Hands-On Mac (Video)

Your iPhone and iPad have a hidden powerhouse that rivals macOS Finder - and most users barely scratch its surface. Mikah Sargent takes you on a comprehensive tour of the Files app, revealing powerful features like document scanning, server connections, and collaborative folder sharing that transform your mobile device into a serious productivity machine. Recents Tab Features - Exploring the most recently accessed files and discovering the powerful "more" button (three dots) that unlocks advanced selection and viewing options File Selection and Management - How to select multiple files at once, switch between icon and list views, and sort by various criteria including name, date, size, and tags Built-in Document Scanner - Step-by-step demonstration of the integrated scanning feature that can capture physical documents and automatically convert them to PDFs with edge detection iCloud Drive Integration - Understanding how Desktop, Documents, and Downloads folders sync between devices, plus accessing app-specific folders like Keynote presentations Browse Tab Deep Dive - Navigating the main file structure with Locations, Favorites, and Tags sections for organized file management On-Device vs Cloud Storage - Important distinction between "On My iPhone/iPad" storage (local only) and iCloud Drive (syncs across devices) Third-Party Service Integration - How cloud providers like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box appear as locations within the Files app for unified file access Server Connections - Connecting to network servers using URLs or IP addresses with username/password authentication Advanced File Actions - Comprehensive tour of tap-and-hold context menus including copy, move, share, download management, compression, and Quick Look preview File Tagging System - Creating and managing color-coded tags for organizing documents, with examples like categorizing receipts, work files, and user manuals Favorites and Quick Access - Adding frequently used folders to the Favorites section for faster navigation and workflow optimization Collaborative Folder Sharing - Setting up shared folders where multiple users can add, edit, and manage files together, complete with messaging and permission controls Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Unlock the power of your voice with macOS dictation! Mikah Sargent demonstrates how to transform your spoken words into written text anywhere on your Mac, complete with punctuation commands, formatting tricks, and even emoji support. This comprehensive guide walks you through enabling the feature and using advanced dictation commands you probably didn't know existed. Enabling dictation in macOS - Access this feature through System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation, where you can choose language, microphone source, and set up keyboard shortcuts. Auto-punctuation option - Let macOS intelligently add punctuation based on your speech patterns or manually dictate punctuation marks. Voice punctuation commands - Mikah demonstrates speaking marks like "period," "comma," "question mark," "open quote," "close quote," and many others. Typography symbols - Learn to dictate special characters including backslash, forward slash, ampersand, bullet points, and vertical bars. Text formatting commands - Control your text with commands like "new line," "new paragraph," "tab key," "no space on/off," and "caps on/off." Mathematical and currency symbols - Dictate special symbols including equal sign, greater/less than signs, and various currency symbols like dollar, euro, and yen. Emoji dictation - Add expressions to your text by saying phrases like "smiley face emoji" or "sobbing emoji." Intellectual property symbols - Easily add copyright (©), registered (®), and trademark (™) marks through dictation. Troubleshooting tips - Mikah offers advice for when dictation isn't working as expected, including checking your language settings and internet connection. Dictate messages and documents on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/use-dictation-mh40584/mac Commands for dictating text on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/commands-for-dictating-text-on-mac-mh40695/15.0/mac/15.0 If Dictation on Mac doesn't work as expected - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/if-dictation-on-mac-doesnt-work-as-expected-mchlc480652b/15.0/mac/15.