup you use for Outlook on your iPhone.

1. Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone and go to the My Watch tab.
2. Select Notifications near the top.
3. Move down to the Mirror iPhone Alerts From section and turn on the toggle for Outlook.

If you don’t see Outlook in that list, you must enable notifications for Outlook on your iPhone first.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone and select Notifications.
2. Pick Outlook in the list and turn on the toggle at the top for Allow Notifications.
3. You can then customize the alerts with the banner style and other options as you like.

Return to the Notifications in the Watch app as described above, and you should see Outlook in the list.

With Outlook on your Apple Watch, you can easily keep up with emails and calendar events, and even send yourself notes. For more, look at how to sync your Outlook contacts.

However, there are instances where your AirPods may struggle to enter pairing mode. This troubleshooting guide will show you multiple ways to fix AirPods that fail to show up on Bluetooth on your Apple devices.

1. Check the AirPods Battery Life

Although new AirPods tend to have enough charge left to enter pairing mode, the battery could be depleted if they’ve been inside their packaging for a long time.

Check the status indicator on the AirPods charging case. If it doesn’t light up when you open the lid, charge the AirPods via a Lightning cable or wireless charger for at least 15 minutes before attempting to pair them again.

On the AirPods Max, press the Noise Control button to check the charge status—the status indicator is on the right headphone.

2. Turn Bluetooth Connection Off & On

A glitchy Bluetooth module on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac could prevent your AirPods from triggering the setup animation or appearing within the Bluetooth device settings. To fix that, try toggling Bluetooth off, then on.

On the iPhone and iPad, open the iOS Settings app and tap Bluetooth. Disable the switch next to Bluetooth on the following screen, wait for 10 seconds, and turn it on again.

On the Mac, select the Bluetooth icon within the Control Center to disable and enable Bluetooth.

3. Restart Your Apple Devices

If your AirPods fail to trigger the setup animation or appear on Bluetooth, try restarting the device you’re trying to pair them with.

On an iPhone or iPad, a quick way to initiate a system reboot is to invoke Siri, say “Restart iPhone,” and tap Restart on the confirmation pop-up. The screen darkens, and the Apple logo follows soon after. Enter your iOS device passcode to get back in.

If you use a Mac, open the Apple menu and select Restart, disable the box next to Reopen windows when logging back in, and choose Restart again.

4. Put AirPods into Manual Pairing Mode

If the automatic pairing process isn’t working on the iPhone or iPad, try pairing your AirPods manually. To do that, open the Settings pane, tap Bluetooth, and press and hold the Setup button on the back of the AirPods case. If the wireless earbuds appear under the Other Devices list, tap to pair it.

On the AirPods Max, press and hold the Noise Control button for at least five seconds to enter manual pairing mode.

5. Reset AirPods

An AirPods reset fixes numerous connectivity-related issues, and that’s what you must do next. To reset the AirPods and AirPods Pro, open the AirPods case lid and hold down the Setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white.

To reset the AirPods Max, press and hold the Digital Crown and the Noise Control button until the status light blinks white.

For comprehensive step-by-step instructions, check this guide to resetting Apple’s AirPods.

6. Unpair AirPods from Bluetooth

If the problem occurs while attempting to pair AirPods after a reset, it’s likely because the old Bluetooth pairing is causing conflicts. Delete it from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and try again.

On the iPhone and iPad, visit the Bluetooth screen, locate the previous pairing among the list of devices, and tap the Info icon next to it. Then, tap Forget This Device.

In macOS, open the Apple menu, select System Preferences/Settings, and choose Bluetooth. Then, Control-click the AirPods and select Forget.

7. Update Your Apple Device

Updating your iPhone, iPad, or Mac can help resolve pairing issues with AirPods due to software-related incompatibilities. For example, at the time of writing, AirPods only pair with Apple devices running iOS 15.1, iPadOS 15.1, and macOS Monterey or later.

On the iPhone and iPad, open the Settings app and go to General > Software Update to update to the latest version of iOS and iPadOS.

On the Mac, open the System Preferences/Settings app and select Software Update to install pending macOS updates.

8. Reset Network Settings

Resetting the network settings on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac can help resolve AirPods connection issues that stem from a broken Bluetooth configuration.

On the iPhone and iPad, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad > Reset and tap Reset Network Settings to initiate a network settings reset. Prepare to connect to any Wi-Fi networks manually after the reset procedure.

On the Mac, you must delete the Bluetooth property list (PLIST) file via Finder. To do that, open Finder, select Go > Go to Folder on the menu bar, and visit the following path:

/Library/Preferences

On the Finder window that shows up, locate and move the following file into the Trash:

com.apple.Bluetooth.plist

9. Contact Apple Support

By trying the fixes outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot common issues with AirPods not pairing or appearing on Bluetooth. From resetting the AirPods to updating the software on your devices, there are multiple solutions to work through.

