Starbucks is revamping how customers can use their app. A new feature called My Starbucks Barista allows customers to place their orders by simply saying “I want a latte”. Not only can you order your morning cup of Joe this way but you can also pay for it as well, grab your cup and keep rolling with your day.
This new feature offered on the Starbucks app was announced on Monday, according to CNN. For now, My Starbucks Barista is only available to 1,000 people across the globe when it comes out this summer for iOS devices. However, don’t worry Android users, a version of My Starbucks Barista will be heading your way after the release of the iOS version, CNN reported.
However, Starbucks isn’t stopping there. They are also rolling out a new voice-ordering tool for Amazon’s Alexa. In order to get your caffeine fill all you have to do is say “Alexa, order my Starbucks” and it will place your order for you via the Starbucks app.
The hope of this new feature is to reduce the number of people waiting in line to pick up their coffee, which the app was original making a bigger problem, which of course discourages people from using it. The company aims to generate increased interest in the app by introducing the My Starbucks Barista feature.
The Apple iPhone 6 and 6 plus are finally here much to the chagrin of faithful iPhone users and general public. However, the iPhone 6 and 6 plus, combined with the iOS 8 have also brought with them many problems. From issues to not being able to hear during calls, red & blue screens and several others, they are enough to drive anyone using one of these phones mad. We here at Mr Phix, the replacement screen experts, understand your frustrations which is why we have put together this list detailing each problem and their solutions.
– Rapid Battery Drain = Although Apple has had issues in the past with other previous versions of the iPhone cel losing battery life too quickly, the iPhone 6 sometimes goes through some real sudden battery drops in battery life or drain. This can be due to the fact that this phone has a higher and larger resolution display as well faster processors and many other added battery draining features.
Fix = There could be an app causing the battery to drain really fast. Go to Settings > General > Usage > Battery Usage – Here you can take a look at exactly what apps are using most of your battery and draining it. You can either disable the app or try un-installing it. Also, you should lower the brightness on your screen display.
– No SIM card error Glitch = Although this problem is not as rampant as others, there are few people who have reported their iPhone 6 suddenly showing “No SIM card” or “Invalid SIM”
Fix = Try restarting your phone by turning it on and off again. You can also try toggling the Airplane mode by switching it on and off a few times to see if that resolves the issue. Try making sure that your current software is up to date as well. Remove current SIM card and try it on another device similar to yours or you can also try a different SIM card on your phone also. There could be a chance that your SIM card is dirty or damaged. Remove the SIM card, use a pencil eraser to clean the gold contacts. You should then blow away or remove any debris left over before inserting the SIM card back to your phone. If, after trying all of these steps the phone still does not recognizes your SIM card, then contact your local carrier or Apple. – iOS 8 bugs = Even though all softwares experience bugs at the beginning, the iOS 8 bugs appear to be more frequent than other previous versions. From Safari crashing randomly, phone rebooting on its own and several other issues, the bugs in iOS 8 are enough to annoy and frustrate many users.
Fix = Other than waiting on Apple and apps to update in order to fix their bugs. There is really no solution users can perform on their own. As before, make sure your phone is always updated to the latest version.
Problem: Red Screen = Several iPhone 6 and 6 plus users have complained about their phone’s screens going red. Most times the Red screen problem appears to resolve itself.
Fix = You can try simultaneously holding down the Home & the Sleep/Wake buttons. Hold the buttons for 10 seconds, or until you see the Apple logo. However, while the phone may restart normally, some users complain about the problem coming back. If this is the case then if could be a software glitch issue such as a corrupted backup or file. The solution for this would be restoring your phone through iTunes. It can also be a hardware failure on the phone itself, whereas you should contact Apple. You can arrange to have your iPhone 6 or 6 plus replaced altogether. – Issue: Cracked screen = Many users are complaining that their iPhone 6 and 6 plus screens are easily damaged. Nevertheless, very few users are able to have a phone without ever experiencing the dreaded cracked screen. Whether it may be by dropping your phone or some other way, this is one of the most expensive problems that can happen to your phone. One of the best ways to protect your phone is by investing in a good protective cover or case. If, however, you have a broken screen, then Mr Phix, the screen replacement experts can change it for you. We have repaired hundreds of cracked screens. From Cell phones to iPads, we will gladly fix any issues with your devices.
There are many other problems affecting iPhone 6 and 6 plus users including:
phone bending,
No service
Touch ID working to several others.
You can read the entire list here of other issues you may experience with your iPhone 6 or 6 plus.
Each Fingerprint reader is unique and matched or coded to only that phone
Apple pairs each individual Touch ID sensor cable to each individual iPhone it’s installed in.
If you remove a Touch ID sensor from an iPhone 5s fingerprint reader, and install it in another, identical iPhone 5s , that sensor will fail to work. The Mr Phix Team looked closer at the situation after a request from a client who wanted to swap screens from one iPhone 5s to another. This was due to damage on one of the phones. The client owned both phones and wanted to mix the two to create the best unit using parts from both phones. My tech swapped the screens and had issues with the fingerprint reader following the swap. After extensive testing and removal and re-seating of all of the component,s we decided to return the original reader to the phone it belonged to. We then performed a hard reset and the reader was then returned.
Conclusion is that the fingerprint reader cannot be successfully replaced without losing function
Techs…DO NOT!!! damage the reader during disassemble process. It will not resolve, ONLY the original reader will function on each particular iPhone 5s phone. Keep checking the Mr Phix website for updates and helpful information on all other issues related to electronic devices. We are the screen replacement experts in Wilmington, NC!
I recently replaced a screen on an iPhone 5 and upon
completion I powered up the phone and all functions were working properly.
The phone, however, was searching for service which is typical of a newly powered phone. Several minutes past and the service had still not connected. I powered the phone off and on again which will usually fix the problem.. yet still … no go.
The iPhone 5 Loses Service After Screen Repair
I did a hard reset
Holding the power and home button continuously until the phone shuts down and reboots
no resolution.
I then powered it down, removed the SIM card and cleaned it thoroughly. I then re-installed, powered iPhone 5 back on.
Still no luck
I powered it off, then removed the battery and began examining the iPhone 5 for hardware problems which may have been caused during the screen replacement process.
Nevertheless, everything seemed in order.
I seated all cables and checked for tears or misalignment
iPhone 5 Shield linked to 3G reception
I next paid close attention to the
iPhone 5 connectors for antenna to case
connectors and cables that are associated with 3G reception
there was no visible damage or misalignment
I reassembled and powered the iPhone 5 back up
then checked for SIM in the Settings>General>About
it was there and read the correct number
After calling AT&T support and speaking to the tech they said there is a phenomenon where SIM can be blacklisted from being removed and the iPhone detecting hardware change.
We were preparing for a OTA reset “over the air” reset … before we did that We re-set all settings and powered off device and the SIM alert “locked ” appeared I contacted the client and he gave me the password and moments after I entered it the service returned.
So ….Sometimes a Service can be locked or interrupted because of SIM removal and will require service provider assistance .
Happy Ending.
Thank You AT&T for your fantastic service and assistance
13 Tricks for iMessage You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask
We here at Mr Phix, the replacement screen experts, are always looking for tips, tricks or anything that will make our customers lives easier when it comes to their mobile phones and its use. We discovered these 13 Tricks for iMessage You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask on Popsugar.com that you might not have known about, and we’re thrilled to share them with everyone.
Anyone who wants to become blue bubble masters of iMessage, which is Apple’s testing messenger, should read these. Chances are you might know them all. However, there may be a few new texting tricks, hints and tips you can learn as well that you did not know.
– Enable/Disable read receipts.
If you ever had someone text you and you did not respond back right away, then enabling and disabling read receipts is a trick you should know. This setting can let someome if you read their text and simply decided not to answer them. That can make you look really bad for not answering the text right away. So this setting has pros and cons to it. To change them simply go to the settings app, select messages and choose enable or disable Send Read Receipts. Enabling will let people know the time you read it.
– Write in All CAPS?
Most people consider writing in ALL CAPS the alternative to screaming. However, sometimes you just want to get your point accross or make sure they understand your point. To write in ALL CAPS simply double tap the shift key to turn it into the caps lock key when your keyboard is open. ENJOY! Remember, if your phone or tablet’s screen ever cracks, you can rely on Mr. Phix, the experts in replacement screens, to fix it. If you are in the Wilmington, NC area then we have several locations you can choose to visit. Mr. Phix stands out as the highest-rated replacement screen company. This is because our staff has years of experience and we valued every customer and treat them like family. Also, to give you peace of mind, we give you a lifetime guaranteed on any screens replaced.
Our techs at Mr Phix, the replacement screen experts, bring you these 10 must have iPhone apps you need to download today. Let’s face it, Apps make our lives so much easier. Truth is that it is hard to imagine how we lived so long without them (and our smartphones)
While there are millions of applications you can download, some of them are more useful and needed than others. This is even more applicable now that many apps use up so much resources on your phone. Choosing the right apps can make your phone run smoother without having it lag or slowed down. These are the top 10 must have iPhone apps.
1 – Sleep Cycle
The Sleep Cycle app can do wonders for your sleeping and waking patterns. This app, which is also an alarm clock, keeps track of your sleep patterns. It then uses them to wake you during light sleep stages. Waking up during light sleep is the best since it allows you to wake up easier and quicker as opposed to waking up from a deep sleep or dream state. Sleep cycle alarm clock can end up improving your productivity, punctuality and overall sleep.
2 – Waze
If you drive then Waze is for you. It doesn’t matter whether or not you are constantly on the road or just for a short trip, Waze can help you. Unlike other apps which only have maps, this app knows how fast you are driving and ends up redirecting you around traffic. Waze will also let you know when there’s been an accident up ahead, red-light cameras, construction and even police.
3 – BillGuard
Think of the BillGuard app as a person who will go over your credit card statements with a fine-tooth comb without charging you for their services. The app will immediately alert you if there are any unwanted or questionable charges. Best of all, BillGuard makes it easy to go over your finances. Any charges for services or products you may not have known you were being charged for or requested, BillGuard will flag it and alert you.
4 – Uber
Even if you own a vehicle, sooner or later you will need a cab. The Uber app can make getting a ride very easy. Many people often do not see cabs when they need one. However, with the Uber app that is not a problem since they will come to you and pick you up. anywhere you choose. Best of all, in most cases you will end up getting a better deal than a regular taxi. Still, during high demand season or holidays, prices will surge significantly so you should be aware as they can go up as much as ten times the regular going rates.
5 – Pocket
With so much to read on the Internet these days, most of us never have enough time to do so. The Pocket App allows you to store the articles you might find interesting during the day and save them for reading later. Best of all, Pocket will save all of your articles. videos, events or other interesting news so you can access them without having to be online or even a cell signal.
6 – Dropbox
If you are on the go and you need to bring your files with you, then Dropbox is the app you need. You can add files to your favs which allows off-line and fast viewing of them later on. You can also easily upload videos and photos to Dropbox and then share them freely with family and friends. Dropbox also lets you easily move your files from your phone to your computer or other devices quickly and easily.
7 – Swiftkey
For those that are constantly texting or writing, the Swiftkey app is for you. The Swiftkey keyboard adapts to your unique tapping style as you use it, memorizes and learns how you type. By doing so, the app helps you make less typos and allows you to type and text much faster than a traditional keyboard.
8 – 1Password
Let’s be honest, all of us have forgotten at least one password at one time or another. With the 1Password app, that can all change. These days where online security matters so much, the yourname123 passwords are no longer an option. This means that you need stronger passwords for all of your accounts. Still, creating stronger passwords means you are more likely to forget them. 1Password creates these stronger passwords and remembers them for you.
9 – Genius Scan
We all remember how bulky scanners used to be. However, with the Genius Scan app, that is no longer true since your phone can now be a scanner. This app allows you to scan documents and exports them back in either PDF of JPEG files. Keep in mind though that you cannot really scan everything unless you purchase the complete app for $7.00. Still, if you need to scan many files then the Genius Scan app is worth it.
10 – Spotify or Rdio
Here are 2 of the best apps for music lovers who want to take advantage of streaming services. Spotify or Rdio allow you to access your friends lists of music they are listening to so you can discover new music. You also have a radio option as well as smart stations. If you are going on a long trip then you can download a few gigs of music via WiFi and save them. This way you can listen to them later on without being charged by your phone company.
We hope you have enjoyed this list of the 10 must have iPhone apps. While you do not need to have all of them on your phone, every user should download at least one of them. This all varies of course depending on your needs. Remember, if you have any problems with your cell phone screens such as a cracked or damaged one, Mr Phix can replace it in 20 minutes or less. Our repair stores have the highest ratings from users of any other in the Wilmington, NC area because we do it right.
Nintendo is attempting to make a huge turn around after having their stock drop about 5.75%.
What is the key to bring Nintendo back to life? A new game console called the Nintendo Switch.
The Switch, Nintendo’s latest and greatest game console is considered to be a hybrid console. According to Business Insider a “hybrid” console means that you can play in on a television or take it with you out and about, what ever suits your needs.
Nintendo fans, of course, are curious about what this new console has to offer. One feature that the Switch will bringing to the table. Here is basically, how the system works…
The Switch can be used as either a remote control and console or it can be used as a hand held tablet for gaming. The system costs about $299, before taxes, reported Business Insider, but also comes in two different bundles. One bundle features a blue and red Joy-Con, which is one of the main parts of the system. You may also purchase a bundle with traditional gray Joy-Con.
The system comes with a “Joy-Con Grip” and also a Nintendo Switch Dock. What makes this gaming system different is its ability to adapt to your needs. The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con bits can detach themselves from the “Joy-Con Grip” and connect to the Switch tablet, for on the go game play.
The “Joy-Con Grip” is used for more traditional game play but can also be transformed into a more mobile gaming system, providing the best of both worlds to those who love one or the other.
Another benefit to the Nintendo Switch?
The parts inside each package or bundle can be purchased separately. For example, if you need another Joy-Con you can absolutely buy it, according to Business Insider. For further information on individual purchasing, check out Nintendo’s website, as they break it all down for their consumers.
Many are excited that Nintendo is returning to a more traditional gaming style, especially after the Wii and Wii U. The “Joy-Con Grip” is designed very similarly to that of other gaming systems with two analog sticks and the traditional four buttons on each side, Business Insider explained. The controller also features shoulder buttons and triggers, much like other “traditional” gaming consoles.
However, if you are not a fan of the Switch set up, you can purchase a controller much like that of other game consoles. The controller looks incredibly similar to Nintendo’s GameCube. The bad news is that this controller does not come with the system, it is sold separately for about $70 dollars.
Nintendo presented the device to the public a few days ago and made sure to demonstrate how the system can last up to 6 ½ hours when removed from the dock. For now, Nintendo is releasing only red and blue Joy-Cons outside of the typical gray color.
However, one feature I think is going to really impress frequent gamers is the “share” feature that the Switch offers.
This button allows the user to capture screenshots of game play and also record video that can be shared with others, which tend to be a pretty popular activity. You can share your photos and videos directly from the Switch to social media. Business Insider reported, that it is uncertain if the console can also stream games live like the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Some of the games you can expect to see available for the Switch include:
A new Mario Kart game
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”
FIFA soccer
“Super Mario Odyssey”
“Sonic Mania”
Make sure you stay tuned for this console that is set to be released on March 3th, 2017. So, far I have found that a lot of people are pretty excited about and hopefully, Nintendo won’t disappoint.
If you have a tablet, computer. laptop or mobile device with any problems or issues then you should bring it or you can even ship it to Mr Phix, the screen replacement experts in Wilmington, NC. It doesn’t matter if your iPhone or Samsung cell phone’s screen is smashed, trashed or shattered or if your computer has a virus, you need data recovery or other PC problems. Once one of the professional technicians in any of Mr Phix stores gets their hands on your device, they will be returned back to you in pristine, like new conditions. In the event that you cannot bring your devices to one of our stores, you can ship it and we will send it back to you the same day when possible.
When Screens Break!
You know how easy it is for your kids or someone to drop or hit your iPad or tablet. In an instant, your precious device’s screen is broken or cracked. To most people, this may seem like the end of the tablet or device. However, Mr phix can do their magic and, in many cases, have your Devices repaired in less than 20 minutes. That’s not the best of all, though. The best thing out of having your mobile or tablet repaired by us is that we offer a lifetime guarantee on all the work done. That’s right; a lifetime guaranteed. No other store can dare make such an offer. However, Mr Phix does.
Why Lifetime Guarantee?
There are numerous reasons as to why we do so. One, Mr phix uses the highest quality parts in all of the repairs they perform. This means that rather than replace your cracked screen with a cheap screen replacement which will eventually get damaged again, Mr Phix uses the highest name brands replacement parts. These are the same replacement parts that Apple and Samsung use themselves.
Second, Mr phix and their team of expert techs know what it means to have your screen broken or cracked or have a device with a problem. They understand how important your device are to you since they contain important banking information, files, videos and other valuable data. We will make sure that all that data is never compromised, lost or damaged during our repairs.
Your Device Matters To Mr Phix
Lastly, Mr phix wants to give each and every customer a piece of mind once they leave our stores. Even if it means taking a loss or not making that much profit if something ever goes wrong. Our customers satisfaction is paramount to us. Thus the reasons why Mr Phix offers such a great guarantee on all the work done. Perhaps you have trouble with your computer or laptop too due a virus or something else. Whatever the reason, we can repair them as well since we have more than fifteen years in the repair business. So remember, if you got device issues, Mr Phix can fix it… and guarantee it for life!
Here is a very helpful guide to avoid backlight problems after the glass replacement of your iPhone.
When preparing to add LOCA onto a cleaned iPhone LCD make sure that you remove the working backlight and apply a non working backlight. This will ensure you do not have LOCA bleed through and ruin your working backlight. Remove the backlight using a soldering iron to remove the 3 prongs that attach the backlight to the LCD cable. Make sure you keep the electrical tape tab that covers the 3 connections and reapply it when you put the good backlight back on. If you leave the backlight connection exposed you have a high probability of shorting the connection on the frame of the iPhone. This can cause backlight problems, such as strobing and potentially short the backlight fuse or coil which are both advanced logic board soldering.
Before Applying the clean backlight
Before you apply the clean backlight you Must blow the excess LOCA glue out from the edges of the LCD screen and the flex cables at the top of the LCD assembly. I use a compressor with a fine tip and blow the glue out from every angle. Then place the cleaned screen under the UV lamp again to cure any residual glue on the back side as well. I highly recommend cleaning the surfaces with Pure Isopropyl Alcohol or Pure Acetone. Be VERY gentle when cleaning or lifting or moving the LCD flex cables as they are extremely delicate and can be easily damaged leaving all of your separation process utterly worthless.
When re-soldering the connection on to the cable make sure that all connections line up with their solder otherwise you could also cause a backlight problems and strobing.
Make sure you keep the electrical tape tab that covers the 3 connections and reapply it when you put the good backlight back on. Otherwise you will short your backlight out and cause strobing. When re-soldering the connection on to the LCD cable make sure that all connections line up with their solder otherwise you could also cause a short and strobing.
You better watch out what you say to your devices, they might be able to put you behind bars. In Arkansas, a man by the name of James Bates, might be facing time in prison if his Amazon Echo holds information in regards to why a man was found dead in his hot tub.
Crazy to think that a device could potentially hold evidence to a high stakes murder case. However, Amazon is not handing over the information with ease. This brings us back to the continued argument over American privacy and needed information for investigations.
How it Works
The Amazon Echo is a smart speaker that is activated by the sound of her name, Alexa. The Echo has the ability to play music, read you the news and connect to other devices that you own. However, she is always listening for her name, so she can properly respond to your request.
Amazon has those recordings stored away and prosecutors believe that Bates’ Echo may hold key evidence in regards to the murder investigation. However, many are stating that this is violation of Bates’ privacy, thus Amazon is withholding the recordings until further legal action is taken.
This isn’t the first time that devices have been used against their owners. The 2015 mass shooting in San Bernardino, California revolved around Apple when the FBI was seeking information from the shooter’s cell phone. Another case in Georgia, required prosecutors seek information from texts, Reddit posts and Google searches, reported CNN.
Questions about Privacy
This brings to question if anything is really private anymore? We use all kinds of devices that carry important personal information. According to CNN’s article, many claim that devices such as the Echo, Google Home or Siri should have different rules and regulations when it comes to personal privacy. However, other sources claim that requesting a device to do something is no different than typing something into your web browser.
The prosecutor involved with the case has attempted to obtain the information from the Echo two separate times but has been declined for both requests. While those involved with the case are still pressing the subject, Amazon claims it will not budge until further notice.
All the way around this raises eyebrows in regards to customer privacy and what can be collected by the devices we use. CNN even reported that The Electronic Privacy Information has voiced concerns about “always on” devices. As time goes on, we will have to seek solutions to these changes in technology. What is a violation of privacy and what is not?
For more about “Amazon Echo or Murder Investigator?”, here is my source…
