Apple has released macOS Ventura, the latest version of its desktop and laptop operating system.

One of the coolest features is Continuity Camera, which lets you use your iPhone as a webcam. You can also use the ultra-wide camera to do a dual-camera view of your face and your desk.

FaceTime now gets Handoff, so you can start a call on one device and continue on another. And Stage Manager gives you a new way to organize your workspace.

Safari now supports passkeys. Mail now allows message scheduling and other modern mail client features like rich links and AI-powered reminders. That’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Who is the macOS upgrade for?

Apple dropped support for many Intel-based Macs this year. MacOS Ventura supports Macs as old as 2017, so anyone with an earlier model will remain on macOS Monterey.

Keep in mind, some features will only work with certain Macs. For example, Live Captions, Dictation emoji support, and Reference Mode with Sidecar are limited to Macs running Apple’s M1 or M2 processors.

Here’s how to download macOS Ventura

If you’re updating a MacBook, connect it to power before you start. That is the real step one.

Now your Mac is on macOS Ventura, and you’re all set for it to stay automatically up-to-date as Apple releases new features and security updates.

Don’t see the macOS Ventura update?

If you don’t see a software update option in ‘System Preferences,’ click the Search field at the top-right corner of that window and type Software Update.

If you have an older version of Mac, open the App Store (you can also find it in the Applications folder) and check for updates by clicking on the Updates tab.

If you still don’t see it, you can always search for the update by name too.

If you’re worried about installing Ventura on your Mac, don’t be. With the easy-to-follow steps mentioned above, you can have macOS Ventura running on your machine in no time.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to download and install iPadOS 16 to your iPad
• Apple is hiking up prices on Apple Music, TV+, and more
• New Best Buy program lets you get a new MacBook every three years
• Is the 10th-gen iPad worth buying? Here’s what reviewers say

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If you’ve ever had to type a word and couldn’t figure out how to add letter accents on Mac, you’re not alone.

Moments of uncertainty can interrupt your workflow and leave you searching for answers.

Luckily, typing letter accents and other Mac special characters is simple in macOS once you know how. And you have several viable options. Some are swift, while others take additional time.

Let’s discuss several ways to type special characters on a Mac.

How to type letter accents on Mac

READ MORE: How to type an en dash and em dash on Windows and Mac

One of the quickest ways to type letter accents is to hold the key of the character you wish to modify, and a menu with available options should appear.

For example, holding the e key brings up: è, é, ê, ë, ē, ė, and ę. You can either click the character you wish to use or press the corresponding number key.

Learning the various key combinations is worth the effort if you use letter accents a lot.

Once your fingers familiarize themselves with the appropriate actions, adding accents becomes a normal part of typing.

How to type accents on Mac using key combinations

1. Hold Option and press the key that corresponds to the appropriate accent. For example, e=´, n=˜, u=¨, i=ˆ, and `=`

2. Release Option and press the letter you want to accent

You can only modify letters that normally have an accented version, which means you can’t go throwing a squiggly line over any old character.

With enough practice, accented letters soon flow onto the page like any other standard symbol.

How to type special characters in macOS

If you’d prefer to see a complete list of accented letters and other special characters, the symbol viewer has the goods.

Using key combinations may be the quickest way to drop an accent on a character, but the symbol viewer provides a comprehensive list of all available options.

Letter accents and special characters are yours to command

You now have the knowledge to accent letters and type special characters on Mac without interruption.

Whatever technique you choose—swift fingers, button presser, or constant clicker—your workflow should improve, and moments of idle head-scratching should reduce.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to quickly record your Mac’s screen
• Sleep vs. shutdown: what’s better for your Mac?
• This app turns your iPhone into a wireless mouse for your Mac
• How to type out emojis on a PC

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If you haven’t updated your Apple computer or laptop in a while, you may wonder what the latest macOS version is. 

It’s important to keep your Mac device updated. An updated Mac can access Apple’s computer operating system’s best features, performance, and security. 

Security features and security measures are important right now. A Mac still running the older version of its operating system is at risk of getting hacked.

So, what’s the latest version of macOS?

Short answer: The latest macOS version is Ventura

Apple announced Ventura at its WWDC conference in June 2022 and launched it publicly in October 2022.

So, what are the top features of macOS Ventura? How do you know if your Mac device is compatible with Ventura? And how do you download Ventura? Read on to find out.

What are the top features of macOS Ventura?

Short answer: There are many great features

Like any new version of macOS, Ventura is packed full of features that’ll radically improve how you use your Mac device. 

With macOS Ventura, you can use Continuity Camera to use your iPhone as a webcam. This works wirelessly and can leverage your ultrawide lens to show a split screen of your face and desktop.

You’ll also get Stage Manager, which lets you bundle groups of apps and treat them as browser tabs. You can stack them at the left of your screen, and selecting any group opens the apps it contains.

Mail now has modern conveniences like scheduling messages, canceling delivery, and reminders to return to a message later.

Messages get improvements too, including editing and undoing recently sent messages and recovering accidentally deleted ones.

Ventura also brings Live Text recognition in paused videos, new accessibility tools, a redesigned System Preferences, and the Weather and Clock apps from iOS are now on Mac.

Will my Mac work with macOS Ventura?

Short answer: Yes, if it was released in 2017 or later

If you own a Mac model released in 2017 or after, you should be able to upgrade to macOS Ventura without any issues.

Apple published a definitive list of devices compatible with macOS Ventura here: macOS Ventura hardware compatibility.

Some features will only work with certain Macs that are getting the update.

Live Captions, Dictation emoji support, and Reference Mode with Sidecar are all limited to Macs running Apple’s M1 or M2 processors.

How to check if you have the latest version of macOS

Short answer: Click on “About This Mac”

It’s easy to determine whether your Mac device is running the latest version of macOS.

Just click the Apple logo in the top corner of your screen, and press “About This Mac” in the dropdown menu.

A small box will then appear on your screen, and if it doesn’t say macOS Ventura, your Mac is using an outdated operating system. 

How to update to the latest version of macOS

Short answer: Head to System Preferences > Software Update

Before you can update to macOS Ventura, you’ll need to ensure you have enough storage. For Macs running on macOS Sierra or newer, 26GB of free storage is required.

