The good news? You’ve got legitimate options to ditch those annoying interruptions. I’ll walk you through upgrading to the ad-free tier, help you figure out if it’s actually worth the extra cash, and show you some solid alternatives if Prime Video just isn’t cutting it anymore.

What is Amazon Prime Video?

Amazon Prime Video is a streaming service that offers thousands of movies, TV shows, and original content. Since 2024, the standard Prime Video experience includes ads during shows and movies unless you pay extra for the ad-free upgrade.

Key Features:

• Ad-supported streaming: Watch content with occasional commercial breaks on the standard plan
• Prime Video Ultra upgrade: Pay an additional $4.99/month to remove ads and get enhanced features
• Multiple device support: Stream on TVs, phones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices
• Offline downloads: Download content to watch without internet connection (up to 100 downloads with Ultra)
• X-Ray features: Get cast information, trivia, and bonus content while watching
• Multiple user profiles: Create separate profiles for family members with personalized recommendations

Prerequisites

Before you start removing ads, make sure you have:

• ☐ An active Amazon Prime membership or standalone Prime Video subscription
• ☐ Access to your Amazon account login credentials
• ☐ A web browser, Prime Video app, or smart TV with Prime Video
• ☐ A payment method on file for subscription upgrades (if choosing that route)

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Prime Video Ads

Method 1: Upgrade to Prime Video Ultra Plan

Step 1: Access Your Amazon Account Settings

The web browser route is your best bet here, regardless of which device you normally use to watch.

On Windows 10/11:

• Open your web browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox) and go to amazon.com
• Click Sign In in the top-right corner and enter your credentials
• Once signed in, hover over Account & Lists and select Your Account

On macOS Monterey/Ventura/Sonoma:

• Open Safari, Chrome, or your preferred browser and navigate to amazon.com
• Click Sign In and enter your Amazon credentials
• Click Account & Lists and select Your Account from the dropdown

On Web (any platform):

• Visit amazon.com in any web browser
• Sign in to your account
• Click Account & Lists > Your Account

Step 2: Navigate to Prime Video Settings

• On your Account page, scroll down to the Digital content and devices section
• Click Prime Video settings
• Alternatively, you can go directly to amazon.com/gp/video/settings

Step 3: Find Your Subscription Management

• On the Prime Video settings page, look for Account & Settings
• Click Subscription or Manage subscription
• You’ll see your current plan details here

Step 4: Upgrade to Prime Video Ultra

This is where Amazon wants that extra $4.99 from you each month.

• Look for the Prime Video section showing your current plan
• Click Change or Upgrade next to your subscription
• Select Prime Video Ultra from the available options
• Review the pricing: it’s an additional $4.99/month on top of your current Prime membership

Step 5: Confirm Your Upgrade

• Review the billing details and new monthly cost
• Click Confirm upgrade or Save changes
• You’ll receive a confirmation email about the subscription change

Expected result: Your account will immediately switch to ad-free viewing with enhanced features. Any content you start watching after this point won’t have ads and you’ll get access to 4K/UHD streaming, Dolby Atmos audio, up to 100 downloads, and 5 concurrent streams.

Method 2: Upgrade Through Mobile Apps

On iOS (iPhone/iPad):

• Open the Prime Video app
• Tap your profile icon in the bottom-right corner
• Select Account & Settings
• Tap Subscription and follow the upgrade prompts

On Android:

• Launch the Prime Video app
• Tap the My Stuff tab
• Tap the gear icon for settings
• Select Subscription and choose the Ultra upgrade

The mobile app upgrade paths can be pretty clunky, so I’d recommend sticking with the web browser method for the smoothest experience.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is Upgrading Worth It?

Most guides skip this part, but let’s actually crunch some numbers to see if paying extra makes sense for your viewing habits.

Current Pricing (2026)

• Prime membership: $14.99/month (or $139/year)
• Prime Video Ultra upgrade: Additional $4.99/month ($59.88/year)
• Total with Ultra: $19.98/month ($198.88/year)

What You Get with Prime Video Ultra

• No ads: Completely ad-free viewing experience
• 4K/UHD streaming: Enhanced video quality on supported content
• Dolby Atmos audio: Immersive surround sound experience
• 100 downloads: Up from 25 on the standard plan
• 5 concurrent streams: Up from 3 on the standard plan

Note: Some live TV, sports, or select content may still contain ads even with Ultra.

Calculate Your Viewing Value

Track your Prime Video usage for a week, then multiply by 4 for monthly hours:

Light viewer (under 10 hours/month):

• Cost per hour with ads: ~$1.50
• Cost per hour with Ultra: ~$2.00
• Recommendation: Probably not worth upgrading unless ads really drive you crazy

Moderate viewer (10-30 hours/month):

• Cost per hour with ads: $0.50-$1.50
• Cost per hour with Ultra: $0.67-$2.00
• Recommendation: Consider your tolerance for interruptions vs. $60/year

Heavy viewer (30+ hours/month):

• Cost per hour with ads: Under $0.50
• Cost per hour with Ultra: Under $0.67
• Recommendation: Upgrade is probably worth it for uninterrupted binge sessions and enhanced features

Streaming Service Comparison

*Includes full Prime membership benefits

Alternative Streaming Services

If you’re questioning whether Prime Video is worth it at all, here are some solid alternatives:

Netflix

• Pros: Massive content library, excellent original series, no ads on standard plans
• Cons: Higher cost, removes content regularly, no longer includes latest movies
• Best for: Binge-watchers who want the biggest selection

Disney+

• Pros: All Disney content, Marvel, Star Wars, competitive pricing
• Cons: Limited adult content, smaller overall library
• Best for: Families with kids, Marvel/Star Wars fans

Apple TV+

• Pros: High production value originals, clean interface, relatively cheap
• Cons: Small content library, limited catalog outside originals
• Best for: Quality over quantity viewers

Hulu

• Pros: Next-day TV episodes, strong current content, bundle options
• Cons: Ad-free version is expensive, limited movie selection
• Best for: People who want current TV shows

Troubleshooting Common Ad-Related Issues

Ads Causing Buffering or Freezing

Problem: Video stops loading during or after ad breaks

Solution:

• Clear your browser cache and cookies
• Restart the Prime Video app
• Check your internet speed (ads sometimes require different bandwidth)
• Try switching to a different device to see if it’s device-specific

Repetitive Ads That Won’t Progress

Problem: Same ad plays repeatedly or gets stuck in a loop

Solution:

• Refresh the page or restart the episode from the beginning
• Clear browser data and try again
• Report the issue to Amazon support through their help center

Ad Volume Louder Than Content

Problem: Commercials blast at higher volume than shows

Solution:

• Unfortunately, this is common across streaming services (just like traditional TV)
• Keep your remote handy to adjust volume during ad breaks
• Report persistent issues to Amazon support
• Consider this as a factor in your upgrade decision

This volume thing is legitimately annoying and there’s not much you can do about it except upgrade or keep that remote within arm’s reach.

Can’t Find Upgrade Option

Problem: Subscription management isn’t where it should be

Solution:

• Make sure you’re signed into the correct Amazon account
• Try accessing settings through a web browser instead of mobile apps
• Clear browser cache and try again
• Contact Amazon support if the option still doesn’t appear

Configuration Tips for Better Prime Video Experience

Optimize Video Quality Settings

• In Prime Video settings, click Playback
• Set Video Quality to Best if you have fast internet
• Enable Data Saver only if you’re on a limited connection

Set Up Family Profiles

• Go to Account & Settings > Profiles
• Click Add new profile
• Set age restrictions and content preferences for each family member
• This helps avoid inappropriate ads and improves recommendations

Setting up separate profiles is actually pretty smart — nobody wants their 8-year-old seeing beer commercials during cartoons.

Enable Subtitles and Audio Preferences

• While watching content, click the CC button
• Choose your preferred subtitle language and style
• Set audio language preferences in your account settings

Making the Smart Financial Decision

When Upgrading Makes Sense:

• You watch more than 20 hours of Prime Video per month
• Ad interruptions genuinely ruin your viewing experience
• You frequently watch with others (ads are more annoying in groups)
• You value the enhanced features like 4K streaming and Dolby Atmos
• You need more downloads or concurrent streams

When You Should Consider Alternatives:

• You mainly use Prime for shipping and rarely watch videos
• Your viewing is sporadic (less than 10 hours/month)
• You’re already subscribed to multiple streaming services
• The $60/year feels like too much for your budget

Timing Your Decision:

• Amazon bills the upgrade immediately, so time it with your regular billing cycle if possible
• You can downgrade anytime, but you won’t get a prorated refund
• Consider doing a one-month trial during a heavy viewing period (like holiday breaks)

The Bottom Line

Dealing with ads on a service you’re already paying for is legitimately annoying, but at least now you can make a smart decision about it. The $60/year upgrade to Prime Video Ultra isn’t terrible if you’re watching regularly and want the enhanced features, especially since you keep all the other Prime benefits.

But if you’re only firing up Prime Video occasionally, that money might work better toward a month or two of Netflix when there’s something specific you want to binge. Do the math based on your actual viewing habits, not what you think they should be.

The post How to Remove Ads from Amazon Prime Video (Complete Guide 2026) first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best free anime apps and sites that work on smartphones. Some are completely legal with ads (like Crunchyroll’s free tier), while others operate in legal gray areas. We’ll be upfront about which is which, so you can make the call that’s right for you.

What Are Free Anime Apps and Sites?

Free anime apps and sites let you stream Japanese animation without paying subscription fees. They fall into two main categories: legal ad-supported platforms (like Crunchyroll’s free tier and Tubi) and unofficial sites that host content without proper licensing.

Key things to know:

• Legal options: Support creators, safer to use, but have ads and limited libraries
• Browser-based sites: Many work better in mobile browsers than as dedicated apps
• Quality trade-offs: Free tiers often mean standard definition and more ads
• Dub availability: Free versions usually focus on subtitled content over English dubs

1. Crunchyroll (Free Tier)

Let’s start with the obvious choice: Crunchyroll’s free tier. While the premium version costs $7.99/month, the free option still gives you access to a massive anime library with ads. You’ll get standard definition streaming and mostly subtitled content, but honestly? That’s still a solid deal for zero dollars.

The app works well on both iPhone and Android, and you can pick up where you left off across devices. Plus, you get simulcast episodes meaning you can watch new episodes as they air in Japan. For anime fans just getting started, this is probably your best legal option.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

2. Tubi

Tubi has quietly become one of the best free streaming services, and their anime selection keeps growing. You’ll find popular titles like Naruto, Bleach, and plenty of anime movies — all completely free with ads. The app works great on mobile and doesn’t even require an account (though signing up lets you save your watchlist).

The ads aren’t too overwhelming, and the streaming quality is solid. Just search “anime” in the app and you’ll be surprised how much content is available. It’s also owned by Fox, so it’s completely legitimate.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

3. RetroCrush

If you’re into classic anime from the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s, RetroCrush is your jam. Think Astro Boy, City Hunter, and other retro gems that are hard to find elsewhere. The app even has a 24/7 live channel that just plays classic anime all day.

All content is free with ads, though you’ll need to create a free account to access some shows. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it perfect for discovering older anime you might have missed.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

4. Pluto TV

Pluto TV offers both on-demand anime content and live anime channels. Like Tubi, it’s completely legal and ad-supported. You can find popular series like One Piece and various anime movies without needing to sign up for anything.

The live channels are particularly nice if you just want to put on some anime in the background. The mobile app works well, and since it’s owned by Paramount, you know it’s not going anywhere.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

5. YouTube

Don’t sleep on YouTube for anime content. Sure, finding complete series in the right order can be a pain, but there’s actually a surprising amount of official anime content uploaded by distributors. Plus, you probably already have the app.

Search for specific anime titles and you might find complete episodes or even full series. Some distributors upload episodes officially, and there are also compilation videos and anime movie collections. It’s hit or miss, but worth checking before trying other options.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

6. Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)

Okay, technically Hulu isn’t free forever, but that 30-day trial gives you access to over 100 anime titles. If you’re strategic about it, you can binge through several complete series before the trial ends.

Hulu’s anime selection is solid, and the streaming quality is excellent. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to pay. The mobile app works great and syncs across all your devices.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

7. HIDIVE (7-Day Free Trial)

HIDIVE specializes in anime and has over 500 titles, including some rare finds and uncensored versions that other platforms don’t offer. The free trial is only seven days (pretty stingy), but the collection includes both popular series and hard-to-find OVAs.

The app has nice features like customizable subtitles and community discussions. If you’re looking for something specific that other platforms don’t have, it might be worth the short trial.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

8. Amazon Prime Video (30-Day Free Trial)

Prime Video isn’t known for anime, but it actually has some unique titles you won’t find elsewhere — including the Evangelion rebuild movies. The 30-day trial gives you access to everything, including their growing anime collection.

While the anime selection is smaller than dedicated platforms, the quality is excellent and you get some exclusive content. Plus, if you already shop on Amazon, you might want to keep the subscription anyway.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

What About Unofficial Sites?

We need to talk about the elephant in the room, which are sites like AniWatch (formerly Zoro.to), Gogoanime, and 9Anime. These unofficial platforms offer huge libraries with HD quality and same-day releases from Japan. They’re popular because they’re free and have everything.

Here’s the deal:

• Legal risks: These sites operate in gray areas and could face takedowns
• Safety concerns: Pop-ups, ads, and potential malware are common
• No creator support: Your views don’t help the anime studios that make the content
• Frequent domain changes: Sites often disappear and reappear under new URLs

If you go this route, use an ad-blocker and VPN, and understand the risks. But honestly? The legal options above are getting better every year, and supporting creators is the right thing to do.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Free Anime Streaming

Making Legal Platforms Work Better

• Use Wi-Fi when possible: Streaming anime can eat through mobile data quickly, especially with ads
• Download for offline viewing: Some apps like Crunchyroll let premium users download episodes, but free users are stuck streaming
• Try different platforms: If one app doesn’t have what you want, another might. Libraries vary significantly
• Check YouTube first: Some distributors upload full episodes officially — it’s worth a quick search

Common Issues and Solutions

Problem: Too many ads interrupting episodes

This is the trade-off for free content. Legal platforms need ad revenue to pay licensing fees. Consider upgrading to premium if a platform becomes your go-to, or use the ad breaks to grab snacks!

Problem: Limited selection on free tiers

Free versions often have smaller libraries than premium subscriptions. Try multiple platforms — between Crunchyroll, Tubi, and RetroCrush, you’ll find a decent variety.

Problem: Only subtitles available, no English dubs

Free tiers typically prioritize subtitled content. If you need dubs, YouTube sometimes has English versions, or consider a short premium trial during a binge session.

Problem: Geo-blocking restricts content in your region

Some content isn’t available in all countries due to licensing. Legal platforms have to respect these restrictions, while unofficial sites often don’t.

Our Take: Start Legal, Stay Safe

After testing these options, we’d recommend starting with the legal platforms, especially Crunchyroll’s free tier and Tubi. The experience is getting better, the libraries are growing, and you’re supporting the creators who make the anime you love.

Sure, the ads can be annoying and the free selections aren’t as comprehensive as paid services, but it’s a solid way to watch anime without breaking the bank. If you find yourself using one platform constantly, the premium upgrades are usually worth it for the improved experience.

The unofficial sites offer more content and fewer restrictions, but they come with real risks and ethical concerns. We get why people use them, but the legal alternatives are closing the gap fast. Give the legitimate options a shot first — you might be pleasantly surprised.

The post The 8 Best Free Anime Apps and Sites for iPhone and Android in 2026 first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Good news: Most Gmail loading problems in Chrome are pretty straightforward to fix. We’ll walk through the most common causes and their solutions, starting with the quick fixes that work 90% of the time. No tech degree required – just follow along and you’ll be back to your inbox in no time.

Quick Diagnosis

Before diving into specific issues, try these general troubleshooting steps that solve most Gmail problems:

• Refresh the page: Hit F5 or Ctrl + R (Windows) / Cmd + R (macOS) — sometimes Gmail just hiccups
• Check if Gmail is down: Visit Google Workspace Status to see if there’s a widespread outage
• Try incognito mode: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + N (macOS) and load Gmail. If it works here, the problem is with your extensions or cached data
• Test another browser: Open Gmail in Firefox, Edge, or Safari to see if it’s a Chrome-specific issue

Common Issues and Solutions

Gmail Shows a Blank White Page

Symptoms:

• Gmail URL loads but displays only a white/blank page
• No error messages, just emptiness
• Page seems to finish loading but shows nothing

Cause: This is usually caused by corrupted browser cache or cookies that are interfering with Gmail’s interface loading properly.

Solution:

Step 1: Clear Chrome’s browsing data

• Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of Chrome
• Select Settings
• Click Privacy and security in the left sidebar
• Select Clear browsing data

• In the dialog that opens:

– Set Time range to “All time” – Check Cookies and other site data – Check Cached images and files – Leave Browsing history unchecked (unless you want to clear that too)

• Click Clear data

Step 2: Restart Chrome completely

• Close all Chrome windows
• Wait 10 seconds
• Reopen Chrome and try Gmail again

Verify the fix: Gmail should now load normally with all interface elements visible.

Gmail Gets Stuck on Loading Screen

Symptoms:

• Gmail shows the loading spinner indefinitely
• Page never fully loads
• Sometimes you see partial Gmail interface that never completes

Cause: Browser extensions (especially ad blockers, VPNs, or security extensions) are interfering with Gmail’s loading process.

Solution:

Step 1: Disable all Chrome extensions

• Type chrome://extensions/ in the address bar and press Enter
• Turn off the toggle switch for every extension you see

• Refresh Gmail and see if it loads

Step 2: If Gmail works, identify the problematic extension

• Go back to chrome://extensions/
• Turn on extensions one by one
• After enabling each one, refresh Gmail to test
• When Gmail breaks again, you’ve found the culprit
• Either remove that extension or look for alternative extensions that don’t conflict

Common problematic extensions:

• Ad blockers: Try adding Gmail to your whitelist instead of disabling completely
• VPN extensions: These can slow or break Gmail loading
• Privacy/security extensions: Often block scripts Gmail needs to function

Verify the fix: Gmail should load completely without getting stuck on the loading screen.

Gmail Displays “Oops, Something Went Wrong” Error

Symptoms:

• Gmail shows error message instead of your inbox
• May see “Temporary Error (500)” or similar messages
• Sometimes accompanied by a sad Gmail logo

Cause: JavaScript is disabled in Chrome, or there’s a browser compatibility issue preventing Gmail’s scripts from running.

Solution:

Step 1: Enable JavaScript

• Go to chrome://settings/content/javascript in the address bar
• Make sure Sites can use Javascript is turned ON

• If it was already enabled, try the next step

Step 2: Update Chrome

• Click the three-dot menu → Help → About Google Chrome
• Chrome will automatically check for and install updates
• Restart Chrome when prompted
• Try Gmail again

Step 3: Reset Chrome settings (if the above doesn’t work)

• Go to chrome://settings/reset
• Click Restore settings to their original defaults

• Click Reset settings to confirm
• Restart Chrome and try Gmail

Verify the fix: Gmail should load without error messages and display your full inbox.

Gmail Loads Partially or Missing Elements

Symptoms:

• Gmail interface appears but buttons, menus, or compose window are missing
• Some text or images don’t load
• Interface looks broken or incomplete

Cause: Content blockers or strict security settings are preventing parts of Gmail from loading properly.

Solution:

Step 1: Check your ad blocker settings

If you use an ad blocker like uBlock Origin or AdBlock Plus:

• Click the ad blocker icon in your Chrome toolbar
• Look for an option to whitelist or disable the blocker for Gmail
• Add mail.google.com to your whitelist
• Refresh Gmail

Step 2: Adjust Chrome’s security settings

• Go to chrome://settings/content
• Click Pop-ups and redirects
• Add mail.google.com to the Allow list (Gmail needs pop-ups for the compose window)
• Go back and click JavaScript
• Make sure mail.google.com isn’t in the Block list

Step 3: Disable strict tracking protection temporarily

• Go to chrome://settings/privacy
• Click Cookies and other site data
• Select Allow all cookies temporarily
• Test Gmail, then change back to your preferred setting
• If Gmail works, add mail.google.com to your cookies allow list

Verify the fix: All Gmail interface elements should load properly, including compose button, menus, and sidebar.

Gmail Won’t Load After Chrome Update

Symptoms:

• Gmail worked fine before Chrome updated
• Now shows errors or won’t load at all
• Other websites work normally

Cause: Chrome updates sometimes change how certain features work, causing conflicts with existing browser data or settings.

Solution:

Step 1: Create a new Chrome profile

• Click your profile picture in the top-right corner of Chrome
• Click Add to create a new profile
• Set up the new profile and try accessing Gmail
• If Gmail works in the new profile, the issue is with your original profile’s data

Step 2: If the new profile works, transfer your data

• In your old profile, export bookmarks: Settings → Bookmarks → Bookmark manager → ⋮ → Export bookmarks
• Switch to the new profile
• Import bookmarks: Settings → Bookmarks → Bookmark manager → ⋮ → Import bookmarks
• Reinstall essential extensions one by one
• Delete the old profile once everything’s working

Step 3: Alternative – Reset Chrome completely

If you don’t want to create a new profile:

• Go to chrome://settings/reset
• Click Clean up computer → Find
• Let Chrome scan for harmful software
• Then click Restore settings to their original defaults
• Restart Chrome and reconfigure your essential settings

Verify the fix: Gmail should work normally in the new profile or after the reset.

Error Messages Explained

Network Connectivity Issues

DNS Problems

If Gmail won’t load at all (not even error pages):

Step 1: Flush DNS cache

On Windows:

• Press Windows + R
• Type cmd and press Enter
• Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter
• Restart Chrome

On macOS:

• Press Cmd + Space and type “Terminal”
• Type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache and press Enter
• Enter your password when prompted
• Restart Chrome

Step 2: Try different DNS servers

• Go to chrome://settings/
• Click Advanced → System
• Turn on Use secure DNS
• Select With: Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (Public DNS)

Firewall or Antivirus Blocking

Some security software can interfere with Gmail:

• Temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall
• Try loading Gmail
• If it works, add Chrome and Gmail to your security software’s whitelist
• Re-enable your security software

Browser Settings Issues

Cookies and Site Data

Gmail needs cookies to maintain your login session:

• Go to chrome://settings/content/cookies
• Make sure Allow all cookies is selected, OR
• If you prefer Block third-party cookies, add accounts.google.com and mail.google.com to the Allow list

Pop-up Blocker

Gmail’s compose window uses pop-ups:

• Go to chrome://settings/content/popups
• Add mail.google.com to the Allow list
• This lets Gmail open compose windows without triggering the pop-up blocker

Getting Help

If you’ve tried everything above and Gmail still won’t load:

Check Chrome’s Developer Tools

• Right-click on the Gmail page and select Inspect
• Click the Console tab
• Look for red error messages as these can give clues about what’s breaking
• Take a screenshot of any errors to share when asking for help

Useful Information for Support

When contacting Google Support or posting in forums, include:

• Your Chrome version (go to chrome://version/)
• Your operating system
• What error messages you see (exact text)
• Whether incognito mode works
• Whether other Google services work (Drive, YouTube, etc.)

Community Resources

• Gmail Help Community
• Chrome Help Community
• Google Workspace Status Page

Prevention Tips

To avoid future Gmail loading issues:

• Keep Chrome updated: Enable automatic updates in Chrome settings
• Regularly clear cache: Set up Chrome to clear cache on exit, or do it manually once a month
• Be selective with extensions: Only install extensions you actually use, and remove ones you don’t
• Don’t ignore Chrome security warnings: If Chrome warns about a site or download, pay attention
• Use strong, unique passwords: Account security issues can sometimes cause loading problems

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Gmail work in other browsers but not Chrome?

This usually means Chrome has corrupted data (cache/cookies) or a problematic extension that other browsers don’t have. Try incognito mode first. If Gmail works there, it’s definitely a Chrome-specific issue.

Will clearing my cache log me out of other websites?

Yes, clearing cookies will log you out of most websites. You can avoid this by only clearing “Cached images and files” instead of cookies, though this is less effective for Gmail issues.

Can I backup my Chrome data before troubleshooting?

Absolutely! Go to chrome://settings/syncSetup and turn on Chrome sync, or manually export your bookmarks. Your passwords are already saved to your Google account if you use Chrome’s password manager.

Why do some extensions break Gmail?

Extensions that modify web pages (ad blockers, privacy tools, page modifiers) can interfere with Gmail’s complex JavaScript. Gmail loads a lot of dynamic content, and extensions sometimes block or modify things Gmail needs to function.

Wrapping Up

Gmail loading issues in Chrome are annoying, but they’re usually fixable with some basic troubleshooting. Nine times out of ten, clearing your cache or disabling a problematic extension will get you back to your inbox. The nuclear option, resetting Chrome or creating a new profile, works when nothing else does, though you’ll need to set things up again.

If you’re still having trouble after trying these solutions, it might be time to contact Google Support or consider switching to the Gmail mobile app as a temporary backup. Sometimes the simplest solution is just using a different browser until Chrome sorts itself out!

The post Gmail Not Loading in Chrome? Here’s How to Fix It (2026) first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Chrome extensions break after updates for predictable reasons: permission changes, cached data corruption, and compatibility hiccups between the new Chrome version and older extension code. The good news? Most of these issues have quick fixes that don’t require a computer science degree. This guide gives you an “Emergency Kit” approach with solutions organized by time investment, from 2-minute quick fixes that work 80% of the time to comprehensive 15-minute solutions for stubborn problems.

Quick Diagnosis: Is It Really the Update?

Before diving into fixes, let’s confirm Chrome updates are actually the culprit (and not something else going wrong).