If you end up pairing your AirPods, you don’t have to repeat the process on all your Apple devices since the Bluetooth pairing syncs via your Apple ID and iCloud. Instead, you should spend time updating the AirPods firmware.

However, if none of these fixes above work, contact Apple Support or take your AirPods to an Apple Store. You could be dealing with defective AirPods or charging case. Expect Apple to replace your AirPods if they are new or within the warranty period.

But the good news is that there’s a reason why these alerts exist and ways to avoid them altogether. So, let’s dive in and learn about Apple Pay fraud alerts and how to avoid them.

Understanding the Causes of “Fraud Suspected” Alerts

So, why does that “Fraud Suspected” alert appear on your screen? Well, it’s all about keeping your financial information secure. Apple Pay uses advanced security measures, including two-factor authentication and machine learning, to detect suspicious or unauthorized transactions. If something looks off, the system will flag it and display the alert to prevent any potential fraud.

It could be as simple as using your Apple Pay in a new location or making a purchase that’s out of the ordinary for you, and the system wants to verify it’s really you making the transaction. However, scammers also try to use stolen or fake credit card information with Apple Pay, which can trigger a fraud alert.

In either case, the goal is to protect you and your money, so it’s essential to understand what could be causing the alert and take the necessary steps to resolve it. The only thing you shouldn’t do is ignore the warning!

Common Tricks of Apple Pay Scams

Unfortunately, crooks and scammers are always finding new ways to exploit unsuspecting victims, and Apple Pay is no exception. Here are a few common tricks to watch out for:

• Phishing Scams: Scammers send emails or texts that appear to be from Apple, asking you to verify your account information. Do not click on links or provide personal information, as this tactic will steal your data and take you to a fake Apple website. If you get a suspected phishing message, report it to reportphishing@apple.com, and it will go straight to Apple Support.
• Fake Payment Requests: Scammers may send a fake payment request for a product or service through Apple Pay. Before you pay, always verify the legitimacy of the request and the seller.
• Card Skimming: In this scenario, scammers install card skimming devices at gas pumps or ATMs that capture your credit card information when you use Apple Pay. Always check for any signs of tampering before using a card reader, and use one that looks secure and is located in a well-lit area.
• In-App Purchases: Scammers create fake apps or games that trick users into making in-app purchases through Apple Pay. Before making any in-app purchases, review the app’s reviews and ratings to ensure they are legitimate.
• False Refunds: Scammers may claim to provide a refund for a previous transaction, but instead, they ask for your Apple Pay information to steal your money. Always verify the legitimacy of a refund request before providing any information.
• Technical Support Scams: Scammers posing as technical support may call and claim a problem with your Apple Pay account, asking for your Apple Pay information to resolve the issue. Remember, Apple will never call you and ask for your account information.
• Online Marketplaces: Scammers may set up fake online marketplaces that appear to sell popular products, but in reality, they steal your credit card information when you purchase using Apple Pay. Only make purchases through legitimate companies and double-check the website’s security before entering any financial information.

By being aware of these scams and taking precautions, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of Apple Pay fraud and, thus, avoid seeing the “Fraud suspected” alert.

How to Protect Yourself From Apple Pay Fraud

Good news: there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from Apple Pay fraud! Here are a few easy ways to stay safe:

• Keep your devices secure: Always use a strong passcode and consider disabling Touch ID or Face ID on your Apple devices. This adds an extra layer of protection to your Apple Pay account and prevents you from being forced to provide biometric data, such as someone taking your phone and pointing it at your face.
• Verify purchases: Always double-check the details of your transactions before confirming a purchase, especially if it’s a large amount or from an unfamiliar seller.
• Watch for red flags: Be cautious of emails, texts, or calls asking for your Apple Pay information. Remember, Apple will never ask for your account information through an unsolicited message.
• Use trusted networks: Only use Apple Pay on secure, trusted networks, such as your home Wi-Fi or a secure public Wi-Fi network using a VPN.
• Keep your software updated: Regularly update your Apple devices to ensure you have the latest security features and patches.
• Use unique passwords: Always use unique and complex passwords for your Apple Pay account, and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
• Monitor your transactions: Regularly check your transaction history to ensure all purchases are legitimate. Report any suspicious or unauthorized transactions immediately.
• Don’t store excessive information: Limit the information you hold in your Apple Pay account and only keep the information you need for regular transactions.
• Be careful with public Wi-Fi: Avoid using Apple Pay on public Wi-Fi networks if possible, as they may not be secure. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
• Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a consumer and your financial institution’s fraud protection policies. This way, you’ll know what to do in case of fraud and how to get your money back.