Meanwhile, older versions of macOS will need 44GB of free storage for you to upgrade to macOS Ventura successfully.

We’d also recommend checking that your WiFi connection is stable and backing up your files to the cloud before the update.

So, how do you perform the update?

Well, if your Mac runs on macOS Mojave or newer, it’s pretty simple: just head into System Preferences and click Software Update.

For a full guide, here’s how to update your Mac.

Apple continues to improve macOS

macOS continues to improve as the years go by, and Apple shows no signs of slowing down.

Each major update to Mac brings new features, security updates, and more. The same goes for the latest build, Ventura.

Now publicly released, macOS Ventura boasts lots of exciting new features. You’ll want to update your Mac if it’s compatible.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to add a printer to Mac
• Does your Mac need antivirus software?
• How to find saved WiFi passwords on Mac
• Here’s how to take a screenshot on any iPhone

The post What is the latest version of macOS? appeared first on KnowTechie.

Think of it as a helper for your memory or your organizational skills. When installed, it indexes everything you work on, read online, type in chat apps, or say in video meetings.

Then it creates a searchable timeline, so you can always find those pieces of information, even if you can’t remember where you had seen them.

Rewind was created by Dan Siroker, of Optimizely fame, and Brett Bejcek. Here’s what you need to know.

This Mac app is the ‘search engine for your life’

So you know, only some Macs are going to be compatible. Rewind’s AI uses every single part of Apple silicon to create the searchable index.

That means you need a Mac with either an M1 or M2 chip; Intel Macs won’t be powerful enough.

All you have to do after installing is to use your Mac how you would normally. Rewind uses APIs to determine which app is focused on your Mac and then records the behavior from that app.

That could be your daily video conference with your workmates, your research on your browser, or creating files in cloud services. Rewind takes note of everything and creates a timeline you can search.

Those recordings never make it off your Mac, with all the processing done locally using the power of Apple Silicon.

Users can pause or delete recordings anytime or exclude sensitive apps like password managers from being recorded.

Rewind is currently in early access. You can sign up on their website to get access once the company increases availability to more users.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• New M2 MacBook Pro models expected to launch soon
• What is the latest macOS version?
• Apple promotes gambling ads alongside therapy apps (updated)
• Delete these Android and iOS apps: they’re riddled with adware

The post New Rewind Mac app is a search engine for your digital life appeared first on KnowTechie.

Are you constantly plugging and unplugging cables from your laptop to access different devices? If so, you need a USB-C hub.

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is one of the options, but is it worth it? If you ask me, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is absolutely worth the money.

Here’s why: It allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, is compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs, and comes with a 1-year warranty. Plus, its sleek design makes it easy to take with you on the go.

Read on for a rundown of the features of the EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub and why you should consider buying this product.

What we like about EZQuest’s Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub

• The dual HDMI ports allow you to connect two monitors at resolutions up to 3840×2160.
• The USB-C port supports Power Delivery (PD) up to 100W, so you can charge your devices while using the hub.
• The USB 3.0 ports support data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps, so you can quickly transfer files.
• The SD and microSD card reader slots let you easily access files stored on memory cards.
• The audio jack lets you connect headphones or speakers for audio playback.
• The anodized aluminum casing helps dissipate heat, keeping the hub cool and preventing it from overloading.

What we didn’t like

• The EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub is a bit pricey.
• It has only two USB-C ports, so you’ll need a separate adapter if you want to connect more than two USB-C devices.

TIP: If you need a quick and reliable USB-C card reader, check out this article: This USB-C Card Reader is one of the quickest on the market.

Who Should Buy This?

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub is ideal for anyone who needs to connect multiple devices to their computer.

It’s especially useful for creative professionals who need to connect multiple monitors or those who need to transfer files quickly.

In addition, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus Hub is a good choice for anyone who wants a sleek and stylish hub that is easy to take with them on the go.

Why Buy the Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub?

Now that you know more about this EZQuest Hub, it’s time to decide if it’s the right hub for you. Here are some reasons to buy this product:

It Can Connect Multiple Devices

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub can connect up to ten devices at the same time. That includes:

• Two HDMI monitors.
• One USB-C device.
• One SD card.
• One microSD card.
• One audio input/output device.

It’s Compatible With Mac and Windows PCs

The Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is a great investment for anyone who uses both Mac and Windows PCs.

With this handy hub, you can use your computer with any HDMI-enabled device, including TVs, monitors, and projectors.

Besides, the USB-C port ensures compatibility with the latest computers and laptops. Whether a student or a professional, the Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is a great way to get the most out of your computer.

It Has a Sleek Design

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub has a sleek and stylish design. The anodized aluminum casing looks great and feels solid.

Plus, the compact design makes it easy to take with you on the go. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, this little device will make your life easier.

It’s Easy To Use

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is straightforward to use. Simply connect it to your computer or laptop’s USB-C port, and you’re ready to go.

Besides, the dual HDMI ports allow you to connect two external monitors. So, you can easily turn your laptop into a powerful workstation.

It’s Fast and Reliable

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is very fast and reliable. It supports high-speed data transfer and can charge your devices quickly.

Plus, it’s built with high-quality components that ensure optimal performance and reliability.

If you’re looking for a fast and reliable USB-C hub, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus is a great option, and I have no issues recommending it.

If the EZQuest Ultimate Plus isn’t right for you, here are some other USB-C hubs we can recommend

• Anker A8346 USB-C Hub: $34.99
• EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8 Ports Hub: $69.99
• Kensington SD5700T: $349.99
• HyperDrive Mac USB C Hub Adapter: $99.99
• TOTU 11-in-1 USB-C Hub Adapter: $57.99
• Anker 577 Thunderbolt Docking Station: $329.99

Bottom Line

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to connect multiple devices to their computer or laptop.

It’s beneficial for creative professionals who need to connect a lot of different devices at the same time.

Plus, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus is very well-built and looks great. Whether you’re a student or a professional, this handy hub is a great way to get the most out of your computer.