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Discover the incredible power of Apple's Magnifier accessibility tool as Mikah Sargent provides a comprehensive walkthrough of this feature that's about to make its way to macOS. Far more than just a simple magnification tool, Magnifier offers a suite of detection capabilities that can help anyone better interact with their surroundings. -Activities feature - Mikah demonstrates how to create and save custom "Activities" that configure Magnifier for specific use cases with different controls and detection settings. -Detection capabilities - The detect feature can identify and describe scenes, people, furniture, doors, text, and even what you're pointing at with impressive accuracy. -Capture functionality - Users can take photos of text or objects to zoom in on them later or have the content read aloud through the reader option. -Customizable filters - Various color filters including black and white, red on black, yellow on black, and others help users with colorblindness or those who need specific contrast settings. -Advanced settings options - Mikah details the extensive settings that allow users to customize primary and secondary controls, detection preferences, and feedback methods. -Door detection features - The tool can outline doors and provide detailed information about their color, material, shape, handle position, and even whether they should be pushed or pulled. -People and furniture detection - Magnifier can detect people at various distances with changing audio cues as they get closer, and can identify furniture including whether it's occupied. -Point and speak functionality - Users can point at objects to have Magnifier identify and read text from that specific location. Detect text around you and have it read out loud using Magnifier on iPhone - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/detect-text-read-loud-iph29dbe3fb6/ios Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Unlock the Full Power of Spotlight Search in macOS Sequoia Mikah Sargent takes you on a comprehensive tour of Spotlight, macOS Sequoia's built-in search powerhouse that does far more than just find files. Learn how to access, customize, and troubleshoot this essential Mac feature to boost your productivity.-Accessing Spotlight - Three different ways to open Spotlight: clicking the magnifying glass in the menu bar, using Command+Space keyboard shortcut, or pressing the dedicated Spotlight key (F4) on many Mac keyboards. -Search capabilities - Spotlight displays results organized by category including files, websites, images, music, and more, with indicators showing which results will take you to web sources. -Navigation tricks - Use arrow keys to move through results, double-click to open items, and hold down the Command key to reveal a file's location in Finder. -Settings searches - Search for system settings like "VoiceOver" to quickly access specific preference panes without navigating through menus. -Quick actions - Spotlight offers contextual actions for certain searches, like sending an email when you search for an email address. -File management - Drag files directly from Spotlight results to the desktop or Finder windows, and use "Search in Finder" for more specific file searches. -Calculations and conversions - Instantly perform math calculations, convert temperatures, currencies (like yen to USD), and measurements (feet to inches) right in the search field. -Time zone lookups - Quickly check local time in different cities around the world. -Customizing search categories - Control which categories appear in results by adjusting Spotlight preferences in System Settings. -Privacy options - Turn off Siri suggestions or disable location services to limit Spotlight's scope, and use Search Privacy settings to exclude specific folders or drives from searches. -Troubleshooting Spotlight - Fix problems by rebuilding the Spotlight index through a simple but effective technique involving temporarily excluding your entire hard drive. Search for anything with Spotlight on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/search-with-spotlight-mchlp1008/mac Choose suggestion categories for Spotlight on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/choose-suggestion-categories-for-spotlight-mchl3e00eae9/15.0/mac/15.0 Prevent Spotlight searches in files on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/prevent-spotlight-searches-in-files-mchl1bb43b84/15.0/mac/15.0 Turn off Siri Suggestions for Spotlight on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/turn-off-siri-suggestions-for-spotlight-mchl62db64f5/15.0/mac/15.0#apdd1e1b05619144 These show notes have been truncated due to length. For the full show notes, visit https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac/episodes/181 Host: Mikah Sargent