By following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of Apple Pay fraud. Stay vigilant, and never hesitate to report any suspicious activity to Apple or your financial institution.

Steps to Take if You Encounter a Fraud Suspected Alert

If you ever encounter a “Fraud Suspected” alert on your Apple Pay account, don’t panic! Instead, here are the steps you should take:

• Contact Apple Pay Support: Report the suspicious activity as soon as possible. They’ll investigate the issue and take any necessary steps to protect your account.
• Change your passwords: Change the passwords for your Apple account and any other accounts that use the same password. Preferably, use a password manager and a strong password generator.
• Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your transaction history to ensure no unauthorized transactions have been made.
• Report the fraud: If you suspect your financial information has been stolen, immediately report it to your bank. They can take steps to protect your account and issue a new credit card if necessary.
• Take preventive measures: Take the necessary steps to prevent future fraud, such as enabling two-factor authentication using your mobile number.

Remember, the faster you take action, the better your chances of resolving the issue and preventing further damage.

What About Apple Cash?

Apple Cash is a related service to Apple Pay but differs in several ways. The most crucial difference is that Apple Cash is not a credit account and isn’t linked to a credit card. It’s a digital wallet more akin to Venmo.

You add money to your Apple Cash balance by using a debit card or receiving payments from other Apple Cash users through iOS’s text messages app, iMessage, on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Like Apple Pay, this is all linked to your Apple ID, so the same general precautions apply when protecting your credentials.

Some common Apple Cash scams include:

• Overpayment scams:If you’re selling something and someone “pays” via Apple Cash, but the payment is more than the normal amount, it may be an overpayment scam. If you refund the difference, you may later discover the original payment information was fraudulent. Make sure you’ve actually received the money into your account first.
• Money exchange scams: This happens when someone asks you to send them Apple Cash in exchange for a check, gift cards, or some other form of money that later turns out to be fake.
• Upfront payment scams: Some sellers, often through social media, may pressure you to pay upfront for goods you haven’t received. Then never deliver on the goods.

This isn’t an exhaustive list of Apple Cash scams, just a few examples. The general rule is that if you wouldn’t hand over physical cash in a given situation, then you should not pay with Apple Cash. Unlike credit cards or Apple Pay, you don’t have recourse since it’s a digital cash transaction.

Staying Secure With Apple Pay

Using Apple Pay is convenient and (usually) secure, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself from being victimized. By following the best practices outlined in this article, you can minimize your risk and enjoy Apple Pay with confidence.

Remember to always keep your devices secure, verify purchases, watch for red flags, use trusted networks, keep your software updated, use unique passwords, and monitor your accounts regularly. If you encounter any suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to report it to Apple Pay Support and your financial institution.

There are several causes for this error. However, the most likely reason is when incoming mail fails to load because of a conflicting privacy or security feature on your Apple device.

Work through the suggestions and solutions below to fix the “Your network preferences prevent content from loading privately” error in Apple Mail for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Disable Mail Privacy Protection

Starting with iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and macOS Monterey, Apple Mail comes with a feature called Mail Privacy Protection that prevents senders from tracking your location and profiling your email habits.

However, it can also prevent the Mail app from loading all of the contents within emails. Specifically, parts that need to be downloaded separately. You should disable the feature if that becomes a persistent problem.

Disable Mail Privacy Protection on iPhone & iPad

1. Open the Settings app via the Home Screen or App Library.
2. Scroll down the Settings menu and tap Mail.

3. Tap Privacy Protection.
4. Turn off the switch next to Protect Mail Activity.
5. Deactivate the sub-options labeled Hide IP Address and Block All Remote Content.

Disable Mail Privacy Protection on Mac

1. Open the Mail app and select Mail > Preferences/Settings on the menu bar.

2. Switch to the Privacy tab.
3. Uncheck the box next to Protect Mail Activity, and then the boxes next to Hide IP Address and Block All Remote Content.

Disable Limits on IP Address Tracking

By default, internet connections on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac try to hide your IP address from email trackers. That’s good for privacy but can also result in “Your network preferences prevent content from loading privately” errors in Apple Mail. Stop your Apple device from imposing these limits and check if that makes a difference.

Disable Limit IP Address Tracking on iPhone & iPad

1. Open Settings and tap Wi-Fi to access your Wi-Fi settings.
2. Tap the Info icon next to your Wi-Fi network.
3. Turn off the switch next to Limit IP Address Tracking.

If the error shows up over cellular data, open the Settings app, go to Cellular Data > Cellular Data Options, and disable the Limit IP Address Tracking option.

