Computer Tips – Online Tech Tips https://www.online-tech-tips.com Computer Tips from a Computer Guy Tue, 02 Jan 2024 04:22:31 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 How to Clear Your Spotify Queue https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-clear-your-spotify-queue/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-clear-your-spotify-queue/#disqus_thread Ben Stockton]]> Tue, 02 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99717

Spotify has plenty of songs, artists, and podcasts to choose from, but perhaps you fancy a change in mood, or you’ve just found a song you don’t like. That’s why […]]]>
Spotify has plenty of songs, artists, and podcasts to choose from, but perhaps you fancy a change in mood, or you’ve just found a song you don’t like.

That’s why you should manage your Spotify queue. Your Spotify queue is a list of songs and podcasts scheduled to play next. You can add items to your queue but, more importantly, you can clear your Spotify queue to help you start over with a fresh list of items to play.

If you want to know how to clear your Spotify queue, follow the steps below.

How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 1

How to Clear Your Spotify Queue on a PC or Mac

You can easily clear all of the scheduled songs or podcasts in your Spotify queue using the desktop app or web player. The steps are the same for both Spotify clients, so to clear your Spotify queue on a PC or Mac, follow these steps.

  1. Open the Spotify app or web player and sign in.
  2. Click the queue icon in the bottom-right corner. The icon has three horizontal lines, with a larger line at the top.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 2
  1. To remove an individual item from the queue, press the three-dot menu icon next to the item and press Remove from queue. This will leave the other items intact.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 3
  1. To clear all of the items from your Spotify queue, press the Clear queue button.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 4
  1. You’ll be asked to confirm your choice if you’re using the web player—press Yes in the pop-up box to confirm.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 5

Once you’ve cleared your entire Spotify queue, you can’t turn back—you’ll need to re-add the items or add new ones. This won’t affect any playlists you’ve previously created, so you can always open up your playlist and start playing it to restore those items to your queue instead.

How to Clear Your Spotify Queue on Android

You can also clear your Spotify queue if you prefer to use the mobile app on Android, iPhone, or iPad devices. The interface is very similar on all platforms, and the steps to clear your queue are identical.

Like the Spotify desktop and web apps, you can remove individual items from your queue, or clear the entire Spotify queue in one go. To clear your Spotify queue on Android, iPhone, or iPad, follow these steps.

  1. Open the Spotify app and sign in.
  2. Play a song or podcast, making sure the album art and playback controls are visible on the screen.
  3. Tap the queue icon in the bottom-right corner (the icon with three horizontal lines).
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 6
  1. Tap the circle icon next to each song or podcast that you want to remove to select them.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 7
  1. When you’re ready to clear them from your queue, tap the Remove button in the bottom-left corner.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 8
  1. To clear all of the items from your queue, tap Clear queue in the top-right corner and wait a few seconds for the items to clear.
How to Clear Your Spotify Queue image 9

As with PC and Mac users, removing items from your Spotify queue isn’t reversible. You’ll need to start playing content on Spotify again to restore items to your queue.

Managing Your Spotify Queue

Clearing your Spotify queue is a simple way to change what you’re listening to—just clear the items and start playing new ones. It isn’t a permanent change, as Spotify is designed to allow you to switch between the things you want to listen to when you want to listen to them.

Want to have some fun with Spotify? You can switch to Spotify karaoke mode to sing along with your friends. If you’re worried about the cost, you could think about Spotify Duo, a subscription for two people to help make it more affordable (or switch to Spotify’s free plan instead).

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Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/deleting-order-history-from-amazon-all-you-need-to-know/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/deleting-order-history-from-amazon-all-you-need-to-know/#disqus_thread Ben Stockton]]> Fri, 29 Dec 2023 15:33:36 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99691

If you want to delete your order history from Amazon, it can be difficult. We’ll explain the steps you’ll need to take to deal with your Amazon order history below. […]]]>
If you want to delete your order history from Amazon, it can be difficult. We’ll explain the steps you’ll need to take to deal with your Amazon order history below.

Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 1

Can You Delete Your Order History on Amazon?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a way to delete your order history on Amazon. Amazon doesn’t allow you to completely delete your order history, as it keeps a record of everything you’ve ever bought from the site. This includes any orders that you’ve cancelled or previously returned to Amazon.

However, some workarounds can help you hide your Amazon orders from prying eyes. The best method is to archive your orders instead, which hides them from view (but doesn’t delete them). You can also try other methods, such as using an Amazon household account or even deleting your account.

How to Archive Your Amazon Orders

As we’ve mentioned, the best method for deleting your order history isn’t deleting them at all—it’s archiving them. Archiving an order doesn’t delete it, but it moves it to a separate page that remains less visible, but still accessible. You can archive up to 500 orders per account.

Because the items are only hidden, it isn’t a foolproof method, as anyone who knows how to access the archived orders page can still see them. If you bought something that you don’t want others who share your account to see, archiving it might not be enough to stop them seeing it.

However, if you want to archive your Amazon order, follow these steps.

  1. Open the Amazon website in your web browser on your PC or Mac and sign in.
  2. Press Returns & Orders in the top-right corner.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 2
  1. Find the order you want to hide in your order list.
  2. Press Archive order in the bottom-left corner of the order box.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 3
  1. Confirm that you want to archive the order by pressing the Archive order button again in the pop-up window.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 4
  1. The order will disappear from your main order history page and move to the archived orders page. To access this page, select Account & Lists > Your Account.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 7
  1. Next, scroll to the Ordering and shopping preferences section and press the Archived Orders option.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 5
  1. To unarchive an order on the Archived Orders page, find the order you want to restore and press the Unarchive Order button. The order will reappear on your main order history page.
Deleting Order History from Amazon: All You Need to Know image 6

Other Methods for Keeping Your Amazon Orders Hidden

The quickest way to hide an Amazon order is to archive it. However, there are a few other methods you can try that bring you closer to completely deleting your order history. These include:

  • Using an Amazon Household account. This will allow you to share some of the Prime benefits and purchased digital content with another adult and up to four children or teens in your household while keeping your own order history and payment methods separate.
  • Creating a new Amazon account. If you create a new Amazon account with a different email address and payment method, you’ll have a fresh order list that won’t show any other orders. You’ll lose access to your Prime benefits and any purchased digital content from your main account, however.
  • Deleting your Amazon account. Sounds drastic, but this method is the closest you can get to deleting your Amazon order history to stop it from being visible to others. You’ll lose everything on your existing Amazon account, however, including previous digital purchases, so you’ll need to be sure if it’s the best option for your circumstances.

Managing Your Amazon Order History

Without the ability to delete your order history from Amazon, you’ll need to use the workarounds we’ve described above to help you instead. Archiving your orders remains the best option, but if you need a more drastic solution, you can always make a new Amazon account instead.

Curious to learn more about your order history on Amazon? You can download your Amazon order history to review it in a spreadsheet. If you’ve been locked out, you can recover your Amazon account by contacting Amazon support.

Want to buy gifts through Amazon for your friends and family? You may need to find their Amazon wishlists first to start making purchases.

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How to Turn on a Samsung TV Without Remote https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-turn-on-a-samsung-tv-without-remote/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-turn-on-a-samsung-tv-without-remote/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Mon, 25 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99669

One thing Samsung smart TVs have in common with other TVs is that they still require a remote control. And like all TV users have found out at one time […]]]>
One thing Samsung smart TVs have in common with other TVs is that they still require a remote control. And like all TV users have found out at one time or another, it’s easy to lose your TV controller.

But if you’ve lost your Samsung TV remote, don’t worry — it’s still possible to control your Samsung TV without it. This guide will explain how to turn on a Samsung TV without a remote.

How to Turn On a Samsung TV Without Remote

There are two easy ways to turn your Samsung smart TV on: change channels and access your TV’s menus without a Samsung remote. Below, we’ll explain how to use these methods to start your TV without a controller.

1. Use the Samsung TV Control Button

According to Samsung, every single Samsung television has a TV control button that allows you to turn it on, access the TV settings, change the volume and input source, and access the Smart Hub. The only differences between Samsung TV models are where this control button is located and whether it’s a single-button or five-button arrangement.

