The Kindle has become the default e-reader for many bookworms, and I get it. I've used Kindles for well over a decade, and I've enjoyed using my latest Paperwhite quite a bit. It helped me read more than 30 books last year, so I'm not complaining.

The basic Kindle setup is okay, but if you learn your way around the device's gestures, hidden features, and additional services, you can really get a lot out of this unassuming reading device.

Kindle Gestures that you really should know

There’s only one button on the Kindle. Everything else happens using touch. And like every touchscreen device, there are countless gestures you need to know to use the device. The most obvious ones are for the page turns. You can swipe or tap right to go to the next page and swipe or tap left for the previous one. If you have a Paperwhite Signature Edition, you can also double tap on the back or sides of the device to move to the next page.

Tap on the top of the Kindle to bring up the toolbar, where you can go back to the Home screen, change the settings, view the table of contents, and more.

If you tap the bottom left corner, you can cycle between different stats like reading progress, page number, time left in chapter, and more. Oh, and if you want to quickly change the font size, just pinch in or out to zoom in on the text (like you would zoom into images on your phone).

Want to take a screenshot of what’s on your Kindle screen? Tap any two opposite corners of the screen together (top-right and bottom-left or top-left and bottom-right). The screen will flash for a second, and the image will be saved as a PNG in the root directory. Connect your Kindle to your Mac or PC to retrieve the image file.

Easily navigate between chapters

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

The Kindle isn’t the easiest device to navigate, especially when you’re reading a book where you need to jump between different chapters. Here, again, a hidden gesture can help. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up a new Page Flip mode. You’ll see a slider at the bottom, which you can use to move forward and back. There are buttons to jump to the next chapter as well (I use this all the time).

Switch to dark mode and schedule warm light

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

If you love reading in bed, you’ll want to enable dark mode. Pull down from the top edge to bring up the quick settings panel. Here, tap the Dark Mode button to quickly invert the colors. You’ll now read white text on a black background. While you’re here, also check out the Warm Light settings (if you have a Kindle Paperwhite, Oasis, or Scribe). Use the slider to increase the warmth of the screen, making it more amber-toned.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

This is especially useful for reading in the evenings or at night, but I like it so much I keep it enabled at all times. You can also set your color temperature to change on a schedule, so that the display slowly warms up in the evening hours. Do this under Settings > Device Options > Display Settings > Schedule.

Lock your Kindle

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Not everyone needs to know what’s on your Kindle, right? If you read a lot in school, or public areas, you can lock down your Kindle using an optional setting. Go to Settings > Device Options > Security and Privacy > Device PIN. You can then set a numeric unlock code up to 12 digits long, but it might be easier to stick to a four or six-digit code.

Send documents and books to Kindle wirelessly

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Reading on your Kindle doesn’t need to be limited to books you buy from the Kindle store. In fact, you can send any PDF or DRM-free ebook to your Kindle, and wirelessly. I have previously outlined multiple methods for doing this, ranging from using an email address, to using the Kindle app. But the one I keep coming back to is Amazon’s own Send to Kindle website. Open it on any browser, sign in with your account, drag and drop a document in a supported format (.DOC, .DOCX, .HTML, .TXT, .PDF and .EPUB), and send it off. Once you sync your Kindle using Wi-Fi, these documents will be available to read on it, just like that.

Show your book covers as screensavers

Credit: Amazon

Every time I set up a new Kindle, I’m surprised that this is a feature that I still need to enable manually. By default, Kindles shows a couple of images as screensavers when turned off. That's because of the e-ink display, which lets them show a static image without using power. These default screensavers, though, are boring. You can make this feature much more interesting (and useful) by showing the cover of the book you were last reading as the screensaver instead. Go to Settings > Device Options and enable the Display Cover feature.

Read long articles on Kindle

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Kindle’s built-in browser is pretty barebones and laggy, but you can still read long articles on it. For a smoother experience, though, you can wirelessly send articles to your Kindle, where they’ll show up in form of books, devoid of ads, formatting, and images.

The simplest way to do this is by using Amazon’s Send to Kindle Chrome extension. Visit a page, trigger the extension, and send it off to your e-reader.

If you don’t use Chrome, you can also use a dedicated service like Push to Kindle to send articles to your Kindle. You can send up to 10 articles a month for free, and a $2.99/month plan unlocks all limits.

Export your highlights and notes

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

If you’re using your Kindle to research or read non-fiction books for school or work, you’ll end up with a lot of highlights. Those highlights, just sitting in your Kindle, aren’t that useful. Amazon has a dedicated website that lists all the highlights from all the books you’ve purchased via the Kindle Store, but it's not your only option.

Personally, I prefer Clippings, which also works for content not bought from the Kindle Store. With it, you can import all the highlights and notes from your Kindle books and personal documents using a browser extension. You can view and organize all your notes from your browser, too, but if you want to export them to a document, you’ll need to pay for a $1.99/month Professional plan.

Borrow books to read from your local library, for free

There are many places where you can rent and borrow books to read legally and for free. The most popular option is using the Libby app from Overdrive, which loans you books via your library card or student ID. In the Libby app, go to Shelf > Loans > Read With... > Kindle. Here, sign in with your Amazon account and verify your Kindle device. Then, tap Get Library Book. Voila, an ebook from your local library will instantly show up on your Kindle device.

De-Amazon your Kindle

Lastly, you can take inspiration from my colleague Pranay, who uses his Kindle without any Amazon services. You can set up a Kindle without an Amazon account and use it as a perfectly good e-reader. You can buy DRM-free books online from various sources and transfer them to your Kindle simply by transferring the ebook files to your Kindle storage or using the Send to Kindle feature I talked about above.

I'm someone who routinely switches between Mac and Windows. It's a hazard of being a tech writer. But the thing is, I'm so used to the user friendliness in macOS that whenever I shift to Windows mode, there are some hiccups. Windows tends to throw up walls where there really shouldn't be any. I used to just white-knuckle through it, but that was before I fully embraced PowerToys.

PowerToys is a collection of utilities made by Microsoft itself. It's free to download on GitHub, or a myriad of other places, and unlike with Windows 11, Microsoft actually adds useful and interesting features to it every couple of weeks. You can download and install PowerToys from the GitHub page, the Microsoft Store, or using Windows Package Manager.

Here are a few of PowerToys utilities that have become a must for me (after installing the app, you really should browse all that it offers to see what strikes your fancy). If you took them away, I wouldn't be sure how to use my Windows PC anymore—this thing should really come pre-installed.

