Online Tech Tips https://www.online-tech-tips.com Computer Tips from a Computer Guy Sun, 27 Aug 2023 15:19:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.3 HP DeskJet vs OfficeJet Printers: What’s Different? https://www.online-tech-tips.com/gadgets/hp-deskjet-vs-officejet-printers-whats-different/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/gadgets/hp-deskjet-vs-officejet-printers-whats-different/#disqus_thread Sydney Butler]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97808

The paperless office has yet to happen, so printers are still very much with us. Hewlett-Packard (HP) is one of the best-known printer makers in the world, and their HP […]]]>
The paperless office has yet to happen, so printers are still very much with us. Hewlett-Packard (HP) is one of the best-known printer makers in the world, and their HP DeskJet and the OfficeJet series form their main lines.

The HP DeskJet and OfficeJet printers both belong to the inkjet printer family. However, while the former is geared toward home use, the latter is designed to cater to the demands of a small business or home office. This difference in their intended audience significantly influences their feature sets and which line of printers is right for you.

In this article, we’ll review what makes each type of HP printer unique and whether you should invest in a home-grade printer or one designed for business needs.

HP DeskJet

HP DeskJets are all-in-one inkjet printers built with home users in mind. They are compact, affordable, and simple to use. They are perfect for occasional printing tasks, including text documents, homework assignments, and photo printing.

DeskJet printers use two ink cartridges, one for black ink and the other for color. They deliver decent print quality with a resolution of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, depending on the model.

Note: There are some exceptions to the two-cartridge setup most DeskJets use. For example, the DeskJet 3520 used a four-cartridge system, so be sure to confirm the system your specific DeskJet uses before buying,

The print speed is relatively slow, with most models producing about ten pages per minute (ppm) in black-and-white and seven ppm in color. Home users generally are fine with this print speed, and if you need large amounts of black-and-white printing at home at reasonable speeds, you’re better off going for a laser printer instead.

The DeskJet series is known for its various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi Direct. The HP Smart app allows for easy mobile printing from smartphones or tablets. Some models even offer borderless photo printing, an excellent feature for photo enthusiasts. We spend so much time taking awesome photos with modern smartphone cameras that it makes sense to show some off as physical prints!

Tip: If you’re specifically looking for a photo printing solution for smartphone photos, consider something like the HP Sprocket, which turns your smartphone into the equivalent of a Polaroid camera.

While most HP DeskJets might not come with a touchscreen, the included software and the intuitive button layout make their operation straightforward. These printers typically don’t have an automatic document feeder or double-sided printing, features more common in office-oriented models.

DeskJet printers come with a warranty geared to home use and vary depending on the model and where you purchase them. You can find a range of HP DeskJet printers on Amazon and most similar retailers, offering different features. While DeskJets are meant for home users, there’s a significant difference between models, so business customers should pay attention to DeskJets in principle, especially if you’re looking for a personal, single-user inkjet for work.

HP OfficeJet Pro

OfficeJet Pro printers are more robust and feature-packed compared to their DeskJet counterparts. In some models, these all-in-one printers are multifunction printers capable of copying, scanning, and even faxing (remember that?). The HP OfficeJet Pro series is particularly popular among small businesses.

One of the distinguishing features of the OfficeJet printer series is its print speed. Some models can reach speeds of up to 20 ppm for black-and-white documents and 11 ppm for color documents. They also typically offer higher print quality with a resolution of up to 4800 x 2400 dpi.

OfficeJets use separate ink cartridges for each color, which can save cost as you only need to replace the color that has run out.

Note: As with DeskJet printers, there are exceptions regarding the ink cartridge setup. While OfficeJet printers tend to use separate ink cartridges, there are models, such as the OfficeJet 3830, which use a tricolor tank and a black ink tank.

Another cost-saving feature is the HP Instant Ink service, which automatically delivers ink cartridges when your printer is low on ink.

OfficeJets also boast (generally) superior connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and even NFC in some models. Like the DeskJet series, they support mobile printing through the HP Smart app and have Wi-Fi Direct capabilities.

Other professional features in OfficeJet include an automatic document feeder for multi-page scanning or copying, duplex printing, and a larger paper tray capacity. Higher-end models come with a touchscreen for more straightforward navigation. They also offer more robust warranty options to match their business-oriented use.

HP Enterprise – Big Business!

The HP OfficeJet Enterprise series targeted larger businesses with higher printing volumes. These printers were designed to meet the demands of a busy office environment, offering faster print speeds, larger paper tray capacities, and more robust construction than typical home models.

While the OfficeJet Enterprise printer line seems to be discontinued as of this writing, you can still buy them refurbished or as new, in cases where new stock is still available.

A notable feature of the OfficeJet Enterprise series is its exceptionally high print speed, with some models reaching up to 75 pages per minute.

The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6701dn Printer is $2000+ of hot laser death for print jobs.

They also offer high-resolution printing at up to 2400 x 1200 dpi for color prints, ensuring crisp and vibrant outputs. Additionally, these printers support high-capacity ink cartridges, helping businesses manage their printing costs more effectively.

Designed for large-scale, multifunction use, these printers also support advanced features like automatic duplex printing and scanning, touchscreen controls, and network connectivity options. Thus, the OfficeJet Enterprise series provides a reliable, high-performance printing solution for businesses with demanding printing needs.

The OfficeJet Enterprise printers were replaced by the HP PageWide Enterprise inkjet printers, but these have also been discontinued.It seems that HP’s Enterprise line is now almost entirely focused on color and mono laser printers, in the form of LaserJet Enterprise products.

Don’t Forget About OfficeJet Mobile

The OfficeJet Mobile series from HP caters specifically to those needing printing solutions on the go. These printers, designed with mobility in mind, are compact and lightweight. Despite their diminutive stature, they maintain many essential OfficeJet series features, including versatile connectivity and reliable print quality.

The HP OfficeJet 200 Portable Printer isn’t exactly pocket size, but it is mobile and battery-powered.

Much like their full-sized counterparts, the mobile variants provide up to 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution for color prints. Their print speed is competitive, with up to 10 ppm for monochrome prints and seven ppm for color. They employ two cartridges, one black, and one tri-color. Users can also enrol in HP’s Instant Ink service for convenient cartridge replacement. However, these printers have a smaller paper tray capacity and usually lack the automatic duplex printing feature due to size constraints.

The OfficeJet Mobile series is an interesting adaptation of the traditional OfficeJet line, focusing on portability. In some ways, OfficeJet mobile printers are like portable DeskJet printers when you compare their specs and features.

What About the HP Envy Range?

The HP Envy printer range offers a unique aesthetic design and functionality blend. These all-in-one color inkjet printers deliver high-quality prints, scans, and copies, ideal for various tasks at home. The Envy printers yield crisp, vibrant results with print resolutions similar to the DeskJet and OfficeJet series at 4800 x 1200 dpi for color prints. However, their print speed is typically slower, with around ten ppm for black and seven ppm for color prints.

The Envy series also has integration with the HP Smart app. This lets users control their printer directly from their smartphone, offering mobile printing capabilities and convenient printer management. Envy printers also provide robust networking, including Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi Direct. Some also support HP Instant Ink service for convenient ink management.

Despite their functionality, Envy printers are not designed for high-volume printing. They are more suited for moderate home use, as their paper tray capacity and durability may not withstand heavy-duty printing tasks. If you were considering one of the HP DeskJet models, you should also include the Envy range since there is considerable overlap in their intended audiences.

DeskJet vs. OfficeJet: Which Is Right for You?

The choice between a DeskJet and an OfficeJet printer largely depends on your printing volume and the types of documents you need to print.

If you need a printer for occasional use at home, the DeskJet series offers a good blend of affordability and functionality. It handles everyday printing tasks effectively while maintaining a compact footprint. Its competitors in the home use category include printers such as Canon Pixma and Epson. If a DeskJet sounds right for you, make sure to also look at the Envy range.

On the other hand, if you have a home office or run a small business, the OfficeJet series could be a more appropriate choice. It’s designed for higher volume printing and includes more advanced features, such as duplex printing, faster print speeds, and robust connectivity options. Its main competitors in this category include the HP Laserjet series, which are monochrome and color laser printers, and other brands like Canon and Epson.

Laser printing, especially in color, has come a long way in the last few years, and for any business we’d recommend looking at these printers first, unless you absolutely need a high-volume photo printer as well.

Laser printers use toner cartridges instead of ink, offering faster print speeds and better text quality. However, they can be more expensive initially and are usually bulkier than their inkjet counterparts. In terms of per-page printing cost, however, laserjet printers quickly pay for themselves.

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How to Fix Hulu ”Your Login Has Been Blocked” Error https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-hulu-your-login-has-been-blocked-error/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-hulu-your-login-has-been-blocked-error/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97800

Are you trying to log in to your Hulu account but keep getting the “Your login has been blocked” error message? Don’t worry; it’s usually pretty easy to fix. Below, […]]]>
Are you trying to log in to your Hulu account but keep getting the “Your login has been blocked” error message? Don’t worry; it’s usually pretty easy to fix.

Below, we’ll explain what causes the Hulu login blocked error and what you can do to fix it.

What Causes the Hulu Login Blocked Error?

Hulu login issues error occurs when you receive one of the following messages:

  1. Your login has been blocked
  2. Error: Your login has been blocked
  3. Your login is invalid. Please try again.

There are a few possible reasons that you’re getting this error message when trying to sign in, including:

  1. Incorrect login credentials
  2. Problems with your Hulu subscription, such as receiving a ban for violating the Terms of Services
  3. Glitches arising from the Hulu app, Hulu servers, or your web browser
  4. Internet connection issues, such as using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to connect to Hulu
  5. Problems arising from changing house or IP address

How to Fix Hulu Login Blocked Glitch

Because there are several possible causes for this error, there are multiple things you can do to fix it. Below, we’ll explain six potential fixes for the Hulu login blocked error, starting with the simplest and progressing to more complicated solutions.