It should be found in one of the three following locations:

  1. At the back of the TV: Check the back of your TV in the bottom-right corner. There should be a small, square section with a control stick poking out of it. Press and hold the center button (the power button) to turn on your Samsung TV without a remote. Single press the middle button again to make the settings appear on your TV screen. Then, change channels and navigate the Samsung TV menus using the control stick.
  1. Under the front panel, in the middle of the TV: Some Samsung TVs have the TV Controller button in the middle of the front bezel, along the bottom of the screen. As above, long-press the power button to turn on the TV, then use the channel and volume buttons to control the TV.
  1. Under the front panel, at the side of the TV: If there’s no physical button in the center of your TV’s front panel, it may be on the left or right-hand side. Check these locations, then control the TV as described above.

Pro tip: Look for the red light on the front bezel of your Samsung TV — this should be where your control button is located. If you can’t find the control panel, no matter how hard you look, consult the user manual; it will explain where to find it and how to use it.

2. Use the SmartThings App

Samsung provides a remote app for iPhone and Android that lets you use your mobile device as a TV remote. The only problem is that to use the SmartThings app to turn your TV on, you’ll need to have set it up previously. If you haven’t, you can still use the Samsung control button (as shown above) to connect the TV to your app for future use.

Here’s how to use the SmartThings app to turn your TV on:

  1. Open the SmartThings app and tap your TV device card.
  2. Press TV on/off.
  3. Select Content search, Remote, Apps, or Search to control your Samsung TV and access the channel you want to watch.

If you haven’t set up the SmartThings app, here’s how to do so:

  1. Download the SmartThings app. If you’re using Android, download it from the Google Play Store. If you’re using an iOS device, try the Apple App Store.
  2. Open the SmartThings app on your mobile phone.
  3. Press the + symbol, then select Add device.
  1. Select Add under Samsung device.
  1. Tap TV.
  1. Choose Start, then select the location.
  1. Tap Next.
  2. Wait for the app to connect to your Samsung TV. If your Samsung TV is from before 2020, you must use a PIN code to validate the connection.

Note: Your Samsung TV will need to be connected to your home Wi-Fi network for the SmartThings app to connect.

One Remote to Control Them All

The good thing about setting your phone up as a TV remote control is that you’ll no longer require that unholy stack of remotes. Instead, you can use your phone as a universal remote and control everything simultaneously.

However, you can always order a replacement remote if this doesn’t cut it for you!

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How to Delete Boards on Pinterest https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-delete-boards-on-pinterest/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-delete-boards-on-pinterest/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Sun, 24 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99658

Pinterest is a social media network that allows you to pin images you find online and create boards to inspire and motivate yourself and others. If you’ve spent a fair […]]]>
Pinterest is a social media network that allows you to pin images you find online and create boards to inspire and motivate yourself and others. If you’ve spent a fair amount of time pinning items and creating boards on Pinterest, you might decide you want to delete or archive a board. We’ll show you how to delete a board on Pinterest in the iOS and Android apps as well as on the desktop site — plus how to archive a board if that’s better for your needs.

How to Delete Pinterest Boards on the Web

It’s easy to delete a Pinterest board you no longer need on the Pinterest desktop site. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Go to Pinterest.com (or whichever site you usually visit for your country).
  2. Log into your Pinterest account.
  3. Click your profile picture at the top right.
  4. Find the board you want to delete and click to open it.
  5. Click the three dots to the right of the board name.
  6. Select Edit Board.
  7. Scroll down and select Delete Board.
  8. Click Delete to confirm you want to delete the board.
  9. Your Pinterest board should now be deleted!

How to Delete a Board on Pinterest on the iOS/Android App

If you’re using the Pinterest iOS or Android app, it’s just as easy to delete a board you are done with. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the Pinterest app on your device and log in.
  2. Tap your profile picture at the bottom right.
  3. Tap the board you want to delete.
  4. Tap the three dots at the top right, and select Edit Board.
  5. Scroll down and tap Delete.
  6. Confirm you want to delete this board by tapping Delete again.

How to Restore a Deleted Pinterest Board

Don’t panic if you delete a board by accident or decide you still need the board. It’s easy to restore deleted Pinterest boards. Note that you can’t restore boards via the iOS or Android apps, so you’ll need to log into your Pinterest account on a desktop device. Just follow the below steps:

  1. Click your profile picture at the top right of the screen.
  2. Scroll down to Recently Deleted Boards.
  3. Click Restore Boards.
  1. Find the board you want to restore, click it, and click Restore.

How to Archive Boards on Pinterest on the Web

Deleting a board also deletes all of its pins. What if you’re unsure whether you’ll need your board (or its pins) again in the future? It might be better to archive your board rather than delete it. This moves your board to the bottom of your profile, below active boards, and means you can no longer save pins to the board you archived. It also won’t appear on your public profile.

  1. Go to Pinterest.com (or whichever site you usually visit for your country).
  2. Log into your account.
  3. Click your profile picture at the top right.
  4. Click the board you want to archive to open it.
  5. Click the three dots next to the board name.
  6. Select Archive.
  7. To confirm, click Archive again.
  1. To unarchive a board that you need, click on your profile photo, then scroll down to Archived Boards. Click on the board you want to unarchive, then click the three dots next to the board name, and click Unarchive. On the following screen, click Unarchive to confirm.

How to Archive Boards on the Pinterest iOS/Android App

The steps to take to archive boards on the Pinterest mobile app for iOS and Android devices are pretty simple. Here’s how to archive boards you no longer need, but might need later:

  1. Open the Pinterest app and log into your account.
  2. Tap your profile picture at the bottom right.
  3. Tap the board you want to archive.
  4. Tap the three dots menu at the top right.
  1. Select Archive Board, then tap Archive to confirm.
  1. If you change your mind and want to unarchive this board, just look for it at the bottom of your boards, tap the board, tap the three dots menu at the top right, then select Unarchive > Unarchive to confirm.

As you can see, deleting boards on Pinterest is easy to do if you no longer need them — and if you make a mistake and delete a board accidentally or decide you need it again, it’s easy to restore a deleted board. The other alternative is to archive a board so that it’s still accessible when you need it in the future, but not cluttering up the view of your active boards. Want to know how to do more on Instagram? Why not check out how to create a Pinterest Idea Pin?

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How to Cancel Amazon Gift Card Order (and Get a Refund) https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-cancel-amazon-gift-card-order-and-get-a-refund/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-cancel-amazon-gift-card-order-and-get-a-refund/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Sat, 23 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99646

Amazon gift cards make a great gift for that friend or family member who seems to have everything. If you’ve browsed their Amazon Wishlist but still have no idea what […]]]>
Amazon gift cards make a great gift for that friend or family member who seems to have everything. If you’ve browsed their Amazon Wishlist but still have no idea what to buy somebody, why not let them choose their gift?

You can send a physical gift card or an eGift card via email when you buy a gift card with Amazon. However, there might be times when you’ve ordered a gift card and realized you made a mistake, you no longer need it, or you’ve sent it to the wrong address or recipient. There’s no need to worry. We’ll show you how to cancel an Amazon gift card order and get a refund.

How to Cancel Amazon Gift Card Order

Unfortunately, Amazon’s policy means that generally speaking, gift card orders can’t be refunded. If you’ve ordered a gift card you no longer want, you’re unlikely to be granted a refund. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If you ordered a physical gift card and requested that it be shipped to the recipient, you may be able to cancel your order if it hasn’t yet shipped.

How to Cancel a Physical Gift Card Order

If you placed a gift card order by mistake or you’ve ordered a physical gift card and sent it to the wrong address, you might be able to cancel your order. The easiest way to see if you can do this is to go to your orders in your Amazon account. Here’s how to see if you can cancel Amazon gift cards for physical orders.

How to Cancel a Physical Gift Card Order on the Desktop Site

  1. Go to Amazon.com (or the Amazon site for your country).
  2. Log into your Amazon account.
  3. Click Your Account > Your Orders and find the gift card order.
  4. Select View or Edit Order. From here you can also view and print an Amazon receipt, if need be.
  5. If you placed the order in the last 30 minutes, you should see an option to cancel it.
  6. Select Cancel Items.
  1. You’ll be asked, “Are you sure you want to cancel this order?” so select Cancel Selected Items in This Order to continue.
  2. You should see a confirmation at the top of your screen saying “This order has been canceled,” and you should also receive email confirmation of the cancellation.

How to Cancel a Physical Gift Card Order in the Amazon App

You can also cancel your gift card order in the Amazon app, and here’s how to do that.

  1. Launch the Amazon app.
  2. At the bottom of the screen, tap your account icon.
  3. Tap Your Orders.
  4. Find the gift card order that you want to cancel and tap it.
  1. Select Cancel Order.
  2. Ensure the gift card is checked, then tap Cancel Selected Item. You can also select a cancellation reason from the dropdown menu, if you like.
  3. Once your order has been canceled, it should vanish from your orders list, and you should receive an email confirming the cancellation.

Unfortunately, if you don’t see the option to cancel your order, you’ll need to contact Amazon customer service by phone or chat with a customer service agent to see if your order can be canceled.

Canceling an Amazon eGift Card Order

If you have ordered an eGift card to be delivered instantly to the recipient’s email address and it has never arrived, or if you entered the wrong email address for delivery, you may not be eligible for a refund. This is entirely at the discretion of Amazon’s customer service team, so you’ll need to reach out to Amazon support to see if they can cancel and refund your order or re-send it to the correct recipient.

Contacting Customer Service in the Amazon App

To contact customer service in the app, just follow these steps:

  1. Launch the Amazon app.
  2. Tap the three stacked lines icon at the bottom right.
  3. Scroll down and tap Customer Service.
  4. Under Can I Help with Any of These, select the order you wish to contact customer service about.
  5. Select Cancel Order or any of the other options that apply (for example, Says delivered, but it’s not here.
  6. Scroll down and select I Need More Help, then tap Start Chatting Now to be connected to a customer service agent via live chat.
  7. To speak to someone over the phone, select Request Call Now, and a customer service representative will call you.

How to Contact Customer Service via the Amazon Desktop Site

If you prefer to use the Amazon desktop site to contact customer service, here’s how to do that:

  1. Navigate to Amazon.com (or the Amazon site for your country) and log into your account.
  2. Under Account & Lists, select Your Account.
  3. Scroll down and select the Customer Service tab.
  4. Under Do you need help with a recent item, select your gift card order. If you don’t see your order, select Help with a different item, then select your order.
  5. Or, you can select A delivery, order, or return further down the page under Here are some other things we can help with.
  1. Under OK, how can we help with this item, select Cancel Order, or one of the other options that apply, such as Says delivered but it’s not here.
  2. Scroll down and select I Need More Help.
  3. Select Start Chatting Now to begin a live chat with customer service, or Request Call Now for a customer service agent to call you.

As you can see, if you need to cancel your Amazon gift card and get a refund, you have a couple of options available to you. If you experience any issues canceling your order or need assistance, you can always reach out to customer service, who will hopefully be able to resolve the problem for you. Before you go, why not check out how to transfer an Amazon gift card balance if you want to gift your balance to somebody else?

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How to Change Your Age or Birthday on TikTok https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-change-your-age-or-birthday-on-tiktok/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-change-your-age-or-birthday-on-tiktok/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Mon, 18 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99510

Anyone can create an account on TikTok, without verifying their age. However, if you want to change your age or birthday in the app, that’s a different matter. TikTok’s official […]]]>
Anyone can create an account on TikTok, without verifying their age. However, if you want to change your age or birthday in the app, that’s a different matter. TikTok’s official stance is that you must be aged 13 or older to create an account, as some content on the app isn’t suitable for younger children and has been the subject of controversy after trending challenges have led to teenagers injuring themselves or others.

For this reason, if you want to change your age on TikTok, you’ll need to prove that you’re the age you’re claiming. We’ll show you how to change your age on TikTok if you entered it incorrectly when you set up your account.

How to Change Your Age on TikTok

If you’re wondering how to change your birthday on TikTok, or your age, the answer is that you can’t do this manually in the app or using TikTok on PC. It’s possible to change your username in the app, but if you want to change your age — for example, if you entered your date of birth incorrectly when you set up your account — then you’ll need to contact customer support to do this.

How to Change Age on TikTok by Contacting Customer Support

It’s easy to reach out to TikTok customer support to change your age or date of birth, and here’s how to do that:

  1. Launch the TikTok app and tap Profile in the bottom right.
  2. Tap the three stacked lines icon in the top right corner of your profile.
  3. Select Settings and Privacy.
  4. Scroll down to Support and About and tap Report a Problem.
  1. Under Topics, tap Account and Profile.
  2. Select Editing Profile, then tap Other.
  1. Choose Need More Help.
  2. Now, write a message explaining you want to change your birthday. Once you’re done, tap Submit to send the message to customer support.

It may take a few days to receive a response from customer support. When you’re contacted by the support team, the representative will ask to see a government-issued ID to prove your birthday and age. You’ll need to provide this for customer support to update your birthday and age on TikTok.

What if TikTok Support Won’t Update My Date of Birth?

Unfortunately, if you can’t provide a valid ID, your birthday and age will not be updated. If TikTok customer support refuses to change your birthday or age, you can always delete your account and create a new one with the correct birthday.

What Is Age Restriction on TikTok?

TikTok age restriction allows parents or guardians to filter out content that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Here’s how to set up Restricted Mode on TikTok:

  1. Launch the TikTok app and go to your profile.
  2. Tap the three stacked lines icon at the top right.
  3. Tap Settings and Privacy.
  4. Scroll down and tap Content Preferences.
  5. Tap Restricted Mode.
  1. Tap Turn On.
  2. Create a four-digit passcode to set up Restricted Mode, then tap Next.
  3. Confirm your passcode and tap Set.
  1. To turn off Restricted Mode, follow steps 1 through 5, then tap Turn Off and enter your passcode, and tap Next.

It’s not as simple as you might think to change your age or birthday on TikTok, which is why it’s so important to enter these details correctly — and honestly — when setting up your account. As you can see, it is possible to change these details, but you’ll need to reach out to customer support and provide ID to prove your date of birth and age. It may take a while for the support team to respond to you and action your request, and if you can’t provide ID, you might need to delete your TikTok account and create a new one.

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Netflix Not Working on Roku? 8 Fixes to Try https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/netflix-not-working-on-roku-8-fixes-to-try/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/netflix-not-working-on-roku-8-fixes-to-try/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99490

If you’re in the middle of streaming the latest episode of your favorite show or trying to watch a movie on Netflix when the app stops working, it can be […]]]>
If you’re in the middle of streaming the latest episode of your favorite show or trying to watch a movie on Netflix when the app stops working, it can be pretty frustrating. When Netflix won’t work on your Roku, there may be several reasons for the issue. Luckily, there are also plenty of fixes to try. Whatever the problem, we’ve got 8 fixes for Netflix not working on Roku.

1. Check if Netflix Is Down

When Netflix isn’t working on Roku, the first thing to check is whether the issue is actually with Netflix’s servers rather than at your end. You can check to see if Netflix is currently down or experiencing issues using a site like DownDetector. Here, you should also be able to see comments from others experiencing similar issues. Unfortunately, if Netflix is down, there’s not a lot you can do other than wait for it to come back up.

2. Restart Your Roku

Turning things off and on again resolves a whole host of issues, and the same rings true for Roku devices. If Netflix isn’t behaving, try restarting your Roku. The method for doing this will depend on which type of Roku device you’re using. A quick restart may resolve the problem, and you could be back viewing your favorite shows in no time.

3. Check Whether You’ve Reached Your Device Limits

Though Netflix recently cracked down on account sharing, some people may still share accounts with family members in the same household. Netflix has a limit on how many devices can stream simultaneously, depending on which plan you’re on. If you find that you’re unable to watch Netflix, it may be that you’ve reached your device limits.

If you’re on the Basic plan, you can only stream on one device at a time. On the Standard with ads and Standard plans, you can stream to two devices simultaneously, while the Premium plan allows for four devices to stream at the same time. You can check which plan you’re on by going to netflix.com/account and signing into your account.

4. Check Your Internet Connectivity

Is your Roku device connected to the internet? Often a lack of connectivity or poor signal can be to blame for issues with Netflix not working on Roku. You could check your router to ensure it’s working normally, test internet connectivity on other devices, and run a connection check on your Roku device.