Command Palette

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

These days, Windows Search can come across a little heavy and bloated, just like the Start menu. While it’s fine for opening apps once in a while, I can’t really use it for anything more than that. Plus, I’m a macOS user, so I’m used to Spotlight Search’s lightning-fast keyboard launcher. While you can use third-party keyboard launchers on Windows now (Raycast being the latest addition), my favorite option is actually Microsoft’s own keyboard launcher, the Command Palette that’s included in PowerToys.

Like Spotlight Search, it’s light and fast, and you can assign any shortcut to it. I use it to quickly launch apps, search for files, and even search for open windows. Command Palette even has a really helpful Bookmarks feature that I use a lot. I’ve created bookmarks for quickly opening frequently used folders like Downloads and Screenshots, and even websites. A Bookmark can be triggered by searching for a keyword, or through its own dedicated keyboard shortcut (I’ve set one up for my Downloads folder, which is really handy). For more, I’ve got a detailed guide on setting up Command Palette that you should check out.

Light Switch

Credit: Microsoft

It's mind-boggling that Windows 11 still does not have an automatic dark mode. Over the years, Windows 11's dark theme has slowly expanded to cover all the apps you care about. But there's no easy way to toggle it on, and there's no way to automatically turn it on in evening, or on a schedule.

So, of course, there's a PowerToys utility for that. The recently added Light Switch utility lets you create a global custom keyboard shortcut for turning on the dark theme. For the Schedule section in the Light Switch utility, you can set up an automated schedule based on fixed hours, or using the local sunset time, which is how I use it.

Peek

Credit: Microsoft

I shuffle between macOS and Windows 11 all the time, and there are some creature comforts in macOS that I now have a hard time living without. One of them is the ability to quickly preview any file in Finder by pressing the Space button. There is no such option in Windows, and until now, you needed a third-party app to enable it, which wasn't always reliable. Now, Microsoft has included a similar feature in PowerToys' Peek utility. Once enabled, you can press the Space bar after selecting any file to preview it. You can then use the arrow keys to navigate to other files in the folder as well. Press Enter to open the file in the default app.

Text Extractor

Windows has a built-in OCR (or text extractor) feature for images that can be accessed via the Snipping Tool. But it's really slow. When I'm in a pinch and I need to copy text from an image, I prefer to use the Text Extractor utility in PowerToys instead. It's much faster. Use the dedicated shortcut Windows + Shift + T to see an overlay on the screen. Use the mouse to highlight the area that you want to transcribe. Once you let go of the cursor, the text will be saved to your clipboard automatically.

Image Resizer

Credit: Microsoft

This is one of those PowerToys utilities that really should be a default Windows 11 feature by now. Resizing an image, or a batch of them, is something that I need to do often, as someone who writes online for a living. But you might need it too, from time to time, to compress or resize images for an online upload, or a presentation. Instead of opening a heavy image editing program and manually resizing images one by one, use this plugin instead.

Once enabled, it will show up in the right-click menu in File Explorer. Select one or multiple images, click Resize with Image Resizer, choose one of the size presets (you can add more presets from the PowerToys app) or create a custom resolution, click the Resize button, and that's it.

Awake

I can't imagine using Windows without PowerToys' Awake utility. It adds a handy little tray icon that I can click to keep my PC awake longer than the default sleep settings would allow for. I have a custom-built PC with a big honking power supply, so I take my auto-sleep settings quite seriously. But there are times when I'm downloading a large file in the background, or I have a long AI task running, when I want the PC to stay on. That's where the Awake utility really helps. You can choose to keep your PC awake indefinitely, or for 30 minutes, 1 hour, or any custom duration.

FancyZones

Credit: Microsoft

The built-in window management in Windows is quite impressive in its own right, but it falls short for my workflow. I usually like working with my text editor, a browser, and Slack open at all times. Because I have a large monitor, I have my writing app and Slack on one side and a browser on another. But it can take me a while to get everything set up. This is where FancyZones really helps. I can create custom zones for each app I use that helps me puts them where I want them, and resizes them, too.

To set this up for yourself, first go to the FancyZones section in PowerToys utilities. Here, open the Zones Editor and create a new custom layout. You can now use the mouse to move the zones around and to add a new zone. Once a layout is enabled, all you have to do is move a window around and hold down the Shift key. Dropping the window in any designated zone to instantly resize it.

If you've been running several email accounts through your Gmail, you might want to double-check your settings this month—that's because Google is ending support for the POP3 protocol that can sync emails from third-party accounts. And while there are some other solutions, they don't work quite the same.

POP3 is an older standard of syncing emails between multiple accounts that allowed users to import emails from a third-party account and manage them in one spot. It's also a less secure method of transferring emails, so it's not a total surprise that Google is phasing it out, but the company hasn't broadcast the change too loudly, so it might come as a surprise to some users.

How to keep your third-party accounts working in Gmail

If you're still using POP3 to fetch your emails from a third-party account, there are a couple of ways to fix it before Google pulls the plug:

• Forward emails from your other accounts. Rather than having Gmail reach out to your third-party accounts, you can set up automatic forwarding on the other end. How to do this will depend on which email providers you use, so check your third-party account settings for forwarding options.

• Use IMAP to check your email from the Gmail apps. In the Gmail app for Android and iOS, you can log into third-party email accounts that support IMAP connections.

The IMAP protocol works a bit differently than POP3. While POP3 would import messages into your Gmail but leave the original, IMAP syncs between your accounts. So if you use the Gmail app to check your email and delete some messages, they'll be gone if you check the original account later.

Google's support doc says this change will take effect "Starting January 2026" with no more specific time frame. At time of writing, POP3 support is still working on my own email accounts, so it's not disabled just yet, but it's a good idea to update your email setup sooner rather than later.

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You can get a three-year license of Adobe Acrobat Classic (valued at $324) and a lifetime license of Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows (valued at $219.99) together on sale for $89.99 on StackSocial right now. The bundle is only available to U.S. customers, though. The Acrobat license works on both Mac and Windows, while the Office license is limited to a single Windows PC. And because these are digital codes, delivery is instant, and once redeemed, you can use the software offline without the monthly costs that come with subscriptions. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to deal with cloud tie-ins, recurring payments, or limited trials, the upfront structure of this deal is straightforward.

Adobe Acrobat Classic is the desktop-only edition, also labeled as Acrobat Pro 2024. It’s not tied to cloud services, which means everything from editing text and images to converting PDFs into Word, Excel, or PowerPoint happens locally. That’s especially useful if you work with sensitive files and don’t want them traveling online. You also get tools to password-protect or redact documents, along with a refreshed interface that makes features like creating forms or extracting specific pages quicker to find. There are limitations, including no AI Assistant add-on and no browser or mobile support, but if your workflow is mainly on a desktop, those missing pieces might not matter. Plus, the three-year license means you can lock in access without thinking about renewal until 2028.

On the Microsoft side, Office 2021 Professional offers the familiar full suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, Access, and OneNote. A free version of Teams is included as well. This isn’t Microsoft 365, so you don’t get ongoing cloud-based perks or syncing, but the trade-off is that you own the license outright for one PC. For many, that’s enough, especially if you just need reliable offline access to the programs you already know. The applications themselves include some refinements, like quicker ribbon navigation and more customization for documents and presentations, but don’t expect radical changes from earlier Office versions. The real appeal lies in stability: you buy it once, install it, and it works without recurring fees. Put together, this bundle feels like a pragmatic option for anyone who spends most of their time drafting, editing, and managing documents without needing constant cloud integration.

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If you’re trying to avoid Microsoft 365’s monthly fees but still want the full suite of tools for work or school, this one-time purchase of Office Professional Plus 2019 might be worth a look. It’s currently on sale for $29.97 on StackSocial, which is a fraction of what you’d usually pay. And just to be clear—this isn’t a trial or a cloud-based subscription, but a lifetime license for one Windows PC, and you get full offline access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access.

There are some limitations you’ll want to keep in mind. This deal is strictly for the 2019 version and doesn’t include Microsoft Teams. It also won’t tie to your Microsoft account, which might throw off those used to syncing documents between devices. But for a lot of people, that’s not a dealbreaker. It runs on Windows 10 or 11—so no luck if you’re still using an older machine—and you’ll need at least 1GB of RAM and 4GB of disk space. Installation is straightforward and instant. You get your license key and download link right after purchase, and that’s it.

In terms of features, you’re getting a robust productivity suite. Excel has improved data analysis tools, PowerPoint brings in new transitions and a zoom feature for dynamic slides, and Outlook makes email and calendar management a bit more efficient. Word is Word—it just works, and it works well. You can’t collaborate in real-time like in Office 365, but if you mostly work solo or on one device, this version gets the job done. All that said, $30 for a fully licensed, download-now Office suite isn’t a bad move—especially if you just need a stable toolkit that works.

With Google expected to push out its next major Android update to its own Pixel phones sometime next month, Samsung is catching up: Its top-end phones got updates to One UI 7 (based on Android 15) this year, and now the beta version of One UI 8 (based on Android 16) is available if you own a Galaxy S25 phone and live in the U.S., UK, Germany, or South Korea.

While there aren't any revolutionary new features here—at least, not so far—Samsung is promising "a new era of software intelligence" and "a true multimodal AI agent" (which as far as I can tell, means a few tweaks to the Now Bar and the Now Brief).

Look inside the Members app for the beta invite. Credit: Lifehacker

If you're in an eligible country and have an eligible device, then you can join the One UI 8 beta now. The usual caveats about beta software apply: Bugs are to be expected, and you shouldn't run betas on devices that you rely on (you may notice certain apps crash or don't work properly).

How to join the One UI 8 beta

Open up the Samsung Members app on your phone (you can redownload it if you've previously uninstalled the app), and sign in using your Samsung account details. Scroll down the Discover tab, and somewhere on it you should see a Beta Program panel you can tap on.

From there, tap One UI 8 S25 Beta, read through the information provided, and tap Join. After a few moments, you'll get confirmation that you're in, and you'll see a screen where you can Check for software updates. Once the software is ready, you'll be prompted to reboot your phone to install it.

It takes a few seconds to sign up. Credit: Lifehacker

As yet, Samsung hasn't said anything yet about which other phones might be able to join the beta, but considering One UI 8 is expected to launch in full around July time—with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, most probably—the program might not be extended much further beyond Galaxy S25 handsets.

You can leave the One UI 8 beta at any time by tapping Beta Program > One UI 8 S25 Beta in the Members app, then the three dots (top right), then Leave One UI 8 S25 Beta.

What's new in One UI 8

There's official information from Samsung about what's new in One UI 8, plus features that users have already spotted during testing. Bear in mind that features can come and go during testing, so none of these changes are guaranteed to still be in place once One UI 8 is ready for mass adoption.

There's a Bluetooth upgrade with Auracast, for sharing audio streams to multiple devices, as well as improved Quick Share capabilities: full screens for sending and receiving files, and QR code transfer support. You can get to Quick Share through a single tap on the button in Quick Settings.

The Weather app in One UI 7 (left) and One UI 8 (right). Credit: Lifehacker

Some apps are getting visual overhauls. They include Weather, which adopts a less cartoony aesthetic with more translucent elements, and Files, which adds a recently edited row and shifts some elements around. Reminders also gets a bit of an overhaul, with the introduction of suggested reminders and more category filters at the top (like Completed and Place).

You'll notice a revamped menu in the Samsung Internet app too, if you tap on the three horizontal lines in the lower right corner. Shortcuts can be customized and pages can be shared more easily, and—like One UI 8 in general—the overall interface feels a little more modern and fresh.

Samsung says it's added more resolution options for Samsung DeX, and there are more preset routines to choose from in Modes and Routines on the Settings menu. There are improvements to the Secure Folder as well: Apps can now be moved there and hidden from the app drawer, and the Secure Folder can also be completely hidden.

The Reminders app in One UI 7 (left) and One UI 8 (right). Credit: Lifehacker

Users are spotting all kinds of other changes: Earbud controls on the lock screen, more customization for home screen widgets, extra options for split-screen mode, and a bunch of other minor tweaks. No doubt more of these will emerge as the beta testing continues.

As for Galaxy AI, I can't see too much that's changed. It appears that the Now Bar is able to show calls and Do Not Disturb modes now, but that's about it. It may be there's more to come here: Hidden code suggests you'll soon be able to get your Now Brief read out to you, but the feature hasn't gone live yet.

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There’s something to be said for a one-time payment that actually sticks. This bundle on StackSocial pairs Microsoft Office Professional 2021 with Windows 11 Pro for just $54.97 (down from nearly $419), and it’s the kind of deal that makes sense if you’re setting up a new PC or finally updating an old one. The Office license is for life—no subscription, no annual fees, and it covers all the essentials, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. Everything installs locally on one Windows PC, so there’s no hopping between browser tabs or worrying about renewing in 12 months.

