Author: Ask Adam

Office 2019 for Mac Goes Read-Only on July 13, 2026

Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac will become read-only on July 13, 2026. Check your version now and explore your upgrade options before you lose the ability to create and edit documents.

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.

Not Sure If You’re Presentable for a Video Call? Try Hand Mirror

About to join a video call? The free Mac app Hand Mirror adds a menu bar icon that instantly shows your webcam view so you can check your hair before anyone else sees it.

Use Your AirPods as a Camera Remote

Your AirPods can now double as a camera remote in iOS 26. Here’s how to set it up so a press or press-and-hold triggers the shutter to take a photo or start and stop a video.

How AI Vulnerability Detection Changes Software Security

Anthropic’s Mythos Preview AI model found over 10,000 high- or critical-severity vulnerabilities in one month. Similar AI models will soon be available to attackers, so keeping your devices updated has never been more important.

Choosing the Best Mac for a College-Bound Student in 2026

Which Mac is best for a college student now? The 13-inch or 15-inch M5 MacBook Air hits the sweet spot of performance, portability, and price. If budget is a constraint, consider the MacBook Neo; for more power, choose the 14-inch MacBook Pro.

Customize the Camera Control on Your iPhone

The Camera Control on the iPhone 16 and later is more than a shutter button — it’s a touch-sensitive shortcut to zoom, exposure, depth, and more. Here’s how to configure it so it works for you or doesn’t get in your way.

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.

Safari’s Compact Tab Bar Returns in macOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4

Those who have been missing Safari’s compact tab bar are in luck — it’s back as of macOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4. The compact tab bar is a welcome way to save vertical space for content.

Speed Up Mac and iOS Typing with Text Expansion

Tired of typing the same email address, phone number, or tricky words over and over? Text expansion on Mac and iOS can save you keystrokes every day.