To do that, press Home on your Roku remote, then scroll down and select Settings > Network > Check Connection. Your device will automatically start a connection check and let you know whether or not it has been successful. If your device isn’t connecting to the internet, you could try restarting your router to see if that resolves the connectivity issues.

5. Disable Your VPN

If your Roku is connected to the internet as normal but you’re using a VPN, that could be causing issues with Netflix. The easiest way to see if this is the problem is to disable your VPN, quit Netflix, then relaunch the app and see if the problem persists. If you can access it normally, you know your VPN is the issue. You could try connecting to another location, or just watch Netflix with your VPN disabled.

6. Check Your Netflix Account

If your Netflix payment failed for any reason, that could explain why you’re unable to access Netflix on Roku. Perhaps you recently updated your payment method and entered the details wrongly, or maybe your bank has blocked payments. Just log in to your Netflix account from your PC or mobile device and check to see if your subscription has been processed as usual, or if you need to make a payment to regain access to Netflix.

7. Uninstall and Reinstall the Netflix App

If none of the above fixes have worked for you so far, why not try uninstalling and reinstalling the Netflix app? This is a good idea in case of any conflicts or settings that are affecting the app working normally. It’s also a good idea to reset your Roku device after reinstalling the app. Hopefully, once you reinstall and launch the Netflix app, it will start working as usual.

8. Check for Updates

Though your Roku device should download and install the latest updates automatically, there may be times when this hasn’t happened. Here’s how to run a manual check to see if there are any available updates for your Roku device:

  1. Press Home on your Roku remote.
  2. Select Settings > System > Software Update.
  3. Then select Check Now, and your Roku will start a check for any available updates and download and install them, if necessary.

Hopefully, one of these fixes will sort out your Netflix not working on Roku issue and get you back up and running, so you can enjoy the latest episode of your favorite shows or that movie you’ve been waiting to watch. Watching Netflix on another type of device? Check out how to fix Netflix not working on Apple TV, or our 7 fixes for Netflix not working. If none of these fixes work for you, it’s a good time to reach out to Netflix customer support, to see if they can help resolve the problem.

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How to Translate a Web Page in Most Any Browser https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-translate-a-web-page-in-most-any-browser/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-translate-a-web-page-in-most-any-browser/#disqus_thread Sandy Writtenhouse]]> Mon, 11 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99438

You don’t have to navigate away from a web page that displays in a language other than your own. With each of the major browsers, you can use a built-in […]]]>
You don’t have to navigate away from a web page that displays in a language other than your own. With each of the major browsers, you can use a built-in or third-party translation tool to translate text immediately.

Here, we’ll show you how to translate a web page in Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Opera. For either the entire page or just a portion of it, you can read news, articles, and information in your native language or even in a language you’re learning.

Translate a Web Page in Google Chrome

The Google Chrome browser offers a built-in translation tool in the form of Google Translate, making web page translations a breeze.

  1. When you visit a web page where a translation is available, you’ll see the Translate This Page button appear in the address bar.
  1. Select the button and then your language to translate the page.
  1. For additional tools, select the Translate Options button (three dots). You can then pick another language or choose to always or never translate the language or site.

Translate Part of a Web Page in Chrome

If you only want to translate certain text on a web page, this is another option in Google Chrome.

Select the text you want to translate by dragging your cursor through it. Then, right-click and pick Translate selection to [default language].

You’ll see a small window appear with the translation along with the option to translate the full page.

Translate a Web Page in Firefox

While Mozilla Firefox doesn’t have a built-in translation tool, it does offer an official extension called Firefox Translations. Once you enable the add-on, you can use it effortlessly to translate a web page.

  1. Visit the add-ons page for Firefox Translations and select Enable.
  1. You’ll then be directed to the extension’s options page for allowing data to be sent to Mozilla. Turn on the toggles for the options you want to use and you can then close the tab.
  1. When you visit a web page that you want to translate, you’ll see a translation toolbar appear at the top. Select Translate to translate the page. Optionally, you can adjust the languages if needed or check the boxes for additional tools.
  1. You can also open the Options menu for more settings.

Translate Part of a Web Page in Firefox

Maybe you only want to translate a portion of the selected text on the web page. With the Firefox Translations extension, it’s easy.

Select the text on the page you want to translate, right-click, and pick Translate with Firefox Translations.

You’ll then see the translation in a pop-up window where you also have the option to change the language(s).

Translate a Web Page in Microsoft Edge

Like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge provides a built-in translation tool using Microsoft Translator which is similar to Google Translate.

  1. To enable the feature, select the gear icon on the bottom right to open the Settings.
  1. Choose Languages on the left of the subsequent screen and turn on the toggle for Offer to translate pages that aren’t in a language I read. Note that you can add and reorder your preferred languages directly above the toggle.
  1. When you land on a web page where a translation is available, you’ll see the Show Translate Options button appear in the address bar.
  1. Change your default language if necessary and pick Translate.
  1. You can also select More to choose additional translation options.

Translate Part of a Web Page in Edge

With the built-in translator in Edge, you can also translate part of a web page.

Select the text you want to translate, right-click, and choose Translate selection to [default language].

You’ll then see that portion of the web page update, rather than a separate pop-up window, to display the translation.

Translate a Web Page in Safari

Another browser with its own translation feature is Apple’s Safari web browser.

  1. To see if a translation is available for a website you’re visiting, hover your cursor over the Translate icon in the address bar. If applicable, you’ll see “Translation Available” appear.
  1. Select the Translate icon and choose the translation language from your list of preferred options and you’ll then see the page update for you.
  1. Select the Translate button to change the languages in your list and pick Preferred Languages.
  1. Then, use the plus sign button at the bottom of the Preferred Languages list to add another or the minus sign button to remove one.

Translate Part of a Web Page in Safari

Like the browsers above, you can translate a portion of a web page in Safari as well.

Select the text, right-click, and choose Translate “[selected text].”

You’ll then see the translation in a pop-up window with options to hear the text spoken out loud or copy the translation.

Translate a Web Page in Opera

The Opera web browser doesn’t have a built-in translation tool or an official add-on. However, there are many translator extensions you can pick from with two popular options below.

Translator

Once you install the free Translator extension, you can translate an entire web page or a specific portion quickly.

To translate the current page, select the Translator button in your toolbar. In the pop-up window, optionally pick your language at the top and then use the link at the bottom for “Translate active page.”

To translate a part of the page instead, select the text with your cursor. Then, use the Translator button to view the translation in a pop-up window.

Google Translate

The Google Translate extension for Opera works similarly to the Translator option above. You can translate the whole page or just a certain part.

To translate the current page, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + P. You should then see the page translated and the translation toolbar appears at the top. Use the toolbar to choose a different language or view the original language.

To translate a portion of the page instead, select the text. Then, use the Google Translate button in the toolbar to see the translation in a pop-up window along with options to copy, listen, or change the text size.

Take Down the Language Barrier

There are plenty of terrific websites out there all over the world. Why stop visiting one because it’s in a language other than your own? Whichever browser on our list is your favorite, you have an easy way to translate a web page.

For more, look at language learning apps that can teach you to speak in a different dialect.

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Fire TV Keeps Restarting? 8 Fixes to Try https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/fire-tv-keeps-restarting-8-fixes-to-try/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/fire-tv-keeps-restarting-8-fixes-to-try/#disqus_thread Sodiq Olanrewaju]]> Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99383

Is your Amazon Fire TV device stuck in a reboot loop? Does the streaming device randomly restart during usage? We’ll show you how to resolve the issue and keep your […]]]>
Is your Amazon Fire TV device stuck in a reboot loop? Does the streaming device randomly restart during usage? We’ll show you how to resolve the issue and keep your Fire TV powered on.

The troubleshooting fixes in this post apply to all Amazon Fire TV devices and models—Fire TV, Fire TV Cube, and Fire TV Stick.

1. Power Cycle or Hard Restart Your Fire TV

Hard rebooting Fire TV devices can fix power issues and keep the streaming device running correctly. Performing a hard reboot entails physically reconnecting your Fire TV to its power source.

Unplug your Fire TV’s power adapter from the wall outlet or remove the USB cable from the Fire TV. Wait 30 seconds, reconnect the USB cable or power adapter, and turn on the power source.