The Windows 11 Pro license, also included, is the full upgrade, not just cosmetic tweaks but real functionality gains. It’s got advanced tools like BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, and Windows Sandbox for anyone dealing with professional-level tasks or sensitive data. If you’re switching from Windows 10 Home, you’ll notice productivity bumps too: snap layouts, tabbed File Explorer, and Copilot baked into the OS. That last one is Microsoft’s AI helper that lives on your taskbar. You can press the Windows key + C to launch it and ask it to summarize web pages, open apps, or adjust settings—all with plain English.

There are a few caveats. Note that you’ll need at least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage to run it, plus TPM 2.0 and UEFI support, so older PCs may be out. You can only use Office on one PC, and the license is tied to that device, not your Microsoft account, so it doesn’t travel with you if you upgrade to a new computer later. The Windows 11 Pro key gives you a bit more flexibility (it can be activated on up to two devices). And while it’s not compatible with virtual machines or Parallels, the deal still offers solid value for most everyday or professional users looking to avoid recurring costs. Just be sure to activate it within 30 days of buying.

If you've got a Samsung phone, you've got an alternative, lightweight option for computing on the go: Galaxy handsets come with a desktop interface called DeX built right in, and depending on what you need to do, you might be able to use this mode in place of a laptop while on your travels.

Essentially, you plug your Samsung phone into a TV or monitor, and Android shifts to look more like Windows or macOS. You're still using the same software and the same apps, but you get floating windows and easier multitasking.

While a lot of the apps will stick to their mobile views, you can make use of apps such as Google Docs or Google Chrome to get work done while you're away from home (or just in a different room). And of course you've got access to all your movie and music streaming apps too, on a bigger screen.

How to set up Samsung DeX

You've got a few different connection options when it comes to Samsung DeX. It actually works wirelessly if you have a TV or monitor with Miracast technology built into it—or a streaming box or dongle with Miracast support. That includes most Samsung TVs made in the last few years, for example, so if you're heavily invested in the Samsung ecosystem then you're already a step ahead.

To launch Samsung DeX wirelessly, open Settings on your Galaxy phone, then choose Connected devices > Samsung DeX. Alternatively open the Quick Settings panel (swipe down from the top right of the screen), then tap the DeX button—if you can't see it, swipe down on the panel of tiles to see the full selection. Your phone will scan your wifi network for compatible hardware, and you can tap on a device to connect.

DeX in Quick Settings. Credit: Lifehacker

If you can configure Samsung DeX with a wired connection, it's usually easier and more reliable. The cable you're going to need will depend on the external monitor or television you're connecting to: You might need a USB-C to USB-C cable, for example, or a USB-C to HDMI cable. Most cables should work with the right connectors, but I'd advise searching for ones that specifically mention DeX in the listing.

You can use USB-C hubs and docking stations too, which is handy if you want to plug a mouse and keyboard in as well. Again, most models should work, but they won't necessarily all work—a bit of internet research should guide you towards products people are already using with DeX. This $12 Ugreen hub is the one I've been using for Samsung DeX, so you can see you don't necessarily need to spend a lot of money here.

DeX can be set to launch automatically. Credit: Lifehacker

You don't have to use a keyboard and mouse with DeX, because you can use your phone's keyboard, and turn it into a makeshift trackpad (you can even use an S Pen to control DeX). However, if you need to get some serious work done, from essay writing to emailing, then you'll probably want to hook up a mouse and keyboard. That's what I've done: The Galaxy phone, HDMI cable, and keyboard and mouse all plug into the hub.

Launching DeX in a wired configuration is the same as launching it in a wireless configuration, though if you're using cables and hubs then as soon as you connect an external monitor to your Galaxy device, you should see a prompt to connect. Future connections can be launched automatically (to manage this open Settings on your phone, then choose Connected devices > Samsung DeX).

How to use Samsung DeX

With DeX launched, you should see the desktop interface up on the external screen. It's a bit like having a second monitor for your phone, because you can carry on using apps on your Galaxy device the same as you normally would. You'll find a few app shortcuts already on the DeX desktop, which you can double-click to launch, and a taskbar showing open apps along the bottom.

In the lower left corner, you've got the standard Android buttons: the recent apps button, the home button, and the back button. To the left of those is a search button and an all apps button, which brings up shortcuts to every app installed on your phone. Over on the right of the taskbar, you've got an array of buttons, including ones for checking notifications, taking screenshots, and checking battery and signal level.

The app drawer view in DeX. Credit: Lifehacker

To customize DeX further, double-click the Settings shortcut on the desktop, then pick Samsung DeX. You've got a host of options here, covering font size, wallpaper, the shortcuts available on the taskbar, how the keyboard and mouse work, and whether to play audio through your phone or through the speakers attached to the bigger screen.

Operating DeX is fairly straightforward. Apps appear in Windows, with shortcut buttons in the top right corner. They will (from left to right) pin an app window (keep it on top of other apps), minimize an app window, put an app window full screen, or close the app. You're able to resize windows using their edges and move them about using their title bars much as you would on Windows or macOS.

DeX means you can get work done on the go. Credit: Lifehacker

There are a bunch of keyboard shortcuts you can make use of too, which make it a little easier to get around the interface: Ctrl+Enter (Windows keyboard) or Cmd+Enter (Mac keyboard) will take you to the home screen desktop. To see all of the shortcuts you can use, press Ctrl+/ (Windows) or Cmd+/ (Mac).

It all works slickly and quickly, and while Samsung DeX isn't something I use a lot, it occasionally comes in handy—especially in moving between home and the office when I only need to carry a Galaxy phone in my pocket. It's actually such a good idea that Google is expected to include its own version of DeX in Android 16.

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QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2024 is one of those software tools that you don’t fully appreciate until you’re knee-deep in receipts, invoices, or tax prep docs. If you’re running a small business, freelancing, or handling books for a family member’s side hustle, having a solid desktop-based solution like this one can help you get organized without relying on cloud subscriptions or recurring fees. Right now, it’s available for a one-time payment of $249.99 (down from $699) on StackSocial, and you get lifetime access, whether you're on Windows or Mac.

What stands out is how much is baked into the core software: You can create invoices, process sales orders, manage vendor payments, and track job-specific costs all from the same dashboard. You also get upgraded inventory and fixed asset management features, plus detailed reporting tools that make sense even if you’re not a numbers person. The system works offline and stores data locally, which might be a selling point if you’re cautious about online security. It integrates smoothly with Excel and older QuickBooks versions for data import, and if you’re already using TurboTax or QuickBooks Online, it slots into that ecosystem easily. That said, if your current QuickBooks setup is older than 2019, you'll need to jump through a couple of hoops first to migrate data.

This license doesn’t include payroll services, so if that’s something you rely on, you’ll need to purchase that separately. Also, you won’t be getting support directly from Intuit—the license comes through a certified third-party ProAdvisor. You still get the real deal, but if something breaks, you’re emailing StackSocial instead of calling Intuit. Specs-wise, you’ll need Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit) with at least 8GB RAM (16GB recommended) for PC, or macOS Monterey and 4GB RAM for Mac users. Still, for users who want lifetime desktop access without cloud dependency or hidden costs, this deal offers a well-supported platform at a steep discount.

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You may have considered making your own videos until you actually tried to edit one and ended up staring at timelines and layers, wondering where to even start. Adobe Premiere Elements 2025 is built to simplify that chaos, and right now StackSocial is offering a 3-year license on sale for $99.99. That’s a one-time payment, not a subscription, which already feels like a win. You get AI-powered editing, mobile and web companion apps (still in beta), and access to Adobe Stock templates for titles. It’s aimed at hobbyists, content creators, and anyone who wants their vacation videos to look like a highlight reel.

This version's workflow has been simplified a lot. The timeline is cleaner, the performance is snappier—especially on Macs with Apple’s M3 chips—and tools like color correction and grading presets are built-in. You can stylize titles, fix up the lighting, and string together polished transitions without digging through a maze of menus. It also helps that Adobe throws in some templates and effects to nudge beginners in the right direction. That said, if you’re planning to edit in 4K or juggle a bunch of large media files, you’ll want a more powerful system (think 32GB RAM, SSD, and decent GPU). It runs on Windows 10/11 and macOS 13/14, but if you’re still holding on to Windows 8.1 or anything older, this won’t install.

Additionally, this deal is only for new users, and you’ll need to redeem the code within 30 days. You can only use it on one device, so no jumping between your desktop and laptop. And while the mobile and web versions sound handy, they’re still in beta and only available in a few languages. But if you want to go from random clips to something with titles, effects, and maybe even background music, without hiring an editor or learning Premiere Pro, this version of Elements makes a lot of sense. And for $100, it gives you three years to play around, learn the basics, and maybe even discover you enjoy editing.

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If you’re in the middle of upgrading your home setup—or just trying to dodge monthly subscriptions—this $45.97 deal on StackSocial might catch your eye. It’s a bundle that gives you a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 and Windows 11 Pro. And not some limited trial or stripped-down version either. You get full access to the classic Office suite—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and even the lesser-used ones like Publisher and Access. These are the 2019 versions, so not the very latest, but still more than enough for most work or school needs. And it’s not Microsoft 365, so there's no cloud-based storage or collaboration features, but it is a one-time purchase you install directly on your PC.

What you’re getting with Office 2019 is pretty straightforward. You install it on one Windows machine, and it stays there forever. Features like Excel’s new data analysis tools, PowerPoint’s improved animations, and Outlook’s updated contact handling are all included. Just keep in mind, this license isn’t tied to your Microsoft account but rather to your device, so transferring it to another PC later might not be possible. Also worth noting: it won’t work on older systems like Windows 7 or 8. You’ll need Windows 10 or 11 to run it smoothly.

And that’s where the Windows 11 Pro part of the bundle comes in. If your machine can handle it (and yes, you should double-check that TPM 2.0 and UEFI are a go), this gives you the Pro version—ideal for work use or heavier productivity. It supports features like BitLocker for encryption and all the snap layouts and desktops you’d expect from Windows 11. It’s designed to work on up to two devices, which is helpful if you’re running both a laptop and desktop. Gamers might appreciate the DirectX 12 Ultimate compatibility too. But again, if your PC is too old to support the upgrade natively, this won’t work as a shortcut past that. Bottom line: this is a solid bundle for anyone who wants essential tools and OS access without monthly fees—as long as your hardware is ready.

If you've ever sat in front of your Windows PC wondering exactly what is causing it to run so sluggishly, some clarity may be on the way: Microsoft is testing a new FAQ page in Windows 11 that will analyze your system specs and give you some advice about why you might not be seeing top performance speeds.

The feature is currently hidden away in the preview release of Windows—it's not even active in the earliest testing version—but developer ‪@phantomofearth.bsky.social‬ has managed to access the relevant screens and find out how they work. The new page will apparently make its home in the System tab of Settings.

As per the screens shared online, an example of a frequently asked question is: "Is my GPU sufficient for high end gaming and video experience? How can having a dedicated GPU enhance my experience and productivity?" The answer then explains that less than 4GB of memory for a GPU can lead to lower performance and visual quality.

Then there's: "How does having 4-8GB of RAM impact my PC's performance? Can I run modern applications smoothly with this RAM capacity?" The response explains that you'll be fine editing documents and browsing the web, though tasks such as photo and video editing may be more of a challenge for your system.

These questions and answers will apparently be tailored to each specific system, so you'll only get information that's relevant to your own setup. This could potentially be pretty useful when it comes to figuring out what's slowing down the performance of your computer, or getting advice on which component needs an upgrade.

It's worth bearing in mind that a huge chunk of Windows users aren't even going to know what RAM is, let alone how it impacts the performance of their system. For those users, I could see the FAQ section being helpful—certainly more helpful than a dry list of system specs, which is all that's available right now.

Right now, Windows 11 gives you a basic list of system specs. Credit: Lifehacker

That said, the responses are a little on the generic side (I really hope Microsoft hasn't given Copilot the job of writing them). Information like "a high-end GPU can provide better graphics, smoother gameplay, and faster processing" isn't exactly a revelation, and doesn't really quantify how much improvement a user might see with a graphics card upgrade—so some estimates on potential performance gains would be welcome.

However, the more precise these FAQs get, the greater the risk of inaccuracies: Microsoft wouldn't want a user to be in the situation of buying an expensive GPU upgrade only to see minimal performance boosts because of a slow CPU, for example. Assessing PC speeds and the contribution of each component is a complicated business, which is probably why these FAQs are rather vague at the moment.

Hopefully, Microsoft can work in some more specifics before this feature actually launches without running the risk of misleading users. Of course, a lot of the details also might change between now and whenever this gets pushed to all Windows users—if indeed it ever does see the light of day. But it's a potentially useful new addition to the OS that will provide some extra context to your system specs.

Converting a .pdf to a .docx and back again may seem like a quick and easy thing you can do online for free—but that doesn't mean it's safe. A new notice from the FBI Denver Field Office warns that some online document converters are also loading malware onto unsuspecting users' computers, giving bad actors access to your device and your data.

The tools may also scrape files submitted for conversion for sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, birthdates, email addresses, passwords or tokens to bypass multi-factor authentication, banking information, and cryptocurrency seed phrases and wallet addresses.

How to spot malicious file converters

This scheme may be easy to miss, as the malicious file converters will do what they advertise, such as converting a .docx to a .pdf or joining multiple files into one. However, the file you download may contain hidden ransomware, adware, or riskware that exposes your computer to attackers. You may also be prompted to download a conversion tool (that is actually malware) to your device or install a malicious browser extension.

According to a Malwarebytes Labs report on the scam, the following domains have been found to contain malware:

• Imageconvertors[.]com (Phishing)

• convertitoremp3[.]it (Riskware)

• convertisseurs-pdf[.]com (Riskware)

• convertscloud[.]com (Phishing)

• convertix-api[.]xyz (Trojan)

• convertallfiles[.]com (Adware)

• freejpgtopdfconverter[.]com (Riskware)

• primeconvertapp[.]com (Riskware)

• 9convert[.]com (Riskware)

• Convertpro[.]org (Riskware)

While these are known scams, that doesn't mean there aren't other free, malware-containing file converters out there waiting to infect your device. The best thing you can do is avoid these tools entirely and utilize trusted software instead. But if you suspect you've been exposed, start by taking basic steps to secure your identity, including changing passwords using a clean, trusted device, and running an anti-malware program to catch any threats.

How to convert files safely

When you need to quickly convert from one document type to another, you may be tempted to google "free file converter" and click on whatever comes up—but don't.

Instead, start with the software or applications you have that can open the file, and check if you can export or save it in a different format (look under File > Export or File > Save As). Microsoft Office and many PDF editors have this functionality, or you can use Adobe's free tools to convert to and from a PDF, as well as a handful of other document converters available for free.

Remember that when you convert files, you may lose some formatting in the process.

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If you’re tired of subscription fees stacking up, this Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 for Mac deal at StackSocial might be worth a look. It’s a one-time purchase (of $79.95, 63% off its usual $220) that works with macOS Ventura (version 13) or later, and once activated, you’re set for the long haul with access to the full suite—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote (covering all the essentials for work or personal use)—without worrying about monthly or annual renewals. The deal is set for a limited time and ends March 30.

You can download it to one Mac, but the license is tied to your Microsoft account, not your device, so you can reinstall it if needed, provided your Mac runs one of the three latest MacOS versions (currently, Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia). You’ll need at least 4GB of RAM and 10GB of free storage, but once set up, it runs smoothly without requiring an internet connection. Just a heads up: you’ll need to redeem your code within seven days of purchase, so don’t sit on it too long.

The functionality is solid if you don’t need the cloud-based extras of Microsoft 365. Word is great for handling documents, Excel supports advanced formulas, and PowerPoint is reliable for presentations. There’s also the basic version of Microsoft Teams for collaboration and the free version of OneNote for note-taking. Outlook is included, but since Apple Mail or third-party email apps cover most needs, it may not be a must-have.

While these apps get the job done, keep in mind that this version lacks AI-powered features like Copilot and doesn't include OneDrive cloud storage. If you’re someone who relies heavily on cloud syncing and AI-assisted work, this might not be the best fit. There are also no feature updates beyond security fixes, but if you prefer stability over new bells and whistles, this version will do the trick while saving you money.

While they will never have the name recognition of the Amazon Kindle, e-ink devices from Chinese tech company Onyx International—sold under the slightly silly "Boox" brand name—are gaining a cult following in the U.S. I've reviewed three of its e-readers and digital notebooks over the past year, and I'm a huge fan. And if you're reading this article, you probably are too (or soon will be).

I love Boox devices not only because they're well built and full-featured (though if you want more of my thoughts there, check out my assessments of the Boox Palma, Note Max, and Note Air 4C). I also can't get enough of their customizability. Nothing makes me crazier than trying to do something simple with a device, only to be stymied due to locked down software that doesn't want to let me. From side-loading books onto a Kindle to doing—well, basically anything unsanctioned on an iPad, big companies seem determined to only let me do with my devices what they want me to do.

Boox devices are different: They run on an open version of Android that lets you do pretty much whatever you want. You can download any app in the Google Play Store, so you aren't tied to one e-reading platform. If you want to sideload apps, feel free: Plug the device into your laptop and it will mount right to the desktop. If you're truly ambitious, you can even install your own launcher to completely change things up.

While all this freedom is nice, it also means Boox devices have a bit more of a learning curve than, say, a plug-and-read Kindle. So if you are the new owner of one of these fantastic devices—whether an e-reader or a full-fledged digital notebook—here are four settings you should change right away to get the most out of it.

Set a one-touch refresh

Like any e-ink tablet, Boox devices suffer from occasional "ghosting," or visible afterimages once you've turned a page. While the device will automatically refresh itself after a certain number of taps (touching the screen, basically), I like to set up a one-touch refresh that I can trigger whenever I want to. Depending on your device, there are a few ways to do this: a button or a gesture.

Setting a manual refresh on a Boox device with buttons

Credit: Screenshot by Joel Cunningham

If you've got a Boox Palma or another device with page turn/volume buttons, you can map one of them to a screen refresh. For the Palma, it makes the most sense to use the Smart Button for this—that's the button on the left hand side of the device, which can do different things based on whether you press it once, twice, or hold it down. On my own device, I've mapped a manual refresh to a single Smart Button press, as it's the thing I find myself doing most often (that, or returning to the home screen, which is another of the many options you can choose). That said, you can also map a refresh to the volume buttons if you like (though I prefer to use those for page turns).

To remap your Smart Button, open the settings app and tap Smart Button. Tap your preferred option (Short-press Function, Double-click Function, or Long-press Function) and select Full-refresh.

Setting a manual refresh with a gesture

Credit: Screenshot by Joel Cunningham

Not all Boox devices have buttons, so if yours doesn't, you'll need to map a manual refresh to a gesture. (Though you can also do this on the Palma, if you like.)

To get started, open Settings and scroll down to System Navigation. Under Bottom Navigation, tap More Settings. Choose the area of the screen you'd like to map the refresh to by swiping between the left, center, or right side options. Tap Custom and then choose Full-refresh from your list of options.