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus sells for $169.99 and can be purchased directly on the company’s website, B&H, or Microcenter. Alternatively, Amazon has a listing, but it’s “currently unavailable” at the time of writing.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: Monoprice Soundstage 3 portable Bluetooth speaker
• Review: Amazon Fire 7 tablet (2022)
• Review: Zeus Arc GTS Vaporizer (3rd Gen)
• Review: Securam EOS Smart Lock

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Well, almost. As with the equivalent iPhone program, Apple only provides whole components. Put another way: if a single chip on a logic board fails, you must replace the entire unit. You can’t simply replace that one chip.

Before I go on, I want to make something clear. I think this is a welcome move. It’s flawed, sure. There’s a lot to criticize (and I will). But it’s also a step in the right direction.

But it doesn’t go far enough. And it doesn’t make up for ongoing Apple’s attacks on the independent repair sector.

Apple’s ongoing quest for absolute control has produced disastrous consequences for the environment, consumers, and small businesses. And I’m not willing to overlook them.

Historical Background on the Right to Repair movement

Apple was once the Right to Repair movement’s most vociferous opponent. And its most effective.

With limitless resources, Apple could afford to lobby right-to-repair legislation across local and national statehouses.

The message that the “right to repair” is inherently dangerous was core to its lobbying. If consumers could repair their equipment, they may harm themselves or their devices.

In the first five months of 2021, 27 states considered Right To Repair legislation. More than half failed. Many were dismissed at the committee stage. They didn’t even get a vote from lawmakers.

Obviously, Apple has changed its tune here. After previously describing user-made repairs as “dangerous,” it is now willing to let you take the risk.

I’m a cynical person. I suspect it’s merely responding to the Right to Repair movement’s rising tides. Apple couldn’t win by lobbying alone.

The movement has already scored several major victories in Europe, the UK, and the US (state-wide and federal).

Apple — and the wider technology industry — may win the occasional battle. But the war? It lost that years ago. The writing is on the wall.

Whatever. Motivations don’t matter. The reality is that users and independent repair providers now have the tools and components they need to fix their stuff.

But that shouldn’t overshadow Apple’s continuing shenanigans, nor the inherent weaknesses in the Apple self-service repair program.

How Apple Frustrates Independent Repairs

Apple is a big company. It’s the world’s most profitable consumer technology brand. In the quarter ending June 25, it sold over $40bn iPhones and $7.3bn Macs.

In normal times, that’s impressive. During a supply chain crisis and a recession, it’s nothing short of outstanding.

Money is power, and Apple holds sway over its suppliers. It can demand exclusivity for certain components — even those created by third parties. And it does.

This limits the ability of repair shops to acquire essential components for board-level repairs.

If a single chip on a logic board fails, the repair shop can’t simply buy that chip. They must harvest it from another ‘donor’ laptop.

From both environmental and business perspectives, this isn’t sustainable. Donor laptops are not always available.

It takes time to harvest working components from a broken machine. Repair shops cannot buy in bulk, making it hard to operate at scale.

Consumers are thereby forced to pay more for simple repairs. The cost of replacing a single defective board-level chip is always lower than replacing the entire logic board.

But if a repair shop must first harvest a working chip from a donor machine, the price a consumer will pay must reflect that.

In some cases, where a repair shop cannot source a working component, the consumer is forced to use a vendor-sanctioned repair shop (in this case, the Apple Store or an Apple-approved provider).

The Cost to the Consumer

These certified vendors rarely — if ever — perform board-level repairs. They just yank the defective component and install a new one.

This presents two problems. First: the cost. A replacement M1 MacBook Pro logic board costs $614.24. Consumers must pay that, even if the issue only lies with a single $1 chip.

In fairness to Apple, it refunds $114.40 if the consumer repairs the defective logic board, bringing the price down to under $500. But that’s still a lot of money.

The second problem is also the biggest. With most modern Macs, Apple solders the flash storage chips directly onto the logic board. It’s not a user-replaceable component.

Or, put another way: if a $1 chip fails on your Mac and it can’t power on, you’ll lose all your data.

Apple isn’t the only company selling non-upgradable devices. And its approach has some technical advantages.

The Unified Memory design used in the latest M1 and M2 Macs has serious performance advantages over conventional approaches.

But it also makes disaster recovery incredibly hard. Apple could address this by opening its supply chain to third parties. But it doesn’t.

The Problem of Serialization

Independent repair shops routinely harvest working components from dead machines. It’s normal practice, albeit one made necessary by Apple’s unwillingness to share components with third parties.

In recent years, Apple has sought to stop this practice using serialization.

Serialization is, in short, using software to link individual components to a device. It’s a way of saying “this camera module belongs to this logic board.”

In some cases, there are legitimate reasons for this. I can understand why Apple serializes the iPhone’s Touch ID module. It’s used to conduct financial transactions, authenticate online services, and so on.

But Apple also serializes other components, too. With the iPhone 12, Apple linked the display and camera module to the connected logic board.

If a repair shop transplants a camera module from one phone to another, it’ll malfunction. The camera app will freeze during use. Users are unable to switch to the ultra-wide camera. The entire photography experience becomes degraded.

Additionally, Donor displays cannot use FaceID or Truetone. While the first example is (vaguely) reasonable, the latter is not.

The only way around this is with Apple’s proprietary repair software, which it restricts to internal and authorized repair providers.

In most cases, serialization doesn’t protect consumers. It is merely an artificial limitation on what independent repair shops can do.

It’s a naked attempt to limit consumer choice and shrink a (vocal) sector of the repair economy.

The Tip of the Iceberg

I’ve only really scratched the service here. Apple’s right-to-repair sins are numerous. This article lists just a few.

I could have, for example, discussed how Apple stops third-party manufacturers from selling compatible replacement components without their consent.

In 2020, Apple successfully sued Henrik Huseby, an independent repair provider, over allegations he imported “counterfeit” iPhone screens. Huseby never claimed to use genuine components.

The displays in question were actually refurbished components acquired from a Chinese manufacturer. The supplier acquired original (albeit smashed) iPhone screens, removed and replaced the broken glass, and resold them.

Norway’s Supreme Court ruled against Huseby and ordered him to pay $23,000 to Apple. This punishment was wildly disproportionate to the alleged ‘offense.’ Huseby imported just 63 displays.

As such, I can’t bring myself to be excited about Apple’s Mac self-repair program. It’s a step in the right direction. But it doesn’t overshadow Apple’s appalling behavior, both in the past and now.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• What does the “i” in iPhone (or iPad) mean?
• eBay’s rules for refurbished tech terrify right-to-repair activists
• Samsung will finally let you repair your own Galaxy smartphone
• Apple says it will no longer repair stolen iPhones at Apple Stores

The post Don’t be fooled by Apple’s embrace of ‘Right to Repair’ appeared first on KnowTechie.

It’s a full-sized low-profile mechanical keyboard with Mac users in mind. And it’s the company’s latest addition to its Mac lineup since the previous 5QS launch in 2021.

MacTigr offers all the fixings a Mac user could ever ask for, plus more.

Features include Mac-specific keys, Cherry MX Low Profile Red mechanical switches, and low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps. On top of that, there’s a built-in 2-port USB-C hub too. 

Additionally, it comes with a built-in volume knob, sleep button, and media controls. Equally important, to state the obvious here, yes, there’s a full numeric keypad, too. 

It’s built tough, as well. According to the company, the keyboard’s slim housing features a heavy-duty, matte black stainless steel top, and a gunmetal gray aluminum unibody

As someone who spent the better part of the day typing on the MacTigr, I can say this keyboard is a beast.

In short, it’s easy on the fingers, offers a full-sized layout, and is an absolute pleasure to type on. Expect a full review soon. 

The MacTigr is available for $219 starting Aug 16, 2022, at Das Keyboard or Amazon. The company expects a full international release sometime in mid-September.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac mechanical keyboard
• What are the quietest mechanical keyboard switches?
• Wireless keyboard not working? Here’s how to fix it
• How to type an en dash and em dash on Windows and Mac

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Das Keyboard’s MacTigr is a sleek new mechanical keyboard for Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

The issue was first found by a security researcher, Patrick Wardle. A combination of issues adds up to anyone being able to get root (superuser privileges) without a password on a Mac computer.

The attack was interesting enough for Wardle to present at Def Con, one of the premier hacking conferences, in Las Vegas last week. Zoom had already fixed some of the issues before his talk, with the remainder fixed shortly afterward.

Update(s):
Bug assigned CVE-2022-28756
Patch now available, in Zoom v5.11.5 (9788)

See Zoom’s security bulletin: https://t.co/xUpE4jS6ck

Mahalos to @Zoom for the (incredibly) quick fix! pic.twitter.com/GGtM3EUT7s

— patrick wardle (@patrickwardle) August 14, 2022

Again, if you’re a macOS user who has Zoom installed, go look for an update. The fix is included in version 5.11.5 of the Zoom client.

According to Wardle, who spoke to The Verge last week, he disclosed the bugs to Zoom almost eight months ago. He even told them what needed to be done to fix the issues.

If attackers had wanted, they could have used the privilege escalation in Zoom to do almost anything they wanted on the target Mac. That includes installing more programs, modifying, deleting, or sending data to a remote device.

How to update Zoom

You can check to see if any updates are available for Zoom by clicking your profile icon on the app and finding “Check for Updates” in the dropdown list. For additional help, you can watch Zoom’s own video tutorial here.

If you are on any version lower than 5.11.5, it’s time to update. You’ve already been at risk for the best part of a year, don’t let that continue any longer.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to update iPhone apps
• Stop staring at yourself on Zoom calls, it’s bad for your mental health
• This new Anker portable battery can fast charge any MacBook Pro
• 5 best video conferencing apps for remote meetings

The post Mac users: Update Zoom right now, major security flaw patched appeared first on KnowTechie.

A security researcher recently released their own experience with this, with seven malware-containing apps in the Mac App Store.

Alex Kleber, aka Privacy 1st, noticed a handful of apps in the macOS App Store that hid their true intentions. An encrypted database lurked inside, ready to activate once the app passed the App Store certification checks.

He found links between all seven apps, making him believe that they were all created by the same group, based in China. If you have any of these apps installed, delete them immediately.

If you have one of these malware-containing apps installed on your Mac – delete it

Here are the seven apps found with malicious code and their developer. It seems Apple has deleted all of the apps from the App Store.

If you were one of the thousands of downloaders, you should delete them from your device:

• PDF Reader for Adobe PDF Files (Sunnet Technology Inc.)
• Word Writer Pro (Netozo Limited)
• Screen Recorder (Safeharbor Technology L Ltd.)
• Webcam Expert (Wildfire Technology Inc.)
• Streaming Browser Video Player (Boulevard Technology Ltd.)
• PDF Editor for Adobe Files (Polarnet Limited)
• PDF Reader (Xu Lu)

Some of these apps were ranking highly in their categories. PDF Reader for Adobe PDF Files by Sunnet Technology Inc. was ranked number 1 in the Education category.

All seven apps had the same type of malware inside, and all had four- or five-star reviews that were all fake.

Now, we don’t expect everyone to be able to deconstruct apps in this way. There are some things you can do to stay safe on your Mac so you don’t get similar malware, however.

Protect yourself and your Mac

On unknown apps, read the one-star reviews. Those are likely to be from real people, and not faked. On top of that, check the app’s privacy policy pages for anything odd.

Kleber found that all seven were using free Google Sites for hosting, another red flag. Legitimate developers are more likely to have their own domain.

It’s hard to know who or what to trust online, even on a platform like the App Store which has tight controls over what is uploaded. Sticking to well-known apps from trusted publishers might be one of the only ways to stay safe.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• What is the latest macOS version?
• How to add a printer to Mac
• Here’s how to take a screenshot on any iPhone
• Here’s how to start a Mac in safe mode

The post Mac users: delete these apps – they’re riddled with malware appeared first on KnowTechie.

In most cases, printers are installed similarly regardless of brand or model. Even though each connection’s setup may appear to be very different, they are actually rather similar.

In this guide, we are going to walk you through how to add a printer to a Mac using Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, and an IP address. So without further ado, let’s get started.

How to add a printer to Mac via Wi-Fi

If you have decided to add a printer to your Mac wirelessly, you can do it easily by pressing the Wi-Fi button on your printer and the WPS button on your router.

However, it may not work, and if this happens, you should try reading the instruction manual.

However, if the printer lacks the AirPrint feature, you must select the Printer > Add > Download printer drivers from Apple servers. 

Bonus tip

Installing the NetSpot application, a Wi-Fi scanning tool that provides the best location for your printer is recommended if the printer is shared by coworkers but becomes unavailable due to a weak connection.

Adding a printer to Mac via USB

Adding a printer to a Mac through USB is more straightforward than Wi-Fi. This is because as soon as you connect the printer to Mac via a USB cable, Mac itself will automatically detect it and guide you through the on-screen instructions.  

1. After connecting your printer via USB, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners

2. Then press the plus button. If everything goes fine, you will see the name of your printer

3. Next, click on Add

However, this doesn’t guarantee you won’t run into issues because your Mac may just fail to identify the printer.

Many different reasons might cause the issue, but in most cases, it can be resolved by simply accessing System Preferences > Software Update > Install the latest updates.

How to add a printer to Mac via Bluetooth

Some printers use Bluetooth to connect to the devices and receive the print files. Like other connections, you must first add your printer to the list of printers.

1. After turning on your printer, go to System Preferences

2. Click on Printers & Scanners

3. Next, press the plus button and select your printer from the list

When you want to print something, simply go to Mac > Bluetooth Preferences and tap the Bluetooth icon, and your printer will be paired.

READ MORE: What is the latest macOS version?

If you are having trouble adding the printer, the first step is ensuring that your Mac runs the most recent macOS version. 

Adding a printer to Mac via IP address

If the previous methods did not work, we recommend connecting your printer to the Mac using an IP address. To use this method, you will need a few pieces of information, like the printer’s IP address or hostname, printing protocol, and model.

This information can be found in the user manual, by contacting support, or by following the manual instructions. Just like the other methods, you need to make sure that the latest macOS version has been installed on your Mac:

1. Navigate to System Preferences > Software Update

2. Then, ensure that your printer is switched on

3. Next, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners

4. Click on the IP tab (web icon) and type your printer’s IP address

5. The next step is selecting the Protocol (AirPrint, IPP, LPD, etc.)

6. Now you should enter the required information and click on Add.

This isn’t the easiest method, so we really only recommend using this if none of the other methods work.

How to remove a printer from Mac

Finally, it’s time to look at how to remove a printer from Mac. You’re now equipped with the knowledge to add a printer, but it’s good to know the reverse, as well. To delete the printer on your Mac device:

1. Go to System Preferences

2. Then click on Printers & Scanners

3. Next, find the printer you want to delete

4. Finally, click the minus button and confirm that you want to delete the printer

And there you go, you’ve now successfully removed a printer from Mac.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many ways to connect a printer to Mac. You can use USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, and all produce similar results. But, as we’ve shown, you also have other options for adding a printer.

Thankfully, the process is practically the same across most methods. That means once you know how to do one, you know how to do them all.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Does your Mac need antivirus software?
• How to find saved WiFi passwords on Mac
• Here’s how to take a screenshot on any iPhone
• Here’s how to start a Mac in safe mode

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post How to add a printer to Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

Typically, macOS automatically joins known wireless networks using previously-stored keys. But occasionally, you might need to find that password.

If you need to know a forgotten saved password, you’re in luck. macOS stores security credentials in the keychain, which you can access at any time to extract the information you need.

Let’s discuss how to find and view saved WiFi passwords in macOS using Keychain Access and Terminal.

How to find saved WiFi passwords on Mac using Keychain Access

Here’s how to view saved WiFi passwords in the macOS keychain:

How to find saved WiFi passwords in Terminal

If you simply can’t stand intuitive user interfaces, you can instead use Terminal to locate saved WiFi passwords.

READ MORE: How to add a printer to Mac

To use this method, you’ll need to know the exact name of the wireless network whose security key you want to see.

Here’s how to view saved WiFi passwords in Terminal:

1. Launch Terminal via Applications > Utilities

2. Enter the following command, replacing “SSID” with your wireless network name, and press Return:
security find-generic-password -ga “SSID” | grep “password:”

3. Enter your admin username and password when prompted to show the security key in Terminal

Use Keychain Access to find forgotten passwords

While Keychain Access is great for finding WiFi passwords on Mac, it can also reveal your other saved application passwords. You’ll find most of the relevant entries in your login keychain.

Having a repository of saved passwords is handy when you inevitably forget all of those rarely-used app logins you’ll undoubtedly need to use again.

READ MORE: How to find saved WiFi passwords in Windows 11

Who needs a functioning memory when our gadgets can remember things for us? Soon, our brains will be obsolete. In truth, some of ours already are.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to add a business to Apple Maps
• Here’s how to take a screenshot on any iPhone
• How to change your username in Windows 11
• Here’s how to start a Mac in safe mode

The post How to find saved WiFi passwords on Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

$1,799 gets buyers a Mac Studio with M1 Max, 10-Core CPU and 24-Core GPU, 32GB of unified memory, and a 512GB SSD.

Additionally, it features numerous ports, including multiple USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A, HDMI, ethernet, and a headphone jack.

Yes, it’s a refurb, but Apple’s refurbished Mac Studio comes thoroughly tested for functionality, with a one-year warranty, free delivery, and genuine Apple replacement parts.

Of course, they also receive a “thorough cleaning” before shipping. Not only that, but they come with all the cables and accessories you’d get from a brand new model at full price.

All in all, this is a pretty good value, and if you’re looking to save a couple of hundred bucks, this is a pretty good route to take.

Refurbished Mac Studio models are available now on Apple’s website for customers in the United States, Canada, and select European countries, such as Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• M2-powered MacBook Air is reportedly coming on July 15
• This new MacBook case turns your laptop into an actual book
• Apple’s stock MacBook Pro M2 SSD is slower than the M1 model
• The M2 MacBook Pro is reportedly 20% faster than the M1 version

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Apple now sells refurbished Mac Studio models at 10% off appeared first on KnowTechie.

According to researchers, Apple M1 chips are vulnerable due to a security feature called pointer authentication codes (PAC).

This security feature protects the CPU against any attackers that may have somehow gained access to the memory and beyond. The “pointers” store memory addresses. PAC searches for pointer changes as a result of any attacks.

READ MORE: Google researcher goes on leave after claiming AI is sentient

But while this isn’t something that can easily be patched out, there does seem to be a way to resolve it, at least somewhat. MIT CSAIL researchers discovered that a special hardware attack can bypass the PAC check failsafe.

The cleverly-named “PACMAN” attack can simply seek out the correct value that can let hackers bypass the pointer authentication. The result? The attack still commences.

MIT CSAIL notes that this could grow into a much larger issue. Attacks can be performed remotely, which makes it an even bigger problem. And since it’s a vulnerability that exploits hardware, pushing a software patch will do nothing.

Perhaps the worst part is that Arm processors with pointer authentication are all at risk — so this goes beyond being just an M1 issue.

Apple recently announced the M2 chip during its most recent WWDC keynote. It’s unclear whether the M2 has been tested to feature this same flaw.

Apple has yet to comment on the situation, and it’s unclear how the issue will ultimately be resolved. We’ll be keeping an eye out on where things go from here.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple’s $599 iPad Air features a speedy M1 chip, 5G, and an improved camera
• Chrome is now the fastest web browser for M1 Macs
• If you just got a new M1 Mac, make sure you’re using the right version of Google Chrome
• Does the iPhone 13 use Apple’s M1 chip?

The post MIT researchers say security flaw in Apple’s M1 chip can’t be fixed appeared first on KnowTechie.

When Google took the lead in March, it shared that it was done on a MacBook Pro with the ten-core M1 Max CPU paired with 64GB of RAM. Is that the same machine Google used this time? We don’t know, as the Google Chrome team didn’t share details this time around.

What we do know is that in March, Chrome posted a score of 300 on the Speedometer 2.0 benchmark. This time around, it increased that to 360, which is a hefty boost.

READ MORE: Chrome on iOS can soon autofill passwords across any app

To put that into some context, my gaming PC is powered by an i9-9900K and an RTX 3070. The same Speedometer 2.0 benchmark in Incognito in Google Chrome M102 gets 183. That’s two more points than I got using Chrome M99, but that’s within the margin of error.

The point here isn’t just that Google Chrome is faster than any other browser on macOS. It’s also faster than any other browser I tested on my Windows 11 PC. Firefox gets a paltry 139 on the same benchmark for me.

That means that the improvements to Google Chrome that make it the fastest on M1-powered Macs, also translate to any other desktop you’ll run it on.

Those improvements also carry over to the mobile app, with Android Police finding that Chrome on Android decreases page load times by about 15%.

You might have misgivings about Chrome’s dominance of the modern web, but as long as it keeps being fast, users will stay using it.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• This Google-less Android smartphone is meant for privacy
• DuckDuckGo is tracking you even though it is a ‘private’ browser
• This Chrome extension helps you read better and faster
• Microsoft Edge is now the second most popular desktop browser

The post Google Chrome is still the fastest browser on Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

Sometimes a simple minus symbol isn’t enough, and a longer en or em dash is more fitting for the occasion.

Generally, you can type most common symbols by hitting the right keys at the right time and, quite often, in the right order. Let’s discuss how to type en and em dashes on Windows and Mac.

How to type en and em dash on Windows

READ MORE: How to add a printer to Mac

When it comes to dropping dashes in Windows, you have several options. A simple key combination is the quickest method, or you can opt for Alt codes if you prefer to hit a few extra buttons.

And if all else fails, the character viewer can step in to save the situation. Let’s go over the options for Windows.

Using key combinations on Windows

Here are the key combinations for the en and em dashes on Windows:

• En (–) dash: Ctrl + Minus (-)
• Em (—) dash: Ctrl + Alt + Minus (-)

Using Alt codes to type en and em dashes on Windows

Here’s how to type en and em dashes using Windows Alt codes:

• En (–) dash: Hold Alt, press 8211, and release Alt
• Em (—) dash: Hold Alt, press 8212, and release Alt

Using character viewer

Here’s how to insert an en or em dash using the Windows character viewer:

1. Open the character viewer using Windows + Period (.) and click the Symbols button

2. Locate the En (–) or Em (—) dash and click to insert

Now, you are fully equipped with the knowledge to add all the dashes you want on Windows.

How to type en and em dash on Mac

In macOS, dropping dashes is as easy as hitting a few keys.

Or if you prefer to do things the hard way—or if your keyboard has malfunctioned—you can use the character viewer instead. Let’s go over the options for macOS.

Using key combinations on macOS

Here are the key combinations for the en and em dashes on Mac:

• En (–) dash: Option (⌥) + Minus (-)
• Em (—) dash: Shift (⇧) + Option (⌥) + Minus (-)

Using character viewer to type en and em dashes on Mac

Here’s how to insert an en or em dash using the macOS character viewer:

Multiple ways to drop a dash

Dropping dashes is a great way to give your punctuation some style and flair. Key combinations keep it simple, while character viewers offer a more tedious alternative.

If none of the methods mentioned work for you, you could always try disguising a collection of minuses as the dash you want to drop—and hope that no one notices.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Here’s how to start a Mac in safe mode
• How to stop Chrome from saving history on Windows and Mac
• Here’s how to enable ‘Voice Isolation’ mode on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
• How to copy multiple items to the clipboard on Windows and Mac

The post How to type an en dash and em dash on Windows and Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

Of course, you can still use the TweetDeck web app in a browser, but it’s not the same thing. The TweetDeck Mac app was the last remnant of TweetDeck’s standalone app. The Windows version and both mobile versions were phased out years ago.

So that leaves a lot of Mac users in the dark when it comes to apps for their favorite social media platform.

So, what is the best TweetDeck alternative for Mac users?

Fortunately, there are a few alternatives out there that might be able to replace TweetDeck, at least in some fashion. Let’s see what apps are out there.

Twitter for Mac

The obvious replacement option for TweetDeck would be the Twitter for Mac app. But considering it’s the official app for the platform, you would think it would be more popular than TweetDeck originally, right?

Well, that’s just not the case. The Twitter app for Mac is very similar to Twitter.com in your web browser. It’s a great option for reading and composing tweets. You can also use the app to send direct messages and browse the platform using the search feature.

But it doesn’t contain some of the useful extra features that are found on TweetDeck. You can’t schedule tweets for certain times, and you can’t set up multiple feeds. It’s a great option if you’re used to using the regular Twitter web app, but it’s not much more than that.

You can get the official Twitter app for free on the Mac App Store.

Tweeten

Another alternative to TweetDeck is Tweeten. And this option is much closer to the functionality of TweetDeck. Tweeten is actually based on the TweetDeck app and carries with it a lot of the same tools and features.

Like TweetDeck, Tweeten can be used to separate your timeline into different columns however you’d like. You can also schedule tweets and manage multiple accounts from the Tweeten app.

For fans of the TweetDeck app on Mac, Tweeten is most likely the best replacement option available. It is built upon the TweetDeck platform itself. And it provides a lot of the same tools and features that TweetDeck users have become familiar with.

Tweeten is available as a free download on the app’s website.

Twitterrific for Mac

Twitterific is another storied Twitter app for Mac that has been around for a long time. Originally developed back in 2007, Twitterrific has evolved over the years to deliver an alternative to the main Twitter app with a few extra features.

The main selling point of the Twitterrific Mac app is the ability to set up multiple timelines in columns, similar to what you can find in TweetDeck. This makes it a good option for users that need to manage more than one Twitter account at a time.

Additionally, the Twitterrific app syncs your reading positions across your other devices, such as iPad or iPhone. That means you can easily pick up where you left off in the timeline when you switch to the app on a different device.

Twitterrific is the first paid app on this list, available as a one-time purchase of $7.99 from the Mac App Store.

TweetBot for Mac

The final TweetDeck alternative on our list is TweetBot for Mac. The app is similar to Twitterrific in that it offers something similar to the original Twitter experience with multiple timelines broken out into columns.

The app also features similar iCloud syncing capabilities so you can easily pick up where you left off in the app on another device. And Tweetbot has a few extra features, as well, that are unique to the app.

One of the cooler unique features is the ability to leave notes on people’s profiles. If you ever have a hard time remembering why you follow someone, you can add notes to act as quick reminders that show up when you navigate to someone’s profile.

Tweetbot is available for download on Mac at the company’s website. It comes with a 14-day free trial but will cost $9.99 if you want to continue using it after that.

Say goodbye to TweetDeck for Mac and hello to something new

The days of a standalone TweetDeck for Mac are over, but the app had a good run. And at least you can always still use the app through a web browser if you really can’t live without it.

But as one figurative social media doop closes, another opens. The end of the TweetDeck for Mac app paves the way for a new app to take its place.

While none of these apps mentioned are exact replacements for TweetDeck, they all offer some extra level of functionality that you don’t find at Twitter.com.

And these apps are constantly growing and evolving. Who knows, you might try one of these alternatives out and find that you like it better than the TweetDeck app anyway.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How many Twitter bots are there really? And does it even matter?
• Facebook is axing its creepy Nearby Friends feature
• Instagram adds Amber Alerts for missing kids in your feed
• TikTok is now testing in-app video games

The post The best TweetDeck alternatives for Mac users appeared first on KnowTechie.

That means the only way to use TweetDeck will be through the web app. Twitter already axed the Windows version of TweetDeck in 2016. The iOS, Android, and Adobe AIR versions disappeared in 2013.

Now the Mac app is also disappearing on July 1. Twitter says that it’s to “focus on making TweetDeck even better and testing our new Preview.” RIP to the Mac app, you’ve been our friendly companion for a decade now.

READ MORE: The best TweetDeck alternatives for Mac users

Due to Twitter’s shutdown of the TweetDeck for Mac app, the web application will be the only option. That still looks the same as it did years ago unless you’re in the preview beta.

That said, you can hack your way into the beta by changing a small string in the developer view of your browser.

The other recent TweetDeck news is that Twitter might be limiting access to those who subscribe to Twitter Blue. That would suck for those of us who prefer to use TweetDeck.

Then again, if revenue is coming in, maybe Twitter can actually update the web app and give us new desktop apps.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Twitter has to pay $150 million for misusing people’s phone numbers
• Facebook is axing its creepy Nearby Friends feature
• This iPhone trick takes your Instagram Stories to the next level
• TikTok is now testing in-app video games

The post RIP: The TweetDeck app for Mac is dead appeared first on KnowTechie.

Because safe mode disables certain launch items and caches, it’s great for isolating the root cause of a problem. In some cases, booting to safe mode alone is enough to fix an issue.

Let’s discuss exactly what safe mode does, how to boot to it, and how to use it as a troubleshooting tool.

What does Mac’s safe mode do?

When you boot to safe mode, macOS performs a disk check during startup. If your Mac is failing to boot, sometimes the automatic repair process is enough to resolve the issue.

Safe mode also prevents the operating system from loading startup items, third-party fonts, and system caches. If a sketchy piece of software or corrupted cache is causing problems, the issue shouldn’t occur in safe mode.

Additionally, some hardware, such as USB peripherals, may not work in this boot mode, which can make troubleshooting difficult. However, most onboard devices should still function.

How to start a Mac in safe mode on an Apple silicon Mac

Here’s how to boot an Apple silicon Mac into safe mode:

If you have FileVault enabled, you’ll see a normal login screen first. Once you’ve unlocked the disk, you should come to a second login screen with Safe Boot appearing in red in the top right corner.

Due to the disk check and not using caches, macOS takes longer to load when booting to safe mode, so don’t panic if the loading bar appears to be hanging.

You may also notice that, once booted, your machine feels slow and clunky. Safe mode is basically a bare-bones version of the OS, so performance issues and glitches are normal.

How to boot to safe mode on an Intel Mac

Here’s how to boot an Intel Mac into safe mode:

1. Turn your Mac on and hold Shift
2. When a loading bar or login screen appears, release the Shift key

That’s it. It really is that easy.

