26 things to know before buying an iPhone

26 things to know before buying an iPhone

For tech enthusiasts as well as regular users, buying an iPhone is an exciting prospect. However, amid a plethora of options, it can get challenging to make an informed decision. Therefore, before making a purchase, one must consider some essential things about the iPhone. From hardware specifics to software capabilities, here are some important things to know before buying an iPhone. Considering these aspects will ensure one selects the right model based on their needs.

Operating system and updates
iPhones operate on iOS, the trademarked operating system of Apple. Knowing which iOS version the device supports and its update history ensures compatibility with the apps and features one wants in their phone.

Model selection
iPhones come in various models, with each catering to the specific needs of users. Whether it is the latest flagship or a more budget-friendly option, understanding the features and comparing different models is crucial.

Storage capacity
Picking the right storage size is essential for storing apps, photos, videos, and documents. One needs to consider their phone usage habits before settling on a 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or higher variant.

Camera capabilities
For those who are interested in getting great videos and photos with their iPhone, it helps to understand the various specifications of the phone’s camera. One needs to look into aspects such as megapixels, lens quality, and additional features.

Water and dust resistance
All iPhones are rated for water and dust resistance. This is known as IP rating, and it ensures one’s device can withstand exposure to elements like rain or accidental spills.

5G compatibility
With the advent of 5G, it is essential to know if the iPhone model one has selected supports this next-generation network for faster internet speeds and reduced latency.

Processor and performance
The A-series Bionic chipsets in iPhones are what give them their processing power. So, knowing the chipset’s generation and performance benchmarks can help one understand the specific iPhone’s multitasking capabilities and app performance.

Battery life
Another important aspect to consider before buying an iPhone is to learn about the battery life. One needs to know how long the battery lasts under various usage scenarios. Battery capacity and optimizations play a significant role in the iPhone’s longevity.

Display quality and size
Different iPhone models offer varying screen sizes and resolutions. One should think about whether they prefer a compact phone or a larger screen for multimedia consumption and productivity.

Build and materials
All iPhones feature premium build materials like aluminum or glass. So, it is essential to understand the build quality as it helps to choose a device that aligns with one’s esthetic and durability preferences.

Face ID or Touch ID
iPhones offer biometric authentication through Face ID or Touch ID in certain supported models. Before buying an iPhone, one must be familiar with these features and choose one that suits their preference.

Connectivity options
This is another crucial thing one must know before purchasing an iPhone. Looking into the working of the supported network bands, Wi-Fi standards, and Bluetooth versions will help to understand how seamlessly one can connect with other devices and networks through their phone.

Compatibility with accessories
Although it is a common practice to use Apple accessories with iPhone, one can also use their existing accessories such as headphones. However, it is important to verify if these are compatible with the iPhone model one wants to purchase.

Apple ecosystem integration
If one already owns Mac devices, iPads, and Apple Watches within the Apple ecosystem, one must note that their iPhone will be capable of seamless integration and continuity with the existing devices.

App ecosystem
The App Store offers an array of applications for diverse purposes, from gaming to video editing. Therefore, before buying an iPhone, it is important to ensure that the apps that one needs are available on the iOS platform.

Privacy and security features
Apple is well-known for its stringent privacy policies. So, one must familiarize themselves with features like App Tracking Transparency and other security measures before purchasing their iPhone.

Siri and voice assistant integration
Another essential thing to know before buying an iPhone is how Siri works and its integration with third-party apps. This can enhance one’s overall user experience.

Accessibility features
iPhones offer a range of accessibility features. One must explore these options to ensure the device caters to any of their specific needs.

AppleCare+ and warranty
If one is planning to use their iPhone for an extended period, it helps to understand how AppleCare+ works for extended warranty and support services.

Resale value
iPhones generally hold their value well even after extended use. Therefore, it helps to know the resale potential of the model one is considering.

Carrier compatibility
Before purchasing an iPhone, one must ensure that the device is compatible with their chosen carrier’s network bands to avoid any connectivity issues.

Storage management and cloud integration
Apple offers their customers iCloud for extra storage management. Before purchasing an iPhone, one can learn about the various storage options and plans available to them. These options can help to manage the files and media efficiently.

Return and exchange policies
Knowing the return and exchange policies of the retailer or Apple itself is useful in case one encounters any issues with their purchase.

Availability of Apple services
Before purchasing an iPhone, one must ensure that Apple services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade are available and accessible in their region.

Future software support
All iPhones receive regular software updates. For enhanced usability, it helps to know how long one’s chosen model will receive updates for.

Reviews and customer feedback
It is useful to research online reviews and customer feedback before making a purchase. This provides insights into customers’ experiences with the specific iPhone model one is considering buying.