Disable Limit IP Address Tracking on Mac

1. Open the Apple menu and select System Preferences/Settings.

2. Select Wi-Fi and choose Details next to your Wi-Fi network. In macOS Monterey, select Network > Wi-Fi.

3. Disable the Limit IP Address Tracking option.

Check iCloud Private Relay’s Server Status

iCloud Private Relay is an iCloud+ feature that masks online activity on Apple devices to improve user privacy. However, server-side issues with Private Relay can stop Mail from loading email content.

Visit Apple’s System Status page via Safari or Chrome to check if there’s anything wrong with Private Relay. If iCloud Private Relay appears down, wait until Apple restores full feature functionality.

Turn Off iCloud Private Relay

Another way to fix the “Your network preferences prevent content from loading privately” error in Mail is to disable iCloud Private Relay from running on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Turn Off iCloud Private Relay on iPhone & iPad

1. Open Settings on your iOS device and tap your Apple ID.
2. Select iCloud.
3. Scroll down to the iCloud+ section and tap Private Relay.
4. Turn off the switch next to Private Relay.
5. Choose Turn Off Until Tomorrow to temporarily disable Private Relay, or Turn Off Private Relay to switch it off indefinitely.

Turn Off iCloud Private Relay on Mac

1. Open the System Preferences/Settings app and select your Apple ID.
2. Select iCloud.

3. Select Private Relay.

4. Select the Turn Off button.

5. Pick between the Turn Off Until Tomorrow and Turn Off Private Relay options.

Disable Antivirus and Firewall (Mac Only)

If the problem persists and you use a third-party antivirus or firewall software on your Mac, make sure it isn’t interfering with how the Mail app works.

Begin by pausing the utility. If that helps, add the Mail app to its exceptions list or check if there are any privacy and security options related to mail protection that you can disable.

Switch Off Third-Party VPNs

Third-party VPNs (virtual private networks) are another reason why the “Your network preferences prevent content from loading privately” error shows up in Mail. If you use one, disconnect it through the VPN’s app user interface.

You can also disable a VPN through your Apple device’s network settings. On an iPhone, iPad, or Mac running the latest system software, open the Settings/System Settings app, select VPN, and disable the switch under VPN Configurations.

Use A Different Internet Connection

Sometimes, the Mail app’s email content loading issues can be limited to a specific Wi-Fi network. For example, this could be due to a router-level DNS content blocker like Pi-Hole.

Try switching to a different internet connection or use cellular data. If that helps, avoid connecting to the problematic network. If the problem occurs on your home network, contact your internet service provider for help.

Reset the Network Preferences

A corrupt or broken network settings configuration on your Apple device could cause mail-loading issues. Reset them to factory defaults and see if that resolves the problem.

Note: Resetting your network settings wipes out all saved Wi-Fi connections and passwords, so be prepared to reconnect to them manually afterward.

Reset Network Settings on iPhone & iPad

1. Open the Settings app and select General.
2. Go to Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
3. Tap Reset Network Settings.

Reset Network Settings on Mac

1. Open Finder and select Go > Go to Folder on the menu bar.

2. Enter the following path and press Enter:

/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/

3. Control-click the following files and select Move to Trash:

com.apple.airport.preferences.plist

com.apple.network.identification.plist

com.apple.network.eapolclient.configuration.plist

com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist

NetworkInterfaces.plist

Preferences.plist

4. Open the Apple menu and select Restart.
5. Uncheck the box next to Reopen windows when logging back in and select Restart again.

Update Your iPhone and Mac

Next, update your Apple device to rule out potential glitches in the system software and the Mail app that could trigger the “Your network preferences prevent content from loading privately” error.

iPhone & iPad

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
2. Select Software Update and wait until the device checks for new iOS or iPadOS updates.
3. Tap Download & Install.

Mac

1. Open the Apple menu and select System Settings > Preferences.
2. Select Software Update and wait until your Mac checks for new macOS updates.
3. Select Update Now.

Your Network Settings Aren’t Preventing Content From Loading Privately Anymore

The solutions above hopefully helped you fix the “Your Network Settings Prevent Content From Loading Privately” error on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Clearly, some fixes involve turning off settings that downgrade your privacy, so you might want to try turning them back on later.

If the problem persists, contact Apple Support or your email service provider for further troubleshooting advice.

If your iOS, iPadOS, or macOS device isn’t screen mirroring to your Samsung smart TV, you’ll need to do some basic troubleshooting. To give you the necessary background, let’s start by outlining AirPlay and how it’s supposed to work when everything is normal.

What Is Airplay and How Does It Work?

