Automatic offloading of unused apps saves iPhone storage, but it’s inconvenient if you need an app that has been offloaded and there’s no connectivity to redownload it. Plan ahead!
Austin Mac Works Blog: Troubleshooting
WhatCable Reports on Your USB-C Cables
Not sure if your USB-C cable is delivering power and data as it should? USB-C cables look similar but may work differently. Use the free WhatCable app to see what each of your cables supports.
Use Fake Contacts to Improve Dictation Accuracy
Frustrated when Dictation on the iPhone mangles what you meant to say? Create fake contacts for troublesome words, and Dictation will learn to recognize them correctly across all your Apple devices.
Today’s Fire Prevention Tip: Avoid Cheap Lithium-Ion Batteries
A study found that nearly 8% of cheap lithium-ion batteries have dangerous manufacturing defects that can cause catastrophic failure—even fires—while name-brand cells had none. Stick with reputable brands.
Not All Your Mac’s USB-C Ports Are the Same
Your Mac’s USB-C ports look identical, but one is special—and using it can cause macOS installations or updates on external drives to fail, or trigger other errors with Thunderbolt docks. Learn which USB-C port isn’t like the others.
Check Your Input Source If Your Mac Types Unexpected Characters
Is your Mac typing the wrong characters or rejecting your password? You may have accidentally switched keyboard layouts. Here’s how to check your input source and prevent it from happening again.
Understanding New MacBook Battery Charging Features
Is your MacBook’s battery stuck at 80%? That’s Apple protecting your battery’s long-term health. macOS 26.4 adds new controls, including Charge Limit and a Slow Charger warning. Learn how these features work—and when to override them.
Apple’s Focus Is Powerful but Unpredictable
Apple’s Focus can silence distractions when you need quiet time, but its complexity can cause you to miss important notifications. Learn how to configure it safely—and avoid the pitfalls that lead to missed calls and messages.
Losing Messages or Calls? Look in the Unknown Senders/Callers Filter
Missing texts from unknown numbers? iOS 26 filters them into hidden lists. Here’s where to find them in the Messages app—and how to mark senders as known so you don’t miss important messages. PS: The same applies to calls in the Phone app.
How to Find and Silence the Browser Tab That’s Playing Audio
Drowning in open tabs and can’t find the one playing sound? Look for the speaker icon on the tab itself, or use Safari’s address bar icon or Chrome’s music note for quick control.
Stop by either store and let's see if we can figure it out together!
Stop by either store and let's see if we can figure it out together!
Stop by either store, and we'll be happy to see what we can do to help you.
Stop by either store, and we'll be happy to see what we can do.
Useful read. I have been tinkering with virtual machines on my Mac recently, and this fits neatly into the things…