What to do when an issue doesn’t occur in safe mode

If safe mode resolves an issue, you should first try rebooting as normal and seeing if the problem persists. If so, it’s time to start pulling files.

To access caches and launch agents in the user library, you’ll need to launch Finder, click Go in the top menu bar, hold the Option key, and select the hidden Library entry from the list.

Here’s a list of locations that could harbor problem items that safe mode disables:

• System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items
• ~/Library/Caches
• /Library/Caches
• /System/Library/Caches
• ~/LaunchAgents
• /Library/LaunchAgents
• /Library/LaunchDaemons
• /Library/StartupItems

While none of the items in the listed locations are essential, you should move them to your desktop instead of deleting them completely.

Some of the files may be necessary for certain third-party apps to function correctly. Once you’ve identified the culprit, you can return the other items to their original folders.

When removing Login Items, you’ll need to click an entry to highlight it and then click the Minus (-) button to delete. Ticking the Hide box simply hides the item on startup.

Add safe mode to your troubleshooting toolbox

Safe mode can be useful, but it may not always yield results. While problems caused by third-party apps are almost always resolved with this boot mode, glitches in the operating system itself are more difficult to isolate.

Safe mode is a versatile troubleshooting tool, but it shouldn’t be the only one in your toolbox. For some issues, you’ll need the whole hardware store.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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The post How to start a Mac in safe mode appeared first on KnowTechie.

This is a huge update and it brings a necessary accessibility feature to any source of sound. AI will listen in to your videos, video calls, or audio, and give you text captions in real-time.

Additionally, group FaceTime calls can use the feature and Mac users will be able to have their typed responses read out loud. Apple also notes that live captioning lives on your device, so data isn’t shared.

The features will be extremely helpful for anyone with hearing issues, which is one in eight people in the United States. It’s also great for watching late-night movies with the sound off, so you don’t disturb your significant other.

READ MORE: How to start a Mac in safe mode

Android users have actually had this feature since late last year on Pixel handsets and some select devices from other manufacturers.

Other accessibility features coming to Apple products

Apple Watch is getting a new mirroring feature, which will enable you to use your iPhone’s screen to control it.

The feature works in tandem with the iPhone’s other assistive features, like Voice Control and Switch control. Apple says new improvements in AirPlay power this feature, and it looks powerful.

READ MORE: USB-C is reportedly coming to the base iPad this fall

A new accessibility feature, Door Detection, uses the LiDAR sensor in some iPad and iPhone models to tell low vision users if there is a door in front of them.

The feature can figure out if the door is open, tell the user how far away from it they are, and even if it’s open, closed, or what type of handle they need to use to open it.

This will live in a new detection mode inside Magnifier, which can also do People Detection and Image Descriptions for those with low vision.

Apple’s Live Caption feature and the rest of the new accessibility features will be coming later this year.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple’s App Store can now increase subscription prices without asking
• iOS 15.5 is here – update your iPhone ASAP
• Google’s AR project shows what real-world subtitles could look like
• Google adds virtual credit cards to Chrome to keep you safe online

The post Apple is bringing live captioning to iPhone, iPad, and Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

While maintaining a record of previous sites visited can be handy, you may not want your browser noting every online move you make. Fortunately, you have the power to decide when to leave the history books—or logs—blank.

Let’s discuss how to stop Google Chrome from recording history in Windows 11 and macOS.

Use Chrome Incognito to prevent saving browser history

READ MORE: How to view and edit saved passwords in Google Chrome

Here’s how to enable Chrome Incognito mode in Windows and Mac browsers:

1. Launch Google Chrome
2. Click the Menu (three dots) button and select New Incognito Window

That’s it. Stopping Chrome from saving your browsing history couldn’t be easier. On top of that, Incognito prevents the app from storing cookies, form information, and other website data.

Lock the Chrome history file to prevent saving information

If Incognito isn’t your style and you’d prefer a more persistent solution, you can deny Chrome access to the history file. The relevant item resides in slightly different places in Windows and macOS.

How to lock the Chrome History file in Windows

Here’s how to lock the Chrome history file in Windows:

1. Launch File Explorer and enter C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default in the search box. Replace [User Name] with the current user account

2. Right-click the History file and select Properties

3. Tick Read-only and click Apply

Once you’ve locked the item, Chrome will no longer be able to write information to that file, which means it won’t record any history.

How to lock the Chrome History on Mac

Here’s how to lock the Chrome history file in macOS:

1. Launch Finder and click Go > Go to Folder

2. Enter ~/Library/Application Support/Google/Chrome/Default and press Return

3. Control-click the History file and select Get info

4. Tick Locked

READ MORE: How to add a printer to Mac

You can, of course, unlock the file at any time to continue writing history.

Use a Chrome extension to prevent saving browser history

If you’d prefer to have an extension do the heavy lifting, No History is the solution. The add-on automatically prevents Chrome from saving browsing info outside of Incognito mode, but you have to set it up first.

Here’s how to install the Chrome No History extension:

1. Go to the No History extension page and click Add to Chrome

2. Click Continue and install and Add extension when prompted

You can switch No History on or off at any time by clicking the Extension (jigsaw) button and selecting the appropriate item in the list.

From here, you’ll see the options to Stop Recording and Clear your current history.

Bonus: Use Registry Editor to stop Chrome from saving history in Windows

While we’ve discussed some of the simpler solutions, we understand that some people like to do things the hard way. Therefore, we’ll also cover the slightly more complex Registry Editor method.

Here’s how to use Registry Editor to stop Chrome saving history in Windows 11:

If you want Chrome to start saving history again, all you need to do is change the value back to 0.

Chrome doesn’t need to save your browsing history

While browsing history has been a standard feature since the early days of the internet, it isn’t entirely necessary.

Sure, keeping a record of previous activity is useful, especially when you need to locate forgotten information, but you don’t need to commit every page you visit to the history books.

While knowing where we’ve been is important, we should perhaps pay more attention to where we are and where we’re going next.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to update Google Chrome on basically any device
• Here’s how to enable Google Chrome’s secret Reader Mode
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The post How to stop Chrome from saving history on Windows and Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.