2. Try a Different Power Source

Faulty power outlets can cause your Fire TV to keep restarting. Try powering the streaming device from a different wall outlet or power strip and check if it stays on. Push your Fire TV’s power adapter into the power source and ensure the connection is snug and secure.

Your power adapter or charging cable is likely faulty if the streaming device keeps restarting.

3. Use Authentic Power Accessories

All Fire TV devices ship with a USB cable and power adapter. Amazon recommends using the included accessories because they’ll power your Fire TV safely without any issues or damage.

Knockoff cables or power adapters might not power your Fire TV device. Unsupported power accessories could even do permanent damage to the streaming device.

Does your Fire TV keep restarting when using a third-party power adapter or cable? Switch to the power adapter and cable included with your Fire TV device out-of-the-box.

Additionally, power your Fire TV directly from a wall outlet or power strip, not your TV. That’s because the USB ports on most TVs don’t supply enough power to keep Fire TV devices powered on.

Loose cable connections can also cause your Fire TV to restart when turned on or during usage. Ensure the power adapter and Fire TV’s USB connection is secure and fastened.

If you lose or damage your Fire TV USB cable or power adapter, buy an Amazon-branded replacement from Amazon’s website. If you use a third-party power adapter, ensure its minimum current and voltage ratings are one ampere (1A) and five volts (5V), respectively.

Adapters with power output ratings below the recommendation (5V/1A) above won’t power your Fire TV correctly.

4. Disconnect Other HDMI Devices from Your TV

The HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) feature allows compatible HDMI devices in your entertainment system to control one another.

Does your Fire TV randomly restart when you enable the HDMI CEC feature? There’s a chance that other HDMI devices connected to your TV are causing interference with your Fire TV. Disabling HDMI CEC in your TV or Fire TV settings menu should fix the issue.

Unplug your Fire TV from its power outlet and disconnect all HDMI devices connected to your TV—including your Fire TV.

Reconnect your Fire TV to its power source and connect the streaming device to your TV’s HDMI port. Connect your Fire TV to a different HDMI port if it keeps restarting.

Open your Fire TV Settings, select Display & Sounds, and set “HDMI CEC Device Control” to OFF.

5. Remove Your Fire TV Remote Batteries

A malfunctioning remote controller might restart your Fire TV at random intervals. Take out the batteries in your Fire TV Remote if it’s faulty or some buttons malfunction. That’ll disconnect the remote from your Fire TV.

Buy a replacement remote from Amazon if your Fire TV no longer restarts after disconnecting the remote. You can also use the Fire TV app to control the streaming device from your Android or iOS smartphone.

6. Update Your Fire TV Device

Does your Fire TV stay on for some minutes before restarting automatically? Updating the streaming device’s software might resolve the issue. Connect your Fire TV to the internet when it comes back on, and follow the steps below to update its software.

  1. Select the gear icon in the top-right corner of your Fire TV home screen and choose My Fire TV.
  1. Select About.
  1. Choose Check for Updates to prompt your Fire TV to scan for software updates.

Select Install Update to install a pre-downloaded software update.

Keep your Fire TV connected to its power source during the software update. The installation could take up to 20-30 minutes, depending on your internet speed and Fire TV model.

7. Try a Different TV

Amazon Fire TV devices only work on TVs that support High Digital Content Protection (HDCP)—an encryption technology that prevents unauthorized duplication of digital content. Connecting your Fire TV to a non-HDCP-complaint television might cause the streaming device to keep going on and off.

HDCP was introduced for HDMI connectors and devices in June 2003. The majority of TVs released in June 2003 or later are HDCP-compatible. Your Fire TV might keep restarting or fail to turn on if connected to TVs released before June 2003.

Check your TV’s instruction manual or contact the manufacturer to verify its HDCP-compliance status. Connect your Fire TV to a compatible TV if yours doesn’t support the HDCP digital copyright protection standard.

Rebooting your TV and updating its software/firmware could also fix issues causing your Fire TV to malfunction.

8. Factory Reset Your Fire TV

Resetting your Fire TV to factory default can fix performance and software issues. The factory-reset operation wipes your Fire TV and deletes all files, account data, and settings on the streaming device.

If your Fire TV stays on briefly before entering the restart loop, reset it to factory default as quickly as possible.

Go to Settings > My Fire TV > Reset to Factory Defaults and select Reset on the confirmation screen.

You can also initiate a factory reset using your Amazon Fire TV Remote. Press and hold the Back/Return button and Right navigation button on the remote controller for 5-10 seconds.

Release both buttons when a “Reset to Factory Defaults” screen pops up and select OK to start the factory reset.

Contact Amazon Device Support

Your Amazon Fire TV device likely has a hardware defect if it keeps restarting after trying the above fixes. Return your Fire TV to the retailer or contact Amazon Fire TV Support for technical support.

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How to Fix Roku Error Code 014.30 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-roku-error-code-014-30-2/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-roku-error-code-014-30-2/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99366

The Roku error code 014.30 is usually caused by a weak internet signal or a poorly set up device and usually appears when you try to start streaming (or during […]]]>
The Roku error code 014.30 is usually caused by a weak internet signal or a poorly set up device and usually appears when you try to start streaming (or during a session). If you get the 014.30 error, you won’t be able to continue streaming until you resolve any issues with your Roku’s internet connection.

Below, we’ll explain what causes this problem and how to fix the Roku error 014.30.

What Causes Roku Error 014.30?

There are two main causes for this error:

  1. A weak or non-existent wireless signal. The error will occur if your Roku device can’t connect to the internet or the Wi-Fi signal strength is too weak to stream video properly. Problems like using the wrong SSID or setting up your TV too far from your wireless network can also trigger errors.
  2. Incorrect device configuration. If you haven’t set up your Roku device, TV, or router correctly, it can cause the 014.30 error. For instance, you might have enabled MAC address filtering on your router, preventing your Roku device from accessing the internet.

How to Fix Roku Error Code 014.30

Fixing the 014.30 error code is easy. Here are four things to try, in order of how likely it is to fix the problem:

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first thing to do is make sure that your internet is working correctly:

  1. Check if you can access the internet on another device. See if you can open a website without issues using your smartphone or PC. Suppose you can’t, then try troubleshooting your internet connection.
  2. Reboot your router and modem. Turn your router off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Check if your internet is now working correctly.
  3. Do a speed test. On another device, load up Speedtest by Ookla and ensure you get the expected internet speed. Keep in mind that you need at least 3 Mbps to stream videos.
  1. Make sure that your network password is correct. With the Roku remote, press the Home button, then choose Settings. Select Network > Setup connection > Wireless. You can also connect a Roku to the Wi-Fi without a remote if it isn’t working. Ensure the correct network name is selected, then check that the Wi-Fi password is accurate.
  1. Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). If nothing works, you might need to contact your ISP to find out what’s happening.

2. Power Cycle Your Roku Device and TV

Random glitches can prevent your Roku and TV from accessing the internet, whether connected through Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Power cycling these devices helps by clearing the potentially corrupt DNS caches. To do so:

  1. Unplug your TV (or Roku TV) from its power source.
  2. Press and hold the Power button on your TV for 20 seconds to release any stored electricity.
  3. Plug your device back in, then turn it on.
  4. Using your Roku remote, go to Settings > System and choose System restart > Restart.
  1. Wait for it to reboot, then check if Roku works correctly.

3. Check MAC Address Filtering Settings

If your router has MAC address filtering enabled, it may be blocking your Roku from the internet. To get around this, you need to add the Roku MAC address to your router:

  1. Open your router’s administration page by entering its IP address into the search bar of your web browser. Usually, this is something like 192.168.1.1. Find the MAC address filtering settings.
  1. Here, add your Roku’s MAC address. Select Settings, then About from the Roku home screen to find it.

4. Factory Reset Your Roku Device

If nothing else has worked, your last resort is to factory reset your Roku. This will revert it to default settings, enabling you to set it up and reconnect it to the Wi-Fi network. Remember that a factory reset will remove all the data and settings you’ve added to your Roku.

  1. From the Roku main screen, select Settings > System.
  2. Choose Advanced system settings.
  3. Select Factory reset, then choose Factory reset everything. You might be asked to enter a one-time security code to confirm your decision.
  1. Press OK.
  2. Wait for the reset to finish, then reconnect your Roku to the internet. After reconnecting, check whether the Roku is working correctly.