Mikah Sargent demonstrates how to use iPhone mirroring, a powerful feature that allows you to control your iPhone directly from your Mac. This detailed walkthrough covers setup, requirements, and practical applications of this impressive Continuity feature that keeps your devices connected. Setting up iPhone mirroring - Learn how to access the app through the dock or Spotlight search, and the initial setup process requiring passcode verification on both devices. System requirements - Both devices need Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, must be signed into the same Apple ID, positioned within 30 feet of each other, and running macOS Sequoia (or later) and iOS 18 (or later). Interface navigation - Mikah demonstrates how to use the trackpad to navigate, access the app switcher, and return to the home screen using the menu bar at the top. App interaction - Right-clicking apps provides additional options like converting apps to widgets or accessing app shortcuts that would normally require tap-and-hold gestures on iPhone. Notification management - See how iPhone notifications appear on your Mac and how to customize which app notifications are displayed. File transfers - The feature enables drag-and-drop functionality for moving photos, documents, and other files between your Mac and iPhone. Privacy benefits - Your iPhone stays locked during mirroring, and the iPhone screen doesn't display what you're doing on the Mac side. Multiple iPhone support - You can connect several iPhones to one Mac, though only one can be used at a time. Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent takes viewers on a comprehensive tour of the Passwords app in macOS Sequoia, demonstrating how this robust tool serves as a complete credential management system. From passkeys to verification codes and shared passwords, Mikah explores how Apple has created a secure yet user-friendly solution for managing all your login information across devices. Passkeys - These are created automatically when you set up passkey authentication on websites, with limited editing options but the ability to add notes or modify the associated website. Verification codes - Users can add two-factor authentication codes either by entering setup keys manually or scanning QR codes. Wi-Fi - The app stores Wi-Fi network credentials, displays network security information (WPA2/WPA3), and lets users generate QR codes for easy sharing. Security recommendations - The app alerts users when passwords may be compromised in data breaches using Apple's differential privacy techniques that protect user privacy. Password sharing feature - Users can create groups to share specific login credentials with family members or others, with granular control over which passwords are shared. Password importing - The app supports importing passwords from CSV files, though Mikah strongly recommends deleting these files immediately after import for security. Cross-device synchronization - All passwords sync across Apple devices with end-to-end encryption via iCloud. Windows compatibility - Even Windows users can access their passwords through the iCloud Passwords app, making it a versatile solution. Passwords User Guide - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/passwords/welcome/1.1/mac/15.4.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent demonstrates how to set up and configure an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with macOS, showcasing how this essential device can protect your Mac from sudden power outages and allow for graceful shutdowns to prevent data loss. This practical guide walks users through the various places macOS displays UPS information and how to customize shutdown settings for optimal protection. Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent takes viewers on a comprehensive tour of the latest Control Center updates in iOS 18.4, demonstrating new features and reminding users of existing functionality they might have overlooked. Check out how Apple has enhanced this essential interface with ambient music options and expanded Apple Intelligence controls. Navigation and customization - Learn how to switch between different Control Center categories by swiping up and down, including Favorites, additional controls, media controls, Home controls, and connectivity options. Resizing controls - Controls with a "macaroni noodle" in the corner can be resized by tapping, holding, and dragging to make them larger or smaller based on user preference. Adding new controls - Mikah demonstrates how to add controls by tapping "Add a Control," which suggests options based on what might be useful for the user. Ambient music feature - A new addition in iOS 18.4 that allows users to quickly play background music from categories like Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Well-being directly from Control Center. Apple Intelligence and Siri updates - New control options including "Talk to Siri" (to switch between voice and typing) and "Visual Intelligence" for iPhone 16, 15 Pro, and 16E models. App shortcuts integration - Third-party developers can now add shortcuts to Control Center, like "Analyze photo with Claude," Instagram capture, and Snapchat options. App-specific categories - Apps can create their own categories in Control Center, with examples from Carrot, ChatGPT, Controller, Documents, DuckDuckGo, and many others. Print Center tool - Mikah highlights the often-overlooked Print Center utility that allows users to check the status of AirPrint jobs. Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Learn the secrets to efficient photo management with the latest updates in macOS Sequoia 15.4. Join Mikah Sargent, as he unravels the enhanced features of the Photos app that are set to transform your digital album experience. Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Learn how Apple's latest macOS Sequoia update transforms the humble Notes app into a powerful calculator, allowing users to perform complex mathematical calculations right where they jot down their thoughts. Mikah Sargent breaks down the exciting new Math Notes feature that brings computational magic to your note-taking experience. From basic calculation capabilities to the defining of variables, this episode will get your brain ready to quickly crunch numbers on your Mac! Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent explores Keka, a feature-rich third-party archive utility for Mac that offers extensive compression and extraction options beyond what's built into macOS. This free and open-source tool provides advanced customization while remaining user-friendly. The app supports creating archives in multiple formats including 7-zip, tar, gzip, dmg, iso, and many others. Keka can extract numerous file types including ZIP, RAR, JAR, ISO, DMG, TAR, EXE, and CPGZ files. Users can set Keka as the default archive utility system-wide or for specific file types. The app includes extensive compression settings like compression level, file naming preferences, and integrity verification. The app is available free on Keka.io but purchasing from the App Store supports the developer! Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent dives deep into Archive Utility on macOS, a powerful but often overlooked tool that works behind the scenes to compress and expand files on your Mac. From creating basic zip archives to encrypted files, this episode reveals all the hidden features of this versatile utility. How compression works - Compression algorithms look for repeating patterns in data to make files smaller, though already compressed files like JPEGs may not benefit much. Quick compression with right-click - The fastest way to compress files is selecting them, right-clicking, and choosing "Compress," which always creates a standard zip file. Opening Archive Utility - Access it directly by using Command+Space and typing "archive" to explore its full capabilities beyond the right-click option. Archive Utility settings - Configure where expanded files are saved, what happens to archives after expansion, and whether to automatically expand nested archives. Expansion options - Choose to keep, trash, or delete archives after expanding them, or move them to a specific location. Compression options - Similar settings exist for what happens to original files after creating an archive. Archive formats explained - Despite setting preferences in Archive Utility, the right-click "Compress" option always creates zip files regardless of settings. Creating CPGZ archives - These compressed archives must be created by selecting a folder through the File menu, not through right-click compression. Regular archives (CPIO) - Simple "briefcase" archives without compression, useful for bundling files without reducing size. Apple Archive (AAR) - A Mac-specific format that uses multi-threaded compression to efficiently compact files. Encrypted archives (AER) - Secure, password-protected archives that can be unlocked with Touch ID if saved to your keychain. Why ZIP remains the standard - ZIP format is used for the right-click compression option because of its universal compatibility across different operating systems. Zip and unzip files and folders on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/zip-and-unzip-files-and-folders-on-mac-mchlp2528/mac Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Ever wondered how to level up your Mac gaming experience with built-in features most users don't know about? Mikah Sargent leads gamers into Mac's game mode and controller connectivity, revealing tricks for gamers and tech enthusiasts. -Game Mode Overview A special Mac feature exclusive to macOS Sonoma 14 and Apple Silicon devices that optimizes gaming performance. When a game is in full screen, the system prioritizes the game's CPU and GPU access while reducing background task resource consumption. -Game Mode Activation and Controls Automatically activates when a game is in full screen mode. Users can toggle game mode on/off through a small controller icon or by swiping with three fingers and accessing the main screen. -Bluetooth Performance Boost Game mode doubles the Bluetooth sampling rate, improving wireless device performance. This is particularly beneficial for gaming accessories like controllers and wireless headphones, ensuring smoother audio and input synchronization. -Controller Connectivity Modern Xbox and PlayStation controllers can easily connect to Macs via Bluetooth. The system provides detailed controller settings, including battery percentage, button mapping, and custom profiles. -Advanced Controller Settings Mac offers comprehensive controller customization options, including: Button remapping, Haptic feedback adjustment, Light bar color customization, and Game-specific control profiles. -Buddy Controller Feature A unique accessibility feature that allows two controllers to function as one, helping less experienced players (like children) participate in games more comfortably. -Recording and Capture Options Users can set up custom controller buttons to trigger screen recordings and game captures, enhancing the gaming experience and content creation potential. Use Game Mode on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/en-us/105118 Connect a wireless game controller to your Apple device - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/en-us/111099 Connect a PlayStation wireless game controller to your Apple device - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/en-us/111100 Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Save space harmlessly on macOS! Mikah Sargent explores Hyperspace, a clever Mac app that helps users reclaim disk space without deleting any files. Unlike traditional cleaning apps, Hyperspace leverages the APFS (Apple Protected File System) to optimize storage by identifying opportunities to create space-saving clones of duplicate data. Traditional systems create entirely new files for each version, while APFS cleverly maintains one copy of the base data with different metadata references, saving significant space. Users who have had their Macs for a long time or work with mixed file systems are most likely to benefit from Hyperspace, as they may have files that aren't optimized for APFS. The Hyperspace app (from Hypercritical) is free to download and scan with, but reclaiming space requires either a one-time unlock or subscription payment. Hyperspace: Reclaim Disk Space - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hyperspace-reclaim-disk-space/id6739505345?mt=12 Hypercritical: Hyperspace - https://hypercritical.co/hyperspace/ Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