AirPlay (now AirPlay 2) is a wireless streaming technology developed by Apple that allows you to stream audio, video, and other content from an Apple device (such as an iPhone, iPad, or Mac) to compatible speakers, TVs, and other devices.

To use AirPlay features, you’ll need an Apple device that supports AirPlay and a device that is compatible with AirPlay (such as a smart TV or speaker system). You’ll also need to connect to the same Wi-Fi network on both devices. AirPlay does not use Bluetooth.

To enable AirPlay, open the app or content you want to stream from your host device, and then look for the AirPlay icon (usually a rectangle with an upward-facing triangle). Select the icon and select the device that you want to stream to.

The content will then be streamed wirelessly from your Apple device to the selected device. You can also use the screen mirroring button in the Control Center of iOS and macOS to initiate AirPlay.

Your Samsung TV should show up as an AirPlay target, and the first time you try to stream to it, you’ll have to enter an AirPlay code. Other than that, it should be smooth sailing, but then again, if you aren’t having AirPlay issues, you wouldn’t be reading this!

1. Confirm Your Samsung TV Supports AirPlay

Not every Samsung TV supports AirPlay. To confirm that your Samsung TV supports AirPlay, you can check the following:

• Look for the TV’s model number and then search online for the TV’s specifications. Check to see if the TV supports AirPlay.
• Look for information on AirPlay in the TV’s user manual.
• On your TV, go to Settings and look for a section on Connections or Network. Within this section, look for a subsection on Apple AirPlay Settings. If the TV has AirPlay support, it should be listed here.

If you’ve checked these sources and your TV does not support AirPlay, you may be able to use other streaming methods, such as a Chromecast or a streaming device like a Roku, to stream content to your TV.

2. Give Your TV a Firmware Update

If AirPlay is not working on your Samsung TV, check the TV’s firmware and update it if necessary. Here’s how:

1. On your TV, go to Settings and look for a section on Support or System. Within this section, look for a subsection on Software Updates. The screen should display the TV’s current firmware version.
2. If the TV’s firmware is not up to date, it may be possible to update it. To check for updates, go to the Software Update section described above and follow the prompts to check for updates.
3. If an operating system update is available, choose “update now” (or similar wording) and follow the prompts to download and install the update.

3. Restart Your TV and Device

If AirPlay is not working on your Samsung TV, try restarting the TV and the device you’re using with AirPlay. Here’s how:

• Restart your TV: Turn it off and unplug it from the power outlet. Wait a few minutes, then plug the TV back in and turn it on.
• Reboot your device: Restarting iOS or iPadOS devices use the same steps. To restart your Mac, select the Apple Button and then Restart.

After restarting the TV and your device, try using AirPlay again to see if the issue has been resolved. If the problem persists, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps.

4. Check Your Network Status

If AirPlay is not working on your Samsung TV, it could be due to network issues between the paired devices. Here are some things you can try to troubleshoot your network connection:

• Check that the TV and the device you’re using with AirPlay are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Ensure that both the TV and the device have a strong Wi-Fi connection. If the TV or device is too far from the router, the Wi-Fi signal may be weak and cause connectivity issues.
• Try resetting your Wi-Fi router. Unplug the router from the power outlet, wait a few minutes, and then plug it back in. This can reset the connection and resolve any issues.
• If you have a firewall or VPN on the iOS device or macOS device running, disable it since this can interfere with AirPlay. In your firewall options, make sure you have not chosen to block all incoming connections on that device.

5. Reset Your TV’s Network Settings

If AirPlay is not working on your Samsung TV and you’ve tried other troubleshooting steps without success, try resetting the TV’s network settings. This can help to resolve any issues with the TV’s connection to the Wi-Fi network. Here’s how:

1. Go to the Samsung TV Settings menu and look for a section on Connections or Network.
2. Within this section, look for an option to Reset or Restore Network Settings.
3. Follow the prompts to reset the network settings. This may require you to enter your Wi-Fi password again after the reset to restore the network connection.

Remember that resetting the network settings will also reset any other network-related settings, such as custom DNS settings or VPN configurations. You may need to reconfigure these settings after the reset.

6. Check for Interference From Other Devices

Other devices in your home may be causing interference with the Wi-Fi connection, especially on the 2.4 GHz band. Here are some things you can try:

• Move the TV and any other devices you use with AirPlay closer to the Wi-Fi router. This can help to improve the Wi-Fi signal and stop the devices from disconnecting.
• Turn off any other devices that may be causing interference. For example, cordless phones, microwave ovens, and other electronic devices can sometimes interfere with Wi-Fi signals.
• Change the Wi-Fi channel on your router. Different Wi-Fi channels can have different levels of interference, so switching to another channel may improve the Wi-Fi connection. Consult your router’s documentation for instructions on how to change the Wi-Fi channel.

If none of these steps help to resolve the issue, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps or contact your internet service provider for further assistance. You should also check out our network troubleshooting tips or internet connection fixes.

7. Factory Reset Your TV

Performing a factory reset on your TV is the nuclear option if AirPlay won’t work. The exact Details of how to factory reset your particular model of Samsung TV will differ in the details, so it’s best to refer to the user manual for precise instructions. It’s usually under Samsung Smart Hub > Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Reset, but this can change with firmware updates on any model.

Factory resetting your TV will erase all your data and settings, so it is crucial to ensure that you have backed up any important information before proceeding. Additionally, the steps to factory reset the TV may vary depending on your Samsung TV model. If the above steps do not work for your TV, you may need to refer to the user manual for your specific TV model for more detailed instructions.

8. Use an Alternative Streaming Method

If you can’t get Samsung TV AirPlay working and you’ve tried other troubleshooting steps without success, you may want to consider using an alternative streaming method. There are several options available, including:

• Chromecast: Chromecast is a streaming device that allows you to stream content from your phone, tablet, or computer to your TV. To use Chromecast, you’ll need to have a Chromecast device and a TV with a Chromecast-compatible HDMI port.
• Streaming devices: There are many streaming devices available that allow you to stream content from various apps and services to your TV, such as Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.
• Smart TVs: Many newer TVs have built-in apps that allow you to stream content directly from the internet, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Check to see if your TV has these apps and if they offer the content that you want to watch.
• HDMI cables: If your TV and device both have HDMI ports, you can connect them directly with an HDMI cable. This will allow you to stream content from your device to your TV without a wireless connection. You can get away with some long HDMI cables.

Remember that each option may have different requirements and may not be available on all TVs or devices. You may need to do some research to determine which method is the best fit for your needs.

This troubleshooting guide lays out multiple solutions you can work through to get Apple News working again on your iPhone or iPad. Skip any fixes that don’t apply.

1. Check the Apple News Server Status

Apple News relies on dedicated servers to deliver up-to-date news to your iPhone and iPad. If there’s a problem on the server side, the app will fail to update or refresh.

To check for Apple News server outages, visit Apple’s System Status page using Safari or a different browser. If the News category is down, keep revisiting the web page for updates to the server status.

2. Check Your Internet Connection

Apple News may not update or refresh if your internet connection is weak or unreliable. Here are several things you can do to eliminate random connectivity issues.

• Toggle Airplane Mode: Swipe down from the top-right of the iPhone or iPad screen to open the Control Center. Then, toggle the Airplane Mode icon on, then off.
• Restart the router: Briefly turn off and restart the router for your wireless network if it’s in an accessible area. Or join another Wi-Fi network.
• Switch from Wi-Fi to cellular: Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data. If you do that, go to Settings > Cellular and make sure that the switch next to News is active.

3. Force-Quit and Relaunch Apple News

Like any other app, Apple News can encounter technical glitches preventing it from updating or refreshing itself. A quick way to resolve the problem is to force-quit and relaunch News.

1. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the App Switcher. If your device has a Home button, double-click that instead.
2. Locate and drag the News card up and out of the screen.
3. Exit the App Switcher and re-open News via the Home Screen or App Library.

4. Restart Your iPhone or iPad

If force-quitting and relaunching Apple News fails to get the app working correctly, try restarting your iPhone or iPad. On any iOS or iPadOS device model:

1. Open the Settings app and tap General > Shutdown.
2. Slide the Power icon to initiate a shutdown.
3. Wait 30 seconds, then hold the Power button until you see the Apple logo.

5. Receive News Feed From Additional Sources

If Apple News only loads stories from the channels you follow, it’s likely because a specific setting is active. To update your news feed with articles and insights from other sources:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap News.
3. Turn off the switch next to Restrict Stories in Today.

6. Clear Apple News History & Recommendations

A corrupt Apple News history index is another reason that prevents the app from updating its news feed correctly. To clear it:

1. Tap the History option on the News app’s sidebar.
2. Tap Clear.
3. Tap Clear History.

If the problem persists, you should also reset your Apple New recommendations. To do that, tap Clear > Clear Recommendations.

7. Toggle iCloud On and Off for News

If Apple News fails to sync your activity from other Apple devices, you must:

1. Open the Settings app and go to Apple ID > iCloud.
2. Turn off the switch next to News.
3. Tap Delete from My iPhone/iPad.
4. Restart your iPhone or iPad.
5. Go back to Settings > Apple ID > iCloud and activate the switch next to News.