Stream Videos Without a Hiccup

Hopefully, this article has helped you resolve any issues with your Roku streaming device and wireless connection so that you can get back to binge-watching your favorite shows once again. If you’re still experiencing issues, contact Roku Support for further help.

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How to Fix Hulu Error Code P-DEV318 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-hulu-error-code-p-dev318/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-fix-hulu-error-code-p-dev318/#disqus_thread Jake Harfield]]> Tue, 05 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99339

You finally sit down to watch your favorite movie, but when it starts buffering, you see the Hulu error code P-DEV318 appear. This is one of the most common Hulu […]]]>
You finally sit down to watch your favorite movie, but when it starts buffering, you see the Hulu error code P-DEV318 appear. This is one of the most common Hulu errors and can be incredibly frustrating. But luckily, it’s usually pretty easy to fix.

This troubleshooting guide will explain how to fix Hulu error code P-DEV318.

What Causes the Hulu Error Code P-DEV318?

The error P-DEV318 code means something is wrong with your connection to the Hulu servers, preventing playback. This could be caused by:

  1. A glitch in your streaming device
  2. A problem with your internet connection
  3. The Hulu servers are down temporarily

How to Fix Hulu Error Code P-DEV318

Here are four ways to fix the frustrating P-DEV318 error code:

1. Check If Hulu Is Down

The first thing to do is check if the Hulu servers are up and running. Hulu doesn’t have its status page, so open DownDetector and check there. Alternatively, you can check Hulu Support on Twitter for any status updates.

If either of these sources indicates that Hulu’s servers are experiencing issues, your best bet is to wait for a while and then try again. In the meantime, you can always check out the TV shows on some of the other streaming services like Disney Plus.

2. Troubleshoot Connectivity Issues

If the Hulu servers are running correctly, then the problem likely lies with your network connection. If your internet is having issues, you’ll need to run through some internet troubleshooting steps to find out what’s wrong:

  1. Check your internet speed: Open Speed Test on your web browser and press Run. If the website doesn’t load, your internet is down. If it does, make sure your internet speeds are as expected. Remember that you need a download bandwidth of at least 3 Mbps to watch Hulu on the lowest settings.
  1. Restart your router and modem: Unplug it from the power source, wait for a minute, then turn it back on again and wait for it to boot up. Once it does, ensure your device connects to the internet (via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable), then try loading up Hulu again. If it doesn’t connect to the internet, you’ll have to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and find out what’s going wrong.
  1. Ensure you don’t have a Virtual Private Network (VPN) enabled: VPNs can cause problems accessing Hulu content (and other streaming services) because they spoof your location.

3. Troubleshoot Your Streaming Device

If the Hulu servers and your internet connection are working fine, there’s probably something wrong with your streaming device. Here’s how to find out:

  1. Try using a different device: There might be something wrong with your device that’s preventing it from connecting to the Hulu servers.
  2. Restart your streaming device: How to reboot your device will depend on what it is. To restart an Android device, press and hold the Volume down and Side buttons simultaneously. Press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons to reboot an iPhone. If you use something else, like an Xbox One game console, Apple TV, Fire TV, or a smart TV with a Chromecast, press the Power button, wait a few seconds, and then turn the device back on.

4. Troubleshoot the Hulu App

The next thing to troubleshoot is the app itself. If your connection and device aren’t causing the issue, it might be a problem with the app’s cache data, or the app may be an older version that’s no longer supported. Here’s what to do:

  1. Clear the Hulu app cache (on Android): If you use a smartphone to watch Hulu, the app’s cache may have become corrupted. To clear the cache on Android, open the Settings menu, then select Apps > Hulu. Next, tap Storage and choose Clear Cache and Clear Data.
  1. Update the Hulu app: To find out if updates for your Hulu app are available, load up the app store (Google Play Store on Android and the App Store on iOS devices) and search for the Hulu app. If there’s an update, it’ll say “Update.” If there isn’t, it’ll say “Open.”
  2. Reinstall the Hulu app: If nothing else fixes the error code P-DEV318, your final resort is to uninstall and reinstall the Hulu app. To uninstall the app on your smartphone, press and hold the app icon until the option appears. Then, reinstall it from the app store. On other devices, you must head to the device’s settings, find the Hulu app, and select uninstall. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to learn how to use your device.

Stream Your Favorite Content

Hopefully, this article has helped you get Hulu up and running again. However, if you’re still experiencing issues, the only thing left to do is contact the Hulu support team via their website.

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Instagram Stories Sound Muted: 9 Ways to Unmute It https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/instagram-stories-sound-muted-9-ways-to-unmute-it/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/instagram-stories-sound-muted-9-ways-to-unmute-it/#disqus_thread Mahesh Makvana]]> Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99290

Does your phone refuse to play any sounds when you access an Instagram Story? If so, your phone or Instagram app may be experiencing an issue. Here are the methods […]]]>
Does your phone refuse to play any sounds when you access an Instagram Story? If so, your phone or Instagram app may be experiencing an issue. Here are the methods you can use on your Apple iPhone or Android device to unmute the popular app.

1. Turn Off Your Phone’s Silent Mode

When you have trouble playing sounds on your smartphone, the first thing to check is if your phone is in silent mode. You or someone else may have enabled this mode, causing your phone not to play any sounds.

In this case, turn off the mode and bring your phone back to Ring mode to fix your issue.

On Android

  1. Slide the Ring/Silent toggle on your phone to disable Silent mode and enable Ring mode.
  2. Play your Instagram Story.

On iPhone

  1. Flip the Ring/Silent switch so you don’t see the orange color behind the switch. This indicates your phone is in Ring mode.
  2. Open and play your Instagram Story.

2. Turn Up Your Phone’s Volume to Fix a No Sound Issue

If you still don’t get audio in your Instagram Stories, increase your phone’s volume to see if that fixes your problem. Your phone’s current volume might be too low, making the Story sound inaudible.

You can use your phone’s physical Volume Up key to increase the volume. Keep pressing this key until your phone has reached at least 50% volume level. Then, play your Instagram Story and see if you can hear the audio.

3. Turn Off Bluetooth on Your Phone

One reason you can’t hear the audio in Instagram Stories is that you’ve connected a Bluetooth audio accessory to your phone, and your phone is routing all the audio to that device. You can disconnect your accessory from your phone to resolve your issue.

A quick way to verify and fix that is to turn off Bluetooth on your device.

On Android

  1. Pull down twice from the top of your phone’s screen.
  2. Select Bluetooth in the menu to turn off the feature.
  1. Play your Instagram Story.

On iPhone

  1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone’s screen.
  2. Tap the Bluetooth icon to turn off the feature.
  1. Access your Instagram Story.

4. Clear Instagram’s Cache Files on Your Android Phone

If you still don’t hear the audio for Stories in your Instagram feed, your app’s cache files might be corrupted. Like many other apps, Instagram creates and utilizes cache files to improve your overall app experience. When these files become corrupted, you experience various issues in the app, including the one you’re currently facing.

You can fix that issue by clearing your app’s cache files. You don’t lose your account data when you do this, and Instagram will rebuild these files as you use the app.

Note that you can only perform this procedure on an Android phone. The iPhone doesn’t allow you to clear an app’s cache files.

  1. Open your phone’s app drawer, tap and hold on Instagram, and select App info.
  2. Choose Storage usage on the following screen.
  1. Select Clear cache to delete your app’s cached files.
  1. Open the Instagram app and play your Story.

5. Install Pending Instagram Updates on Your iPhone or Android Phone

Instagram’s outdated app version can cause many random issues, and this may be the reason you have trouble playing the audio for your Instagram Stories. You can fix version-related issues like this by updating your app on your phone.

Updating Instagram on your phone fixes many app bugs and possibly adds new features.

On Android

  1. Launch Play Store on your phone.
  2. Find Instagram in the store.
  3. Select Update next to the app to bring the app to the latest version.

On iPhone

  1. Open App Store on your iPhone.
  2. Select Updates in the bottom bar.
  3. Choose Update next to Instagram on the list.

6. Use a VPN to Unmute Instagram Stories

If you don’t hear the audio only in certain Stories on Instagram, those Stories’ soundtracks might be unavailable in your region. Instagram may not have the rights to play those soundtracks in your current region, causing your Stories to remain muted.

In this case, you can bypass that restriction by using a VPN on your phone. A VPN allows you to change your phone’s online location, letting you bypass many limits on various apps and sites.

There are many VPN apps you can choose from, and nearly all of them work on both iOS and Android devices. After installing such an app, launch the app, turn on the service, and play your Instagram Story.

7. Sign Out and Back Into Your Instagram Account

If your phone still fails to play the audio for your Instagram Story, your login session in the app might have a problem. You can resolve these login-related issues by signing out and back into your account in the app.

You don’t lose your account data when you do this, but you’ll have to enter your account’s username and password to log back in.

  1. Open Instagram on your phone.
  2. Select your profile icon in the bottom bar.
  3. Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
  4. Choose Settings and privacy in the menu.
  5. Scroll to the bottom and choose Log out [Username].
  1. Log back into your account in the app.

8. Remove and Reinstall Instagram on Your Phone

If your Instagram Stories remain muted even after following the above methods, your app itself may be faulty. It isn’t too uncommon for apps to go corrupt and malfunction, and this may be the case with your Instagram app.

In this case, you can resolve the issue by removing and reinstalling the app on your phone. This deletes all app files from your phone and installs new files, fixing all file-related issues.

You don’t lose any data when you do this. However, you’ll have to log back into your account when you reinstall the app on your phone.

On Android

  1. Tap and hold on Instagram in your app drawer and select Uninstall.
  1. Choose Uninstall in the prompt.
  2. Re-download the app by opening Play Store, finding Instagram, and tapping Install.

On iPhone

  1. Tap and hold on Instagram on your phone’s home screen.
  2. Select Remove App > Delete App in the menu.
  3. Reinstall the app by launching App Store, finding Instagram, and selecting the download icon.

9. The Instagram Story Doesn’t Have Any Audio

If reinstalling the app didn’t fix your issue, it’s possible your Instagram Story itself is muted. The creator may not have added any music tracks to the Story, keeping the Story soundless.

In this case, you can’t do anything as the original Story is without audio.

Many Ways to Resolve an Instagram Story Sound Issue on Your Phone

If your phone doesn’t play any music when you access an Instagram Story, there’s a good chance something is wrong on your phone. You can tweak a few options here and there on your phone as well as in the Instagram app to possibly resolve your issue.

Once you’ve done that, you can find that all your Instagram Stories play the audio. Happy using this social media platform!

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5 Ways to Check an Image for Copyright https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/5-ways-to-check-an-image-for-copyright/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/5-ways-to-check-an-image-for-copyright/#disqus_thread Paula Beaton]]> Thu, 30 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99278

If you use copyrighted images in your content without permission, you could be at risk of legal action. This is why it’s important to check the copyright of any image […]]]>
If you use copyrighted images in your content without permission, you could be at risk of legal action. This is why it’s important to check the copyright of any image you find before using it.

By law, every image is copyrighted as soon as it’s created, but you’ll want to check who owns the copyright, whether you’re allowed to use it, and if any terms apply for usage—for example, you may need to credit the original creator. It’s usually easy to find this information.

1. Check the Image for Copyright Information

To check an image for copyright information, look in the credits. There may be a caption including the name of the photographer or creator, and/or their contact information. You can use this information to look the person up and contact them to ask if you can use their image in your content. You may need to pay them a fee to license the image or agree to terms such as crediting them when you use it.

2. Check the Metadata

An image’s metadata—also known as EXIF data—is embedded information about that image that you can easily access to see if there’s any clue who created it. Here’s how to check an image’s metadata:

  • Windows: Right-click the image, select Properties, and switch to the Details tab. You may see the image’s creator listed.
  • macOS: Open the image in Preview, then click Tools > Show Inspector. Click the Info icon and select the EXIF tab to view the image’s metadata.

Note that you won’t always find details about an image’s creator or copyright information in metadata, but it’s always worth checking.

3. Look for a Watermark

Some photographers and digital content creators will watermark their images to prevent others from using them. If the image you’ve downloaded has a watermark, it’s copyrighted and you’ll normally be able to see the name or details of the creator. You can contact them to find out if you can purchase a license to use the image in your content.

Note: There are programs out there designed to remove watermarks from images, but you’ll be breaking copyright laws if you use this type of software to attempt to remove somebody else’s watermark. Always contact the creator of the image, or, if in doubt, find another image to use.

4. Use Reverse Image Search

If none of the above methods have worked for you, and you’re still no closer to figuring out who holds the copyright for the image you want to use, why not try a reverse image search? You can either use Google Reverse Image Search or the similar Visual Search available in Bing.

Using Google Reverse Image Search

  1. Open Google Image Search in your browser.
  2. Click the Camera icon, then either drag your image onto the window, upload a file from your device or copy/paste the image URL to search for it.
  3. Google Image Search will display results that could help you discover who created the image and who holds the copyright for it.
  4. You can then contact the copyright holder to see if you can use the image.

Using Bing Visual Search

Bing Visual Search is similar to Google Reverse Image Search. Here’s how to use it to check an image for Copyright information:

  1. Open Bing Visual Search in your browser.
  2. You can drag and drop your image, upload a file from your device by selecting Browse, copy and paste the image URL, take a photo, or search for an image online.

Though Reverse Image Search and Bing Visual Search are pretty good at finding out who created an image, these tools are not foolproof and if they don’t work, there’s one thing left that you could try.

5. Check the US Copyright Office Database

If you’ve exhausted all the other methods above and you’re still no closer to finding out whether an image is copyrighted, you could try checking the US Copyright Office Database. It’s important to note that you’ll need to know some information about the image to do this, such as the image title or the name of the photographer.

As mentioned above, all images are copyrighted automatically from the moment of creation, but some creators may take an extra step and register their work with the US Copyright Office as this affords them protection should somebody steal their image. If you can’t find the image you’re looking for here, it may not have been registered. This does not mean you can use it freely. You’ll still need to find out who holds the copyright for the image and contact them for permission to use it — or just choose another image.

Always Check an Image for Copyright Before Using It!

As you can see, there are various ways to check an image for copyright, depending on whether it’s watermarked, has metadata, or was registered with the US Copyright Office. The one thing to remember is this: You must always get permission from whoever owns the image to use it in your content unless the license states otherwise. Note that this doesn’t apply to images found on free sites such as Unsplash, where you can freely use images and should credit the creator. Before you go, why not check out how to protect your copyrighted content on YouTube and other social media sites?

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How to Change or Reset Your Slack Password https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-change-or-reset-your-slack-password/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-change-or-reset-your-slack-password/#disqus_thread Sandy Writtenhouse]]> Sun, 19 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=99125 slack logo

If you use Slack for work, it’s likely your most important communication tool. We’ll walk you through how to change and reset your Slack password. If you’re a Slack admin […]]]>
If you use Slack for work, it’s likely your most important communication tool. We’ll walk you through how to change and reset your Slack password. If you’re a Slack admin or workspace owner, you can reset all members’ passwords simultaneously.

Note: Whether changing or resetting your current password, remember that the password must be at least six characters long and cannot be a previous password.

How to Change Your Slack Password

Whether you use Slack on your desktop, the web, or mobile device, you must still use a web browser to access your settings and change your password.

Access Account Settings on the Desktop or Web

  1. In Slack on your desktop or the web, select your profile icon on the top right and choose Profile.
Selecting your profile in Slack
  1. Select the three vertical dots and pick Account Settings in the drop-down menu.
Viewing account settings in Slack

You’ll then be directed to your default web browser.

Access Account Settings on Mobile

  1. In Slack on Android or iPhone, select the You tab at the bottom. On iPad, tap your profile icon on the bottom left.
  2. Select Preferences.
  3. Choose Advanced and tap Account Settings.
Viewing account settings in the Slack mobile app

You should see your web browser open to Slack.

Change Your Password

  1. After you access your Slack Account Settings using one of the above methods, open the Settings tab and select Expand next to Password.
viewing your password in the slack mobile app
  1. Enter your Current Password, your New Password, and pick Save Password.
changing your password in the slack mobile app
  1. You’ll then see a message that your password has been updated successfully.