In this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah Sargent explores the Print Center utility in macOS - an essential but often overlooked tool for managing printers and print jobs. Mikah gives a comprehensive walkthrough of the app's features, showing how it can help troubleshoot printer issues and manage your printing needs without requiring bloated third-party software. Accessing Print Center - Mikah demonstrates multiple ways to open the utility, including using Spotlight (Command+Space), the menu bar search icon, or navigating through Finder to Applications > Utilities Viewing connected printers - The sidebar displays all connected printers with status indicators Adding new printers - Mikah shows how to add printers using the plus icon, explaining the three connection methods Connection protocols - AirPrint is recommended when available as it makes the printer accessible across all Apple devices, not just Macs Printer management options - The interface allows pausing print jobs, viewing detailed printer information, and checking supply levels for ink or toner Scanner integration - For multifunction printers, Print Center provides access to the scanning functionality through the Image Capture app Right-click menu options - Users can make a printer the default, add it to the Dock for quick access, or remove and re-add printers for troubleshooting System Settings integration - The Printers & Scanners section in System Settings provides similar functionality but with additional options like printing test pages Job history tracking - Print Center keeps records of completed print jobs, helpful for remembering which printer was used in multi-printer environments Printer webpage access - Mikah highlights how Print Center provides direct links to printer web interfaces, avoiding the need to install bloated manufacturer software Manage printers and print jobs - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/manage-printers-print-jobs-center-mac-mchl33bd189d/mac Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent shares essential tips for troubleshooting Bluetooth issues on your Mac in this episode of Hands-On Mac. Learn how to resolve connectivity problems and get your devices working smoothly again with these step-by-step instructions. In this episode, Mikah covers: - Restarting your Mac: The simplest and often most effective first step in resolving Bluetooth issues - Toggling Bluetooth on and off: Quickly turning Bluetooth off and back on in the System Settings can help re-establish connections - Unpairing and repairing devices: "Forgetting" a previously connected device and setting it up again as new can fix persistent problems - Accessing advanced Bluetooth information: Holding the Option key while clicking the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar reveals device addresses and firmware versions for connected peripherals - Force quitting Bluetooth processes: Using Activity Monitor to quit the "bluetoothuserd" background process can help reset the Bluetooth system when other methods fail - Checking for device-specific issues: Ensuring your Bluetooth devices are fully charged and running the latest firmware can eliminate connectivity troubles - Minimizing interference: Keeping potential sources of interference, like microwaves, away from your Bluetooth devices can improve stability By following these troubleshooting steps, you'll be well-equipped to tackle most Bluetooth problems on your Mac and keep your wireless peripherals connected and working reliably. Bluetooth settings on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/bluetooth-settings-on-mac-blth8111/mac Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

This episode sees Mikah Sargent walking through the newly announced Apple Invites app. This event invitation tool allows one to invite friends and family to an occasion (like a BBQ) even if the recipients don't have an iPhone. Importantly, a user needs to have an iCloud+ subscription in order to create an event. Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

In this episode, Mikah Sargent walks through step-by-step instructions for turning off the new Apple Intelligence features that are enabled by default on iPhones, iPads, and Macs running the latest software. Disabling Apple Intelligence will turn off capabilities like enhanced writing tools, accessing ChatGPT via Siri, and more. - Apple Intelligence is a set of AI features now enabled by default on iPhones, iPads and Macs running the latest software. - Some users may want to disable Apple Intelligence and stick with standard device functionality - On a Mac: - Go to System Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri - Toggle off "Apple Intelligence" - This will disable Apple Intelligence features and revert Siri to basic functionality - On an iPhone or iPad: - Go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri - Toggle off "Apple Intelligence" - This disables enhanced features and changes "Talk and Type to Siri" option to just "Talk to Siri" - Toggles off on-device AI models which frees up storage space - Models can be re-downloaded by re-enabling Apple Intelligence in settings - Typing to Siri can be enabled separately via accessibility settings when Apple Intelligence is off Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Mac at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-mac Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

In this episode, Mikah Sargent explores Apple's new Clean Up feature, part of the Apple Intelligence suite, which aims to remove distractions from photos. - Clean Up is a new feature in macOS Sequoia's Photos app that uses on-device machine learning to remove unwanted objects from images - To use Clean Up, enter edit mode, select the Clean Up tab, and either click, brush, or circle the object to remove - Mikah tests Clean Up on a photo of a puppy with a toy in the background; it successfully removes the toy but loses some pillow texture - On a building photo, Clean Up struggles to properly remove a person, distorting the stairs - Clean Up has difficulty fully removing an iPhone and keyboard from a spatial photo of Leo Laporte - Apple's on-device approach to machine learning, driven by privacy, currently falls short of Google's server-side Magic Eraser feature - Clean Up is available on all Apple devices that support Apple Intelligence features, including iOS and iPadOS Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Extensions in macOS Sequoia can take your system's functionality to the next level, and Mikah Sargent is here to show you how. Learn to set up, manage, and customize extensions for Finder, Photos, Spotlight, and more. Whether you're looking to boost productivity or streamline tasks, this episode covers everything you need to make the most of macOS extensions. Change Login Items & Extensions settings on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/change-login-items-extensions-settings-mtusr003/15.0/mac/15.2 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

The macOS dock is more powerful than you think! Mikah Sargent demonstrates how to customize the dock's layout, use hidden shortcuts, and manage apps and folders like a pro. Whether you're a seasoned Mac user or new to macOS Sequoia, this episode will show you how to maximize efficiency and keep your desktop organized. Use the Dock on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/open-apps-from-the-dock-mh35859/15.0/mac/15.2 Use folders in the Dock on Mac - Apple Support https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/use-folders-in-the-dock-mchl231f08fb/15.0/mac/15.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

macOS Sequoia brings powerful Siri updates to Apple Silicon Macs, and Mikah Sargent is here to guide you through them. Learn how to control your Mac with voice commands, integrate ChatGPT for advanced queries, and adjust Siri's settings to match your workflow. This episode will help you unlock Siri's full potential, making it more useful than ever on your Mac. How to use Siri on your Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/how-to-use-siri-mchlb66b4ad6/15.0/mac/15.1.1 Use Apple Intelligence with Siri on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/use-apple-intelligence-with-siri-mchl0f933212/15.0/mac/15.0#iph13e934e37 Change Siri settings for accessibility on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/change-siri-settings-for-accessibility-mchl5715a9f2/15.0/mac/15.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Apple's Voice Memos app just got a serious upgrade for iPhone 16 Pro users, and Mikah Sargent is here to show you why it's a game-changer for musicians, podcasters, and creatives. The new layered audio recording feature lets you stack tracks effortlessly, capturing vocals over a backing track or layering spoken word with precision. Whether you're humming song ideas, laying down a podcast draft, or creating something unique, Mikah walks you through how this update transforms Voice Memos into an indispensable creative companion. Voice Memos update brings Layered Recording to iPhone 16 Pro lineup - Apple - https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/12/voice-memos-update-brings-layered-recording-to-iphone-16-pro-lineup/ Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

In this episode of Hands-On Mac, host Mikah Sargent provides a detailed walkthrough of Apple's new Image Playground app, an AI-powered image generation tool available on macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. Sargent explores the app's user interface and demonstrates its key features, including the ability to generate images by describing scenes, selecting people from your photo library, choosing themes and costumes, and applying different styles like animation or illustration. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mouse Keys is a hidden gem in macOS accessibility, but it can also be a source of confusion when accidentally enabled. Mikah breaks down how Mouse Keys allows keyboard-based mouse control, explains how to activate or deactivate it, and shares tips to prevent unintended activation. This episode is a must for anyone navigating macOS accessibility settings or puzzled by unexpected keyboard behavior. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Discover how to enhance your images with macOS's Preview app as Mikah demonstrates cropping, resizing, rotating, and background removal tools. Learn to adjust image colors, contrast, sharpness, and even use advanced tools like Instant Alpha for background transparency. Perfect for anyone seeking quick and effective ways to edit images directly in Preview without the need for third-party software. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Explore the full potential of Preview's Inspector tool on macOS, as Mikah demonstrates how to uncover detailed file information on both images and PDFs. With the Inspector, you can view metadata like creation dates, DPI, and file formats, alongside specialized EXIF and IPTC data for photos. Learn to manage keywords, add or remove annotations, and even apply PDF security settings. Ideal for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of file insights and data management in Preview. View information about PDFs and images in Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/view-information-about-pdfs-and-images-prvw9c94f0a4/11.0/mac/15.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Hands-on with macOS's Preview app takes annotation and signing to a new level as Mikah explores how to make the most of PDF form-filling, markup, and redaction features. Learn to add text, draw shapes, redact sensitive information, and even use Preview's built-in AutoFill to complete form fields with ease. Mikah demonstrates both trackpad and camera options for adding a signature, ensuring that your PDF interactions stay quick and seamless without third-party software. An essential guide to mastering macOS Preview's PDF tools. Fill out and sign PDF forms in Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/fill-out-and-sign-pdf-forms-prvw35725/11.0/mac/15.1 Annotate a PDF in Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/annotate-a-pdf-prvw11580/11.0/mac/15.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Unleash the full potential of macOS's Preview app as Mikah explores how to combine, rearrange, and edit PDFs without needing third-party tools. From duplicating files to protect originals, deleting unnecessary pages, and mastering the Contact Sheet view for seamless page reordering, this episode is packed with practical tips. Mikah also demonstrates merging PDFs, helping you compile crucial information into a single document with just a few clicks. Perfect for anyone looking to streamline their workflow with Preview's often-overlooked PDF management features. Combine PDFs in Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/combine-pdfs-prvw43696/11.0/mac/15.0.1 Add, delete, or move PDF pages in Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/add-delete-or-move-pdf-pages-prvw11793/11.0/mac/15.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Learn how to export PDFs like a pro using macOS's Preview app. This episode covers key tips on compressing PDFs, using Quartz filters for unique effects, and locking or password-protecting your documents to secure your content. Whether you're optimizing file sizes or preventing edits, this step-by-step guide will help you take control of your PDFs with ease. Compress a PDF in Preview on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/compress-a-pdf-prvw1509/11.0/mac/15.0.1 Add effects to a PDF in Preview on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/add-effects-to-a-pdf-prvw1510/mac Lock PDFs and images in Preview on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/lock-pdfs-and-images-prvw35875/11.0/mac/15.0.1 Password-protect a PDF in Preview on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/password-protect-a-pdf-prvw587dd90f/11.0/mac/15.0.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Just because you downloaded a JPG doens't mean you're stuck with a JPG. Mikah Sargent shows you how to use Preview on macOS to converte image file types, adjust image compression, and access hidden/legacy export options. Convert image file types using Preview on Mac - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/convert-image-file-types-prvw1012/11.0/mac/15.0.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