8. Check Your Date and Time Settings

An incorrect date, time, and region on the iPhone and iPad can cause numerous syncing issues with Apple News and many other apps. To check and rectify:

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
2. Tap Date & Time.
3. Turn on the switch next to Set Automatically. If the system software fails to fetch the correct date and time, you must disable the setting and set the date and time on iPhone or iPad manually.

9. Enable Background App Refresh for News

If Apple News fails to refresh the news feed in the background, then the chances are that the app is barred from running in a suspended state. Make sure that Background App Refresh is active for Apple News. To do that:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap News.
3. Turn on the switch next to Background App Refresh.

10. Disable Low Power Mode on iPhone and iPad

Low Power Mode conserves battery life on the iPhone and iPhone at the expense of curtailing activity in apps like Apple News. If you habitually turn on the feature even when the battery’s full, we recommend that you disable it.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Battery.
3. Disable the switch next to Low Power Mode.

11. Disable Low Data Mode for Wi-Fi and Cellular

Low Data Mode reduces activity over Wi-Fi and mobile data to minimize bandwidth consumption. However, like Low Power Mode, it can adversely impact Apple News.

Disable Low Data Mode for Wi-Fi

To disable Low Data Mode for a Wi-Fi network, you must:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the Info icon next to a Wi-Fi network.
3. Turn off the switch next to Low Data Mode.

Disable Low Data Mode for Cellular

To disable Low Data Mode for mobile data, you must:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular.
2. Tap Cellular Data Options.
3. Turn off the switch next to Low Data Mode.

12. Remove and Re-add the Apple News Widget

If the problem occurs with the Apple News widget, remove and re-add it via the widgets gallery on your iPhone or iPad. To do that:

1. Tap and hold the Apple News widget and select Remove Widget.
2. Press and hold a vacant area of the Home Screen and tap the Plus icon.
3. Select News, pick a widget size, and tap Add Widget.

13. Install New Updates for iOS and iPadOS

Updates to the Apple News app not only add new features but also resolve known problems. However, as a native app, the only way to update News is to update the system software.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General > Software Update.
3. Tap Download and Install to install pending iOS or iPadOS updates.

14. Uninstall and Reinstall Apple News

If Apple News fails to update or refresh, you must uninstall and reinstall the app on your iPhone and iPad. That should rule out underlying problems that stem from application corruption issues.

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone/iPad Storage > News.
2. Tap Delete App.
3. Visit the App Store, search for News, and tap Download.

15. Reset Network Settings on iPhone & iPad

Apple News could malfunction due to a broken networking configuration. Reset the network settings on your iPhone or iPad to fix that. You must manually reconnect to any Wi-Fi networks after the reset process.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad > Reset.
3. Tap Reset Network Settings.
4. Enter your device passcode.
5. Tap Reset Network Settings to confirm.

Back to Receiving Apple News

Quick fixes like force-quitting and relaunching Apple News, clearing the News history and recommendations, and restarting your iPhone or iPad almost always resolve issues with the app not updating or refreshing. Repeat them the next time you encounter similar problems.

However, if none of the fixes above help, reach out to Apple Support for help and check out these alternative news apps for the iPhone and iPad in the meantime.

From time to time, you may find that the volume buttons on your Siri Remote don’t do anything, so you have to look for your original TV remote or figure out where exactly the volume controls are on your TV. So stop looking through the cabinets and try some of these Apple TV troubleshooting tips.

The Different Remotes

At the time of writing, there are three remote designs for Apple TV devices, as you can see here. The layout for the remotes with the Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K looks the same and has a MENU button.

However, the new Apple TV 4K second and third-generation models have changed things. The glass touch interface is gone, replaced by a touch-sensitive circle and directional wheel. The most crucial difference is that the MENU button on the latest remotes has been changed to a Back button, represented by a left arrow.

So whenever we refer to the MENU or Back button below, remember that this is the same button.

1. Does It Happen in Every App?

Before we blame the remote itself, it’s a good idea to confirm that the volume controls aren’t working in different apps. Try it on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or whichever streaming services you subscribe to. If the volume control issue only happens in certain apps, check for updates or uninstall and then reinstall that app.

2. Restart Your Apple TV

Restarting the Apple TV clears up any number of random glitches. Hold the Back or MENU buttons simultaneously with the TV button to restart your device.

Keep holding these two buttons until the Apple TV indicator light blinks rapidly. Unplug the Apple TV from the wall when you see the light blinking. Wait at least five seconds, then plug it in again and power it on. You should see the Apple logo on your TV screen if the reboot is successful.