You should also receive an email confirming that you changed your password.

new password confirmation page

How to Reset Your Slack Password

Maybe you’ve forgotten your password and are unable to sign into your Slack account. If you need to reset your password, you can do this just as easily. If you signed up for Slack using Apple or your Google account, you can also set a password for Slack using these steps.

Before you begin, make sure that you have access to the email address for your Slack account. Contact a workspace owner or admin if you need your email address changed.

  1. Visit the Slack sign-in page, enter your email address, and choose Sign In With Email.
signing in to slack
  1. Check your inbox for an email from Slack containing a confirmation code. If you don’t see the email, be sure to check your spam or junk folder.
email containing confirmation code
  1. Enter that confirmation code on the subsequent Slack page.
entering your confirmation code in slack
  1. You’ll then be signed into your Slack account. You can have Slack open the application automatically or continue to use Slack on the web.
  2. Follow the same steps as above to access your Slack Account Settings.
  3. On the Settings tab, select Expand next to Password, and pick Reset your password by email.
changing your password
  1. You’ll see a brief message at the top of the page letting you know that you’ll receive an email with a link to create a new password.
confirmation of change password email sent
  1. Head to your inbox for the email and select Choose a New Password or copy and paste the link provided near the bottom of the message into your browser’s address bar.
email with choose a new password link
  1. Enter a new password, confirm it, and select Change my password.
entering your new password

You’ll then be directed to open the Slack app or continue using Slack in your browser. You should also receive an email confirming that you’ve created a new password.

new password confirmation

Tip: Check out these password managers to keep your accounts safe.

How to Reset Your Workspace Members’ Passwords

If you’re a Slack workspace owner or admin and want to reset the passwords for all members of your organization, this is doable. Maybe there was a security issue or you have several members who need their passwords reset.

When you reset your members’ passwords, you can also sign everyone out of their current Slack sessions at the same time if needed. Follow the steps below per your Slack plan.

Free, Pro, and Business+ Plans

Use the following steps if you have a free, Pro, or Business+ Slack plan.

  1. Select your Slack workspace name on the top left to open the menu.
  2. Move to Settings & administration and choose Workspace settings in the pop-out menu.
Entering workspace settings from Slack
  1. You’ll be directed to the Settings & Permissions Slack page in your web browser.
  2. At the top of the page, open the Authentication tab.
  3. Next to Forced Password Reset, select Expand.
The authentication tab of Slack settings and permissions
  1. Use the drop-down menu to pick one of the following:
  • Sign everyone out of all apps: This signs all members out of Slack at the same time. They will not be able to sign into your Slack workspace until they change their password and should receive an email with instructions.
  • Do NOT sign everyone out of all apps: This keeps all members signed in but sends them a Slackbot message that you want to reset their password. They will then receive an email from Slack with a password reset link.
choosing whether to sign people out of apps when forcing password reset
  1. After you choose an option, select Reset Passwords for All Workspace Members.
Resetting the passwords for all members
  1. In the pop-up window, choose I’m sure to confirm and continue or Cancel if you change your mind.
confirming the password reset

Enterprise Grid Plan

If you have a Slack Enterprise Grid plan, follow these steps instead:

  1. Select your Slack workspace name, move to Settings & administration, and choose Organization settings.
  2. On the website, choose Security on the left and open the Security Settings tab.
  3. Below Forced Password Reset, choose to reset everyone’s passwords with or without signing them out at the same time.
  4. Pick Force Reset and let everyone know they should receive an email with instructions to sign back into Slack.

Get Back to Slack

While how to change your Slack password, or even reset it, isn’t obvious, you should now be able to get right back into your Slack workspace. For more, look at these tips and tricks for Slack beginners.

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How to Pair a Roku Remote https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-pair-a-roku-remote/ https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-pair-a-roku-remote/#disqus_thread Ben Stockton]]> Fri, 10 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.online-tech-tips.com/?p=98943

Want to start using your Roku device? You’ll need to make sure your remote is working first. The first step you’ll need to take is to pair your Roku remote […]]]>
Want to start using your Roku device? You’ll need to make sure your remote is working first. The first step you’ll need to take is to pair your Roku remote to your device.

This process is fairly straightforward, but it requires you to follow a set number of steps to complete it. If you’re unsure how to pair a Roku remote, follow the steps below.

How to Identify Your Roku Remote Type

Before starting the Roku pairing process, it’s essential to identify the type of Roku remote you have, as you may not need to pair your remote at all. Roku devices use one of two general types of remote controls: a Simple remote and a Voice remote.

The Roku simple remote uses infrared light technology, requiring a direct line of sight to work correctly. It will have a limited number of buttons and won’t feature a microphone button for voice commands. This type of remote doesn’t require pairing—it just needs batteries to operate.

The Roku voice remote uses Wi-Fi connectivity and doesn’t need a direct line of sight. It has more buttons than the simple remote, typically including a microphone button that enables voice command capabilities. This type of remote will need to be paired with your Roku device to work properly.

To determine your Roku remote type, inspect the remote and look for the microphone button. If the microphone button exists, it’s a Roku voice remote. If not, it’s a Roku simple remote. Now that you’ve identified your remote type, you can proceed with the appropriate pairing process.

How to Pair a Roku Simple Remote

Want to pair a standard (or simple) Roku remote? You don’t need to. As mentioned, the Roku simple remote uses infrared light to operate the device (much like most modern TV remotes). All you need to start using a Roku simple remote is a fresh set of batteries.

Once you’ve placed the batteries into the remote, point the remote at the Roku device. It’ll need a direct line of sight with the Roku device you’re using for this to work, so make sure to clear any obstructions from the path.

You can begin using your Roku simple remote immediately by pressing any of the buttons on the remote—no pairing required. However, if you run into problems, ensure there isn’t anything between the device and the remote blocking the IR signal.

If you’ve used your Roku device for a while, you may need to switch out the batteries. This will make sure that there’s enough power for your Roku remote to work properly.

How to Pair a Roku Voice Remote

Unlike the simple remote, the Roku voice remote requires pairing with your Roku device to work, as it uses Wi-Fi to send your remote commands. It doesn’t require a direct line of sight, but you must pair it first.

To pair a Wi-Fi voice-controlled Roku remote, follow the steps below.

  1. Switch both your TV and your Roku device on.
  2. Remove the battery cover at the back of your Roku voice remote—you’ll need access to this later.
  3. Go to the Roku’s Home screen by pressing the home button on your remote or using your TV’s navigation controls to switch to the correct input.
  1. Access the Roku settings by scrolling to the left or right until you find the Settings option on your screen and select it.
  1. In the Settings menu, select Remotes & Devices > Remotes > Add a new remote to initiate the pairing process for your Wi-Fi voice-controlled Roku remote.
  1. On the back of your remote, press the pairing button on your remote near your battery compartment. Keep the remote close to the Roku device while pairing.
  1. Wait for the status light on your remote to flash green—this will indicate that the remote is pairing with your Roku device.

Once the status light stops flashing and remains solidly green, your Wi-Fi voice-controlled Roku remote should be successfully paired with your Roku streaming device. You can now use voice commands to control your Roku and enhance your streaming experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Pairing Roku Remotes

Are you having trouble pairing your Roku remote? You should address some common issues with the process first.

You’ll first need to check whether your batteries have enough power. If you can’t pair your Roku remote, remove the old batteries and replace them with new ones.

Remember that a stable Wi-Fi connection is essential for your Roku device and its remote to function correctly. If it isn’t connected to your Wi-Fi network, check your router settings to ensure your network is available for the device to connect to. You may need to restart your router to resolve any issues here.

If it still isn’t working, you can try to power off your Roku device—a quick restart may be all that’s required to fix the problem. To make sure that the power in your Roku device is fully discharged, unplug your Roku device from its power source, wait for at least 30 seconds, and then plug it back in.

Once the device restarts, repeat the pairing process—it should resolve the issue.

Managing Your Roku Device

If you want to know how to pair a Roku remote, the steps above should help you to complete the process quickly. A Roku device is a good Chromecast alternative, so if you’ve made the plunge, the steps above will help you to get the machine working correctly.

You may need to address other issues with your Roku device, however. For instance, look at your audio mode and input settings if your Roku device has no sound.

Finally, don’t have anything to watch? You could always try streaming, as you can watch Twitch on your Roku device using third-party methods.

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