Category: News

Why spend thousands on new devices when you can preserve your current one? Here are some battery life-saving tips you need to know.

Notification Usage

Having your phone readily available is great. It connects you with friends, family, and more. There’s probably an app for everything. But did you know – the more apps you have on your phone, the more problems you could have?

You definitely need notifications for texts, calls, and other updates. But, do you really need notifications from TikTok or YouTube every 10 minutes? This tip is dependent on what you need personally. If certain notifications can wait, let them. Instead of being notified of an email every time a new one comes in, adjust notifications to be every hour instead.

Run Down Your Battery

Running down your battery may sound counter-productive, but actually, it’s very helpful. For example, if you charge your phone at certain percentage consistently, your phone is going to think that certain percentage is the full capacity of your battery. It’s smart enough to pick up on patterns when you charge it above a higher amount, it responds to that by adjusting to it. When charging your phone, try waiting until it’s absolutely necessary to recharge, like when it reaches about 15%.

App Closeout

You may have an understanding that closing out all your unused apps running in the background saves battery power. That’s true, but only in moderation. Running one app, then going to the home screen and closing the app you just used actually doesn’t save much battery power at all. Actually, it can use more battery power.

Get In Touch With iDropped!

Contact us now for more battery-saving tips, or to get help with device repair. Our experts can handle anything from screen repair, to technical issues, and more.

Your phone may be your most-values material possession. After all, it’s where you store your life in digital format. That’s why it’s important to take certain precautions to protect your phone’s data should it be lost or stolen. Here’s how to keep your device safe.

Screen Lock Strength

Using a lock screen is easier than ever with authentication credentials like fingerprint readers, passcodes, and facial recognition. As the first line of defense, it’s best to use a biometric password (facial recognition or fingerprint reader). If that fails to authenticate, a passcode should be required. This double authentication system is like a brick wall for thieves.

GPS Tracking

GPS can be used to track your device as long as you are using wifi or your cellular network is active. Make sure you’re signed in to the account associated with your phone on desktop or another device. For example for Android users, this would be your Gmail account. Then go to “find my phone”.  You should see the device that’s connected to your account. As long as your phone is on and connected to an internet network, you’ll see its location.

Use Security Apps

Security apps can help you safeguard your smartphone from thieves. Apps like Lookout have features that monitor suspicious activity, and you can activate the front-facing camera to capture an image of who’s using your phone.

Data Back-Up

Even if your phone isn’t lost or stolen, backing up your data is a good idea. In the event you have to switch devices for any reason, reclaiming your files and data will be easy. In addition to back-up features from your device’s operating system, there are third-party services like Google Drive, or Dropbox available too.

For more helpful information on how to keep your phone safe, contact us today!

The need to purchase a new phone every 2 years or so has declined. Here’s why we think it’s best to hold on to your current phone instead of opting for a new one:

1. Minimal Improvements

While smartphones are becoming more advanced, the margin of improvement tends to be slim. If your phone is still in decent shape, there won’t be much value in an upgrade. If the bulk of your phone usage is taking photos, it’s likely that your current phone model is good enough to continue using.

2. Expensive Flagships

We are now seeing flagship devices at the $1,000+ mark. Many brands attribute the price increase to paying for innovation, but that’s not always the case. While phones are better and more diverse than ever, the yearly innovations don’t really warrant the higher price tags each year.

3.  Updates and New Apps

You might think you need a new phone to update or use certain apps, but that is a myth. This is mostly untrue because most devices are updated on a regular basis, and new apps, as well as newer versions of apps, will remain available for you to download.

Want to know more about how you can keep your current phone, even if it might need som repair? Contact us today to find out how we can help you keep your phone running longer.

We can all admit it — cell phones are a large investment. The newer the model, the more money you are bound to put down. And although cell phone providers offer payment plans for your new phone, it still can hurt your wallet.