Featured Articles

Key things to know about macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disorder that affects the macula, a tiny part of the retina that provides sharp central vision. The most common kind of this disease is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects many people in our country over 60 years. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, several treatments and lifestyle changes help manage the symptoms and improve your vision so that it does not interfere with everyday life. What are the types of macular degeneration? There are two common types of the condition: Wet or exudative macular degeneration This is the more common type. It occurs when the tiny blood vessels in front of your retina get damaged and leak fluid into your eye, causing swelling, redness, and dampness. The condition can affect your central vision and cause blurry patches in the center. Central vision is the area you see directly in front of you. Dry or atrophic macular degeneration Also known as senile macular degeneration, this condition occurs when the retina does not receive sufficient oxygen due to damage from aging; it results in a breakdown of the central part of the retina (the photoreceptors). What causes this eye disorder? The risk factors include genetics and lifestyle ailments, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. But these do not affect vision overnight; it takes years for the effects to show up. Here is a quick look at the many risk factors of macular degeneration: Age You are at risk of macular degeneration as you get older, especially after age 55. Hence, older adults are advised to go for regular screenings. Genetics You are at a higher risk if one or both parents have this condition. Past eye injury Head or eye trauma can lead to loss of central vision in the future.

Nasal polyps – Symptoms, causes, and management

Nasal polyps can be a symptom of an underlying condition or occur independently. The visible signs and symptoms of nasal polyps include congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, and pressure or pain around your eyes and cheeks. A deviated septum may contribute to nasal polyps. However, they can also occur in people who do not have this condition, such as athletes who blow their noses frequently during exercise routines. Read on to learn more about nasal polyps. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are small, soft growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. They are also sometimes called nasal tumors or nasal corking. They are not cancerous, contagious, or caused by allergies. Nasal polyps may also be associated with other conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic sinusitis (CS), and asthma. Nasal polyps typically develop before the age of 40, and they do not usually cause symptoms until they grow larger or become inflamed or infected.  However, large nasal polyps can block airflow through your nose. If this happens, you may experience sinusitis, headaches, and a stuffy or runny nose. You may also experience difficulty breathing through one nostril at a time if large polyps block the other nostril completely. The result could be an imbalance in oxygen supply to both sides of the body and possible damage to blood vessels in the head (for example, inflammation). Symptoms of nasal polyps In most cases, nasal polyps are painless and cause no symptoms. However, some people with nasal polyps may experience the following symptoms: Congestion or stuffiness A runny nose Loss of smell Loss of taste Pressure or pain around your eyes, cheeks, and teeth Facial pain or headache Snoring Need to clear the throat frequently Frequent bleeding of the nose When to see a doctor?

Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a disorder that results in dry, irritable, and inflammatory skin. Though it can affect anyone, young children are more vulnerable to this disorder. The symptoms include recurring (chronic) and sporadic flare-ups, though it is not contagious. Atopic dermatitis patients risk contracting asthma and seasonal and food allergies. Regular moisturizing and skin disease condition-related treatments help alleviate itching and prevent further outbreaks. Using medicated lotions or ointments during treatment is also helpful. Symptoms Depending on an individual’s age, the severity of the condition, and other circumstances, symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary. Those who have the condition typically experience phases of worsening symptoms, followed by times of improvement or even complete disappearance. The following sections will cover some likely variances in symptoms in more detail. General eczema symptoms Eczema symptoms are usually not severe. The most common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis include dry, itchy skin, skin flushing, or weeping sores.  Individuals with severe eczema skin disease may need more intensive care to eliminate their problems. Infections of the skin can also result from persistent touching and scratching. The appearance of the skin area afflicted by atopic dermatitis will vary depending on the frequency of itching and infection. Itching, redness, and irritation can all worsen by rubbing and scratching the skin. What causes eczema skin disease? The underlying etiology of eczema still has to be thoroughly comprehended. The cause, according to scientists, is an overactive immune system. When allergens from the outside come in contact with the skin, the immune system reacts, causing eczema to flare up. A collection of typical flare-up triggers is provided below. Additionally, researchers have shown that the bodies of some people with eczema do not produce enough of the protein filaggrin. This protein is essential for keeping skin healthy and nourished.

Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options: Types of atrial fibrillation Afib can be classified as one or more of these: First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib. Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation. Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib. Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more. Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib. Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options. So here, the patient and doctor decide to stop treatment to get the heart rate back to normal and begin considering other management options. Causes and risk factors Typically, the condition is brought on by coronary artery disease or high blood pressure. Often, atrial fibrillation is triggered by an irregular heartbeat. However, it might occasionally be difficult to determine what triggered such irregularity, and there may be no apparent cause in some cases. In most cases, Afib runs in families, so if one has a family history of the condition, i.e., a close relative has the condition, the likelihood of developing the condition increases.

Recent Articles

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast. Radiation exposure The risk of developing the disease increases if you have been exposed to radiation in your head, neck, or chest areas during past treatments. Hormone replacement therapy Women who use hormone replacement therapy may be more prone to breast cancer. Types of breast cancer Breast cancer  can be categorized into two broad types— invasive and non-invasive.  Invasive breast cancer Cancer that has spread from the place of origin to other parts of the body is termed invasive breast cancer.

10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free.  Gain Laundry Detergent Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household. Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright. Kirkland Laundry Detergent If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains.