5 smartphone habits to avoid

5 smartphone habits to avoid

Smartphones have become indispensable gadgets and an extension of people. One relies on these devices to wake them up, stay in touch with current events, socialize, provide entertainment, order groceries, and just about everything else. They have become so integral to everyone’s daily lives that, at times, people don’t look up from their screens for hours. However, experts suggest that excessive use of phones can be unhealthy. So, here are five smartphone habits to avoid:

Using the phone while walking
Texting or browsing the internet on the phone while walking on the road can distract one from their surroundings. It can also affect their ability to pay attention to oncoming traffic. So, one should focus on the road instead to avoid mishaps.

Relying solely on GPS
The Global Positioning System (or GPS) has made people’s lives much easier, as they no longer need to remember routes or look up maps before leaving the house. While the service can sometimes be helpful, it is not 100% accurate. That is why it is important to self-navigate by paying attention to road signs that may indicate speed limits, one-way roads, and other important details.

Using the phone before bedtime
Often, the last thing people see before they fall asleep is their smartphone screen. However, these devices can emit a blue light that suppresses melatonin, a chemical in the brain that regulates sleep. Low levels of melatonin lead to inadequate rest, restlessness, and lack of concentration, among other things. This makes phone use before bed a bad smartphone habit one should immediately break.

Not updating phone software
It is important to update the phone periodically or whenever an update is released to protect it from security threats and cyber-attacks. Although updating the phone can take up a significant amount of storage space, it is an important step to keeping data safe from any kind of attack. Updates also help the phone perform more efficiently.

Ignoring overheating
If a smartphone gets overheated due to continuous use for an extended period, one should not ignore it. It is important to give it some time to cool down and reach normal temperature. Overheating can tamper with the phone’s battery and reduce its usability. One should also avoid using the phone in direct sunlight, as this can heat the device. If the phone seems to be overheated, one should stop using it and remove the cover (if any) to aid airflow and let it cool faster.

Another habit to avoid is paying for phone plans without doing any research. Many smartphone owners make this common mistake. The plan you purchased might sometimes be contractual, and you’ll be stuck with it until the course runs out. Researching a competent 5G phone plan and sticking to reliable carriers like Verizon can benefit you. The brand offers unlimited nationwide 5G plans for as low as $35/month per line.

In addition to stopping the above-mentioned smartphone habits, people should secure their phones by installing antivirus software or an appropriate security application. One should avoid public Wi-Fi networks (such as those available at cafes and shopping centers) and clicking on any unknown or suspicious links to keep their phone and data safe from attacks.

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A good internet connection will help you get back to work and keep you connected to the rest of the world. T-Mobile home internet plans are one of the most popular services for a fast and reliable internet connection. You can get 5G home internet service for just $50 per month. Check out their website for more offers.

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The best Samsung phones you can buy today

There’s no doubt that Samsung is one of the leading Android smartphone manufacturers in the world today. Every year Samsung releases high-end flagship phones that outperform other Android devices, and soon become best sellers. Samsung also has some great mid-range and budget phones that are replete with top-notch features. Here are the top five Samsung phones that are currently ruling the roost in the market.Samsung Galaxy S20Samsung unveiled its three new flagship phones in the S20 line at its Unpacked event this February. Of the three, S20, S20 Plus, and S20 Ultra, the S20 is a popular choice for its specifications and price. Even with a display size of 6.4-inches, it ergonomically fits in your hand and pocket. Additionally, all S20 devices are 5G enabled and powered by the very powerful Snapdragon 865 processor. Samsung Galaxy S20 UltraThe S20 Ultra is hands down one of the best phones by Samsung. The phone is loaded with cutting-edge features such as an eye-catching 6.9-inch display. The phone has a quad-camera setup with a 108 MP main sensor, and the camera gives a 100x digital zoom. The incredible camera model lets you click high-quality pictures in virtually any light condition. The base model is available with 12GB RAM, and the more expensive variant comes with 16GB RAM and 512GB internal storage. Samsung Galaxy S10EThe S10E is the cheapest phone in the S10 lineup and still is replete with some of the best features. With a display size of 5.8-inches, it’s a great option for those who prefer using smaller phones. Even though the dual-lens rear camera is not as impressive, the phone is still equipped with a powerful Snapdragon 855 chipset. It’s an ideal mid-range Galaxy phone that doesn't compromise much on other specifications and classic Samsung features. Samsung Galaxy Note 10+Although the Galaxy S line is more popular, the Galaxy Line is extremely versatile. The Note 10+ is simply one of the best Samsung phones with a stylus. It features a large 6.8-inch display and is packed with high-end specs and features. The Note 10+ also has a 5G version in the market. With up to 12GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of internal storage, it is the most expensive Galaxy Note. Samsung Galaxy A51For those looking for a budget Samsung phone, Galaxy A51 is probably your best bet. Keeping the price in mind, the phone doesn’t let you down when it comes to performance, camera, and battery. It features a chic 6.5-inch display, a powerful Exynos 9611 processor, and comes in 8GB of RAM and 128GB internal storage. Unfortunately, the phone is not 5G compatible, but that’s an acceptable compromise on this pocket-friendly Galaxy A51.

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5 bad smartphone habits that will affect productivity

Smartphones are the need of the hour because, in today's fast-paced urban lifestyle setting, it's impossible not to have one. These gadgets are helpful because, in this digital era, most of the work is done online. However, certain smartphone habits may negatively impact you in the long run by hampering your ability to function without one daily. Here are five instances where most smartphone users can relate to the negative impacts of excessive usage. Constantly checking phone While the deceptively harmless habit may look like you are trying to jump-start on all activities, you'll often spend more time checking every single message or email. Also, the constant information overload from the various social media updates or news, in general, is not a very productive habit. Some updates could also trigger a sense of missing out that might hamper work productivity and negatively impact mood. Using your phone as an alarm Buy a basic alarm clock because it only costs a couple of bucks. And more than money, the idea behind not using your smartphone as an alarm is simple. Often, after pressing that snooze button three to five times before eventually getting up, you'll be tempted to check any notifications. Before you have even brushed and had a cup of coffee or tea, you'll delay all essential morning chores by simply picking up the phone. Over-dependence With each installed app, from contact storage to calendar reminders, dedicated to-do lists, and even automatic payment scheduling, smartphone usage is increasing daily. But these subconscious habits might affect your ability to devise creative solutions. Ever wondered what will happen if your phone battery runs out? Will you be able to remember important contacts or know how to navigate without maps? One should decrease phone reliance for every basic activity to get through the day. Using the phone before bed Just as it is bad to check notifications as you wake up, using your phone constantly for hours before bed can affect sleep quality. This is because your mind will not get adequate time to relax. Every audio-visual cue will run in a loop, especially if you have been watching something with headphones at high volume. Then, there is the added problem of missing out on content you haven't checked yet. It will be already past midnight when you have gone through all this! Ignoring software updates Sometimes, a lack of attention to software updates can damage your phone. Your phone may not function up to expectations if you haven't downloaded the latest application and operating system updates. These updates fix critical security issues and bugs that could potentially leak sensitive data. Therefore, it is advised to keep your phone updated constantly. Latest phones and service plans Since most of the work these days requires smartphone support, it is important to have a gadget with the latest features that support all your requirements. If you are yet to own a smartphone, it is always advised to purchase from the latest options available so that you won't miss out on anything. Check out some of the best smartphone choices below. Google pixel 6A and 7 Google's latest Pixel phones are generating significant buzz among Android users. Complete with a revamped design, hardware upgrades, and a user-friendly interface, the Pixel series is one of the popular picks for the upcoming shopping season sale offers. Priced at just under $349 with ongoing offers on the official website, the Google Pixel 6A continues to be a crowd favorite. Unveiled during Google's I/O event, the Pixel 6A started rolling out on July 28. Furthermore, Google's latest launch on October 13, the Google Pixel 7 series, starts at just under $599 and features an upgraded display, processor, refresh rate, and camera. Apple iPhone 14 With pre-orders already exceeding expectations on Apple's latest upgrade, the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Max are up for grabs. Launched on September 16 this year, both the 14 Pro and the 14 Pro Max come with a maximum storage of 1TB alongside an A16 bionic chip. The iPhone 14 Pro is priced at $999, and the 14 Pro Max is available for $1099. Enjoy exclusive trade-in deals and flat-rate pricing on all available variants this holiday season. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Launched on August 26, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 brings you an innovative foldable phone and touchscreen experience. The phone features the fastest processor used by Samsung yet and is compatible with the innovative S Pen. Furthermore, it has a dual horizontal immersive display that rivals many smartphones for just $799 with eligible trade-in offers. Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) If you are looking for a more compact version of the iPhone, then the SE series 3rd generation, launched on March 18 this year, is one of the best options. At starting price of $429, you can avail of perks like 256GB storage, a 4.7-inch display, and 5G cellular connectivity with the SE series. T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, US Cellular, and Sprint have partnered with all major brands to introduce talk, text, and internet bundles with 5G phone plans. You can also checkout trade-in offers with cell phone plans included as part of the deal across all your favorite brands. Boost Mobile also offers some of the best prepaid cellphone plans with talk, text, and data bundles. Offers are applicable on popular Samsung Galaxy S22 5G devices, iPhones, and Motorola devices. You can also check out pay as you go prepaid cell phone plans that have promotional offers. Some of these offers can be availed on the 5g iPhone SE. You can discover Visible Wireless cell phones for sale on popular devices across brands like Samsung, Motorola, Apple, and more on the official website. Unfortunately, smartphones are exposed to cyber-attacks when you use them on public networks. Experts suggest installing apps that ensure cybersecurity in mobiles to prevent unauthorized use and access. Larger corporations and business enterprises can benefit from extra layers of security using CrowdStrike’s platform. The single endpoint platform protects online systems from breaches, ransomware, and cyberattacks.

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