If your phone is damaged beyond repair and you need a replacement, why not purchase a refurbished phone? Refurbished phones are much less expensive than a newer model and can work just as well.

Or do they? Let’s take a look at refurbished phones and if it’s worth the investment.
 

What’s the Difference Between Refurbished and Used Phones?

Despite what you may think, refurbished phones are not the same as used phones. Unlike that used phone that was handed down from your aunt, a refurbished phone has gone through a thorough inspection process. Every feature on the phone goes through rigorous testing and if something isn’t working properly, it’s repaired. All data on the phone is wiped away as if the phone came straight from the factory. In some cases, refurbished phones will come with a limited warranty.

Not so with that used phone. Usually sold as-is, it may still have the previous owner’s data on the phone. And who knows what may be wrong with the phone! Plus, no warranty.

So if you want to purchase a previously owned phone, go for the refurbished model.
 

Is Buying a Refurbished Phone Worth It?

Knowing what a refurbished phone, you may still be asking the question, “Why should I buy one?” Sure, we all want the latest and greatest model, but there are several advantages to buying a refurbished phone.

It Saves Money

As we’ve already mentioned, you’ll save money by purchasing a refurbished phone. These phones can be hundreds of dollars cheaper than that new iPhone you’ve been eying. Plus, with the advantage of a warranty, you’ll be protected in case something should happen.

The Technology is Known

A new phone generally comes with new technology. It takes time to learn this technology and can lead to frustration. But a refurbished phone probably has the same technology you’ve been using all along. No learning curve is needed!

You Protect the Environment

As we’ve mentioned in a previous blog, cell phones are made with approximately 30 rare elements that are depleting at an alarming rate. By purchasing a refurbished cell phone, you’re preventing another cell phone from going into the landfill.
 

Know What You’re Purchasing

Ok, you’re convinced. You want to purchase a refurbished phone. But before you do, you need to know what you’re getting into. Keep these tips in mind:

• Shop with a reputable company that offers a warranty. If there’s no warranty with the phone, consider another retailer.
• Do a little research to see which is the right model for you. Maybe you want the same model that you’re replacing. Or maybe you’re going with a newer model. Know what you want to buy.
• And if technical problems should arise, make sure you ask the retailer about the returns policy.

Remember, not every company refurbishes phones the same way. So you want to make sure you’re buying from a reputable supplier, such as iDropped. At our new Steamtown Mall location, we have a range of refurbished phones for sale. If you’re interested in purchasing a refurbished phone, contact your closest iDropped store to see if we have any available, or stop by the store!

Does it seem like your cell phone’s battery just doesn’t hold a charge anymore? Even after a full night of charging, the battery starts draining as soon as you take it off the charger. What’s going on?

We’ve all had issues with our phone’s batteries. And before you give the phone up and start searching for a new phone, iDropped has a few tips you can follow to bring life back to your battery.

Why is Your Phone’s Battery Draining So Fast?

There are many reasons behind a fast-draining battery. From something as simple as the brightness of your screen to something a little more complex, it’s important to know what is causing the drain. Here are a few of the most common culprits to killing your cell phone’s battery:

• Screen brightness: Your cell phone’s screen is killing your battery. The brighter and more resolution the screens, the more likely it’s draining your power.
• Apps: Even when you’re not using these apps, they can hurt your battery life. Popular apps such as your social media platforms are always running in the background to keep you connected at all times.
• Phone age: It’s true what they say, the older the phone, the more likely your battery will lose performance over time. According to a recent article in Popular Mechanics, a high-end battery can lose about 20 percent of its capacity after 1,000 charge cycles.
• Cell phone services: Constantly keeping your phone’s Bluetooth, GPS, and Wi-Fi on even when you’re not using it can steadily drain your battery.

Is There a Way to Fix the Battery Drain?

Fortunately, many of the factors that are draining your battery can be fixed without the need for a cell phone repair shop.

Your first step is to see what programs are causing the drain. Check the battery use in your settings, you will see a list of what apps had used the largest percentage of your battery life. From there, you may consider either removing those apps or finding ways to lower their usage.

