smartphones Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

How to instantly silence any ringing smartphone

Posted on September 5, 2026

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Have you ever been in a setting where complete silence was expected only to have your smart phone start ringing?

Whether it was during a church service, an important business meeting or in a packed movie theater, it was probably quite an embarrassing event.

In all likelihood you panicked and started fumbling around trying to get the phone out of your pocket so you could tap “Decline” as quickly as possible to make the ringing stop.

[Read more…]

How to see which Android apps have access to your Contacts (and optionally revoke it)

Posted on January 6, 2026

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If you have a smartphone or tablet, you’re probably aware that the apps on your device have permission to access certain features and caches of info that are present on the device.

While it’s true that you have the option to revoke most any permission that an app might claim for itself, do you actually take the time to review your apps’ permissions and revoke the ones the apps really don’t need in order to perform their stated functions?

If you’re like most folks, the answer is probably no. [Read more…]

Q&A: Can you recommend a good QR Code scanning app?

Posted on November 27, 2025

Question from Darla: I hope you can help me, Rick.

I gained some weight over the last few years, and it’s really starting to affect my health.

I recently decided to start working out and eating better to try to get back to my “normal” weight.

One of my friends suggested that I download a QR code scanning app so I can get the nutrition info for the foods on restaurant menus.

Can you recommend a good QR code scanning app for my phone? [Read more…]

Q&A: How can I find a missing app on my iPhone?

Posted on September 4, 2025

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Question from Mariana: I installed an app on my iPhone but I can’t find it.

I thought new apps always went on the Home screen, but this one didn’t.

How can I find it so I can add it to my Home screen? [Read more…]

Use your old smartphone or tablet as a wireless security camera

Posted on April 15, 2025

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Like most households these days, yours probably has one or more old smartphones and/or tablets that were retired to a junk drawer after upgrading to a new device.

Well, here’s a little tip for putting those outdated, but completely functional devices to good use… [Read more…]