1. Double-Check Your Login Credentials

Make sure you’re signing in with the correct email address and password. While this seems obvious, sometimes it’s easy to forget that you have multiple accounts for a single service.

If you pay for Hulu via a third-party service like Amazon Prime, Apple, Roku, Spotify, or T-Mobile, you’ll have to use the email address and password for that service.

If you still can’t sign in on the account page, try resetting your Hulu password. You should receive a password reset confirmation email and be able to create a new password easily.

If you’ve forgotten which email address you used to sign up for Hulu, you can find out how to recover it using Hulu’s Account Recovery tool.

2. Make Sure You’re Signed Up

When you sign up for Hulu (especially if you sign up through a bundle package), you’ll have to activate your Hulu account before you can log in to the app or website.

Here’s how to activate your account depending on which service you signed up through:

  1. Disney Bundle
  2. Spotify Premium for Students
  3. Hulu with T-Mobile Unlimited

If you’ve activated your account but still can’t sign in, it’s worth checking that your subscription is still active. Something may have gone wrong with your auto-renewal payment method that prevented it from going through. This just means you need to update your payment information and renew your subscription.

3. Restart the Hulu App or Web Browser

You’ve probably already tried this, but just in case, try resetting your Hulu app or web browser. Simply close the program, wait a few seconds, and start it again. Occasionally, this can clear up random connection glitches and get the Hulu service working again.

Note: There may be an issue with the Hulu service, so it’s worth checking whether other users report problems. To do so, head to the Down Detector website or search social media for mentions.

4. Troubleshoot Your Internet Connection

Streaming services require a fairly decent internet connection to work effectively. If your internet is playing up or your network connection isn’t up to speed, you’ll likely experience issues while trying to watch Hulu.

See our in-depth guide on troubleshooting an internet connection.

This is especially true if you use Hulu through a Live TV plan since you need to configure your home network settings through the service. Unfortunately, you can only change this four times a year, so make sure you need to.

Likewise, if you’ve only logged in on mobile and not your home account in 30 days, you might need to log in to your home account before it works again.

Note: VPNs often cause issues with streaming services, as they’re usually banned to prevent people from faking their geolocation. Try disabling your VPN or proxy network and logging in.

5. Update the Hulu App to the Latest Version

If you stream Hulu via the app, and something’s going wrong, it might need an update. Often, updates clear up residual bugs, improve performance, and provide security patches that protect your accounts — so they’re worth it.

How you update your Hulu app will depend on your device.

To update the Android app:

  1. Open Google Play Store, then select your Profile icon.
  2. Select Manage apps and device and select Hulu in the Manage tab.
  1. Tap Update.

To update the iOS app on iPhone or iPad:

  1. Open the App Store and select Updates.
  2. Find Hulu, then select Update if available.

For other devices, like a Smart TV, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or PlayStation, you’ll need to navigate the software or system settings and update the app manually. If you’re finding it hard, you can see how to update every device at Hulu.com.

Note: If the Hulu app still doesn’t work, you could uninstall the app and re-download it from the app store. While frustrating, it may help clear the Hulu error and get the app working again.

6. Clear Your Web Browser and App Cache

Occasionally, app and browser caches can become corrupted, causing many problems. To fix this, clearing the cache, resetting errors, and getting the app working correctly once again is possible.

To clear your cache on a web browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, head to Settings > History > Clear History. There’s usually an option to check and clear the “Cache.” Check out our guide to see how to clear the cache on any browser.

To clear the Hulu cache on an Android mobile device:

  1. Open Settings > Apps.
  1. Select Hulu and tap Storage.
  1. Tap Clear cache.

To clear the Hulu cache on iPhone:

  1. Press and hold the Hulu icon on your home screen, then press the X. Press it again and tap Delete.

Note: Check the device’s settings menu for other devices or refer to the manufacturer’s guide.

Keep Watching Your Favorite Movies

Hopefully, this troubleshooting guide has helped you unblock your Hulu account and get back to watching your favorite movies and TV shows. If not, your last option is to contact Hulu’s customer support and walk them through your problem — hopefully, they’ll get you back up to speed in no time.

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How to Use Midjourney on Discord https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ai-tools-guides/how-to-use-midjourney-on-discord/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ai-tools-guides/how-to-use-midjourney-on-discord/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97789

Midjourney is an AI image generator that provides some of the best results of any AI image generator out there. You can’t just download an AI app to use Midjourney, […]]]>
Midjourney is an AI image generator that provides some of the best results of any AI image generator out there. You can’t just download an AI app to use Midjourney, though — the only way to use it is through Discord, the social app. Because getting started using Midjourney can be tricky, we’ll show you how to use Midjourney on Discord, including how to sign up, generate and edit images, and ensure you’re getting the results you want.

How to Sign Up for Midjourney

First things first, you’ll need a Discord account. Assuming you already have one, it’s time to sign up for Midjourney.

  1. Go to the Midjourney website.
  2. Click Join the Beta to automatically open an invite to join the Midjourney Discord channel.
  3. Click Accept Invite to join the channel.

Midjourney generally offers a free trial to new members, with around 25 free images, but as of the time of publication of this article (July 2023), free trials have been suspended due to abuse of the system. Though they may be reinstated at some point, the only way to use Midjourney is to subscribe to a paid plan.

How to Subscribe to Midjourney

Here’s how to set up your Midjourney subscription:

  1. Open the Discord app or sign in via the Discord website.
  2. Navigate to the Midjourney channel and press the Menu button (three stacked horizontal lines) at the top left of your screen.
  3. Scroll down until you see a list of Newcomer Rooms.
  4. Select one — it doesn’t matter which one. Rooms are typically named “# newbies – xxx
  5. In the message field at the bottom of your screen, type /subscribe, then hit Return or Enter. Note: This “/” command is a slash command that lets you communicate with Midjourney and other bots on Discord.
  6. A link with details for signing up for a paid Midjourney subscription should open. Tap Open Subscription Page, then tap Visit Site to confirm you want to continue to the subscription page.
  1. Choose the plan you want, from the Basic Plan with around 200 image generations per month to the Pro Plan, which offers unlimited relaxed image generations.
  2. Hit Subscribe, enter your billing details, then tap Subscribe.
  3. You’re now subscribed to Midjourney, and should see a confirmation screen. Tap Close.
  4. You should also receive an email confirming your subscription.

How to Generate Images on Midjourney

To get started generating images on Midjourney, you can use a #newbies channel, but it can get hectic with prompts constantly being posted. However, it’s a good way to see what prompts other people are posting, and what works.

You can also send commands to the Midjourney Bot via DM. Note that these prompts and generated images will still appear in the member’s gallery unless you’re a Pro Plan subscriber.

We recommend starting in a #newbies channel and moving to DM once you’ve got the hang of things.

Here’s how to get started generating images in a #newbies channel.

  1. In the message box at the bottom of your screen (in the channel of your choice), type /imagine and then hit the prompt box that pops up.
  2. Tap back in the message box, then type your prompt and hit Enter. For example, “/imagine a green forest with a black cat lying in a pool of sunshine.
  3. You should see a message from the Midjourney Bot with your prompt, which says “Waiting to Start.”
  4. Once the job has started, you’ll see a percentage progress.
  1. Within a minute or so, you’ll be presented with four variations on your prompt.
  2. To see your images in more detail, just tap or click on them and zoom in.
  3. If you’re happy with your results, you can long-press or right-click on the generated images and select Save, Share, or Open in Browser.

The next step is editing your images to get the desired results.

How to Edit Images on Midjourney

Underneath the generated images, you’ll see eight buttons: U1, U2, U3, U4, V1, V2, V3, and V4. The U buttons are for upscaling the selected image, so you’ll get a larger and more detailed version. The V buttons create four new variations of that specific image, with the same composition and style.

If you’re unhappy with any of the generated images, you can also hit Re-roll to re-run your prompt, generating four new images. Play around with things, as it’s all a matter of learning how Midjourney works and what prompts will get you the best results.

For example, here’s how to create four new variations of an image that you quite like but want to change slightly:

  1. In this instance, we like image 1, so we tap V1 to create four new variations of that image.
  2. The Midjourney Bot confirms it’s creating four variations of the requested image.
  3. You can click Cancel Job at any time if you change your mind.
  4. Once the bot has finished creating your variations, it will display them, and you’ll see the same buttons underneath to upscale images or create new variations.

How to Ensure Great Results With Midjourney

When you first learn how to use Midjourney on Discord, you’ll likely see experienced creators generating amazing images and wonder how they’re doing it. That can be a bit disheartening, but remember, they started out as a beginner at some point too. Getting excellent results from any AI image generator is all about writing great prompts. The notable thing about Midjourney is that it provides amazing results even from basic prompts, so it’s easy to get started using the tool.

Here are some tips to help you get great results every time:

  • Be specific about what you want, but don’t over-describe. If you’re unsure how to write great prompts, check out some YouTube videos, or look at what prompts others use in a #newbies channel.
  • The devil really is in the details. Think about every aspect of your image, from color to lighting, mood to environment, and the subject to the medium.
  • Use your own images. You can add images to prompts by pasting in a URL. You can add your image to Discord by pressing the + in the message bar, then dragging it into the prompt to add the URL automatically. Don’t forget that any images you add will be visible to everyone else in the channel.
  • You could upload a few images and use the /blend command to merge them.

We hope this has helped you learn how to use Midjourney on Discord, including signing up for Midjourney and generating your own images. We’d recommend reading Midjourney’s help docs for advice on prompting, multi-prompts, and more. There’s a lot to learn, and you can sink hours and hours into becoming proficient with Midjourney, but the results are worth the effort.

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How to Replay a Snap on Snapchat https://www.online-tech-tips.com/fun-stuff/how-to-replay-a-snap-on-snapchat/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/fun-stuff/how-to-replay-a-snap-on-snapchat/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97780

Snapchat is a social media app which allows users to share photos and videos, known as Snaps, with their friends. But what if you miss a Snap from a friend […]]]>
Snapchat is a social media app which allows users to share photos and videos, known as Snaps, with their friends. But what if you miss a Snap from a friend and wish you could see it again? Luckily, Snapchat has a Replay option that lets you watch a snap one more time.