3. Restart Your Remote

You can restart the remote if restarting the Apple TV doesn’t do the trick. Here’s how:

1. Press and hold the TV and volume down buttons simultaneously for about five seconds.

2. Wait for the status light on your Apple TV to turn off and then on again.
3. Release the buttons on the remote.
4. Wait for the Connection Lost Notification to appear onscreen.
5. Wait while the remote restarts.
6. The remote is ready to use when you see the Connected notification.

After restarting the remote, try adjusting the volume again.

4. Check for Software Updates

Your Apple TV has to work with various brands (e.g., Samsung, Sony, or LG) and different models within that brand. If you have a new TV or the TV has recently received a firmware update, you may need to update Apple TV too.

Usually, your Apple TV will show a notification when a new update is ready, but you can manually check for one like this:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System.
3. Open Software Updates.
4. If an update is available, you can select Download and Install.

Wait for the update process to complete, and then try using your volume buttons again.

5. Charge the Remote

If your remote’s battery is low, it may be acting up. Here’s how to check the battery level:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Remotes and Devices.
3. Check the remaining battery percentage.

Leave the remote connected to the charger for at least 30 minutes after checking its battery level and determining that it’s low.

6. Move Closer to The Apple TV

The Apple TV remote control uses Bluetooth to communicate with the box itself, but for some TV models, it uses IR (Infrared) to control TV functions such as adjusting the volume. Unfortunately, typical IR issues can prevent this from working correctly.

While Bluetooth will work from any practical distance you may be from the TV, IR can struggle to cover longer distances, especially in bright environments. Move closer to the TV and see whether your volume controls start working. If it works at closer distances, it may indicate that the IR signal isn’t strong enough to overcome distance or interference.

7. Clean the IR Sensors

Another IR-related issue is whether the sensors are obscured by dirt. Check the IR sensor on the TV and the transmitter on the remote to make sure dust or other foreign matter isn’t blocking the signal. Remember that Bluetooth will be unaffected by this, which might explain why only volume doesn’t work or works intermittently.

8. Enable HDMI-CEC

HDMI-CEC is a technology that allows a device like an Apple TV or Apple TV 4K to control your TV directly. It takes advantage of the bi-directional communication on an HDMI cable.

If your TV supports HDMI-CEC, you should also turn it on and ensure it’s enabled on your Apple TV. This also bypasses any IR-related problems since the Apple TV is sending commands to the TV over HDMI after receiving a Bluetooth signal from the remote.

Apart from controlling your TV’s volume, HDMI-CEC also lets the Apple TV turn your TV on or off. You’ll have to consult its manual to enable the feature on your TV. Some TVs call the feature HDMI-CEC, but others may use a name that includes the term “link” somewhere.

To ensure that HDMI-CEC is activated on your Apple TV, go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Control TVs and Receivers and check that the setting is active. Then try the volume controls again.

9. Use an iPhone or iPad As a Remote

If you have an iPhone or iPad on the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV and on the same Apple ID, you can use it as a remote control thanks to the Apple TV Remote app.

Whether in iOS or iPadOS, simply swipe down from the top right corner of the screen to reveal the Control Center, then look for the remote icon and select it.

Now you have full remote functionality on your device’s touch screen. Try to use the virtual volume controls to see if they work. If the volume controls on the virtual remote work, but the physical buttons don’t, there may be other problems.

10. Pair Your Remote Again

If restarting your remote isn’t effective, you can try pairing the remote with the Apple TV again:

1. Turn your Apple TV on and make sure you can see the Home screen on your TV.
2. Point your remote at the Apple TV and bring it within three inches of the device.
3. Press and hold the Back or Menu button and the volume up button for five seconds.

4. If asked, put your remote on top of the Apple TV.

If the remote fails to sync, check that you have the latest version of tvOS. Remember that you can use an iPhone or iPad as a temporary remote if your Siri Remote isn’t usable for any reason.

11. Try Another Remote

If you have multiple Apple TVs or have a friend willing to lend you their remote, one final check you can do is to use a different remote. If the other remote doesn’t work either, the issue must be with the Apple TV, your TV, or a specific combination of both. You may want to consider a factory reset of your Apple TV and carefully check all the settings on the TV and Apple TV box to ensure it looks right.

Likewise, you can take your remote and try to use it with another Apple TV; if the volume control problem follows the remote, it means there’s something wrong with the remote itself.

12. Take Your Remote to Apple Support (Or Buy A New one)

If you’re 100% sure your remote is the issue, you can take it back to Apple for a warranty replacement. Repairing an Apple TV remote is rarely worth it, so if there’s no warranty option left, you’re best off buying a replacement remote.

The good news is that the latest Siri remote model is backward compatible with older Apple TV devices, so you can get a nice upgrade to soften the blow of having to replace the remote. However, you may not have all the functionality the new remote offers.