Choose your cloud storage option

Boox devices tend to have generous onboard storage, but you'll get more out of them by linking your preferred cloud storage service on the system level. This will let you move files on and off the device without the need to plug it in to your computer.

To start, open Settings, then Accounts. Tap Move to Cloud Storage in Library, then select your preferred option from the list. You have a bunch of choices, including Dropbox and Google Drive. Tap the one you want, then log in.

Manage your sleep settings (if you listen to audiobooks or podcasts)

Credit: Screenshot by Joel Cunningham

In an effort to use my phone less, I've moved my audiobooks over to my Palma as well (the 128GB of storage comes in handy here). However, I was frustrated with the device as an audio player at first because I use a protective cover, and every time I closed it, it would go to sleep, turning off my audio. I found myself awkwardly trying to slip it into a pocket with the cover folded over, without accidentally touching the screen.

Then I discovered there's a setting to fix this (hat tip to Lifehacker reader N33k5 the Zombie Dog Fujin for sharing it in the comments): You need to tell the device not to "freeze" your audio apps when the device goes to sleep.

To do this, open Settings, tap Apps and Notifications, and scroll down to Freeze Settings. Make sure Do not freeze apps running in the background is set to On. Next, find your audio player apps in the list below (I use Audible, Smart AudioBook Player, and Pocket Casts) and turn the slider to Off. Now your audio will keep playing even after the device goes to sleep.

Change your lock screen image and screensaver

Credit: Screenshot by Joel Cunningham

Boox devices have some handsome preset lock screen images, but if you want to make the device your own, you can set your own screensaver and wallpaper. This one is pretty straightforward: Choose Desktop & Screensaver in the Settings app—but if you want a custom image, you'll first have to get it saved to the right spot.

The easiest way to do this is to find an image you like while browsing the internet using your Boox device. Long press on it and choose Download, which will save it to your downloads folder (naturally). Next, open up the Gallery app, tap your Download folder, and then tap the image you want. In the lower right, tap More and then Set as. You can choose to set it as the Screensaver, the Wallpaper, or the Power-Off image.

Alternately, you can plug the device into a computer and manually add the images to your Pictures folder. From there, you can change your wallpaper as described above, or just long press on the home screen and select the Wallpaper icon on the lower right; tap Local to find images saved to your Pictures folder. (And here's another helpful hint: If you want to create your own wallpaper image in Photoshop or Canva, the dimensions are 824x1648 for the Boox Palma. For the Note Max or Note Air 4C, 1404 x 1872 should serve you well.)

Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype (RIP). Even if you haven't used the app in years, it's possible Skype was your introduction into modern video chats. The app made it easy to call friends and family via video no matter where in the world you all were. As long as you had a stable internet connection, you could Skype.

Once Microsoft pulls the plug on Skype for good, legacy users will need a new platform to turn to. Microsoft will encourage you to switch to Teams, and you can. But there are better alternatives out there.

The goal (and challenge) of choosing a video calling platform is to convince other people to join you. The last thing you want is to pick an app that no one uses, then force everyone in your circle to adopt that choice. The less friction, the better. That's why platforms that work with people's existing accounts and platforms are best here: There are some great options out there, from Viber to Signal, that offer good video calling features, but you'll have a lot more luck calling your friends if you meet them where they are. I've focused this list with that in mind.

Google Meet

Credit: Lifehacker

If your goal is to find the easiest video call solution for the average person in your contacts list, my go-to would be Google Meet. In 2025, chances are high the person you're trying to reach has a Google Account—even if it isn't their platform of choice.

Because many of us have Google Accounts already, it doesn't really matter what devices or platforms you're working from. Whether one of you has a Mac, another a PC, or you're on competing ends of the iOS versus Android debate, Google Meet works on just about any device. It free, of course, but you do get some perks if you pay—including higher quality video.

My main issue with Google Meet, though, is it's not all that intuitive. The service seems designed more for business and professional use than casual conversation, so it isn't necessarily as ideal as Skype was in its heyday. (Just the fact that Google calls the default option "meetings" on the web app makes me feel like I'm working, instead of calling a friend or family member.) Plus, there's a 60 minute limit on calls at a time for free users: That's fine for shorter calls, but if you tend to sit on video chats for hours, you'll be picking up the phone a number of times.

If your friend has their Google Account properly set up, though, calling them is as easy as it was on Skype—or about as easy as opening the traditional phone app. However, if their Google Account isn't setup for calls, you need to share the call link with them instead, which is fine, but adds some friction to what should be a simple experience. Again, though, you're not going to find a perfect video call solution if the other person isn't already using that platform.

If you're on your computer, you can use the Google Meet web app for most purposes. If you prefer video chatting on mobile, there are apps for both iOS and Android—though Meet may already be installed on your Android device.

Google Meet supports video calls with up to 100 participants, as many as Skype did.

WhatsApp

Credit: Lifehacker

Like Google, WhatsApp is insanely popular around the world. If you're not using WhatsApp, someone you know is, which makes it a close second on this list (if not tied for first).

WhatsApp's standardization gives it the same advantage as Google Meet: There is a very good chance the person you want to video call has an account. I don't use WhatsApp, but I have a WhatsApp account. Better yet, the app doesn't have a time limit for calls, so you can talk as long as you want.

Like Google Meet, WhatsApp is available just about everywhere you access the internet. You can use it on an iPhone or Android device, or access it via the web app. WhatsApp even has a desktop app, unlike Google Meet, which potentially makes it the better Skype replacement. I personally used Skype on my Mac back in the day, and the experience of calling someone on WhatsApp using the app is a bit more reminiscent of that experience than Google Meet's web app is.

WhatsApp doesn't support as many participants as Skype did: The app will let you hold calls with up to 32 other people, which, while far less than 100, is still a lot of people for video calls.

Facebook Messenger

Credit: Lifehacker

If not one Meta app, why not another? Messenger has been the go-to option for Facebook users for years, simply because it's built right into Meta's flagship social network. But in recent years, the company's efforts to spin the app into a dedicated messaging service have been successful. I don't use many Facebook account these days, but I do check my Messenger app more often than not.

Again, you have the built-in user base here. Facebook might be the largest network of the three mentioned so far. You might have to add your friend before giving them a ring, but seeing as the social media platform contains more than 35% of the world's population, you shouldn't be shocked if the person you want to call is a member.