One way is to try limiting your apps from using your location services to only when you’re using them. This will prevent them from running in the background. You can also utilize your phones’ battery saving mode which lowers the brightness of your display and stops background activity such as downloads.

Speaking of your display, lowering the brightness of your display can help your battery’s life immensely! You always want to keep the live wallpaper backgrounds at a minimum. Turning on Dark mode can also help save your battery’s life.

Finally, try draining your battery completely at least once a month, followed by a full, uninterrupted charge. This can help with the operating system recognizing when the battery is fully charged.

How iDropped Can Help

But even after all that, what if your battery continues to keep draining? Before buying a new phone, you may want to consider getting a new battery from iDropped. Contact your nearest retail location to get a new battery today!

Laptops are being used much more these days with online schooling, work from home, etc. Even with the best computer out there, using them more and carting them around, screens are able to get destroyed in the process. While you may think getting a new laptop is the only option, there are easier, more affordable ways to fix your laptop issues.

A device repair shop, such as iDropped, is able to fix your laptop for much less cost and will have your laptop being good as new in no time! When looking for “laptop repair near me” think of iDropped as your number one source for a quick fix for a broken laptop screen. 

Laptop Screen Replacement

If you crack, smash, or ding your laptop screen it’s important to get this fixed right away. Problems could even arise as you try to replace the screen on your own. Whatever the case may be a laptop screen repair shop like iDropped is able to fix the issue, making your laptop look brand new. Check out our list of devices we repair.

Liquid Damage Repair

When liquid is spilled on your laptop it’s important to take the proper steps in ensuring your screen is safe. First, unplug all wires from the laptop. Next, dab with paper towels to pick up excess liquids. Next, ensure all open areas, vents, etc are clear of liquid and turn your computer over with the screen facing down. If you complete these steps and are still having issues with your laptop screen, call a laptop screen repair shop like iDropped right away.

Mistakes are easily made when your laptop is being used more and more at home and on the go. Our laptops take a beating over time and may need small repairs along the way. Before deciding to spend a large amount of money call your local iDropped store and see how we can help save you money and save your laptop.

While you can use your Amazon Echo to turn on lights, listen to music, check business hours, and more, now your Alexa is connecting with your mobile service provider to make and receive calls! In the past, you were able to contact businesses, but not call your phone contacts. 

If you’ve been waiting and hoping for a way to use your Amazon Echo to make calls, the time has finally come. AT&T has partnered with Amazon to give its smartphone users the chance to pair their accounts with their Echo speakers. This means AT&T customers can make calls, receive calls and dial out using nothing more than their voice. Here’s how you can take advantage of this new feature.

This update is the development of a feature that rolled out in 2017 as part of the Amazon Echo Connect service. In the past, Echo users would need to buy a device to sync with their Amazon Echo device in order to place calls. This new feature does not require any extra devices or services to sign up. You’ll just need to connect your phone through the Alexa app and you’ll be all set!

If you’re an AT&T subscriber and excited to get started, just follow these simple three steps to sync your account with your Echo device today:

• Open your Alexa app on your smartphone and click into the settings.
• Click on the communication menu and select AT&T.
• Follow the instructions given in order to complete your setup.

Once your account is set up and linked, you can begin making calls right away. Give commands such as “Alexa, call Aunt Janet” or by asking Alexa to dial specific numbers for you. Also, Alexa will now even read the caller ID for you for any incoming calls! There is also a ‘do not disturb’ function to turn away calls or notifications for a period of time.

While this function is only for AT&T customers and there’s no talk of who is next, we’re sure in the near future we will be hearing about more cellular companies partnering with Alexa or other smart devices. 

If you have any questions or concerns about your smart device, give us a call or come visit your local iDropped location today!