If you’ve ever wished you could replay a photo or video snap on Snapchat to get a better look, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll show you how to use the Snapchat replay feature and ensure you never miss a moment from your friends. Whether it’s a funny photo or an exciting video, you’ll be able to catch every snap with ease. Follow this step-by-step tutorial to learn how to replay snaps on Snapchat.

How to Replay a Snap on Snapchat

After you view Snaps, you can use the Replay feature to see them for the second time. Follow these simple steps to replay a Snap on Snapchat. The instructions are the same for iPhone and Android phone users.

  1. Open Snapchat on your smartphone and view the Snap in question.
  2. If it’s a Snap you haven’t viewed, it’ll be labeled New Snap. After you view it, it’ll change to Opened.
  1. After you view the Snap, make sure you stay on the Chat screen in Snapchat Messages. If you leave the Friends screen, go to another screen within the app, or close the Snapchat app, you won’t be able to use the feature for replaying a Snap.
  2. After viewing the Snap, you’ll see two pieces of text flashing under your friend’s username. One will say Tap to chat, and the other will say Hold to replay.
  1. Press and hold the replay button (or your friend’s name) until their Snap reloads. This process should take a couple of seconds.
  2. When the Snap has loaded, a solid red square will appear next to their name if it’s a photo Snap you’re replaying, and a purple square if it’s a video Snap.
  3. When your friend’s Snap is ready and reloaded, you can replay it by viewing it the way you’d view a regular Snap on the app – by selecting Tap to view.
  4. A pop-up message will appear asking if you’d like to replay the Snap. Select Replay to continue.

Your friend will receive a notification telling them you replayed their Snap, no matter whether it was a photo or a video Snap. After you replay a Snap, you can’t replay it again.

Can You Replay a Snap More Than Once?

Unfortunately, you can only replay a snap once on Snapchat. Taking a screenshot of a Snap also isn’t an option. If Snapchat catches you, it could result in the suspension or banning of your Snapchat account. If you replay a private snap, the person will be able to see that you did so. However, if you replay a public Snapchat story, they won’t be notified of it.

After you’ve used the replay feature to watch a snap again, you won’t be able to use it for that same snap in the future. Make sure you don’t miss any crucial details the first time you view it. However, you can always ask your friends to set their snaps to no time limit or loop, allowing you to view them for as long as you want without the need for replaying.

How to View a Snap More Than Twice

Snapchat has a strict policy of not allowing users to replay snaps more than once. However, some users have found workarounds to view snaps multiple times. Here are some methods you can try:

  • Airplane mode. Enable airplane mode, open Snapchat, and view the snap you want to replay. Close the app and disable airplane mode. When you reopen Snapchat, the snap will still be unopened, allowing you to view it again.
  • Replay from the sender. You can ask the sender to resend the snap to you. Since Snapchat allows the sender to replay their own snaps, they can use their replay to let you view the snap again.
  • Reinstall the app. After viewing the snap in the chat screen, uninstall Snapchat from your device. Then, reinstall the app and log in to your account. The snap you viewed will still appear as unopened and can be viewed again.
  • Clear cache. Clearing the Snapchat cache may also enable you to reopen snaps more than twice. On iOS, you can go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Snapchat > Offload app. On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Snapchat > Storage > Clear Cache.

Note: While these workarounds might be tempting, using unofficial methods or modified apps goes against Snapchat’s policies and could lead to consequences for your account. It’s always best to use Snapchat’s features as intended and respect their terms of service to avoid any issues with your account.

How to Stop Missing Out on Your Friends’ Snaps

Snapchat used to only let photo snaps stay visible for 10 seconds, and video snaps could be watched once before disappearing. Now, users can remove the time limit on their photos and set videos to loop.

Want to see your friends’ snaps without missing any? You can ask them to set their Snaps to loop or remove the time limit on them to help you. When you view a photo Snap with no time limit or a looping video Snap, you can watch it for as long as you like until you tap to close it. You can even replay it if you want.

To do this, tell your friends to select the timer button at the bottom of the vertical menu on the right side of the screen after they send a photo or video Snap.

The timer button looks like a stopwatch with an infinity sign for photo snaps and a circular arrow with an infinity sign for video snaps.

Once they set this up, photo Snaps will have no time limit, and video Snaps will loop automatically. They only need to do this once, and it will be the default setting for all future photo and video snaps.

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Instagram Notes Not Showing/Working? 6 Ways to Fix https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/instagram-notes-not-showing-working-6-ways-to-fix/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/instagram-notes-not-showing-working-6-ways-to-fix/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97770

Instagram Notes is a feature that lets Instagram users leave short notes for those in their friends list to read. The problem is, some people report that the Notes option […]]]>
Instagram Notes is a feature that lets Instagram users leave short notes for those in their friends list to read. The problem is, some people report that the Notes option is disappearing from their Messages page.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explain how to use the Instagram Notes feature and what to do when Instagram Notes is not showing up.

How to Use Instagram Notes

Introduced in late 2022, Instagram Notes is a relatively new feature that lets you leave short text messages for your friends to read at the top of their Chats list. These messages are available on both Android and iOS devices and can be up to 60 characters long.

Instagram will delete Notes after 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories. However, they’re different from DMs. Instead of appearing in your Chats, it’ll show up as a thought bubble underneath your name.

To use the Notes feature:

  1. Open the Instagram app and select the Direct Messages icon at the top-right corner of the app (it looks like the arrow you press to send texts in the messenger).
  1. At the top of your Chats list, you should see your profile icon. Below this, there should be some text saying “Your note”. Select your profile picture.
  1. Tap Share a thought and write your new note.
  2. Choose who to share your note with. You can select Followers you follow back or your Close friends list.
  1. Tap Share.

So, what do you do if this trending feature isn’t showing up? First, you need to work out why. Here are some things that can cause the Instagram Notes feature to disappear:

  1. Your Instagram app is out of date. If you haven’t updated Instagram in a while, the Notes feature might not be installed yet. To fix this, you’ll need to update to the latest version of Instagram.
  2. It isn’t available in your region. The Notes feature isn’t available in every region. If you live in an area where the feature isn’t supported, there’s unfortunately nothing you can do to make it show up. You’ll just have to wait for the Instagram team to roll out the feature in a new update.
  3. The Instagram app is glitching. Occasional bugs and glitches can cause Instagram to stop working correctly. If you previously had the Instagram Notes feature, but it has disappeared, this is the most likely problem.

How to Fix Instagram Notes Not Working

If the Instagram Notes feature is missing, you can fix it as follows:

1. Restart the Instagram App (and Your Phone)

The quickest and easiest way to fix temporary problems on your phone is to restart the app. On your iPhone, swipe up to access the active apps menu, then swipe up on Instagram to close it. On Android, press the Recent apps button (it looks like three vertical lines), then swipe up on Instagram to close it.

If Instagram still doesn’t work, try restarting your phone. On Android, press and hold the power button and volume down button together until the menu appears. Then, press Restart. On iPhone, press and hold either volume button and the side button until the power-off slider appears. Drag the slider, then wait for 30 seconds before turning it back on.

2. Update Instagram

If the Notes feature still isn’t showing up, it’s time to try updating the Instagram app. To do so, open the Google Play Store (on Android) or App Store (on your iOS device) and search for Instagram. Select the Instagram app, then select Update to install the latest version of the app.

3. Enable Activity Status

When your Activity Status is turned on, people who follow you can see if you’re currently active (or when you last were). Some users report that if your Instagram account’s Activity Status is turned off, the Notes feature disappears.

To enable Activity Status:

  1. Open the Instagram app and tap your Profile icon.
  1. Press the More button (it looks like three horizontal lines).
  1. Select Settings and privacy.
  1. Tap Messages and story replies.
  1. Under How others can interact with you, tap Show Activity Status.

6. Check the box next to Show Activity Status.

4. Make a Close Friends List

Because the Notes feature is linked to your close friends list, you may need to create one before it appears. To do so:

  1. Open Instagram then tap your profile icon.
  2. Select the menu icon, then choose Close Friends.
  3. Add people to the contact list and tap Done.

5. Reinstall the Instagram App

The next thing to try is to reinstall the Instagram app. This should clear up any residual bugs and update it to the latest version.

On an Android phone:

  1. Tap and hold the Instagram app.
  2. Select Uninstall.
  1. Confirm your choice, then re-download the app via the Google Play Store.

On an iPhone:

  1. Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
  2. Select Instagram, then tap Offload App.
  3. Select Reinstall App and wait for the process to complete.

6. Contact Instagram Support

If all else fails, your last resort is the Instagram Support team. To do so:

  1. Open Instagram and tap your Instagram profile picture at the bottom-right corner.
  2. Select the Menu icon.
  3. Tap Settings.
  4. Tap Help.
  1. Select Report a problem.
  1. Describe your problem in detail, then select Next and submit the report.

Back to the ‘Gram

Instagram is one of the most popular social media apps on the market today. With a stack of useful features to keep in touch with friends and followers, like Instagram Reels, Stories, and Notes, you’ve got everything you need to blow up and go viral.

Hopefully, with this tutorial, you can get your Notes up and running again on your personal account.

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How to Delete Picsart Video Files on Android Devices https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-delete-picsart-video-files-on-android-devices/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/how-to-delete-picsart-video-files-on-android-devices/#disqus_thread Sodiq Olanrewaju]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97751

Picsart is one of the best photo and video editing apps for Android and iOS devices. The video editor offers a suite of effects, music, AI tools, and templates for […]]]>
Picsart is one of the best photo and video editing apps for Android and iOS devices. The video editor offers a suite of effects, music, AI tools, and templates for creating short clips, slideshows, and videos for social media—TikTok, Instagram, etc.

If you often edit videos with Picsart, unfinished projects and videos files can quickly consume your device’s storage space. This tutorial covers steps for deleting unneeded Picsart video files on Android devices.