You might have heard about the new feature in macOS Sequoia, iOS 18, and iPadOS 18 that lets you schedule a message to send later, but have you figured out how to do it? Mikah Sargent shows you where to find the Send Later feature and shares everything you need to know about using it. Schedule a message on Mac to send later - Apple Support - https://support.apple.com/guide/messages/send-later-icht113734b8/14.0/mac/15.0.1 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

With the introduction of macOS Sequoia comes the introduction of a monthly permissions prompt for Screen & System Audio Recording. Mikah Sargent shows you an app you can use to quickly and easily circumvent the monthly prompts. Amnesia - https://goodsnooze.gumroad.com/l/amnesia?layout=profile Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Contrary to what an internet search might tell you, it's actually rather simple to reset your HomePod and HomePod mini. Mikah Sargent walks you through the process of factory resetting your HomePod speaker. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

If you have an iPhone with the Dynamic Island, you may have noticed the flashlight controls look a little different from previous versions. Mikah Sargent shows you how to control the brightness and beam width of your flashlight in iOS 18 on an iPhone with the Dynamic Island. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Mikah Sargent guides viewers through the intricate process of pre-ordering the latest iPhone model. This informative episode breaks down each step, from selecting device specifications to understanding trade-in options and AppleCare+ coverage. Viewers will learn valuable tips for navigating the Apple Store app, choosing financing options, and setting up calendar reminders to ensure a smooth pre-order experience. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Privacy settings on macOS can be complex and confusing. Mikah Sargent breaks down each privacy option in the Settings app, explaining what they control and how they affect app permissions. From Location Services to Developer Tools, he covers the full spectrum of privacy settings, offering practical advice on when to grant or revoke app access. Viewers will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to manage their personal data and make informed decisions about app permissions on their Mac. This episode empowers users to take control of their privacy and security in macOS. Change Privacy & Security settings on Mac - https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/change-privacy-security-settings-on-mac-mchl211c911f/14.0/mac/14.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

If you've been looking for a replacement for Mac Bartender, you're not alone. Mikah Sargent shows you the app he uses to keep his Mac Menu Bar organized: Hidden Bar. Hidden Bar on the App Store - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hidden-bar/id1452453066?mt=12 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

Apple just announced a new place to find and listen to your podcasts: Apple Podcasts on the Web. Mikah Sargent walks you through the new site, showing you how to play and follow podcasts just like you would in the Apple Podcasts app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Apple Podcasts on the web - Apple Podcasts for Creators - https://podcasters.apple.com/support/5462-apple-podcasts-available-on-the-web Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

If you hate getting charged for in-app subscriptions that you're no longer using, you need to audit your subscription list. Mikah Sargent walks you through the process of viewing, managing, and canceling your app subscriptions all from your iPhone's Settings app. View or cancel app subscriptions on iPhone - https://support.apple.com/en-vn/guide/iphone/iph4e3e7324f/17.0/ios/17.0 Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

On Hands-On Mac, Mikah demonstrates Mic Modes in macOS from his new recording room! These audio options are available during a user's video call (such as on Google Meet or FaceTime. The modes Mikah details include Standard, Voice Isolation, and Wide Spectrum. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.

In the latest beta of iOS 18, Apple has introduced the first Apple Intelligence features. Mikah Sargent demonstrates Apple's new Writing Tools, Siri's new look and some of its capabilities, Safari's summarization, and more. Apple Intelligence Preview - Apple - https://www.apple.com/apple-intelligence/ Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord.