Apple is updating your iPhone operating system again this year. The beta version is available if you are eager, but the full new system should be coming to your phone in September. Of course there will lots of new features, Here are a few of them:
AirDrop will be easier. If you aren’t currently using AirDrop, it is an easy way to share photos or videos with someone by transferring them from one iPhone to another. While the current method isn’t difficult, in iOS 17 all you will need to do is bring your iPhone close to someone else’s to transfer the file.
Another new talent iOS 17 has involves your voicemail. When someone calls you and leaves a message, you’ll see a live transcription in real time as they speak. The new service is called Live Voicemail and it kind of feels like the days of answering machines, when my dad would screen a call. For Live Voicemail, you’ll see the voicemail right on your screen so you can decide whether to step out and take the call. The feature is powered by your iPhone’s neural engine in order to preserve your privacy. Live Voicemail seems identical to Call Screen on Google Pixel phones which isn’t a bad thing.
iOS 17 will let you record a video message in FaceTime. It’s a heavily requested feature that will ensure you can document and share important moments, even if someone misses your call.
Tip of the month
Using Smart Chips in Google Docs
Smart chips are interactive elements that you can embed into Google documents and spreadsheets. These are highlighted portions of text; when you move the pointer over one of them, a small card that contains more information pops open. For example, a smart chip containing a co-worker’s name opens a card with their contact info, or a smart chip with the name of a business opens a card showing its map location. Other types of smart chips include dates, links to related files or meetings, and interactive dropdowns.
Here is one way you would insert a Smart chip:
From the toolbar along the top of your document or spreadsheet, click Insert > Smart chips and select the smart chip you want. You’ll typically perform an additional step as well; for instance, if you select Insert > Smart chips > Date, you’ll need to select a date and click OK to insert it.
Some types of smart chips are:
Calendar event – this will embed a link to a Google calendar event. When anyone hovers over the event chip, a small window opens that shows the event name and time. If you click on it, Google Calendar will open. If you click the paper clip icon, the document or spreadsheet you are in will be attached to the event.
Others to read about – Date, Dropdown (opens a list of options)
File
There are so many possibilities. Please take the time to read more about them if you are interested.