I quite like Messenger's video calling experience, especially on desktop. The Mac app definitely offers a video chat interface that veteran Skype users will enjoy. However, it's a little frustrating you can't start a video call without already having a chat thread going first. If the person or group you want to call already has a conversation going, great: just hit the video call icon to start a chat. However, if not, you'll need to send a message to your friend or friends first, then call them. I suppose it's nice to give them a heads up, but, again, friction!

Facebook Messenger used to support video calls of up to 50 people through a feature called "Rooms," but Meta has since discontinued that option. There are no time limits on Messenger calls.

FaceTime

Credit: frank333/Shutterstock

If you have an Apple account and the person you're trying to chat with also has an Apple account, just FaceTime them. The service is easy to use, end-to-end encrypted, and comes with a number of features you might expect from a more business-facing platform than FaceTime—like screen sharing and remote screen controlling. There's hardly anything easier than hitting the FaceTime button on an iMessage thread, or tapping your friend's name in the FaceTime app: seconds later, you'll be chatting.

Things get trickier though when you consider the friends who don't have iPhones—especially those who live outside your country. It's suddenly not so easy when you try to call a friend who doesn't have their international number tied to their Apple Account.

Still, that doesn't mean you should count out FaceTime entirely. Apple lets you create a FaceTime link that anyone can use to join a call—even those on Android or PC. It's adds an extra hurdle than if you were calling another Apple user, but it still works, which makes this method perhaps the easiest for those of us with iPhones or Macs: Forget about the other apps, just make a FaceTime link, send it to your friends, and wait for them to join your call.

FaceTime supports the same number of callers as WhatsApp, 32, with no time limits. Perhaps its biggest drawback is the lack of a native text chat feature: Google Meet supports a native chat, like Skype, while WhatsApp and Messenger are built out of chat apps, so you can send messages there as well. FaceTime, however, is its own entity: If you're all on Apple devices, you can continue the conversation on iMessage, but it isn't quite the same.

Teams

So work focused. Credit: Lifehacker

Microsoft, unsurprisingly, wants you to switch from Skype to Teams. In some ways, that makes sense: The company owns both platforms, so moving from Skype to Teams should be the simple answer. However, Teams is so obviously built with work conferencing in mind (hence the name), that if you're looking for a standard app for casual video calling, this one could be a bit overkill. (It's not like I'd recommend to switch to Slack for casual video calls, either.)

If your callers are all Windows users with corresponding Microsoft Accounts, Teams might work. The app does support up to 100 people, and you can chat for 60 minutes at a time. (One-on-one chats are available for 30 hours at a time.) You can also access Teams on a number of different devices—not just Windows machines. If your device has a camera, you can probably use Teams for video calls. The addition of a built-in chat function is helpful, as well.

Still, personally, I'd suggest trying one of the other options over Teams.

Zoom (not recommended)

Many of us in the working world (as well as those of us who jumped on video chats during the pandemic) are quite acquainted with Zoom. The app is perhaps one of the first you think of when you consider video calls, though it's not necessarily one you pick up for casual use.

Zoom does offer large video calls—up to 100 participants—for free, but that comes with some limits. While many free video calling platforms end after 60 minutes, Zoom's free calls end at 40 minutes. Unless you're already paying for the service, it really isn't a convenient option for those times you want to catch up with friends or family on video.

After years of waiting, iOS 18.2 has finally allowed third-party app developers to create tools to automatically block spam calls. All of this has been possible on Android for years now, but until recently, Apple's privacy settings had prevented it. Finally, anti-spam apps like Truecaller can have full functionality on the iPhone, too.

iOS 18.2's Live Caller ID Lookup solves an age-old problem

Apple's privacy limitations have so far stopped third-party app developers from creating a true call screening tool. For example, the Truecaller app on Android can run an online check for a number as soon as you get a call. The number goes through Truecaller's live database of known spam callers, and if identified, Truecaller warns the user with a big red box, or even automatically rejects the call for the user if set up to do so.

Previously, all of this could never happen on the iPhone because apps weren't allowed to send this phone number data to their servers.

But with iOS 18.2, Apple has introduced a new API called Live Caller ID. This uses homomorphic encryption to hide phone numbers as they travel between your iPhone and Truecaller's servers, letting the iPhone version of the app finally catch up to the Android one.

As it stands, Truecaller is the only popular app that supports the new Live Caller ID API, but I'm sure more companies will follow suit.

How live caller ID and spam rejection works in Truecaller

Truecaller's free plan only supports caller ID for verified businesses. If you're looking for the real deal, the spam caller ID and automatic call blocking, you'll have to pay for Truecaller Premium, which is $9.99/month or $74.99/year. Alternatively, you can get the family plan for $14.99/month or $99/year for up to 5 users, so adding on more people does represent a pretty significant discount.

After installing Truecaller and upgrading to Truecaller Premium, you'll need to make a trip to the Settings app to enable the Caller ID feature. Go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Here, you'll see multiple entries for Truecaller. Enable all of them. The last one, Truecaller Part 5 in the Live Caller ID Lookup section, will enable the latest caller ID features.

Finally, to enable the option to automatically block calls from known spammers, open the Truecaller app. Tap on the Protect tab, go to Calls, and enable the Auto-block spam feature. Then, you can choose to block Top spammers or All spammers.

The new version of Truecaller for iOS is rolling out globally over the next few days. According to early access from TechCrunch, the app successfully blocked most calls, but may still miss some.

You can get a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 on sale for $44.97 right now (reg. $69.99) through June 26. Microsoft 365 includes the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android—up to five devices at once—and it comes with 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage. You can also host or join Teams calls with up to 300 people, use 60 free Skype calling minutes each month, and use Clipchamp to edit videos with templates and an extensive stock library. It also includes regular security updates and new features as soon as they're released.

You can get a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 on sale for $44.97 right now (reg. $69.99) through June 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT, though prices can change at any time.

You can get Windows 11 Pro on sale for $22.97 right now (reg. $199) through September 3. The activation code upgrades two compatible PCs and unlocks the new user design and Windows Copilot. The new assistant uses an advanced version of GPT-4, and this Pro version of Windows also has features not found on the free Home version like remote desktop, BitLocker device encryption, Azure AD, Hyper-V, assigned access, and Windows Sandbox. System requirements include a minimum 4GB of RAM and 64GB of available storage.

You can get Windows 11 Pro on sale for $22.97 right now (reg. $199) through September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT, though prices can change at any time. You can also shop other Microsoft offers in this collection.