The time has come. Schools will be back in session before you know it. Whether you’re learning online or in person this year, it’s important to stay organized and have the most helpful apps on your device. Once your cell phone repair is complete and your device is ready to start the new school year, it’s time to download some back to school apps to help you become more productive!

iDropped has put together a list of their favorites to share to help you be the most prepared student in class this school year.

gFlash

No more writing out flashcards to study for your test. Create your flashcards on your phone or tablet to make studying anywhere a breeze! gFlash allows you to download information right from a Google Doc or Excel spreadsheet to make study prep easy and fast! Some other features include multiple-choice flashcards, YouTube video clip embedding, and matching games. The perfect app for studying on the go.

Duolingo

Looking to learn even more outside the classroom? Duolingo helps you learn another language with engaging and interactive games and challenges. Whether you want to learn Dutch, Danish, Turkish, or Spanish, this app will be a fun way to do so! Users earn points for correct answers and must beat the clock. Challenges will also show just how far you’ve come. Great for all ages!

Evernote

This note-taking app is great for working in groups and teams especially when you’re not in the physical classroom together. Evernote organizes all your notes, files, photos, emails, and more in a way that can be easily accessed whenever you want, from any device. It allows you to collaborate with other Evernote users, making this the perfect app for group projects.

MyHomework

Gone are the days of forgetting to complete an assignment or writing in a student planner! MyHomework has a digital homework checklist and features helpful study reminders. It also allows instant access to assignments and due dates for upcoming papers, tests, and homework. Once you’ve finished an assignment, easily swipe to remove it off of your list. Another great app for a digital student planner is Any.Do.

Cozi Family Organizer

Perfect for students, families, and more! The Cozi app features calendar, to-do list, shopping and journal functions, and more to easily organize your family’s daily assignments, practices, and events. Color code each family member add everyone’s appointments, share the calendar, and organize your day. This app also includes a chore function that allows each member of the family to mark duties complete once they’re finished.

Whether you’re going back into the classroom or learning virtually, make sure your mobile device is in tip-top shape. If you need a device repaired, contact or visit us today! 

It’s no longer a hidden fact that your cell phone has more germs than a toilet seat. Now, more than ever, it’s important to be aware of just how often you’re keeping your cell phone and yourself sanitized and clean. iDropped has a few tips to share with you on how you can keep your cell phone sanitized during the pandemic and beyond!

Wash Your Hands

Believe it or not, keeping your own hands clean will aid in keeping your cell phone clean. So before beginning to sanitize your cell phone make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. Remember to use soap and water and scrub for 20 seconds straight.

Sanitizing Your Cell Phone

Studies in the past have reported things such as staph or e. Coli can flourish on your smartphone’s glass screen. Meanwhile, COVID-19 can live on smartphone surfaces anywhere from a few hours to over a week! Using a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipe gently wipe the exterior of your smartphone. Try not to get in any openings to avoid moisture buildup. Once you’ve cleaned your phone, repeat the first step of cleaning your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.

Use Speakerphone When Possible

Try to limit your phone’s contact with your face. It’s been taught throughout the pandemic to limit any touching of your face, so keep your cell phone germs away from it as well. If possible, use your speakerphone function or video chat! It’s a great way to see other people when you’re social distancing as well!

UV Lights Not Necessary

You may see increasing ads for UV cleaning devices to disinfect your cell phone. While UV light has been mostly effective against other viruses, we don’t know if it will kill COVID-19 just yet. These fun gadgets are fairly pricey when cheap alcohol wipes or Clorox wipes will do the job just fine.

It’s important to note that in the past Apple had warned against alcohol-based disinfectants and wipes. While they still recommend using a slightly damp lint-free cloth to wipe your device clean, they have now changed their previous warning to avoid disinfectants. Apple had claimed these products may strip the oil-repellent coating on your phone, but are now saying those problematic wipes are in the clear.

After you’ve sanitized yourself and your phone, put on your mask and bring your phone in to your iDropped location for any of your needed repairs. Visit a nearby location or contact us today!