Gizmo Lounge

Dropped Phone in Water?

Although some smartphones are now waterproof, most models conk off when dropped in water. While insurance may cover theft and accident, that route is dicey if you ruin your phone by spilling tea or coffee on it, or accidentally dunk it in water. Here are some tips to revive the gadget, though 100 per cent success is not guaranteed

● Remove the phone immediately and wipe it clean

● Do not switch it on or off. Some models automatically switch off in such circumstances.

● Remove the back cover and the battery. If your phone has no cover you can open, use the hard shutdown option.

● Remove SIM and SD Card.

● Wash your phone to flush out salt or anything that may damage the phone later. Don’t worry, your phone is already off.

● Drain the water by tilting and shaking the device. You can even use a vacuum cleaner to suck out the water.

● Open the phone using a proper screw driver (if possible, take help from a tech-savvy friend). Don’t worry about the warranty as it went void the moment you dropped the phone in water. In any case, check your warranty manual.

● Try to dry the phone thoroughly as your phone might still be wet inside. You can blow low pressure warm air to vapourise any water molecules left. In some cases, it may take a few days for your phone to dry completely.

● Leave it in a place where air circulation is good. It may take longer in cold places. You could also try placing silica gel near the phone to enhance drying.

● After four or five days, re-assemble your phone, and try to switch it on. You may have to charge the battery or change it.

● Your phone might work now, but not as well as before. So, it is best to retrieve all your data to your computer till the time you are ready to buy a new phone.

APP UPDATE

Couple (iPhone)

An ideal social network for couples, this app allows you to make phone calls, and express your feelings using video, audio, stickers, even send pictures, and ‘thumbkisses’. The app comes with its own password. The pictures uploaded can optionally self-destruct. You can also set notifications on a shared calendar and exchange to-do lists. It also suggests restaurants and popular destinations. You can doodle together in real-time or play games while being thousands of miles apart. You can send free plain text messages and also send ‘Thinking of you’ bubbles.

WHAT’S NEW

Rockerz On Ear

The latest entrant into the audio and tech industry, boAt has unveiled its new product - ‘Rockerz On Ear’, a bluetooth stereo headset with super bass which will be exclusively available on Snapdeal. Its ergonomic base creates a custom fit for any head shape. A sturdy headset, it comes with a 3.5 mm jack that connects with a range of devices. With its flexible structure, one can fold it and travel light. It is available in Blue and Black colours and is priced at Rs 3,490. The introductory price on Snapdeal is Rs 1,999.

WhatsApp web gets

 upgrade

Features earlier available on the phone app have been introduced through an auto update to the web interface, launched early this year. You can archive, delete and mute your chats, as well as exit groups using WhatsApp Web. It also lets you select the browser version, change your display picture and change your status. However, the service hasn’t been introduced for iOS yet.

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The New Indian Express
www.newindianexpress.com