Whether you’re a new Apple user or an Apple fanatic, the iOS settings are constantly changing. And keeping up to date with all the developments can be quite tricky. We’ve selected the top iOS settings that you should check when you get a new iPhone or iPad
Pass Codes
For increased security, you will be prompted to enter a 6-digit code instead of a 4-digit code. However, you do have the option to use a 4-digit code if you wish. You get the option when you tap on Pass Code Options. If you missed this and you want to switch from a 6-digit pass code to a 4-digit pass code, you can go to:
Settings -> Touch ID & Passcode -> Enter your current pass code to access this section -> Tap Change Pass Code -> Enter your old pass code again.
Automatic App Updates
iOS automatically downloads and installs all new app updates by default. While convenient, this can eat at your battery life at the most inconvenient times. To turn them off, simply do the following:
Settings -> iTunes & App Store -> and set the “Updates” toggle to off.
Background App Refresh
Background App Refresh ensures that your loading time is quick for the apps that are most important to you by allowing apps to reload data in the background so they are always up to date. While handy, this setting can significantly suck the life out of your battery. You can disable this setting for the apps that you don’t need updated regularly.
Settings -> General -> Background App Refresh -> and set “Background App Refresh” to off for selected apps.
Suggested Apps
By using your current location, the Suggested Apps feature will suggest new apps for you to download. For example, if you walk into Vida, you’ll get a notification to download their app. That’s pretty cool right? But if you frequent many places and the notifications (aka advertisements) are just too much, this is what you can do:
Settings -> iTunes & App Store -> and under “Suggested App” change the My Apps and App Store setting to off.
Wi-Fi Assist
Wi-Fi Assist is really cool and we can see why Apple added this setting. Basically, when your Wi-Fi connectivity is poor, your cellular data will automatically kick in. But this feature comes at a cost which will eat at your monthly contract or budget. To prevent a surprise bill or ‘missing’ data, we suggest that you turn your Wi-Fi assist off.
Settings -> Cellular-> and set “Wi-Fi Assist” to off.
Ask To Join Networks
Sick of receiving a notification each time you pass through an open Wi-Fi network? The solution is simple:
Settings -> Wi-Fi –> and set “Ask To Join Networks” to off.
Low Power Mode
This setting is a new feature that allows you to extend your battery life by reducing the power consumption on your device when your battery reaches 20%. When this setting is turned on, background app refreshes, automatic downloads and some visual effects are reduced or turned off. To enable:
Settings -> Battery –> and set “Low Power Mode” to on.
Group Notifications by App
Getting far too many notifications from multiple apps? You can group your notifications by App.
Settings -> Notifications -> Group by App.
Reduce Motion
Are quick animations and moving icons on your screen not your cup of tea? If not, you can reduce the motion of your user interface by turning Reduce Motion on.
Settings -> General -> Accessibility -> and set “Reduce Motion” to on.
“Ask Before Deleting” in E-Mail
When tapping the trash icon in mail, a precautionary alert will pop-up asking if you’re sure you want to delete your e-email. It’s not too annoying for most people but it can become incredibly irritating and time-consuming if you frequently use your iPhone to check and delete mails. It’s really simple to disable.
Settings -> Mail, Contacts, Calendars -> and under Mail, turn off “Ask Before Deleting”.
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