Delete Picsart Video Files in Gallery

Picsart video files are accessible in your device’s Gallery or Picture app. Open your phone’s Picture or Gallery app and check the “Videos” folder or category.

Depending on the model of your Android device, you might also find Picsart video files in the “Recents” or “Recently Added Images” category.

Check thumbnails to locate the Picsart video file(s) you want to delete. Tap and hold the video, tap the Delete or Bin icon, and select Delete or Move to Trash.

Delete Picsart Video Files in Your File Manager

You can also find and delete saved Picsart edits through your phone’s built-in File Manager or any third-party file management app.

  1. Open the Videos category in your File Manager app.
  2. Tap the menu icon in the top-right corner, select View, and switch to a List or Detailed List view.
  1. Check for video clips whose filenames start with “Picsart.”

If there are many Picsart video files in the folder, use the creation date and time below to locate a specific video you want to delete. Double-check or preview the video to avoid deleting an important video/file.

  1. Tap and hold the video file(s) you want to delete and tap the Delete icon.
  2. Select Delete or Move to Trash to proceed.

You’ll also find Picsart video files in the “Movies” folder of your device’s internal storage. Return to your phone’s default Files app or File Manager and open the Internal storage folder.

  1. Locate and open the Movies folder.
  1. Select the three-dot icon next to the Picsart video file you want to delete and select Delete, Move to Trash, or Delete permanently.

Items in the Bin/Trash folder also take up your phone’s storage space. We advise deleting unneeded Picsart video files permanently to free up storage space.

Delete Unfinished Picsart Video Projects

Picsart allows users to save unfinished edits as video projects. Deleting Picsart video projects you don’t need can free up a tremendous amount of storage space on your device. Open the Picsart app and follow the steps below to delete unfinished video projects.

  1. Tap the Create or Plus icon.
  2. Head to the Videos tab and check the “My Projects” section for unfinished video projects.
  3. Tap See All to view all unfinished video projects.

Deleted video projects are not recoverable. Hence, we recommend previewing each project so you don’t delete the wrong video.

  1. Tap and hold the video project you want to delete and select Delete Project on the pop-up.

Can’t Find or Delete Picsart Video Files? Try These Fixes

Restart your Android phone and try deleting Picsart video files again. Update Picsart to the latest version if you still can’t find or delete videos created in the photo-editing app.

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How to Find the Date You (Or Someone Else) Joined Facebook https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-find-the-date-you-or-someone-else-joined-facebook/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-find-the-date-you-or-someone-else-joined-facebook/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97739

Did you know that Facebook turned 17 in 2023? Time flies, and your Facebook account might be older than you think. In case you’re wondering, “When did I join Facebook?” […]]]>
Did you know that Facebook turned 17 in 2023? Time flies, and your Facebook account might be older than you think. In case you’re wondering, “When did I join Facebook?” The good news is that it’s easy to find out when you created your account.

If you’re wondering when someone else joined Facebook — for example, so you can share posts or events with them that they might have missed — it’s a little trickier to find that out. It’s easy when you know how, though, and we’ll show you two ways to find out your account creation date, as well as how to find out when a friend joined Facebook.

When Did I Join Facebook? How to Find Out

Find Out When You Joined Facebook Using the App

To find out when you joined Facebook using the Facebook app, there are a few simple steps to follow.

  1. Open the Facebook app.
  2. At the upper right corner of your screen, beneath the Messenger icon, click the icon that shows your profile pic with three horizontal lines.
  3. Tap the Cog icon at the top right of your screen.
  4. Tap the Search icon (that looks like a magnifying glass) at the top right of your screen.
  1. Tap in the search bar, then type “Access your information.
  2. Tap Access your information from the list of options.
  3. Scroll down and tap Personal Information.
  4. Under Profile Information, you should see a heading which says “Your Account Creation Date.” The date you joined Facebook should be underneath this.

How to Find Out When You Joined Facebook in Your Browser

If you’re wondering, “When did I join Facebook?” but you don’t have a device with the app to hand, you can find out this information by going to the Facebook website in your browser. Here’s how to do that:

  1. Navigate to facebook.com.
  2. Click your Profile icon in the top right corner and select Settings & Privacy > Settings.
  3. Next to Access Profile Information, click View.
  1. It may take a few seconds for your profile information to load.
  2. Scroll down and click Personal Information.
  3. Under Your Account Creation Date, you should see the date you joined Facebook.

How to Find Out When Someone Else Joined Facebook

What happens if you want to find out when someone else joined Facebook? You might want to do this in order to share posts they’ve missed. Though it takes a bit of effort, it’s fairly easy to find out when an account was created. The easiest way to do this is in your browser:

  1. Go to facebook.com and navigate to a friend’s profile to find out when they joined Facebook. You can do this by going to your friend list or typing their name into the search bar.
  2. On their wall, click the Filter button next to Posts, then choose a date.
  3. Use the drop-down menu next to Go To to choose a year, then click Done. A good starting point is 2004, since that was when Facebook was created.
  4. In this instance, there are no posts for 2004, so we’ll try another year until there are posts.
  1. In this example, we’ll try 2009. We can see some posts from March 14, 2009.
  2. We might try searching for February 2009, to see if this friend was on Facebook then.
  3. As you can see, February has no posts, which means March 14, 2009 was the first time this person posted on Facebook, and likely when they joined.
  1. Some accounts will display the creation date when you reach it, but not all will. If your friend has hidden their Facebook status on a specific date, you may not be able to see the post when their account was created.

That’s it! No more wondering, “When did I join Facebook?” as it takes just a few seconds to find out your account creation date through the Facebook app or in your browser. Finding out when a friend joined Facebook is a bit more complex, and you’ll need to do it in your browser, but it’s still pretty quick and easy to do. Knowing when your friend joined Facebook means you can easily fill them in on any events or posts they may have missed. While you’re here, why not find out how to see all your likes on Facebook?

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How to Enter and Exit Full Screen in Google Chrome https://www.online-tech-tips.com/google-softwaretips/how-to-enter-and-exit-full-screen-in-google-chrome/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/google-softwaretips/how-to-enter-and-exit-full-screen-in-google-chrome/#disqus_thread Sandy Writtenhouse]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97730

Full screen mode gives you a distraction-free experience for the apps you’re using. When you want to work online, read a web page, or watch an online video, you can […]]]>
Full screen mode gives you a distraction-free experience for the apps you’re using. When you want to work online, read a web page, or watch an online video, you can enter full screen mode in Google Chrome easily on Windows and macOS.

How to Enter Full Screen in Chrome

You have a few different ways to enter full screen in the Google Chrome web browser.

Use the Chrome Menu

Chrome gives you a built-in feature for entering full screen mode that you can use on both Windows and Mac.

Select the Customize and Control Google Chrome icon (three dots) near the top right of the browser window.

Next to Zoom, choose the Full Screen Mode button (empty square).

You should then see Chrome fill your entire screen.

Use the Full Screen or Maximize Button

Windows and Mac each provide a full screen, or maximize, button in your application windows. You can then enter full screen mode with a single click.

On Windows, the Maximize button (square) is in the top-right corner. You can also right-click the top bar and choose Maximize. Note that this option keeps the Task Bar in view.

On Mac, the Enter Full Screen button (green with diagonal arrows) is on the top left. You can also hold the button and choose Enter Full Screen in the drop-down menu.

Use a Keyboard Shortcut

If you like using keyboard shortcuts to perform actions, you can use one to enter full screen mode in Chrome as well.

  • On Windows, use the F11 key.
  • On Mac, use the key combination Control + Command + F or Fn + F.

Use the Mac Menu Bar

On Mac, you have one additional way to enter full screen mode in Chrome. Go to the menu bar and select View > Enter Full Screen.

How to Exit Full Screen in Chrome

Just like entering full screen mode in Chrome, you can exit it a variety of ways on Windows and Mac.

Use the Chrome Menu

Select the three dots near the top right of the Chrome window and choose the Exit Full Screen Mode icon next to Zoom.

Note: If you don’t see the Chrome toolbar in full screen mode on Windows, move your cursor to the top and select the X when it appears at the top of the screen.

Use the Exit Full Screen Mode Button

On Windows, use the Restore Down button (square) on the top right or right-click the top bar and pick Minimize.

On Mac, use the Exit Full Screen button (green) on the top left or hold the button and choose Exit Full Screen.

Use a Keyboard Shortcut or the Menu Bar

You can use the same keyboard shortcut to exit full screen in Google Chrome as you do to enter it.

  • On Windows, use the F11 key.
  • On Mac, use the key combination Control + Command + F or Fn + F.

Additionally, you can select View > Exit Full Screen in the Mac menu bar.

Entering and exiting full screen mode in the Chrome browser is simple enough and with various ways to do it, you can use whichever method is quickest or easiest for you.

For more, look at our list of ways to customize Google Chrome.

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Fixed: Cloud File Provider Is Not Running on OneDrive – 0x8007016A Error https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ms-office-tips/fixed-cloud-file-provider-is-not-running-on-onedrive-0x8007016a-error/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ms-office-tips/fixed-cloud-file-provider-is-not-running-on-onedrive-0x8007016a-error/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97718

OneDrive’s “The cloud file provider is not running” error appears for various reasons. Your Windows PC may have a bug, or you may have disabled OneDrive’s sync option, causing the […]]]>
OneDrive’s “The cloud file provider is not running” error appears for various reasons. Your Windows PC may have a bug, or you may have disabled OneDrive’s sync option, causing the app to display the above error message. There are a few ways to fix this problem in OneDrive, and we’ll show you how.

Some reasons you get an error code 0x8007016A on OneDrive are that the app’s Files On-Demand feature is enabled, your PC’s current power plan is restricting the app from fully working, your app’s core files are faulty, and more.

Turn Off OneDrive’s Files On-Demand Feature

When you get a 0x8007016A OneDrive error, the first basic fix you can apply is to disable the app’s Files On-Demand feature. Users on various forums confirm that this method has helped them resolve their OneDrive problem.

  1. Open your PC’s Start menu, find OneDrive, and launch the app.
  2. Select the OneDrive icon in your system tray.
  3. Choose the gear icon in the app’s top-right corner and select Settings.
  4. Select Sync and backup in the left sidebar.
  5. Choose Free up disk space in the Files On-Demand section on the right.
  1. Select Continue in the prompt.

Enable OneDrive’s Sync Option

Normally, OneDrive continually syncs your local and online files to ensure everything is up to date. However, when you receive a 0x8007016A error, your app’s sync option might be disabled. This causes the app not to sync your files, leading to the above error.

In this case, resume OneDrive sync, and your issue will be resolved.

  1. Select OneDrive’s icon in your system tray.
  2. Choose the gear icon in the app’s top-right corner and select Resume syncing.
  1. OneDrive will begin syncing your local and cloud files.

Change Your PC’s Power Plan

Your PC’s active power plan decides how your various apps function. You may have enabled a conservative power plan, which limits your applications’ working. This may be why OneDrive doesn’t work normally and causes the above issue.

In this case, change your current power plan to the high-performance one, and your issue will be resolved.

  1. Open Start, find Control Panel, and launch the item.
  2. Select Hardware and Sound > Power Options in Control Panel.
  3. Choose the High Performance plan on the list.

If you don’t see the High Performance plan on your screen, manually create and enable the plan as follows:

  1. Select Create a power plan in the left sidebar.
  2. Choose High Performance in the list, enter a name for your plan, and select Next.
  1. Select Create on the following page to finish creating your plan.
  2. Windows will automatically activate your newly-created power plan.

Update Your Windows Version to Fix OneDrive Errors

If your OneDrive 0x8007016A issue persists, your Windows system may have a bug. This bug may be interfering with OneDrive’s working, causing the app to produce the above error message.

In this case, try to fix your system bugs by updating your Windows version. Doing so brings various bug fixes that patch the bugs in your existing system.

On Windows 11

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Select Windows Update in the left sidebar.
  3. Choose Check for updates on the right pane.
  1. Download and install the available updates.
  2. Restart your PC.

On Windows 10

  1. Launch Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Select Update & Security in Settings.
  3. Choose Windows Update in the left sidebar.
  4. Select Check for updates on the right pane.
  1. Download and install the latest updates.
  2. Reboot your machine.

Reset the OneDrive App on Your PC

One reason you get a 0x8007016A OneDrive error is that your app preferences are faulty. Incorrectly specified options can cause your app to display various errors. In this case, you can reset your app to the default settings to possibly fix your issue.

You don’t lose your files when you reset OneDrive; only your app customizations are lost.

  1. Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R.
  2. Enter the following in the Run box and press Enter:

    %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  1. If you get an error message running the above command, use the following commands to reset your OneDrive app:

    C:\Program Files\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  2. When you’ve reset OneDrive, launch the app on your PC.

Uninstall and Reinstall OneDrive on Your PC

If all your efforts have gone in vain and your OneDrive 0x8007016A issue still isn’t fixed, your last solution is to remove and reinstall the OneDrive app on your PC. Doing so removes all the app files from your PC, some of which may be causing your issue.

Again, you don’t lose your files when you reinstall OneDrive. The app will resync your files when you reinstall the app and sign back into your account.

  1. Select the OneDrive icon in your PC’s system tray.
  2. Choose the gear icon in the app’s top-right corner and select Pause syncing > Quit OneDrive.
  1. On Windows 11, head into Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Select the three dots next to Microsoft OneDrive, choose Uninstall, and select Uninstall in the prompt.
  1. On Windows 10, navigate to Settings > Apps. Select Microsoft OneDrive, choose Uninstall, and select Uninstall in the prompt.
  1. Head to the OneDrive website and download and install the app on your PC.

Resolving OneDrive’s Error 0x8007016A Isn’t As Difficult As You May Think

OneDrive’s various errors can prevent you from downloading or uploading files to your cloud storage account. If your issues persist and you can’t get the app to work, use the methods outlined above. These methods fix the very items that can possibly cause your OneDrive problems, allowing you to repair your app and resume your file transfer tasks.

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What Does “Open Box” Mean on Amazon? https://www.online-tech-tips.com/fun-stuff/what-does-open-box-mean-on-amazon/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/fun-stuff/what-does-open-box-mean-on-amazon/#disqus_thread Sydney Butler]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97706

Amazon is a bustling marketplace, teeming with products ranging from brand-new items to refurbished products. One term often stands out among these seemingly endless offerings: “open box.” If you’ve ever […]]]>
Amazon is a bustling marketplace, teeming with products ranging from brand-new items to refurbished products. One term often stands out among these seemingly endless offerings: “open box.” If you’ve ever wondered, “What does open box mean on Amazon?” you’re not alone!

The Open Box Deal

“Open box” refers to items returned by customers that are then sold at discounted prices through Amazon Warehouse.

But why are they returned? The reasons can range from a customer changing their mind to a product with minor cosmetic damage from the factory.

However, before these items are resold, Amazon thoroughly inspects their condition, checking for signs of wear and verifying they’re in perfect working condition. If an item passes this inspection and its original product packaging is intact, it’s classified as an “open box” item. In other words, the box may be open, but that’s almost all that happened.

Categories of Open Box Items: “Used – Like New” and “Very Good”

Amazon categorizes the product condition of its best open-box items as “used – like new” or “very good.” Products labeled “used – like new” have either been opened but not used or used lightly with no signs of wear. These items typically come with their original packaging and accessories and are, as the label implies, just like new.

On the other hand, “very good” items may show some signs of use. They could have minor damage, such as cosmetic blemishes or dents, missing non-essential accessories, or the instruction manual. However, these products are still verified to be in good working condition.

The specific condition of an open-box product can be found in the product description on the item’s listing page. This detailed description can help you understand the exact condition of the article, why it was returned, and what you’ll get in the box when the delivery person rings your doorbell.

Understanding the Rest of Amazon’s Grading System

Amazon has a reasonably comprehensive grading system to help you make an informed decision when purchasing open-box items. In addition to “used – like new” and “very good,” you may also come across other terms such as “used – good” and “used–acceptable.”

The “used–good” category includes items with more noticeable signs of wear and tear, but they still work perfectly. So if aesthetics aren’t that important to you, this could mean a great bargain.

Meanwhile, “used–acceptable” is the lowest grade Amazon provides, indicating that the item has been well-used and may have significant cosmetic damage but remains operational. Before buying a product at this grade, you’d have to think hard about how much the discount you’re getting means to you.

How “Open Box” Differs from “Refurbished”

While open box and refurbished items provide an opportunity to save money, they aren’t the same. Refurbished products, often marked as “refurb” or “renewed,” are items returned to the manufacturer or a third-party seller due to a defect or damage. Sometimes these items are traded in. For example, Apple refurbishes the devices you trade with new ones.

Either way, they are repaired, tested for functionality, and repackaged for sale. Refurbished items are guaranteed to be in good working condition despite possibly undergoing more significant use or damage. They often come with a limited warranty, although the duration and coverage may vary compared to a new product’s warranty.

Unlike “open box” items, refurbished products are expected to function like new products, despite any cosmetic imperfections. This restoration to near-original conditions justifies the higher price point for refurbished items compared to open-box items of the same model.

Notably, components like lithium batteries are often replaced with new ones and other “consumable” parts. It is worth looking into the specific refurbishment process for the item you’re considering, but it may have substantial advantages over some open-box items that have been moderately used.

Amazon’s Return Policy for Open Box Items

Amazon’s return policy applies to open-box items like new or refurbished ones. If an open box item does not meet your satisfaction—perhaps your laptop from the Amazon Warehouse has more dents than expected, or your smartphone doesn’t look as “like new” as described—you can return it under the standard return policy. To begin a return, head to your Amazon account’s Your Orders page. Amazon’s return process is generally hassle-free, which lowers the risk of trying open-box items.

The Manufacturer’s Warranty for Open Box Items

While Amazon’s return policy covers open-box items, the same may not be true for the manufacturer’s warranty. A manufacturer’s warranty is often linked to the original purchase and may not be transferable. Therefore, the warranty may be void for open-box items. If the manufacturer’s warranty is critical for your purchase, it’s worth considering this before proceeding with an open-box item.

Open Box Items Across Different Platforms

Amazon isn’t the only retailer offering open-box deals. You can find similar offerings from Best Buy, Walmart, and eBay. Best Buy, for instance, uses labels like “Open-Box Excellent” and “Open-Box Satisfactory” to give customers an idea of the item’s condition. Understanding these ratings across different platforms can help you make an informed choice when shopping for open-box items.

It’s essential to actually read what each rating means for each platform. Just because two marketplaces use similar wording to describe the condition of an open box item doesn’t mean that they use the same standards to label them.

The Assurance of Quality

Quality assurance for open-box items on Amazon is a meticulous process. Amazon sellers, especially those under the Amazon Warehouse Deals program, adhere to a strict grading system before listing items for sale. This rigorous quality control process ensures that the open-box items meet Amazon’s standards. If an item doesn’t pass these checks, it isn’t sold as an open-box item.

That said, plenty of products that don’t meet the on-paper standards make it through the program. Ultimately, human beings do the grading, and no matter how clear the criteria are, some measure of subjectivity is always involved. So what you’d consider a minor aesthetic defect might be a dealbreaker for someone else.

The Variety of Open Box Items

The array of open-box items available on Amazon is diverse. From smartphones like Apple iPhones to Amazon’s own Kindle devices, from laptops to vacuums, the open box category spans a vast range of products.

As long as it’s durable (i.e., not consumable), it’s eligible to be sold as an open-box item, at least in principle.

The Best Types of Open Box Items

While you can find a wide range of products listed as open-box items, certain categories tend to be more prevalent or make more sense as open-box purchases. Electronics, particularly laptops and smartphones from brands like Apple, often top the list of open-box offerings.

These high-demand, high-cost products are often returned due to minor defects or buyer’s remorse, making them prime candidates for open-box deals. This can help you save hundreds of dollars on items that are no worse for wear than when the shrinkwrap first came off.

Similarly, household appliances such as vacuums are commonly found as open box deals. Customers might return these items because of packaging damage, after deciding on a different model, or after realizing the product doesn’t fit their home. However, these types of products usually remain in perfect working condition.

Amazon’s products, like the Kindle, are frequently available too. Given Amazon’s direct control over these items, it can ensure these open-box items meet high-quality standards. It also makes it easy for them to replace any missing accessories.

The Savvy Shopping Approach

When shopping for open-box items, comparison is vital. Don’t be in a hurry to save money, but take your time. For instance, a “used – like new” vacuum cleaner might seem like a bargain on Amazon, but you might find the same item brand new at Walmart for just a few dollars more.

Always check the UPC (Universal Product Code) to ensure you’re comparing the same model across different platforms. Sometimes the open box deal might be an older model, which isn’t necessarily bad, but improvements or bug fixes might make it worth paying a little more.

Ensuring a Smooth Open-Box Purchase Experience

After purchasing an open-box item, inspecting it immediately upon arrival is vital. Verify if the product matches the description on the listing page, and check for any missing accessories.

Amazon sells many open-box items directly via Amazon Warehouse, but some are offered by third-party sellers. This means they may have slightly different standards and policies. A seller with high ratings and positive reviews is more likely to accurately describe the open box item and respond promptly to any issues. For this reason, you should carefully consider the ratings and reviews of a particular third-party seller before choosing an open-box offering from them.

The Bottom Line

The open box category on Amazon offers savvy shoppers the opportunity to snag items in like-new or very good condition for a fraction of the original cost. While these items may have minor blemishes or be missing certain accessories, they’re confirmed to be in good working condition.

Even though open-box shopping might carry more risk than buying new, the benefits could outweigh the drawbacks if you don’t mind a minor imperfection or a missing manual. To reduce waste and provide cost-effective shopping solutions, the open box initiative offers excellent value and benefits for price- or environmentally-conscious consumers.

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How to Fix “This Video File Cannot Be Played (Error Code: 102630)” https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-this-video-file-cannot-be-played-error-code-102630/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-this-video-file-cannot-be-played-error-code-102630/#disqus_thread Dilum Senevirathne]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97694

Are you continually receiving a “This video file cannot be played. (Error Code: 102630)” message while playing video content in your web browser? It could be a single video file […]]]>
Are you continually receiving a “This video file cannot be played. (Error Code: 102630)” message while playing video content in your web browser? It could be a single video file causing trouble or a site-wide issue affecting multiple videos.

Error code 102630 can pop up due to several factors, such as your browser being incompatible with the video, an outdated graphics driver acting up, or a browser extension causing conflicts.

Don’t worry, though. This guide is all about troubleshooting and resolving error code 102630. We’ll explore multiple solutions to help you return to watching videos as usual.

Update Your Web Browser

It’s best to kick things off by updating your web browser to its latest version. Newer updates improve compatibility with web-based video formats and patch known issues behind streaming errors.

Your browser should automatically update itself, but you can always double-check by visiting its Settings panel.

For example, if you use Google Chrome, open the Chrome menu, select Settings, and choose About Chrome on the sidebar. Then, wait until Chrome updates itself to its latest version.

An exception is Apple Safari, where browser updates are tied to Mac system software updates. To update macOS, open the Apple menu and select System Settings > General > Software Update.

Enable Google Widevine

Many video hosting sites rely on Google Widevine (a decryption module) to enforce digital rights management (DRM) on digital media content. This isn’t an issue with Chrome and Safari, where the module is permanently active.

However, if error code 102630 occurs on another browser like Microsoft Edge and Mozilla Firefox, it’s best to check and enable Google Widevine if it’s inactive.

Microsoft Edge: Type edge://flags into the address bar and press Enter. On the Experiments screen that appears, type Widevine DRM into the Search box. Then, open the pull-down menu next to Widevine DRM and select Default or Enabled.

Mozilla Firefox: Open the Firefox menu and choose Add-ons and themes. Once the Add-ons Manager shows up, select Plugins on the sidebar. Then, select the More icon (three dots) next to Widevine Content Decryption Module provided by Google Inc. and choose Always Activate.

Disable Virtual Private Networks

Virtual private networks (VPNs) improve online privacy but tend to cause communication issues with video streaming services. If you have one set up on your computer, briefly turn it off and confirm if it’s the reason behind the error.

Clear the Browser Cache

An obsolete web browser cache can conflict with websites, prevent videos from loading, and trigger playback errors. If error code 102630 persists, clear all cached data and try again.

Google Chrome: Open the Chrome menu, point to More Tools, and select Clear Browsing Data. On the Clear Browser Data pop-up, set Time range to All time, check the boxes next to Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, and select Clear data.

Microsoft Edge: Open the Edge menu and select Settings. On the Settings screen, select Privacy, Search, and Services on the sidebar, and Choose What to Clear under the Clear browsing data section. Then, set Time range to All time, check the boxes next to Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, and select Clear Now.

Mozilla Firefox: Open the Firefox menu and select Settings. On the Settings screen, choose Privacy & Security on the sidebar, scroll to the Cookies and Site Data section, and select Clear Data. Then, check the boxes next to Cookies and Site Data and Cached Web Content and choose Clear.

Apple Safari: Select Safari > Clear History on the menu bar, set Clear to all history, and select Clear History.

Flush the DNS Cache

The DNS (Domain Name Service) cache can contain obsolete URLs (or web addresses), preventing your browser from fetching video file data. Delete the cached DNS data to force the system to resolve everything from scratch.

Microsoft Windows: Right-click the Start button, select Windows PowerShell/Terminal (Admin), and execute the following command:

Clear-DnsClientCache

Apple macOS: Open the Launchpad, select Other > Terminal, and execute the command below:

sudo dscacheutil -flushcache;sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Disable Third-Party Extensions

Browser extensions ramp up what you can do online but occasionally interfere with web elements like embedded media players. Visit your browser’s add-ons management console and turn everything off.

  • Google Chrome: Open the Chrome menu, select Extensions, and disable the switches next to all extensions.
  • Microsoft Edge: Open the Edge menu, choose Extensions, and deactivate all extensions.
  • Mozilla Firefox: Open the Firefox menu, select Add-ons and themes, and disable all switches under Extensions.
  • Apple Safari: Select Safari > Settings on the menu bar, switch to the Extensions tab, and uncheck the boxes next to all extensions.

If that helps, re-enable your extensions one by one until you identify the add-ons causing error code 102630. If you do, remember to disable it the next time the error pops up.

Disable Hardware Acceleration

Desktop browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox offload resource-intensive tasks like video decoding to the graphics processing unit or GPU. However, although that improves performance, it can lead to playback errors due to driver incompatibilities and conflicts with other hardware components.

Disable hardware acceleration on your browser and check if that fixes error 102630.

Google Chrome: Open the Chrome menu, select Settings, and choose System on the sidebar. Then, turn off the switch next to Use hardware acceleration when available and select Relaunch.

Microsoft Edge: Open the Edge menu, select Settings, and choose System and Performance on the sidebar. Then, toggle the switch next to Use hardware acceleration when available and select Restart.

Mozilla Firefox: Open the Firefox menu and select Settings. On the Settings screen, scroll to the Performance section, uncheck the box next to Use recommended performance settings, and turn off Use hardware acceleration when available.

Apple Safari: Safari does not provide an option to disable hardware acceleration.

Update Your Video Card Drivers

The error can disappear after turning off hardware acceleration. But if it’s at the cost of choppy video performance, check if newer updates for your graphics card address the issue.

On a PC, just visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website—NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, etc.—and download and install the latest video card drivers. Optionally, check Windows Update for additional updates to video hardware—right-click the Start button and go to Settings > Windows Update.

On a Mac, updating the system software to its latest version should automatically update the video drivers—open the System Settings app and select General > Software Update.

Try a Different Web Browser

Different browsers have different capabilities—some handle video files and streaming protocols better than others. Try a different browser if none of the above solutions work. This approach can also help determine if the problem is with your browser or the video source.

If you need ideas, check out these alternative browsers you’ve never heard of.

Contact the Site’s Support Service

Lastly, error code 102630 can result from corrupt or missing video files on the hosting site servers. If the error occurs on multiple browsers and devices, your only option is to contact the site’s support service.

Back to Watching Videos Error-Free

Error code 102630 can dampen your video streaming experience, but fortunately, there are many techniques to combat this issue. Whether it’s updating your browser, disabling VPNs or browser extensions, or updating your video card drivers, one of these methods is bound to get rid of it. Switch browsers or contact the site if all else fails.

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How to Fix “Unable to connect to chat” on Google Chat https://www.online-tech-tips.com/google-softwaretips/how-to-fix-unable-to-connect-to-chat-on-google-chat/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/google-softwaretips/how-to-fix-unable-to-connect-to-chat-on-google-chat/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97683

Can’t access Google Chat? Does the site keep saying “Unable to connect to chat”? Your internet connection may be problematic, preventing you from connecting to this online service. There are […]]]>
Can’t access Google Chat? Does the site keep saying “Unable to connect to chat”? Your internet connection may be problematic, preventing you from connecting to this online service. There are other items that can cause this problem. We’ll show you how to fix those items so you can access your favorite online chat system.

Some reasons for loading Google Chat properly are that your web browser’s JavaScript feature is disabled, your browser app is outdated, your login session for the site has a problem, your browser extensions are faulty, and more.

Fix Your Internet Connection Problems

The most common reason you can’t access Google Chat is that your internet connection isn’t working. The connection may have suddenly stopped working, causing you to be unable to load your site.

In this case, check your network connection’s status by opening a new tab in your web browser and launching a non-Google Chat site. If your browser doesn’t load the site, your internet connection is the culprit.

You can try to fix your connection issues by restarting your router. If that doesn’t work, contact your internet service provider (ISP) for help.

Hard-Refresh Google Chat’s Site in Your Web Browser

If your internet connection is working, the next fix to apply is to hard-reload the Google Chat site in your web browser. Doing so overrides your browser’s saved cache content, allowing you to load the site from scratch. This helps fix the issue if a bad cache caused it.

You can hard-refresh a site in your web browser by pressing and holding down the Shift button and selecting the refresh icon beside the address bar.

You should be able to access your site and the site’s chat features when hard-refresh is finished.

Enable JavaScript in Your Web Browser

One reason Google Chat fails to load is that your web browser’s JavaScript option is turned off. Many sites rely on this technology to function, and these sites can’t work correctly if the feature is disabled in your browser.

Luckily, it’s easy to turn on the feature in your various web browsers. We’ll show you how.

Google Chrome

  1. Open Chrome, select the three dots in the top-right corner, and choose Settings.
  2. Select Privacy and security in the left sidebar and Site settings on the right pane.
  3. Scroll down and choose JavaScript.
  4. Select Sites can use Javascript to turn on the feature.
  1. Open Google Chat in your browser.

Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Firefox, enter the following in the address bar, and press Enter:
    about:config
  2. Select Accept the Risk and Continue.
  3. Type the following in the search box and press Enter:
    javascript.enabled
  4. Select the toggle next to that entry and ensure the value says true. This indicates the feature is enabled.
  1. Access Google Chat in your browser.

Microsoft Edge

  1. Launch Edge, select the three dots in the top-right corner, and choose Settings.
  2. Select Cookies and site permissions in the left sidebar.
  3. Choose JavaScript on the right pane.
  4. Enable the Allowed (recommended) option at the top.
  1. Open Google Chat in your web browser.

Update Your Web Browser and Use Google Chat

Outdated web browser versions are often the reason you can’t access your sites. You may be using an old version of a browser on your computer. This version may likely have many bugs, causing the sites to be unable to load correctly.

In this case, you can update your web browser to fix your issue.

Google Chrome

  1. Select the three dots in Chrome’s top-right corner and choose Help > About Google Chrome.
  1. Let Chrome check for and install the latest updates.
  2. Restart your browser to bring your updates into effect.

Mozilla Firefox

  1. Select the three horizontal lines in Firefox’s top-right corner and choose Help > About Firefox.
  1. Allow the browser to find and install the latest updates.
  2. Close and reopen your browser to bring your changes into effect.

Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Edge, select the three dots in the top-right corner, and choose Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge.
  1. Wait for Edge to find and install the latest updates.
  2. Restart your browser when the updates are installed.

Sign Out and Back Into Your Google Account on the Chat Site

Sometimes, an issue with your login session causes your site not to load. This may be why you can’t access Google Chat in your browser. You can try to fix that issue by logging out and back into your account on the site.

  1. Open Google Chat in your browser. Use Google.com if the Chat site doesn’t open.
  2. Select your profile icon in the site’s top-right corner.
  3. Choose Sign out or Sign out of all accounts, depending on how many accounts you’ve linked to your browser.
  1. Relaunch Google Chat and sign back into your account.

Clear Google Chat’s Cookies and Site Data in Your Web Browser

Your web browser saves cookies and various other items when you access a site. When you have trouble loading a site, it’s a good idea to clear this saved content to possibly fix your issue.

Google Chrome

  1. Open Google Chat in your browser.
  2. Select the padlock icon beside the address bar and choose Site settings.
  3. Select Clear data to clear the site’s data in your browser.
  1. Launch Google Chat in a new tab.

Mozilla Firefox

  1. Access Google Chat in your Firefox browser.
  2. Select the padlock icon to the left of the address bar and choose Clear cookies and site data.
  1. Select Remove in the prompt to delete the site’s saved data in your browser.
  2. Open Google Chat in a new Firefox tab.

Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Edge, select the three dots in the top-right corner, and choose Settings.
  2. Select Cookies and site permissions on the left and Manage and delete cookies and site data on the right.
  3. Select See all cookies and site data.
  4. Type chat.google.com in the Search cookies box, select Remove all shown, and choose Clear in the prompt. Repeat this step by searching google.com.
  1. Access Google Chat and log in to your account.

Turn Off Your Web Browser Extensions

If you still get an “Unable to connect to chat” error on Google Chat, an extension installed in your web browser may be causing the issue. Sometimes, your browser extensions get corrupted or become broken for various reasons, causing your sites not to load correctly.

You can verify and fix that by turning off all your browser extensions and re-enabling one extension at a time to find the culprit. You can then remove the culprit item to resolve your issue.

Google Chrome

  1. Select Chrome’s three dots in the top-right corner and choose Extensions > Manage Extensions.
  2. Disable the toggles for all your extensions.
  1. Access the Google Chat site. If the site loads, re-enable one extension at a time to find the culprit. Then, remove the faulty extension.

Mozilla Firefox

  1. Select Firefox’s three horizontal lines in the top-right corner and choose Add-ons and themes.
  2. Turn off the toggles for all your add-ons.
  1. Open Google Chat in your browser. If the site opens, re-activate one add-on at a time to find the faulty one. Then, remove the faulty add-on from your browser.

Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Edge, select the three dots in the top-right corner, and choose Extensions > Manage extensions.
  2. Deactivate all your installed extensions.
  1. Launch the Google Chat site. If the site opens, re-enable one extension at a time to find the broken one. Then, remove the broken extension from your browser.

Troubleshooting Google Chat App’s Issues to Resume Your Online Conversations

Google Chat’s access errors prevent you from loading and replying to your online chat messages. If your issues persist and you can’t access the site, the methods offered above should help you fix your problem. These solutions fix the very items that may be causing your error, letting you regain access to your favorite chat platform.

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Top 11 Ways to Fix Roku “Error Code 009” https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/top-11-ways-to-fix-roku-error-code-009/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/top-11-ways-to-fix-roku-error-code-009/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97668

Roku devices are one of the best TV streaming devices around; they are easy to use and packed with channels and apps to watch. For the most part, Roku devices […]]]>
Roku devices are one of the best TV streaming devices around; they are easy to use and packed with channels and apps to watch. For the most part, Roku devices are designed to be plug-and-play, so you don’t need to worry about updating your Roku, as everything happens automatically.

But what happens if you get the Roku error 009? This is generally caused by your device failing to connect to the internet via a wired or wireless connection. A few different things could be causing this, so we’ll look at why you’re seeing this error code and a few fixes to try if error 009 Roku is popping up on your device.

What’s Causing Roku Error 0099?

As mentioned above, error 009 Roku generally indicates that your Roku device can’t connect to the internet, but what’s causing the issue? There could be any number of things going on, from a problem with your router to a blocked Wi-Fi signal or damaged cable. Below, we’ll look at how to figure out what’s responsible for Roku error 009 and how to fix the problem, depending on what’s gone wrong.

1. Check Your Other Devices

The best thing to do first is check to see if your other devices are connected to your home network (whether wireless or wired). If your phone and tablet are connected, that’s an indication the issue is with your Roku device, not your internet connection.

2. Check Your Roku’s Internet Connection

You can check if your Roku device connects to the internet in just a few quick steps.

  1. From the Home Screen, go to Settings > Network > Check Connection.
  2. Hit Select, and your device will automatically check your connection to the internet.
  1. Assuming your connection works normally, you should see a screen confirming your connection check was successful.

3. Try Restarting Your Modem

If your device isn’t connecting to the internet following the above test, restart your modem to see if that solves the issue. Turn it off, give it a few seconds, turn it on again, then wait a few minutes before rerunning the above connection check.

4. Check Your Cables

It’s also a good idea to check your internet and power cables to ensure they’re not damaged. A damaged cable, like one that pets have chewed, could easily lead to connection issues. Or it may be that a cable has come loose without you realizing it.

5. Restart your Roku

If restarting your modem hasn’t helped, try restarting your Roku device to see if that eliminates Roku error 009. Turning a device off and then on again is good practice when experiencing issues. Hopefully, once your Roku device restarts, error 009 Roku will be a thing of the past.

6. Switch to a Different App

It might be that the specific app you’re using on your Roku device is experiencing issues and causing Roku error code 009. Try switching to a different streaming app and see if the error persists. You could also go to Twitter and check if specific services are down or use a site like Downdetector to see if there are any current issues.

7. Try a Wired Connection

If your Roku doesn’t seem to connect via Wi-Fi, use an ethernet cable for a wired connection and see if that gets rid of the error code. You’ll usually enjoy faster speeds and a more stable connection this way too.

8. Reset Your Roku’s Network Connection

Try a network connection reset on your device to see if that helps solve the problem. Here’s how to do that:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Advanced System Settings.
  2. Select Network Connection Reset > Reset Connection.
  1. This erases all your internet connection data, so you’ll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi network details and run a connection check to see if the issue is resolved.
  2. You could also try connecting your Roku device to another network, if one is available, to see if this fixes things.

9. Clear the Cache

You can clear the cache on your Roku to improve its performance and eliminate any troublesome issues like Roku error code 009. You’ll need your Roku remote:

  1. Press Home five times on the remote, Up once, Rewind twice, then Fast Forward twice.
  2. This automatically clears your Roku’s cache, which will take a few minutes to complete.
  3. It’s a good idea to restart your Roku device once the cache has been cleared.

10. Speak to your ISP

If you’re trying to use your Roku device in a public place, such as a hotel or school, or connecting to free public Wi-Fi, you might experience issues. That’s because these internet connections may limit the use of streaming devices and services, so you might be unable to connect your Roku to the internet.

11. Perform a Roku Factory Reset

As a last resort, you could try factory resetting your Roku. Note that this will delete all your data and preferences from your Roku device, so it will be in an as-new state as it was when you purchased it. Ensure you note your Roku account details, as you’ll need these to log back in once your device restarts.

Hopefully, one of the above fixes has banished Roku error 009, and you can now use your Roku device normally. However, if the issue persists and you still see error 009 Roku, this is a great time to contact Roku support for advice. They should be able to help you fix the issue or let you know if you’ll need to replace your device.

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How to Block and Unblock Someone on the Cash App https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-block-and-unblock-someone-on-the-cash-app/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-block-and-unblock-someone-on-the-cash-app/#disqus_thread Marshall Gunnell]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97659

Navigating your social networks doesn’t always go as smoothly as planned, and sometimes you need to create a little space from certain contacts—even for digital financial transactions. If you’re using […]]]>
Navigating your social networks doesn’t always go as smoothly as planned, and sometimes you need to create a little space from certain contacts—even for digital financial transactions.

If you’re using the Cash App and are looking for a way to block (or unblock) someone, you’ll need to use the mobile app, as the block and unblock feature isn’t available on the Cash App for the web.

What Happens When You Block Someone on the Cash App?

Deciding to block someone on Cash App affects how you and the blocked individual can interact through the platform.

First, once someone is blocked, they won’t be able to send you any money or requests for money through the app. You also won’t receive any notifications about their attempts.

Also, if any pending transactions haven’t been completed, they will be canceled.

It’s important to note that blocking someone on Cash App doesn’t remove your transaction history with that person. Previous interactions, whether payments or requests, will still be visible in your activity feed. So, while blocking helps limit future interaction, it doesn’t erase the past.

Block Someone on the Cash App

Blocking someone on Cash App is relatively simple, only requiring a few taps of the screen.

  1. Open the Cash App, tap the Activity icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then select the user you’d like to block.
  1. Scroll to the bottom of the selected user’s profile and tap Block.

A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm that you want to block that user. Select Block, and you will have successfully blocked them.

Unblock Someone on the Cash App

The steps for unblocking someone are similar to blocking them.

  1. Open Cash App and go to the blocked user’s profile.
  2. Scroll to the bottom of their profile page and tap Unblock.

You won’t be asked to confirm that you want to unblock them. Make sure you really want to unblock them before you click that button.

Navigating Your Financial Interactions

With Cash App’s blocking and unblocking feature at your fingertips, you’re empowered to take control of your financial interactions. It offers the flexibility to manage who can send you money or request funds, creating a more personal and secure transaction environment.

Whether you’re in a dispute, aiming to limit communication, or just need peace of mind, understanding how to use these features is essential to using Cash App responsibly.

However, remember that using the block function doesn’t erase your transaction history with a contact or prevent them from reaching out through other channels. Ultimately, your ability to block or unblock a contact in Cash App is just one tool among many in navigating your financial life, and it should be used thoughtfully and wisely.

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How to Use ChatGPT Without a Phone Number https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ai-tools-guides/how-to-use-chatgpt-without-a-phone-number/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/ai-tools-guides/how-to-use-chatgpt-without-a-phone-number/#disqus_thread Anya Zhukova]]> Thu, 17 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=97653

ChatGPT, created by OpenAI, is an advanced AI-powered language model. It’s great for having interactive conversations and helping you with a wide range of online tasks. However, the requirement of […]]]>
ChatGPT, created by OpenAI, is an advanced AI-powered language model. It’s great for having interactive conversations and helping you with a wide range of online tasks. However, the requirement of phone number verification to register and access ChatGPT worries those users who prioritize their privacy and personal data.

If you want to use ChatGPT without providing your real phone number for verification, there are alternative methods you can try. In this article, we’ll explore different ways to use ChatGPT without needing your actual phone number.

Why ChatGPT Requires Your Phone Number

OpenAI ChatGPT requires users to provide their phone numbers for account verification. While some people may not want to share their private numbers, there are valid reasons behind this requirement. Here are some reasons why ChatGPT asks for your phone number to create a new account.

  • Maintaining Security and Authenticity. Phone number verification helps confirm that you’re a real person and reduces the risk of misuse or fraudulent behavior. When you link your phone number to your ChatGPT account, it creates a more secure environment, making it harder for fake or malicious accounts to be created.
  • Preventing Abuse. In the past, some people have misused ChatGPT for harmful purposes like spreading spam, fake information, or engaging in harmful behaviors. To prevent this, ChatGPT now requires phone number verification. This helps keep users accountable and discourages anyone from using the technology for dangerous activities.
  • User Protection. Phone number verification also helps prevent others from accessing your OpenAI account without permission and offers a way to recover or secure your account if needed.
  • Compliance with Regulations. Finally, this type of verification is necessary to comply with regulations and ensure user protection. It helps OpenAI meet legal requirements, including data protection and privacy rules.

Even though phone number verification is currently a requirement for ChatGPT, according to OpenAI, they continue exploring alternative options and methods to improve user privacy and provide more flexible access to its services.

If you’re still unconvinced and are looking for a way to use ChatGPT without sharing your primary phone number with OpenAI, here are a few different methods you can try.

Use ChatGPT With WhatsApp

If you reside in specific countries where ChatGPT is not officially available, you can use WhatsApp as an alternative to a phone number for account verification.

This option is available for Android and iOS users in countries such as India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Nigeria, Israel, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Ukraine, Malaysia, Egypt, and Turkey. You can also try using VPN to switch to a server in one of those countries and then access chat.openai.com via WhatsApp.

While WhatsApp still requires a phone number for sign-up, you can utilize a landline or VoIP number during the registration process.

Use a Virtual Phone Number to Access ChatGPT

Virtual phone number services offer temporary numbers that can receive verification codes via SMS. You can find these services online, which provide an excellent solution for maintaining privacy while using ChatGPT.

By using a VoIP number, you can complete the verification process without sharing your personal phone number. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services allow you to obtain a phone number that operates over the internet. With VoIP, you can use a virtual number to receive the verification code for ChatGPT. Many VoIP providers offer free or low-cost options, making it an affordable choice for ChatGPT users who value their privacy. By using a VoIP number, you can easily receive the verification code and activate your ChatGPT account without providing your personal phone number.

Use Google’s AI Bot – Google Bard

If you have a Google account, you can try using Google Bard, an AI chatbot from Google, without providing your phone number. It uses Google’s own LaMDA language model instead of GPT-3 and is slightly different and limited compared to ChatGPT.

However, while Bard has some limitations, like being unable to help with coding, it can still be a good way to explore AI chatbots without sharing your phone number. Visit https://bard.google.com to give Bard a try. It’s a great ChatGPT alternative if you want to experience artificial intelligence chatbots without the phone number requirement.

Unfortunately, Google Bard isn’t available worldwide yet. Go to the AI bot’s page to check if you can use it from your location.

Use Bing ChatGPT

If you prefer to use ChatGPT without going through mobile number verification, you can explore another AI tool called Bing ChatGPT, which is provided by Microsoft’s search engine, Bing. This version of ChatGPT doesn’t require phone number verification.

Instead, you’ll need a Microsoft account to use Bing ChatGPT. Unlike signing up through OpenAI, you can obtain a Microsoft account using a VoIP phone number (e.g., those available through Google Voice). To get started with Bing ChatGPT, simply visit the website https://www.bing.com/new. By offering this alternative, Microsoft provides users with more flexibility and options to access the benefits of ChatGPT without compromising their privacy.

Use ChatGPT on Snapchat

Another option you can explore to use ChatGPT without a mobile phone number is a Snapchat bot. Snapchat features its own AI chatbot called My AI, powered by ChatGPT. The advantage is that Snapchat doesn’t require a phone number to sign up.

While My AI’s capabilities may be more limited compared to the full version of ChatGPT, you can still enjoy interacting with the chatbot on both mobile and web platforms.

To use Snapchat’s My AI bot, log into your Snapchat account on the app or create a new account, then go to your Chats tab, and you’ll see a chat with My AI on top of your chat list. That way, you can use a phone number-free option to interact with an AI bot similar to ChatGPT while also utilizing other features of Snapchat.

Use the Reddit ChatGPT Discord Channel

Another way to access ChatGPT without the requirement of a phone number is by utilizing the Reddit ChatGPT Discord channel.

The /r/ChatGPT subreddit has a public Discord server with ChatGPT bots. Once you create or sign in to your Discord account, you’ll have access to a variety of chatbots, including ChatGPT-1, ChatGPT-2, Bing-AI-1, and Bing-AI-2.

To do that, follow the steps below.

  1. Open Reddit on your device.
  2. Join the server at https://www.reddit.com/r/ChatGPT.
  1. Select the Discord server.
  2. Log into your Discord account and accept the invite.

You can then interact with various chatbots, including ChatGPT-1, ChatGPT-2, Bing-AI-1, and Bing-AI-2, without needing a phone number.

Use ChatGPT With a Temporary Phone Number

Temporary phone number services provide disposable numbers that are valid for a short duration. These numbers are commonly used for online verifications and can be useful for ChatGPT registration. Apps like Dingtone and similar platforms offer free temporary phone numbers to receive SMS messages.

By obtaining a temporary number, you can receive the verification code and enter it into the ChatGPT app or website to complete the registration process. Temporary phone numbers ensure that your personal phone number remains private and secure.

Use a Friend’s Phone to Access ChatGPT

If you have a trusted friend who already has a ChatGPT account, you can ask them to verify your account on their device. Each phone number can be used for verification on two ChatGPT accounts.

Remember that sharing your account with a friend may grant them access to your account by resetting your password. Make sure to only use this method with someone you trust to avoid accidentally giving a random person access to your personal information.

Contact OpenAI Support Team

If you have concerns about providing a phone number for ChatGPT verification, you can contact OpenAI’s support team. They are equipped to address your queries and may offer alternative verification methods or guidance on using ChatGPT without a phone number.

Contacting the support team allows you to clarify any doubts you may have and find a suitable solution that meets your privacy requirements.

Use ChatGPT With No Phone Verification

While phone number verification is a requirement for using ChatGPT, there are workarounds available for those who prefer not to provide their phone number. By utilizing alternative options like WhatsApp verification, online SMS verification tools, Bing ChatGPT, Snapchat’s My AI, the Reddit ChatGPT Discord channel, or Google Bard, users can access the benefits of ChatGPT without needing a phone number verification. These options provide flexibility, privacy, and the opportunity to explore the capabilities of AI chatbots.

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