Check Your Chrome Version:

• Type chrome://settings/help in your address bar
• Look for “Chrome is up to date” or a recent update date
• If you see a version number like 130.x.x.x or newer, you’ve had a recent update

Quick Extension Status Check:

• Go to chrome://extensions/ in your address bar
• Look for extensions that are grayed out or show error messages
• Check if multiple extensions stopped working around the same time

Signs This Is Update-Related:

• Extensions worked fine yesterday but broke today
• Multiple extensions stopped working simultaneously
• Extension icons are grayed out or missing from your toolbar
• You’re getting “Extension error” notifications

The 2-Minute Fixes (Works 80% of the Time)

Start here with these simple solutions that fix most post-update extension problems without any risk to your data.

Simple Extension Toggle (The Universal Fix)

This refreshes the extension’s connection to Chrome and often resolves permission issues that updates can cause.

• Go to chrome://extensions/ or click the three-dot menu > More tools > Extensions
• Find your problematic extension
• Toggle it off, wait 5 seconds, then toggle it back on
• Test the extension immediately

Why this works: Chrome updates sometimes reset internal permission connections. Toggling forces the extension to re-establish its permissions and reload its code.

Proper Chrome Restart Sequence

Not all restarts are created equal. Here’s the right way to restart Chrome after an update:

• Close all Chrome windows completely (don’t just minimize them)
• Wait 10 seconds for background processes to fully close
• Reopen Chrome and test your extensions

For Windows: Check your system tray and make sure Chrome isn’t still running in the background

For macOS: Use Cmd + Q to fully quit Chrome (don’t just close the window with the red X)

Check Extension Permissions

Chrome updates can reset permissions, especially for extensions that access websites or your personal data.

• Go to chrome://extensions/
• Click Details on your problematic extension
• Scroll to Site access and check the settings
• If it says “On click” instead of “On all sites,” change it back to your preferred setting

The 5-Minute Solutions (When Quick Fixes Don’t Work)

If the 2-minute fixes didn’t solve your problem, these solutions address deeper issues like corrupted cache data and extension compatibility problems.

Clear Extension Data and Cache

Sometimes Chrome updates leave behind corrupted cache files that confuse extensions.

Clear Browser Cache:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Delete (macOS)
• Select All time from the time range dropdown
• Check Cached images and files (keep other items unchecked to preserve passwords and bookmarks)
• Click Clear data

Clear Specific Extension Data:

• Go to chrome://settings/content/all
• Search for websites your extension uses (like the extension’s settings page)
• Click the trash icon next to those sites
• Restart Chrome and test the extension

Update Extensions Manually

Chrome usually auto-updates extensions, but sometimes they get stuck. Here’s how to force an update:

• Go to chrome://extensions/
• Toggle Developer mode on (top right corner)
• Click Update button that appears
• Wait for the update process to complete
• Turn Developer mode back off

Check Extension Compatibility:

• Visit the extension’s Chrome Web Store page
• Look for recent reviews mentioning Chrome version issues
• Check if the developer posted any updates about compatibility

Disable Enhanced Security Temporarily

Chrome’s newer security features sometimes block extensions that worked fine before.

• Go to chrome://settings/privacy
• Click Security
• Under Safe Browsing, select Standard protection instead of Enhanced protection
• Test your extensions
• You can re-enable enhanced protection later if needed

Important: This is a temporary troubleshooting step. Re-enable enhanced security once your extensions are working.

The 15-Minute Deep Dive (Comprehensive Troubleshooting)

When simpler fixes don’t work, these comprehensive solutions address profile corruption, extension conflicts, and deeper compatibility issues.

Chrome Profile Issues and Solutions

Sometimes Chrome updates corrupt user profiles, breaking all extensions at once.

Create a Test Profile:

• Go to chrome://settings/people
• Click Add person
• Create a new profile with a different name
• Install one of your problematic extensions in the new profile
• Test if it works there

If Extensions Work in the New Profile: Your original profile is corrupted. You’ll need to migrate your data:

• Export bookmarks from your old profile: chrome://bookmarks/ > three-dot menu > Export bookmarks
• Note down your installed extensions (screenshot the extensions page)
• Switch to the new profile permanently
• Import bookmarks and reinstall extensions
• Sign back into websites and extensions

Extension Conflict Resolution

Multiple extensions can conflict with each other, especially after updates change how they interact.

Process of Elimination Method:

• Go to chrome://extensions/
• Disable all extensions except the one you’re trying to fix
• Test if that extension works alone
• If it works, re-enable other extensions one by one
• When the problem returns, you’ve found the conflicting extension

Common Conflicting Combinations:

• Multiple ad blockers (uBlock Origin + AdBlock Plus)
• Password managers + browser’s built-in password manager
• VPN extensions + proxy extensions
• Multiple privacy/security extensions

Developer Mode Troubleshooting

For persistent issues, Chrome’s developer tools can show you exactly what’s wrong.

Enable Advanced Diagnostics:

• Go to chrome://extensions/
• Toggle Developer mode on
• Look for red error messages under problematic extensions
• Click Errors if you see them

Read Error Messages: Common error patterns and what they mean:

• “Manifest version 2 is deprecated” = Extension needs developer update
• “Could not load icon” = Extension files are corrupted, try reinstalling
• “Extension context invalidated” = Chrome profile issue, try the new profile solution above

When to Contact Extension Developers: If you see specific error codes, screenshot them and report to the extension developer through the Chrome Web Store. Include:

• Your Chrome version (chrome://settings/help)
• The exact error message
• When the problem started

Nuclear Options: When Nothing Else Works

These are last-resort solutions for when extensions are completely broken and nothing else has worked.

Complete Chrome Reset (With Data Backup)

Before You Reset – Backup Checklist:

• [ ] Export bookmarks: chrome://bookmarks/ > three-dot menu > Export bookmarks
• [ ] Screenshot your extensions page to remember what you had installed
• [ ] Note down important extension settings (password manager vaults are usually cloud-synced)
• [ ] Export any local extension data if possible

Reset Chrome:

• Go to chrome://settings/reset
• Click Restore settings to their original defaults
• Click Reset settings to confirm
• Restart Chrome completely

After Reset:

• Import your bookmarks
• Reinstall extensions one by one
• Reconfigure extension settings
• Sign back into your accounts

Extension Alternatives and Replacements

Sometimes the nuclear option is switching to a different extension entirely:

Popular Extension Alternatives:

Data Migration Tips:

• Most password managers have export/import features
• Bookmark managers usually sync through your Google account
• Screenshot important extension settings before switching

Prevention: Avoiding Future Extension Breakage

Extension Health Monitoring

Signs an Extension Might Break Soon:

• No updates from the developer in 6+ months
• Lots of recent negative reviews mentioning bugs
• Developer hasn’t updated for new Chrome features
• Extension uses deprecated Chrome APIs

Build Redundancy:

• Don’t rely on a single extension for critical functions
• Keep backup extensions installed but disabled
• Use Chrome’s built-in features when possible (password manager, ad blocking in incognito mode)

Chrome Update Management

While you can’t stop Chrome updates entirely (and shouldn’t for security reasons), you can prepare:

Update Preparation Checklist:

• Check your extensions page monthly for outdated extensions
• Read Chrome release notes for breaking changes
• Keep a list of your essential extensions and their alternatives
• Export important data regularly

Platform-Specific Issues

Windows

Windows-Specific Extension Problems:

• Antivirus interference: Some antivirus programs block extension updates. Temporarily disable real-time protection during troubleshooting.
• Registry issues: If extensions won’t install, run sfc /scannow in Command Prompt as administrator.

macOS

macOS-Specific Extension Problems:

• Gatekeeper blocking: If extensions won’t install, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security and allow Chrome to install extensions.
• Keychain issues: Password manager extensions might need keychain access re-authorization after Chrome updates.

Web (Chromebook)

Chromebook-Specific Extension Problems:

• Enterprise restrictions: School/work Chromebooks might have extension policies. Contact your IT administrator.
• Storage limitations: Clear local storage if extensions won’t update due to space issues.

Error Messages Explained

Getting Help

Useful Debug Information

When reporting extension issues, include:

• Chrome version: chrome://version/
• Extension version: Found on chrome://extensions/
• Operating system and version
• Exact error messages (screenshot them)
• Steps that reproduce the problem

Community Resources

• Chrome Web Store Support
• Chrome Help Community
• Extension-specific support (usually linked from the Chrome Web Store page)
• Reddit communities: r/chrome, r/chromeos

Wrapping Up

Chrome extension problems after updates are frustrating, but they’re usually fixable with the right approach. The simple toggle trick works most of the time, and even the more complex solutions like profile resets aren’t as scary as they sound (especially with proper backups). I’ve found that keeping a mental list of alternative extensions is just as valuable as knowing these troubleshooting steps and sometimes switching tools is faster than fighting with broken ones.

Remember: Your extension data is usually safer than you think. Most modern extensions sync settings to the cloud and Chrome’s built-in backup features protect your bookmarks and passwords through the worst troubleshooting scenarios.

The post How to Fix Chrome Extensions Not Working After Update: The Extension Emergency Kit first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Whether you’re in the middle of a highly anticipated game launch or simply browsing the Steam store for your next adventure, this frustrating message can disrupt your gaming experience. But don’t worry, in this article, we’ll delve into the common causes behind this error and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot and fix it in no time.

What’s Causing the Error

What you have here is a JavaScript error and it usually happens as soon as you launch the Steam app. That’s because the first thing the Steam app opens is the Steam web page. If the in-app browser has a faulty JavaScript code, it won’t be able to handle the content of that page. In turn, this will influence your games, chats, screenshots, and all other features of the Steam app. That said, the error typically shows up after a big Steam update and here’s what you can do to fix it.

1. Disable GPU Accelerated Rendering

The most common solution to this issue is to disable the GPU Accelerated Rendering within the Steam app. Many users claim this is what helped them when they faced the same Steam error. That’s why this should be the first thing you try if your screen displays the error message when you launch Steam.

Follow these steps to disable GPU Accelerated Rendering:

1. Launch the Steam app and go to Steam in the top left corner of the app’s window.

2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

3. Choose Interface from the left panel menu.

4. Find Enable GPU Accelerated Rendering in the main menu and uncheck the box next to it.

5. When prompted, select the Restart Now button.

If this doesn’t help don’t, try the next step.

2. Run Steam as an Administrator

Sometimes, fixing the error is as simple as running the Steam app as an administrator on your PC. To do that:

1. Right-click on the Steam app icon on your desktop.
   
2. Select “Run as Administrator” from the dropdown menu.

3. If prompted, enter your administrator password.

And that’s all. See if you still get the message. If you do, continue reading this article to find out what else you can try to fix it.

3. Clear Steam Cache Files

The next thing you should try is clearing the Steam Cache. Cache files are stored on your device after you visit websites. These files help your computer run the websites faster the next time you visit them. But it’s also these files that can easily get corrupted and influence how your apps and browsers work.

Deleting Steam cache files won’t make you lose any of the data you keep within the app. Game progress, screenshots, and chats, all will be preserved. It’s advisable to occasionally clear the app cache just to prevent possible errors.

Follow these steps to clear Steam cache files:

1. Launch the Steam app and select Steam in the top left corner of the window.

2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

3. Select Downloads from the left-hand menu and then select Clear Download Cache from the right-hand menu.

4. Restart the Steam app.

Once Steam launches, check if you’re still getting the error message.

4. Clear Browser Cache Files

Since this is a JavaScript code error, it’s natural to presume the corrupted cache files that are causing it are within the browser. So why not go ahead and clear the browser cache files too? However, you should consider doing this step only if you’re trying to access Steam through a browser and not the app itself.

How to clear browser cache files will depend on the browser you’re using, but the principle behind it is always the same. Let’s see the steps you need to take for Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.

Clear Cache from Mozilla Firefox:

1. Launch your browser and click the three-line menu at the top right corner of the window.

2. Go to Settings.

3. Select Privacy & Security from the left-hand menu.

4. Select Clear Data from the right-hand menu. You’ll find it under the Cookies and Site Data section.

Clear Cache from Google Chrome:

1. Launch the browser and click on the three dots menu in the top right corner of the window.

2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

3. Select Privacy and Security from the left side menu.

4. Select Clear browsing data from the middle of the screen.

5. A new prompt will open. Make sure that all three options (browsing history, cookies and other site data, and cached images and files) are checked. Then select the Clear Data button on the prompt.

Clear Cache from Microsoft Edge:

1. Launch the browser and hit the three-dot menu in the top right corner.

2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

3. Select the Privacy, Search, and Services option from the left-hand menu.

4. Under the Clear browsing data section, select Choose what to clear.

5. When a prompt opens, select All Time from the drop-down menu. Make sure all four checkboxes are ticked, and select the Clear now button.
   

5. Check Your PC’s GPU

Perhaps it’s your computer’s GPU that’s causing the problem. To check it:

1. Type Device Manager in the Windows search bar and open the app.

2. Select the arrow next to Display Adapters to open up its option.

3. Right-click on your GPU and select Update Driver.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
   
5. Restart your PC.

Launch Steam to see if this fixed the issue.

7. Wait it Out

If none of the steps described above helped, all you can do is wait. It is a temporary error and Valve usually solves it with quick hotfixes. If enough users complain, the Steam developers will issue an update for the mainline client, which should fix the problem.

While waiting, you should report the problem to Valve so they know it and start working on the hotfix as soon as possible. Just be patient and methodical as you work through the troubleshooting process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Steam support, online communities and our own comment section below for further assistance if needed.

The post How to Fix “Something Went Wrong While Displaying This Content” Error in Steam first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Quick verdict: ExpressVPN offers rock-solid streaming but costs more. Surfshark delivers nearly the same performance for half the cost. Start with Surfshark’s 30-day trial, then test NordVPN and CyberGhost to find your perfect match.

Overview

When hunting for streaming VPNs, you’ve got four main routes. Each comes with different trade-offs in cost, speed, and bypassing geo-blocks.

What We’re Comparing

Feature Comparison

At a Glance

Streaming Performance Analysis

VPN Services: These work best for consistent streaming access. Premium services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN maintain dedicated streaming servers. Netflix rarely flags their IP addresses.

The trade-off? Your connection gets routed through an encrypted tunnel. This typically reduces speeds by 10-30%. Top-tier services keep this impact minimal. You’ll still have plenty of bandwidth for 4K streaming.

Smart DNS Services: Smart DNS services like Unlocator redirect only your location-checking traffic. They don’t encrypt everything you do online. This means faster speeds since there’s no encryption overhead.

But you get zero privacy protection. Plus, streaming platforms find these easier to detect and block. Setup can also be trickier on some devices.

Winner: VPN Services – That slight speed hit is worth it for reliability and security. Proxy services get blocked so frequently that the trade-off makes sense.

Security and Privacy

VPN Services: Your internet traffic gets fully encrypted. This hides your activity from your ISP, government snooping, and potential hackers on public Wi-Fi. Good services offer no-logs policies, kill switches, and DNS leak protection.

Smart DNS Services: Zero privacy protection. Your ISP can see exactly what you’re binge-watching. Your real IP address is exposed to streaming platforms and anyone else paying attention.

Proxy Services: Basic IP masking but usually no encryption. Free proxies are especially sketchy since operators can monitor and log everything you do.

Tor Browser: Maximum privacy through multiple encryption layers. But it’s completely useless for streaming due to painfully slow speeds.

Winner: VPN Services – Unless you’re fine with your ISP tracking every episode of your guilty pleasure shows, VPNs win easily.

Cost Analysis

VPN Services:

• Budget options: $2-5/month (Surfshark, CyberGhost annual plans)
• Premium services: $8-15/month (ExpressVPN, NordVPN monthly plans)
• Best value: Annual plans typically offer 50-70% savings

Smart DNS Services:

• Typical cost: $2-8/month
• Cheaper than VPNs but more limited functionality

Proxy Services:

• Free options: Usually slow and unreliable
• Paid proxies: $3-10/month for decent quality

Tor Browser:

• Completely free but unusable for streaming

Winner: Proxy Services – On pure cost alone. But VPN annual plans offer much better value when you consider reliability and features.

Pricing Comparison

What you’ll actually pay for streaming-capable services in 2026:

Value for Money

The annual pricing reveals the real winners. Surfshark at $2.49/month delivers about 90% of ExpressVPN’s performance for less than 30% of the cost. CyberGhost is even cheaper but with slightly less consistent Netflix access.

Smart DNS services look tempting at $2-3/month. But when you factor in the privacy risks and higher chance of getting blocked, the VPN annual deals are usually worth the extra buck or two monthly.

The 30-Day Risk-Free Testing Strategy

How to test multiple VPN services without spending anything upfront:

Week 1-2: Start with Surfshark

Sign up for Surfshark’s annual plan. Remember, you can cancel within 30 days for a full refund. Test it thoroughly with all your streaming platforms.

Testing checklist:

• Netflix: Try US, UK, and Japan libraries
• Disney+: Test access during peak hours (7-10 PM)
• Hulu: Check if you can access live TV features
• Speed tests: Run tests at different times of day

Week 2-3: Add NordVPN

While still testing Surfshark, sign up for NordVPN. This gives you overlapping coverage to compare performance head-to-head.

Week 3-4: Test CyberGhost

Add CyberGhost to your testing lineup. Their 45-day guarantee gives you the most breathing room for thorough testing.

Week 4: Decision Time

Keep the service that performed best during your testing period. Cancel the others before their guarantee periods expire.

Pro tip: Set calendar reminders 3-5 days before each guarantee expires to avoid accidental charges.

Top Budget VPN Services for Streaming

Surfshark: Best Overall Value

Monthly: $15.45 | Annual: $59.76 ($2.49/month) Free trial: 7 days (mobile) | Money-back: 30 days

Surfshark consistently delivers way more than you’d expect for under $2.50/month. It’s become the go-to choice for budget-conscious streamers who don’t want to sacrifice reliability.

Streaming performance:

• Netflix: Works with US, UK, Canada, Japan libraries 95% of the time
• Disney+: Reliable access to US and UK content
• Hulu: Consistent access including live TV features
• Amazon Prime: Works with US, UK, Germany libraries

Speed test results: 15-25% speed reduction on average. This still leaves most users with plenty of bandwidth for 4K streaming.

Hidden costs to watch for: None. Surfshark includes unlimited simultaneous connections, so your whole family can stream at once.

NordVPN: Best for Consistent Netflix Access

Monthly: $11.99 | Annual: $71.88 ($5.99/month) Free trial: 7 days (mobile) | Money-back: 30 days

NordVPN’s specialty servers for streaming make it particularly reliable for Netflix. You’ll pay a bit more for that rock-solid consistency.

Streaming performance:

• Netflix: Near 100% success rate with US, UK, Canada libraries
• Disney+: Excellent performance across all major regions
• BBC iPlayer: One of the few VPNs that reliably works
• Hulu: Consistent access with minimal buffering

Speed test results: 10-20% speed reduction, among the best in the industry.

CyberGhost: Best Extended Trial Period

Monthly: $12.99 | Annual: $56.94 ($2.37/month) Free trial: 1 day | Money-back: 45 days

CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back guarantee gives you the longest testing window. Perfect if you want to thoroughly evaluate performance across multiple streaming services and usage scenarios.

Streaming performance:

• Netflix: Good success rate with US and UK libraries
• Disney+: Reliable but occasionally slower during peak hours
• Amazon Prime: Consistent access to major regions
• HBO Max: Better than average success rate

Platform-Specific Setup

On Windows

Step 1: Download and Install Visit your chosen VPN’s website and click Download for Windows. Most services offer dedicated apps rather than complex manual setup.

Step 2: Launch and Connect Open the installed app. Log in with your account credentials. Select a server optimized for streaming.

Step 3: Test Your Connection Before opening Netflix or other streaming apps, visit whatismyipaddress.com to confirm your location has changed.

On macOS

Step 1: Install from Website Download the .dmg file from your VPN provider. Drag the app to your Applications folder.

Step 2: Grant Permissions macOS will ask for permission to install VPN profiles. Click Allow and enter your admin password.

Step 3: Connect and Stream Choose a server location and connect before launching your streaming apps.

Web Browser Extensions

Many VPN services offer browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. These are lightweight but only protect browser traffic.

When to use browser extensions:

• Quick access to different Netflix regions
• Protecting streaming on shared computers
• Lighter system resource usage

When to use full apps:

• Protecting all device traffic
• Better connection stability
• Access to specialized streaming servers

Streaming Platform Compatibility

Netflix: The Trickiest Platform

Netflix actively hunts down and blocks VPN traffic. But these services maintain the best success rates:

Tier 1 (95%+ success rate):

• ExpressVPN
• NordVPN
• Surfshark

Tier 2 (80-90% success rate):

• CyberGhost
• Private Internet Access
• IPVanish

Pro tip: If Netflix detects your VPN, try switching to a different server in the same country. Don’t turn off the VPN entirely.

Disney+ and Hulu: Easier but Region-Locked

Disney+ is generally more VPN-friendly than Netflix. But availability still varies by country. Hulu remains stubbornly US-only and demands consistent US IP addresses.

Best VPNs for Disney+:

• Surfshark (excellent global coverage)
• ExpressVPN (fastest speeds for 4K content)
• NordVPN (most reliable connections)

Amazon Prime Video: Regional Libraries

Prime Video offers different content libraries by country, similar to Netflix. The platform is moderately aggressive about VPN detection but less paranoid than Netflix.

Recommended servers:

• US: West Coast servers typically work best
• UK: London servers for BBC content on Prime
• Germany: Access to exclusive German Prime originals

Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees

Maximizing Your Testing Window

The 60-Day Strategy:

• Day 1: Start CyberGhost (45-day guarantee)
• Day 15: Add Surfshark (30-day guarantee)
• Day 30: Add NordVPN (30-day guarantee)
• Day 45: Cancel CyberGhost if not satisfied
• Day 45: Cancel Surfshark if not satisfied
• Day 60: Final decision on NordVPN

This gives you 60 days of testing with overlapping service comparisons.

Money-Back Guarantee Success Tips

What works:

• “The service doesn’t meet my streaming needs”
• “Connection speeds are too slow for my use case”
• “I’m not satisfied with the performance”

What to avoid:

• Claiming technical issues without trying support
• Waiting until the last day of the guarantee period
• Making multiple refund requests from the same account

Common Issues and Solutions

VPN Detected by Streaming Service

Problem: Netflix shows “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error.

Solutions:

• Switch servers: Try a different server in the same country
• Clear cookies: Delete browser data and restart your streaming app
• Try incognito mode: Open a private browsing window
• Contact support: VPN providers often have updated server recommendations

Slow Streaming Speeds

Problem: Video keeps buffering or won’t load in HD quality.

Solutions:

• Choose closer servers: Connect to servers geographically closer to you
• Switch protocols: Try different VPN protocols in app settings
• Close other apps: Limit bandwidth usage from other devices
• Test different times: Peak hours (7-10 PM) are often slower

Can’t Access Streaming Service at All

Problem: Streaming platform won’t load or shows connection errors.

Solutions:

• Disable IPv6: Turn off IPv6 in your network settings
• Check DNS settings: Ensure you’re using VPN provider’s DNS servers
• Restart network: Disconnect VPN, restart router, reconnect VPN
• Try different device: Test on phone vs. computer to isolate issues

Use Case Recommendations

Choose VPN Services if:

• You want reliable access to multiple streaming platforms
• Privacy protection matters to you
• You’re willing to pay $2-8/month for consistent performance
• You stream regularly and need dependable service
• You want to use the service on multiple devices simultaneously

Choose Smart DNS if:

• Speed is your top priority over privacy
• You primarily use one or two streaming services
• You’re comfortable with more complex setup procedures
• You don’t mind that your ISP can see your streaming activity
• You want to set up streaming access on devices that don’t support VPN apps

Choose Proxy Services if:

• You only need occasional access to geo-blocked content
• Budget is your primary concern (under $5/month)
• You don’t mind frequent service interruptions
• Privacy isn’t a concern for your use case
• You’re technically comfortable troubleshooting connection issues

Choose Tor Browser if:

• Maximum anonymity is essential
• You don’t need to stream video content
• You’re researching or accessing text-based content
• Speed doesn’t matter for your use case
• You’re willing to accept very slow browsing speeds

Pros and Cons Summary

VPN Services

Pros:

• Reliable streaming access across multiple platforms
• Strong privacy protection and encryption
• Easy-to-use apps for all major devices
• Money-back guarantees allow risk-free testing
• Can protect entire household with one subscription

Cons:

• Monthly costs add up over time
• 10-30% speed reduction compared to direct connection
• Occasional detection by streaming platforms requires server switching
• Annual plans require upfront payment for best value

Smart DNS Services

Pros:

• Fastest speeds since there’s no encryption overhead
• Lower cost than premium VPN services
• Works on devices that don’t support VPN apps
• Simple setup once configured properly

Cons:

• Zero privacy protection or encryption
• More easily detected and blocked by streaming platforms
• Limited to changing apparent location, no security benefits
• More complex setup process for non-technical users

Proxy Services

Pros:

• Lowest cost option, often under $5/month
• Free options available for testing
• Quick setup for basic location changing
• Good for occasional use

Cons:

• Frequently blocked by streaming services
• Poor reliability and connection stability
• Limited or no encryption protection
• Free services often inject ads or track users

Tor Browser

Pros:

• Completely free to use
• Maximum privacy and anonymity
• No logs or tracking possible
• Excellent for sensitive browsing

Cons:

• Extremely slow speeds unsuitable for streaming
• Complex setup for optimal security
• Many websites block Tor exit nodes
• Not practical for everyday streaming use

Final Verdict

VPN services deliver the best mix of reliability, speed, and privacy protection for most people wanting to bypass geo-blocks. While they cost more than alternatives, those money-back guarantees make it easy to find one that works for your specific needs.

Overall Winner: Surfshark – At $2.49/month on annual plans, it delivers premium performance at budget prices. You get unlimited device connections and a solid 30-day guarantee.

Score Summary

The post Best VPN Services for Streaming in 2026: Budget Guide with Risk-Free Testing first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Established Players Struggle with Limited AI Features

You would think that the traditional giants of personal finance would have kept pace with AI innovation, however, that clearly has not happened. YNAB, despite being a great product, only offers very basic transaction categorization through automatic merchant recognition.

Interestingly, the platform purposely forgoes AI in favor of manual budgeting, which is a great philosophy that will cater to some who want more control, but is sorely lacking for those who want deeper insights and more automation.

Empower (formerly Personal Capital) doesn’t do much better in the AI department, providing basic spending categorization while focusing primarily on investment tracking. The free dashboard offers comprehensive net worth monitoring and portfolio analysis. Unfortunately, you have to deal with persistent sales calls pushing wealth management services that require a $100K minimum and charge 0.89% annual fees!

Last, but not least, the company that owned Mint, Quicken, released their own clone called Quicken Simplifi. While it’s a great way to track spending, savings, investments, net worth, etc., about the only AI it uses is to categorize transactions based on machine learning.

None of these tools currently offer modern AI features like predictive analytics, personalized financial answers, anomaly detection, or sophisticated pattern recognition. Now I’m sure this will change in the future, but in the meantime, there are a lot of other great options to consider.

New AI-first Platforms Lead with Innovation

Three platforms have emerged as leaders in the AI-first financial management space, each taking distinctly different approaches.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money (formerly Truebill) helps users find and cancel unwanted subscriptions by scanning linked accounts with smart algorithms. It claims to have saved members hundreds of millions by canceling unused services for over 5 million users.

Its Smart Savings Autopilot uses machine learning to study your spending and figure out how much you can save. The bill negotiation tool blends AI with human support and, according to them, has helped users save more than $1 billion so far.

Key AI-Powered Features:

• Automated Savings – Likely uses AI to calculate optimal savings amounts based on spending habits
• Subscription Management – Detects and manages recurring payments with AI-driven insights

Cleo

Cleo is a fun and friendly AI chatbot that helps you manage money by chatting in plain language. It offers smart tips and feedback through modes like Roast and Hype, making personal finance feel more modern and less boring.

With over 5 million users and $150 million in yearly revenue by 2024, Cleo is especially popular with Gen Z. Its AI tracks spending in real time, gives instant advice, and encourages better habits with games and small cash advances up to $250.

Key AI-Powered Features:

• Spending Trend Analysis – Identifies patterns in your spending habits
• Future Predictions – Forecasts financial states based on current data
• Tailored Savings Suggestions – Offers customized advice to boost savings

Albert

Albert offers a full-service approach to managing your money by combining smart AI tools with real help from human experts through its Genius service.

Used by over 10 million people, Albert has tracked more than 50 million transactions. Its Smart Money Algorithm builds custom budgets, saves money automatically, and can help with investing. Users can get cash advances up to $250.

The service costs $14.99 a month and includes extras like early paycheck access, identity protection, and 24/7 expert advice.

Key AI-Powered Features:

• Smart Money Transfers – Analyzes spending to safely move small amounts into savings or investments without impacting your budget
• Spending Categorization – Auto-categorizes spending to reveal patterns and highlight cutback opportunities
• Bill and Subscription Detection – Uses AI to spot recurring charges and suggests ways to cancel or reduce them
• Financial Health Monitoring – Monitors cash flow and savings across accounts with real-time updates and alerts

Emerging Finance Tools Showcase AI Capabilities

But that’s not all! The latest wave of AI finance tools coming up is smarter and more helpful than ever. Here’s a couple of more you should keep your eyes out for.

Monarch Money was named the Best Budgeting App in 2024 by The Wall Street Journal and Forbes and has the distinction of being able to connect to over 13,000 financial institutions, which is more than any other app.

The AI sorts your transactions, predicts your future cash flow, and spots repeat subscriptions. You can even share your account with a partner for free. It’s backed by a loyal community of 30,000+ users on Reddit.

Copilot Money is a favorite among Apple users and a top pick to replace Mint. It learns your spending habits over time and gives smart suggestions. It pulls in extra info from places like Amazon and Venmo, works with Google Sheets, and protects your data with strong bank-level security. The cost is $13/month and it works across Mac, iPhone, and iPad.

Tendi.ai is built entirely around AI and was trained to outperform GPT-4 on the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) exam. It gives each user a custom Financial Health Score from 0 to 100, then offers budgets and challenges to improve it.

PocketGuard is a powerful budgeting app that helps users manage spending, debt, and net worth with ease. Its smart design and strong transaction tracking make it stand out. AI features like Quantra, bill detection, and smart categories simplify budgeting.

Security Risks Associated with AI

As AI tools become more common in personal finance, security risks are growing too. A recent report found that almost 42% of fintech data breaches came from third-party vendors. One major case was the Finastra breach in November 2024, which leaked ~400GB of customer data onto dark web forums. AI can also add a whole new level of threats like poisoned training data, attacks that extract private info, and systems that are hard to audit for bias.

There are some safeguards you should take when using AI finance tools. It’s best to turn on multi-factor authentication, limit account connections, and avoid using public WiFi for finance activity. Also, make sure to check for security certifications like SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, or PCI DSS Level 1. Finally, use tools that offer OAuth for authentication rather than having to share your username and password.

Which Tool Should You Use?

Today’s AI finance tools have something for everyone, no matter your money goals or lifestyle. If you’re on a budget, you might love Peek for its free, chat-style advice, or Tendi.ai, which gives you a personalized Financial Health Score with tips to improve it. For hands-off money management, Monarch Money connects to over 13,000 banks, and PocketGuard uses its In My Pocket feature to help you save effortlessly.

If you’re deep in the Apple world, Copilot Money fits right in with your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Want help from real people too? Albert combines smart AI with 24/7 access to human advisors through its Genius service.

Outside the U.S., Emma is a great choice, especially in the UK, where it’s FCA-regulated and links with over 30 banks. On the other hand, most U.S.-based apps don’t work as well internationally. If you’re tired of paying for forgotten subscriptions, Rocket Money can find and cancel them automatically, often saving users a couple of hundred dollars annually.

Privacy-minded users should pick tools with no-data-selling policies, strong security certifications, and a track record of transparency (or a track record of no breaches!). Many apps now use secure APIs, but you should still review permissions and monitor your accounts regularly.

Conclusion

AI is no longer just a novelty in the personal finance app space. It’s now how millions budget, save, and plan – with newer AI platforms leading the way through smart automation and real-time insights. As these tools grow more advanced, the key to success is choosing options that align with your goals while keeping your financial data secure.

The post 10 AI Money Apps That Make Mint Look Medieval first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

The Evolution of Smartwatches: Are They Mature Enough?

Do you remember when tiny companies on Kickstarter were developing smartwatches? Pebble was one of my first experiences with a smartwatch. So much has changed now! Smartwatches have shed their early growing pains. Gone are the days of slow interfaces and half-working apps.

In 2025, they’re polished, powerful, and packed with features and apps that make them feel like mini-smartphones on your wrist. The global market for 2025 is almost $77B USD and is expected to grow to a whopping $477B USD by the end of 2033!

What’s New in 2025?

• AI Integration: Smartwatches are using AI to deliver personalized health tips and optimize battery usage
• Advanced Displays: Always-on OLED screens with variable refresh rates balance crisp visuals with power efficiency
• App Ecosystem: A huge third-party app market now includes tools for productivity, fitness, and entertainment
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE options provide seamless syncing with phones and IoT devices

These advancements have made smartwatches more reliable and versatile, whether you’re tracking a workout or managing notifications.

Health and Wellness: Your Wrist as a Doctor

One of the best arguments for owning a smartwatch is its health-tracking capablities. Over 60% of users rely on their smartwatch for fitness and wellness metrics, according to 2025 statistics. They’re no longer just glorified step counters! They can actually provide useful health tools with data you can take action with.

Key Health Features

• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series offers this in select regions, with Apple rumored to follow in 2025
• ECG and Heart Health: FDA-approved ECG apps on devices like the Apple Watch detect irregular heart rhythms and has saved lives
• Sleep Analysis: Detailed tracking, including sleep apnea detection, helps users get better rest
• Mental Health Support: Guided meditation and stress tracking promote well-being and calmness
• Safety Features: Fall and crash detection can instantly alert emergency contacts, a must-have for seniors or active users

Real-World Impact

In 2024, the Apple Watch proved it’s more than just a fancy gadget by saving many lives, including in eight interesting cases, per ZDNET. Its ECG feature, heart rhythm alerts, and fall/crash detection caught heart failures, irregular beats, accidents, and even carbon monoxide poisoning, proactively notifying users to get help fast. These stories show how smartwatches can be legit lifesavers, blending tech with real-world impact.

Staying Connected: Calls and Messages on Your Wrist

Still digging your phone out of your pocket or purse for every notification? Smartwatches make communication and notifications much more convenient. In 2025, LTE-enabled models have jumped in popularity, letting you stay connected without needing your phone.

How It Works

• Smartphone-Free: Models like the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 10 let you call, text, get directions, or stream music standalone
• App Integration: WhatsApp, Slack, and voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant are available on your wrist
• Convenience: Glance at notifications or reply with voice notes during a run or meeting

Why It Matters

For busy professionals or fitness buffs, this freedom is a big plus. LTE models cost more and require carrier plans, but the ability to leave your phone behind is definitely worth it.

Smart Home Control: Your Wrist as a Remote

Smartwatches are now central to the Internet of Things (IoT), integrated into many of the appliances and gadgets we use every day. Not only can they keep you connected and help you get fit, but they can also remotely control your digital life.

IoT Capabilities

• Smart Home Management: Adjust lights, thermostats, lock doors, or even control your car via apps or voice commands
• Automation: Services like IFTTT let you create custom triggers, like getting a wrist alert when your security camera detects motion
• Fitness Ecosystem: Sync with gym equipment or other fitness wearables for a next-level workout

Wouldn’t it be nice if you’re out for a walk and your smartwatch vibrates to let you know your kid just reached home from school? With only a tap, you can unlock the front door remotely. This type of integration makes smartwatches a perfect hub for modern living, especially in cities.

Custom Watch Faces: Style Meets Function

Customizable watch faces are a standout feature, blending beauty with utility. Companies like Facer and WatchMaker offer thousands of custom designs, from nostalgic games from the 80s to sleek and minimalistic to data-packed interfaces.

Why They’re Useful

• Dynamic Displays: AI-enabled faces can adapt to your activity by showing heart rate during workouts or weather data when traveling
• Personalization: Match your watch face to your outfit or mood with colorful, high-res options
• Data at a Glance: Display fitness stats, calendar events, or time zones instantly

If you’re a runner, you might choose a face with real-time pace and heart rate, while switching to face that shows multiple time zones when you’re travelling. This flexibility makes smartwatches both practical and fun.

The Catch: What’s Still Holding Smartwatches Back?

Now that we’ve covered all the pros, let’s talk about what still needs work because smartwatches aren’t perfect just yet. While they’ve improved, a few limitations still remain. Overall, however, there are more pluses than minuses in our final view.

Battery Life

Battery life can vary widely depending on the brand:

• Premium Models: Apple Watch Series 10 (18 hours) and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (24 hours) often need daily charging
• Long-Lasting Options: OnePlus Watch 3 (up to 5 days) and Garmin Venu Sq 2 (up to 9 days) are better for lighter use

Heavy LTE or GPS will drain the batteries faster, so you still have to monitor how long you’re using the watch.

Platform Fragmentation

Every company has its own operating system – Apple’s watchOS, Google’s Wear OS, Samsung’s Tizen – which can be frustrating for app developers. You’ll also find that some developers don’t provide apps for certain platforms because of cost and a smaller user base. However, Wear OS 5.0 and broader standardization practices are helping to resolve this issue.

Smartphone Dependency

While LTE reduces dependence, most smartwatches still need a phone for setup and some features. Full independence is on the horizon, but not completely there yet.

Are Smartwatches Worth It in 2025?

For most people, the answer is a big yes! You get convenience, health tracking, and constant connectivity, all right on your wrist. Whether you’re logging workouts, tracking stock prices during the day, or adjusting smart home settings, there’s a watch that can handle all of that. Options range from budget-friendly picks like the Apple Watch SE ($249) to high-end models like the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (~$650).

Choosing the Right One

• iPhone Users: Apple Watch Series 10 or Ultra 2 to stay in the ecosystem
• Android Users: Google Pixel Watch 3 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 for lots of features
• Fitness Buffs: Garmin models prioritize battery life and workout tracking
• Budget Shoppers: Apple Watch SE or Amazfit Active 2 offer value without breaking the bank

Final Takeaway

Smartwatches in 2025 are just starting to get into their groove. With new models being released every year, things will only get better. If their features align with your needs, they’re a worthwhile investment. Just weigh battery life and compatibility to pick the right one.

Comparison Table: Top Smartwatches in 2025

Here’s a quick table to give you some basic info on the best smartwatches we are currently recommending. We’ll be releasing a full review article that goes through each of these options soon.

The post Is a Smartwatch Worth It in 2025 and Beyond? first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

This guide will give you practical tips and quick solutions to improve Wi-Fi speed on Android and iOS devices. Hopefully, you can diagnose the problem and get back to a fast, reliable connection.

First Things First: Easy Fixes

Before you start messing around with complicated stuff, try these quick fixes that usually can get your Wi-Fi back on track:

• Reboot Your Router: Unplug your router, count to 30, and plug it back in. It’s like giving your network a quick rest to clear out any glitches (and you know how well restarting works on Windows PCs!).
• Restart Your Phone: Just turn your phone off and back on. This can fix weird connection issues by resetting things on the backend.
• Toggle Wi-Fi: Head to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings, switch it off for a few seconds, then turn it back on. It’s a little like hitting refresh on your connection.
• Is It Just Wi-Fi? Switch to mobile data to see if things speed up. If they do, your Wi-Fi’s the problem. Try connecting another device to the same Wi-Fi to figure out if your phone is the issue or the network.

These are super simple but work a lot of the time because they handle basic network hiccups that, for some reason, still exist today.

Boosting Your Wi-Fi Signal

If your Wi-Fi signal is weak, your speeds are going to suffer. Here’s how to make sure your signal is as strong as possible:

• Get Closer to the Router: The farther you are, the worse the signal. Move closer to your router and see if that helps.
• Place Your Router Smartly: Try to place your router in the middle of your home, away from any walls or furniture, and maybe pop it up on a shelf so it’s a bit higher. Walls and floors can block signals like nobody’s business.
• Try Extenders or Mesh Systems: Got a big house or multiple floors? Wi-Fi extenders or mesh networks can spread the signal everywhere you need it and are worth the extra cost.

Where you put your router matters a lot, especially for single routers, and obstructions can drain your performance.

Cutting Down on Interference

Other devices or networks can mess with your Wi-Fi, slowing things down to a crawl. Here’s what to do to relieve some of the congestion:

• Keep Routers Away from Gadgets: Microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors can sometimes interfere since they use similar frequencies (like 2.4GHz). Move your router away from these devices if possible.
• Switch Wi-Fi Channels: In busy or crowded areas like apartment complexes or condos/townhomes, nearby networks can conflict with yours. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer to pick a less crowded channel:
  • Android: Download an app like Wi-Fi Analyzer from Google Play.
  • iOS: If you’ve got an Apple router, try AirPort Utility (App Store). There are also lots of analyzer apps for iPhone and iPad.
• Try Out 5GHz Band: Otherwise, log into your router’s settings through a browser or via the dedicated app. If your router has a 5GHz option, make sure it’s enabled. It’s faster and less crowded, though the signal doesn’t reach as far. Check your phone’s Wi-Fi settings to make sure it’s compatible (99% of smartphones in the last 5 years support 5GHz).

Switching channels or bands can really clear things up. If not, someone on your network could be eating up all the bandwidth.

Dealing with Network Overload

Too many devices hogging your Wi-Fi can slow it down to a crawl:

• Cut Back on Heavy Usage: Streaming 4K videos, gaming, or downloading huge files consumes bandwidth, albeit for a short amount of time. With more folks using streaming services for TV, like YouTube TV, Hulu, etc., you may have to call your ISP and upgrade your Internet plan to handle the load.
• Public Wi-Fi Sucks: Places like coffee shops or airports have crowded networks. If it’s too slow, switch to mobile data or find a less packed network.
• Check Always-on Devices – Another new problem is having too many IoT devices connected to your network. These include cameras, networked TVs/DVD players, sensors, etc. Ring and Nest cameras can eat up hundreds of megabytes worth of monthly data per camera.

Managing who and what is using up the bandwidth on your network is key, especially during busy times or if the WiFi seems slow all the time.

Tweaking Your Phone

Sometimes your phone’s settings or apps are the problem. Here’s how to fix things for Android and iOS.

For Both Android and iOS

• Shut Down Background Apps: Apps running in the background can suck up bandwidth. Swipe them away in your phone’s app switcher.
• Update Everything: Outdated software can cause slowdowns. Check for updates:
  • Android: Go to Settings > System > Software Update for system updates, and hit up Google Play for app updates.
  • iOS: Check Settings > General > Software Update for iOS updates, and go to the App Store for app updates.
• Clear Out Cache: Too much cached data can bog things down:
  • Android: Head to Settings > Apps, pick an app, and tap Clear Cache.
  • iOS: For Safari, go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. For other apps, you might need to delete and reinstall them.

Android-Specific Tips

• Turn Off Battery Saver: Some battery-saving modes slow down Wi-Fi to save power. Disable it in Settings > Battery > Battery Saver.
• Disable Data Saver: This can limit background data and mess with speeds. Turn it off in Settings > Network & Internet > Data Saver.

iOS-Specific Tips

• Forget and Reconnect: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the (i) next to your network, and tap Forget This Network. Reconnect with your password.
• Reset Network Settings: In Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This wipes all Wi-Fi passwords and network settings, so you’ll need to set them up again.
• Turn Off Networking & Wireless: Head to Settings > Privacy > Location Services > System Services and switch off Networking & Wireless. It might mess with some location features but can help Wi-Fi.

These tweaks fix software issues that can slow your Wi-Fi speeds.

Extra Steps If You’re Still Stuck

If your Wi-Fi’s still dragging along and you can’t figure out why, try these other possible fixes:

• Check Your VPN: VPNs can slow things down because of encryption. Lots of VPN apps love to automatically turn themselves on when you turn on your phone, so make sure to turn it off by going into the app. iPhones also support VPNs natively, so go to Settings and toggle VPN to see if speeds improve.
• Get a New Router: Old routers might not handle modern Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6. A newer model could make a big difference.
• Call Your ISP: If nothing works, your internet provider might be the issue. Give them a call to check for outages or plan bandwidth problems.
• Run a Speed Test: Use an app like Speedtest by Ookla on Android or iOS to measure your Wi-Fi speed before and after fixes.
• Check for Hardware Problems: It’s rare, but your phone’s Wi-Fi antenna could be faulty. Drop your SIM into another phone to test. If speeds are fine, take your phone to a pro.

How to Know It Worked

Grab a speed test app and check your Wi-Fi speed before and after trying these fixes. If your download and upload speeds jump up, you’re good to go. If not, go back through the steps, talk to your ISP, or reach out to Apple Support if your device is covered by Apple Care.

Wrapping Up

Nobody likes dealing with slow Wi-Fi, but you can do something about it! From quick reboots to tweaking your phone’s settings, these tips should get your Android or iOS device running smoothly again. If you’re still having trouble, it might be time to upgrade your router or chat with your ISP. Here’s a quick summary of all the fixes in an easy-to-view table:

The post How to Fix Slow Wi-Fi on Your Smartphone first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

What is Vibe Coding?

Vibe coding is an AI-dependent programming technique where you describe what you want in natural language and an AI model generates the actual code for you. The term was introduced by Andrej Karpathy, a co-founder of OpenAI and former AI leader at Tesla, in February 2025 on X. It quickly gained popularity and was recently added to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as a “slang & trending” noun.

Karpathy described his approach as “fully giving in to the vibes” where “it’s not really coding – I just see stuff, say stuff, run stuff, and copy-paste stuff, and it mostly works”. This is a huge shift from traditional programming, where developers normally need to follow precise syntax, to a more conversational approach where the AI handles the technical details.

The essence of vibe coding is letting AI do the heavy lifting of writing code while you guide it with high-level instructions. It’s kinda like having a very skilled junior dev who can write code incredibly fast but needs clear directions on what to build. Absolutely great for folks like me who never were very good at coding, but love tech and want to create cool websites, apps, and lots more.

Vibe Coding: Pros and Cons

On the plus side, the biggest difference I’ve noticed is just how fast it is to develop working websites, apps and scripts. What used to take me hours of typing and debugging can now be done literally in under an hour. It really is like having a coding superpower.

And speed isn’t the only cool thing about vibe coding. It’s making programming accessible to people who never thought they could code before or who aren’t in the tech field. You don’t need years of experience or a computer science degree – you just need to be able to describe what you want clearly. This means more people can bring their ideas to life, which is great for innovation.

While vibe coding is shaking things up in the world of programming, not everything is that rosy. There are some trade-offs, which I want to mention. Traditional coding definitely gives you more control over complex projects, while vibe coding can sometimes struggle with the big picture. Also, if you’re using the AI code in real-world applications in your business, it could open up security issues or other exploits that a seasoned developed would know how to fix.

But for most projects, the benefits are huge. It frees up developers to be more creative and productive and lets them focus on solving interesting problems instead of getting bogged down in technical syntax. And for businesses, it means faster development cycles and lower costs. It’s not perfect for everything, but for many projects, vibe coding is a big step forward.

Real-World Applications for Vibe Coding

Vibe coding is very new, but already being used in many industries:

• Web Development: Frontend and backend developers are using AI tools to generate HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code, speeding up website and web application creation.
• Data Science: Data scientists are leveraging AI to write complex algorithms, clean up huge datasets, and visualize results in new ways.
• Game Development: Game designers are using vibe coding to create scripts, optimize performance, and debug gameplay mechanics.
• DevOps: Engineers are using AI assistance to automate infrastructure setup and write deployment scripts while managing cloud resources.
• Financial Technology: AI-assisted coding is helping financial institutions build secure transaction systems, fraud detection algorithms, and automated trading software.
• Healthcare: Medical technology companies are using vibe coding to develop diagnostic tools and automate patient data management.

The Tools and Platforms to Get Started with Vibe Coding

​Vibe coding is powered by a variety of AI tools that have emerged in recent years. Here are some popular platforms driving the vibe coding movement:

• ChatGPT: OpenAI’s chatbot that can write code from plain English prompts.
• GitHub Copilot: An AI pair-programmer that lives in your code editor, offering code suggestions as you type.
• Replit Ghostwriter: An AI helper integrated into Replit’s online coding platform, capable of writing and fixing code based on instructions.
• Cursor: A specialized AI-powered code editor that allows chatting with an AI agent alongside your code.
• Claude: Anthropic’s AI model that can handle large chunks of text and code, often integrated into other tools.
• Google Gemini: Google’s AI coding assistant, featuring “Gemini Canvas” for sketching out apps with AI help.

These tools use large language models trained on vast amounts of code and natural language, acting as translators between human intentions and actual code. They’re constantly evolving, with new platforms like Windsurf, Loveable, and Bolt also making waves in the vibe coding space.

Tips and Tricks for Vibe Coding

While it is now easy to generate code, there are some steps you can take to ensure the code you get is good and accomplishes the task at hand. Firstly, use detailed, step-by-step prompts to guide the AI and test the outputs frequently to catch errors early.

Next, security is key when working with AI-generated code. Always review critical sections to avoid vulnerabilities, validate user inputs to prevent attacks, and use environment variables for sensitive data like API keys. Regularly audit dependencies to ensure libraries are secure.

Lastly, experienced coders recommend breaking tasks into smaller steps, asking the AI to explain its approach before generating code, and requesting simpler options for solutions. If you can generate images for context or even provide voice dictation, this will enhance communication with the AI, making the workflow smoother and less frustrating. By keeping some simple practices in mind, vibe coding becomes much easier to use and a more powerful way to bring your ideas to life.

The Future of Vibe Coding

As AI continues to evolve, vibe coding is likely to become more sophisticated and widespread. We may see:

• More specialized AI coding assistants tailored to specific domains or technologies
• Enhanced collaboration features allowing teams to work more effectively with AI
• Improved understanding of complex codebases and system architectures
• New programming paradigms that further blend human creativity with AI capabilities

Todd Olson, co-founder/CEO of Pendo, summarizes it nicely: “Vibe coding changes how we build, but not why we build”. The fundamental goals of software development remain the same, but the methods are being flipped upside down.

Conclusion

Vibe coding is revolutionizing software development by making it accessible to everyone. It’s like a superpower that lets newcomers build apps and experienced devs work faster. I’ve seen it firsthand – prototypes that used to take days now take hours.

But here’s the key: vibe coding isn’t a replacement for traditional coding skills. It’s a tool that amplifies what you know. Developers who succeed will be those who can guide AI with clear intentions while understanding the underlying systems and code. So, why not give it a try? The future of programming is looking pretty vibey!

The post Vibe Coding 101: Your Guide to AI-Powered Programming first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

However, these apps also pose quite a few risks, including privacy concerns, misinformation, unintended emotional attachment to virtual characters, inappropriate content, and potential exploitation by predators. While parental controls can attempt to block access, kids often bypass them using clever techniques, highlighting the need for trust and communication over technical safeguards alone.

In our estimation, the best thing parents can do is educate kids about AI, set clear usage boundaries, and encourage critical thinking to question AI responses. Focusing on real-world social interactions also helps kids balance digital engagement, reducing their reliance on AI for emotional support. If you can have an open dialogue with your child and they feel comfortable sharing their experiences with you, this can help mitigate the up and coming safety issues with these tools.

The Rise of AI Character Chat Apps

AI character chat apps leverage natural language processing to simulate human-like interactions, allowing users to engage with customizable characters. For instance, Character.AI boasts over 20 million users, with children enjoying conversations with figures like Harry Styles, Peter Parker or Percy Jackson.

These apps are popular due to their fun, realistic nature. They let kids interact with or create characters that intrigue or excite them. However, their ease of access and appeal raise significant safety concerns, especially for younger users.

Detailed Risks Associated with AI Chat Apps

The risks are significant, impacting privacy, emotional well-being, and safety:

• Privacy Concerns: These apps collect user data, including personal details and conversation histories, which could be misused or shared without consent. An article by Mobicip highlighted that Character.AI’s privacy policy states services are not intended for minors, yet enforcement is weak, potentially exposing children to data leaks and exploitations.
• Misinformation: AI chatbots may provide inaccurate or misleading information, which children might accept without verification. Research from Qustodio noted that Character.AI’s personalized interactions could lead to mislearning, especially given kids’ trust in AI responses.
• Emotional Attachment: Kids might form strong bonds with virtual characters, practically replacing human relationships. A recent study by Ekaterina Pashevich, cited in Safes.so, warned that regular interactions could influence social development, with AI lacking the emotional depth and empathy of human contact.
• Inappropriate Content: Some characters, like a “Toxic Boyfriend” or “Cheating Girlfriend” on Character.AI can lead to harmful or explicit conversations. This risk is further elevated by weak NSFW filters, which kids can bypass, leading to exposure to unsuitable or pornographic content.
• Potential for Exploitation: Predators or scammers also use these platforms to target children, exploiting their immaturity and trust. In 2024, 14-year-old committed suicide after interacting with a Character.ai character, as detailed in this Newsweek article.

According to the 2025 eSafety Commissioner blog on AI chatbots, most of the 100+ AI companions available had little to zero age restrictions, and many were marketed to young users without proper safety controls.

Limitations of Parental Controls

Unfortunately, while parental controls can limit app access or screen time, they are far from being foolproof. Children, who we all know are tech-savvy, can easily bypass controls using friends’ devices or via VPNs. Kids find creative ways of circumventing restrictions, meaning most technical safeguards will not be able to address these issues. These limitations highlight the need for trust and open communication to complement, not replace, these tools.

Building Trust and Open Communication: Strategies for Parents

To mitigate risks, parents must prioritize building trust and maintaining ongoing dialogue. Some key strategies include:

• Educate Children about AI: Parents should explain AI’s workings and risks, such as privacy breaches and misinformation. Parents will have to learn a little on their own if they aren’t familiar with AI and the broader AI space. A 2023 MIT Technology Review article suggests starting conversations early by using open-ended questions like “Did you use any new AI tools this week?” to get the conversation going.
• Set Clear Boundaries: Establish some ground rules on app usage, internet time, etc. and try to explain your reasoning to build trust and get kids on your side. For example, limit chat time using Screen Time on iPhone or block internet usage via your router.
• Encourage Critical Thinking: Teach kids to question AI responses, verifying information from reliable sources. This approach will help mitigate misinformation risks.
• Foster Real-World Social Interactions: Encourage activities like sports or family outings to balance digital engagement, reducing emotional reliance on AI. Studies have shown that emphasizing human connections can counter isolation from AI companions.

Therapists like Emily Hemendinger, from the University of Colorado Anschutz, have backed these strategies. They help address AI’s “empathy gap,” where chatbots fail to understand a child’s emotional needs.

Practical Advice for Parents: What You Can Do

For actionable steps, parents can adopt the following:

• Stay Informed: Keep updated on AI trends via free resources like Bark and Coursera, which list the top AI platforms kids use, including Character.AI and Snapchat’s MyAI.
• Lead by Example: Model responsible tech use, such as limiting personal screen time and avoiding screens during outings or family dinners.
• Seek Expert Advice: If the need arises, consider consulting trained professionals, especially regarding mental health issues. This can help foster open conversations about online activities.

Comparative Analysis: Technical vs. Communicative Approaches

To give you an idea of the balance between technical and communicative strategies, consider the following table comparing the effectiveness:

The best approach is to combine the technical and communicative strategies, but this requires a large upfront effort and continued time and resources for monitoring, talking, and mentoring.

Conclusion and Future Considerations

In conclusion, protecting your kids from AI character chat app risks requires more than just technical safeguards, it also demands active parental involvement through open dialogue and trust-building. By educating your children, setting appropriate boundaries, and fostering real-world interactions, you can reduce the privacy, emotional, and safety risks we discussed above. As AI evolves, staying informed on the latest AI tools and adapting your strategy will be crucial in ensuring your child can navigate the digital landscape safely.

The post Protecting Kids from AI Chat Apps: Why Trust Trumps Technology first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Introduction to AI in Trading

AI has revolutionized the way we approach pretty much everything, including stock trading. By automating repetitive tasks and analyzing large datasets, AI tools can significantly reduce operational costs and enhance trading efficiency for brokers, which benefits retail traders. They also eliminate human biases, ensuring consistent trading strategies and providing exceptional risk assessment capabilities. However, it’s still important to remember that AI systems are only as good as the data they’re trained on, and no tool can fully replace human judgment in highly volatile markets.

Top AI-Enhanced Stock and Options Investing Tools

Let’s dive into some of the best AI-enhanced tools available today:

1. Danelfin

• Features: Danelfin offers an AI Score that rates stocks and ETFs based on their potential to outperform the market. It analyzes over 600 technical, 150 fundamental, and 150 sentiment indicators daily. The platform also provides trade ideas with a proven track record since 2017.
• Pricing: Danelfin offers a free plan and premium plans starting at $12/month (Plus Plan) and $35/month (Pro Plan).
• Pros: Saves time by automating stock analysis, processes large amounts of data for accurate assessments, and offers a free trial for each paid plan.
• Cons: Requires a learning curve for beginners, focuses mainly on stocks and ETFs, and has limited global market coverage.

2. AItIndex

• Features: AltIndex provides unique insights derived from alternative data sources such as social media engagement, job postings, lobbying costs, and more. It offers AI-driven stock recommendations with a reported high success rate, daily stock alerts, a Fear & Greed Index for sentiment analysis, and tracks meme stocks and social media trends. Additionally, it includes an earnings calendar to help investors prepare for upcoming financial reports.
• Pricing: AltIndex offers a free sign-up option, allowing users to access basic features and insights. They have paid plans starting at $199/year (Starter) and $499/year (Pro).
• Pros: AltIndex provides access to unconventional data points that can offer a competitive edge in investment decisions. Its AI-backed stock recommendations have a reported high success rate, which can be particularly valuable for those seeking actionable investment ideas. The platform’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for users to navigate and understand complex data. Additionally, users have praised AltIndex for its exceptional customer service, enhancing the overall user experience.
• Cons: As with many AI tools, AltIndex does not provide personalized financial advice, so users must consult financial experts and conduct their own research before making investment decisions. The accuracy and timeliness of insights depend on the quality of publicly available data, which may not always be reliable or up-to-date.

3. Trade Ideas

• Features: Trade Ideas is an AI-supported stock scanner that helps identify pre-market opportunities and breakout stocks. It integrates with brokers for automated trading and offers a hands-on platform for experienced traders.
• Pricing: Plans start at $1068 annually, making it a significant investment. Higher plans cost up to $2136 per year.
• Pros: Ideal for high-frequency traders, offers AI-generated trading ideas, and integrates well with brokers.
• Cons: Steep learning curve, expensive, and may not be suitable for beginners.

4. BlackBoxStocks

• Features: BlackBoxStocks is a financial technology and social media hybrid platform offering real-time proprietary analytics for stock and options traders. It features a browser-based scanner for stocks and options, live streaming, live Discord for community interaction, trade alerts, educational webinars, and access to dark pools data. The platform also provides penny stock alerts, options flow analysis, and sweeps and blocks alerts. Additionally, it includes a live audio/screenshare feature for users to share trade strategies and market insights.
• Pricing: Costs $100/month with no free trial available.
• Pros: BlackBoxStocks offers a user-friendly platform with real-time market data, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. The community aspect is strong, with daily webinars, active chat rooms, and a supportive environment. The platform provides a continuous flow of trade ideas and is affordably priced compared to similar services. It also offers top-notch customer support.
• Cons: BlackBoxStocks does not offer a free trial, which can make it difficult for potential users to test the platform before committing. The lack of direct trading capabilities means users must execute trades through external brokers, which can add complexity to the trading process. Additionally, while the platform is well-suited for day traders, it may not be ideal for long-term investors seeking more traditional investment tools.

5. Tickeron

• Features: Tickeron offers a comprehensive platform with AI-powered trading bots, portfolio management tools, and chart pattern recognition. It includes features like AI Pattern Search Engine V2 for identifying profitable chart patterns, AI Trend Prediction Engine V2 for predicting entry and exit prices, and AI Stock Screener for real-time stock analysis.
• Pricing: Plans range from free to $250 per month, with discounts available for annual subscriptions. The free plan allows beginners to create portfolios and receive AI-powered investment ideas.
• Pros: Offers a wide range of AI tools, user-friendly interface, and real-time market insights. It also provides a community for sharing trading ideas.
• Cons: Limited customization options for charts, and the stock screener is more suited for short-term trades rather than long-term portfolio building.

6. Options AI

• Features: Options AI provides visual trading tools to simplify options trading. It offers real-time expected move visualizations, options profit calculators, and what-if simulators. The platform helps users generate and compare strategies quickly.
• Pricing: Costs $19/month with a 10-day free trial.
• Pros: Simplifies complex options strategies with visual tools, offers real-time trade management and alerts, and provides access to industry-leading options experts.
• Cons: Limited to options trading, may not be suitable for those looking for broader investment tools.

7. TradeStation

• Features: TradeStation is an award-winning trading platform offering institutional-grade tools for sophisticated traders. It includes deep charting capabilities, extensive customization options, and access to APIs for integrating with other systems.
• Pricing: Commissions, rates and services fees are all listed here and are reasonable compared to other trading platforms.
• Pros: Offers advanced analysis tools, supports multiple asset classes, and provides a robust trading environment for experienced traders.
• Cons: May be too complex for beginners, lacks specific AI-driven features compared to other platforms.

8. Magnifi

• Features: Magnifi offers a unique search engine that allows users to find stocks and funds using natural language. This makes it easy to discover investments by theme or category. Users can open a brokerage account directly with Magnifi, allowing them to buy and hold investments commission-free. Magnifi provides actively managed portfolios with a focus on specific themes. These portfolios come with a 0.23% annual management fee. The Magnifi Personal subscription includes access to an AI assistant that helps with investment decisions and comparisons.
• Pricing: The basic account is free and includes access to the investment search engine and educational resources. There are no commissions on trades. Offers additional features like the AI-powered investing assistant. Pricing is $13.99/month or $131.99/year, with a 7-day free trial available. For financial advisors and professionals, Magnifi offers plans like Selector, Enhancer, and Accounts Dashboard at $150/month.
• Pros: Magnifi’s search engine is intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to both new and experienced investors. No transaction fees are charged on non-managed accounts, reducing costs for investors. Allows users to manage investments across multiple brokerages, providing a unified view of their portfolio. The AI-powered investing assistant helps with personalized investment recommendations.
• Cons: Currently does not support options or margin trading, which may limit its appeal for active traders. Some investments are sponsored, which could influence recommendations. Limited to email support, which may not be as responsive as other platforms.

9. TrendSpider

• Features: TrendSpider is an award-winning platform designed for active investors, offering advanced technical and fundamental chart analysis with automated pattern recognition, multi-timeframe analysis, and over 200 built-in indicators. It provides real-time trading ideas through smart watch lists and market scanning. Users can create, backtest, and perfect trading strategies using the Strategy Tester with 50+ years of historical data, all without requiring coding knowledge. The AI Strategy Lab allows users to train custom machine learning models for predictive trading strategies. Additionally, TrendSpider supports building custom studies and indicators using JavaScript and offers automation capabilities for trading alerts and order execution.
• Pricing: TrendSpider offers a free trial, and its pricing starts at $22.40 per month for the basic plan. The Elite plan, which includes additional features like advanced alerts and priority support, costs $69 per month. Discounts are available for annual subscriptions.
• Pros: TrendSpider is highly regarded for its robust technical analysis tools, including automated pattern recognition and multi-timeframe analysis. It provides a comprehensive platform for generating trading ideas and backtesting strategies without requiring coding expertise. The AI-powered features allow users to train custom models and automate trading processes efficiently. TrendSpider also offers a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support.
• Cons: While TrendSpider is powerful, it can be overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive features and customization options. The platform’s focus on technical analysis might not be ideal for investors who prefer fundamental analysis or long-term investing strategies. Additionally, some users have reported issues with navigating the website and managing multiple tabs simultaneously.

10. Zen Ratings

• Features: Zen Ratings uses AI to screen stocks based on 115 factors, providing a comprehensive ranking system. It’s part of the Zen Investor service, which combines AI with human expertise.
• Pricing: Available through the Zen Investor subscription for $99/year (or $79/year for a limited time).
• Pros: Offers AI-driven stock rankings, incorporates human expertise, and provides educational resources.
• Cons: Not a standalone tool; requires a subscription to Zen Investor.

11. FINQ

• Features: FINQ offers a comprehensive AI-driven platform that provides a relative and continuous ranking of financial products within the same asset type. It assesses financial product risk daily using a data-driven approach, breaking down each product into single assets and calculating its actual risk using Big Data models. The platform ensures 100% objectivity by eliminating middleman biases and provides 24/7 market tracking to identify investment opportunities. Additionally, FINQ creates financial profiles for various risk levels, matching investment products to users’ comfort levels through risk-guided investing. Users can also access the history of every transaction decision made by FINQ’s AI, including buying and selling stocks.
• Pricing: FINQ offers two plans (Stocks and Funds), but Funds has not been released yet. Stocks cost $350 a year.
• Pros: FINQ’s AI technology ensures objectivity in investment decisions, eliminating biases that might influence traditional financial advisors. The platform provides real-time market tracking, allowing users to stay informed about potential investment opportunities. Its risk-guided investing feature helps match investment products to individual risk profiles, which can be particularly beneficial for managing volatility. FINQ also claims to outperform traditional investing strategies, potentially leading to better returns.
• Cons: While FINQ emphasizes objectivity and transparency, users should still conduct their own research and consider multiple perspectives before making investment decisions. Additionally, FINQ’s focus on AI-driven strategies might not appeal to investors who prefer more traditional or hands-on approaches to investing.

12. Incite AI

• Features: Incite AI offers a comprehensive platform that leverages advanced AI algorithms to analyze extensive datasets, historical trends, and real-time market conditions. It provides precise financial insights, analysis, and predictions to help investors make informed decisions. The platform includes AI-driven stock picking, technical and fundamental analysis, risk management tools, and personalized investment recommendations based on individual investor profiles. Users can interact with the platform via a chat-like interface, asking questions and receiving real-time answers about stocks.
• Pricing: Incite AI offers a free version of its platform, allowing users to access basic features and insights. However, specific details about premium plans or additional features are not provided in the search results.
• Pros: Incite AI provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies the investment process, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced investors. Its AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and trends that might be difficult for humans to detect, offering valuable insights into market movements. The platform also offers personalized investment advice tailored to individual risk tolerance and goals, helping users optimize their portfolios.
• Cons: While Incite AI offers a free version, there aren’t any pricing details for premium plans at this point.

Strategies for Navigating Volatile Markets

In a volatile market, especially one nearing a bear market, investors need to be strategic. Here are several ways AI tools can help:

• Predictive Analytics and Forecasting: AI tools like Danelfin and AItIndex can analyze historical market data to predict potential future market movements. This allows investors to adjust their portfolios proactively, minimizing losses or capitalizing on opportunities. For instance, if an AI system predicts a market downturn, investors can shift to safer assets or hedge their positions.
  
• Sentiment Analysis: AI-powered sentiment analysis, as seen in platforms like Zen Ratings and FINQ, helps gauge market mood by analyzing news, social media, and financial reports. This can alert investors to potential market corrections or rallies, enabling them to make informed decisions based on how investor emotions are driving market movements.

• Algorithmic Trading: Platforms like Trade Ideas and BlackBoxStocks use AI to execute trades automatically based on predefined criteria. This can help investors capitalize on fleeting opportunities during high volatility, such as executing mean reversion strategies to profit from temporary price deviations.
  
• Risk Management: AI tools like TrendSpider and TradeStation offer advanced risk management features. They can assess portfolio risk by evaluating volatility, correlations, and historical performance, suggesting adjustments to reduce exposure during volatile periods. For example, AI can identify which assets are most exposed to market swings and recommend diversification or hedging strategies.
  
• Portfolio Optimization: AI-powered portfolio management tools, such as those offered by Magnifi and Options AI, can optimize asset allocation based on an investor’s goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. This ensures that portfolios are dynamically adjusted to maximize returns while minimizing risk during volatile times.

• Diversification and Hedging: AI can recommend diversifying into less volatile assets, such as bonds or real estate, during periods of high market volatility. Additionally, AI can identify the best hedging strategies, such as using options or inverse ETFs, to protect portfolios from significant losses.
  
• Market Timing with AI Insights: AI tools can help investors time their trades more effectively by identifying value discrepancies in real-time. This allows them to capitalize on short-term market movements and adjust their strategies based on predicted market trends.
  
• Personalized Investment Advice: AI systems can provide personalized investment recommendations by analyzing an investor’s financial picture, including spending patterns and career trajectory. This level of personalization helps tailor investment strategies to individual needs, especially during volatile markets when risk management is crucial.

By leveraging these strategies and tools, investors can not only survive but thrive during periods of market volatility.

Conclusion

AI-enhanced stock and options investing tools are revolutionizing the way investors approach the market. While each tool has its pros and cons, they all offer unique advantages that can help navigate today’s volatile market. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, there’s an AI tool out there that can help you make more informed decisions and potentially boost your returns or mitigate your losses.

As you explore these tools, remember that AI is a powerful assistant but not a replacement for human judgment. Always do your own research and consider multiple perspectives before making investment decisions. With the right combination of AI insights and personal expertise, you can better navigate even the most unpredictable markets.

The post The Best AI-Enhanced Stock and Options Investing Tools first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Sometimes, it’s better to block someone on Facebook and forget rather than engage and regret. Personal disputes, privacy concerns, or simple dislike are all valid reasons to block a Facebook user from your life.

But what if you end up being blocked by a friend on Facebook? You don’t get notified as the blocked person, but you might wonder if (and why) you’ve been blocked by someone. You might not know why, but you can check if you’ve been blocked using a few tried and tested methods below. Depending on their privacy settings, there are also a few ways to view blocked profiles.

How to Check If Someone Blocked You on Facebook

There are a few telltale signs that you can look out for if you think you’ve been blocked on Facebook. Let’s assume that you’re already aware of the person’s profile and you could previously look at it. You can follow these steps to help you determine if another person has blocked you on Facebook or if they’ve just deactivated their account.

First, you should type the person’s name into the search bar on the Facebook website in your web browser or via the Facebook app and a search. Private Facebook accounts should remain reasonably accessible, even if you can’t view much on them, as should locked Facebook profiles. However, the user won’t appear in the search results if you’ve been blocked on Facebook. If they were previously a Facebook friend, you can confirm this by looking at your friend’s list and checking if they still appear or not.

Another way to check is through a third person’s mutual friend list. If the person you believe has blocked you doesn’t appear in their friends list, but you know they’re friends, it’s a good sign that you’ve been blocked.

You could also check shared groups. If any previously made comments from the user are missing in a public group, you might have been blocked. You can also tag people in your comments in those shared groups. If the blocked person doesn’t appear in the drop-down menu, this would be another indicator that you’ve been blocked.

It’s easier to spot if you’ve shared direct messages with the user in the past. In Messenger, you won’t lose the messages you’ve shared in a conversation. Still, you won’t be able to view their profile or any details, including their profile picture or any shared Messenger locations. If those details are hidden or missing, it could mean that you’re blocked. You also won’t be able to send messages to the user again.

If you know the direct URL to their profile, you can also try that. If you’ve been blocked, you won’t be able to access the profile. Facebook won’t tell you that you’ve been blocked, but you will see an error message that tells you that the profile isn’t accessible at the moment.

Finally, you can reach out to shared friends and ask them to check for you if they’re willing to do so. Assuming they’ve not been blocked, they could confirm whether or not the user’s profile is still active and visible. If it is, but their profile page no longer appears for you, then you’ve been blocked.

How to View Blocked Facebook Profile?

You’ve done the legwork and confirmed that someone has blocked you on Facebook. Now what? Well, all’s not lost. While being blocked makes it harder, there are still a few methods to view any blocked Facebook profiles.

You could use a search engine to help you find them. For accounts that are more publicly visible than others, a search on Google (e.g., “name facebook” or “name site:facebook.com”) could help you to locate their profile again and make it visible.

There’s also another method you can try: your friends. If you can’t view the profile yourself, you might be able to employ your network of friends to keep you updated on any changes to the blocked profile. You could also ask to use a friend’s Facebook account directly to view the profile. You can also keep an eye on any interactions your friend might make with that user in shared spaces in your Facebook feed, such as in comments made together in a shared group or on a third person’s profile or profile image.

A stronger option, however, is to create a second Facebook account, unlinked to your existing profile and using a separate email address. You can use it to search for and view the profile, as long as it isn’t locked down enough. However, this might violate Facebook’s terms of service and might be inappropriate, depending on why you’ve been blocked in the first place. You’ll need to use your best judgment to decide whether this is appropriate.

It’s also not a good idea to use third-party apps to help you view information on a Facebook profile, such as viewing profile images. These will violate Facebook’s terms of service and will most likely put your account at risk, so it’s best to give them a miss. Just remember that if an app suggests that it can show blocked accounts, don’t believe it—it’s impossible.

Conclusion

If you think you’ve been blocked on Facebook, remember to do your checks first. Search for the user, check your friend’s lists, and look through your messages and previous comments to see if you can view their profile.

However, if you have been blocked or unfriended, it might be worth taking a quick pause to consider why. Blocking can help maintain healthy social media interactions, and it may just be that the Facebook user doesn’t want to see your profile or interact with you anymore, for good or bad. If that’s the case, you don’t want to push past the block too hard, and Facebook profile stalking may make the situation between you and that person worse.

Remember, any block you have could be temporary or made by mistake. Once the block is confirmed, it’s probably a good idea to sit it out and see if you’re unblocked in the future. You can focus on your Facebook profile in the meantime, making sure to update your privacy settings to configure a private profile that will keep your data safe from other users.

The post How to See Who Blocked You on Facebook first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

The “People You May Know” feature is probably Facebook’s most annoying feature, even for those looking for new Facebook friends.

Thankfully, this is a feature you can restrict from the Facebook settings menu on all devices, both on the PC and mobile. Keep in mind that this will not stop friend suggestions entirely; you will still see the suggestions pop up while you browse Facebook. Also, note that the suggestions are for finding new friends to make – you need a different method to find out who unfriended you.

How to Stop Facebook Friend Suggestions on Windows and Mac Devices?

Friend suggestions and friend requests are two different things. If you want to prevent people outside your friends list from viewing your profile, you need to lock your profile.

Let’s look at how to turn off friend suggestions on Facebook:

1. Open Facebook and click the Account icon in the top right corner to bring down the drop-down menu. The first option, Settings & privacy, is what you need.

2. In the second menu that shows up, select Settings.

3. All the settings you can customize on Facebook are listed on the left. Scroll down until you find the Notifications option under the Preferences section and click on it.

4. This lets you adjust all notifications settings, and there are quite a lot of them. Find the People you may know.

5. This brings up the three categories of notifications you can block – Push, E-Mail, and SMS. Or you can just disable the notifications completely using the topmost toggle.

6. Once disabled, the toggle is grayed out, and the subcategories vanish. Now, you will not get friend suggestion notifications on Facebook.

How to Stop Facebook Friend Suggestions on Android, iPhone, and iPad?

Apart from slight UI differences, the mobile versions of Facebook have the same settings menu as in the web app. To disable Facebook’s friend suggestion notifications on mobile devices, follow these steps:

1. Open the Facebook app and open the menu by tapping your profile icon on the top right.

2. In the section below “See more,” you will find the Settings & privacy option. Select that to bring up another sub-menu, and then tap on Settings.

3. This brings you to the settings page. Scroll down until you find the Notifications option and select it.

4. Now you will see another list with all the notification categories listed. A little way down, select the People you may know category.

5. You will see multiple toggles that control the notifications sent through various methods. Simply tap the topmost one to disable them entirely.

6. The toggle will get greyed out, indicating that the friend suggestion notifications are now disabled on your account.

Is There No Way to Completely Stop Friend Suggestions on Facebook?

We have seen how to block the People You May Know notifications on both the web and mobile Facebook app, but what about the in-app suggestions you get while scrolling Facebook? Is there no way to turn these off?

Yes and no. While there is an option to disable these, it only blocks the suggestions for a while. After some time, you will notice that the recommendations will start showing again.

1. To temporarily stop the integrated suggested friends on Facebook, scroll down your news feed until you come across the People you may know snippet.

2. Click (or tap if you are on mobile) on the three-dot menu. This brings you two options – just select Hide people you may know, and the in-app friend suggestions will disappear for a while.

How Facebook Generates Its Friend Suggestions?

Facebook is well known for the amount of personal information it makes available. For example, anyone can track your location with Facebook Messenger.

Only Facebook knows the exact algorithm used to generate its friend suggestions, but the source of its data is the same– your personal information. Depending on how much information you have shared on the platform, it has quite a lot to interpolate from. At its simplest, the algorithm tries to match you to mutual friends from your friend list or members in the same groups.

But then it starts digging deeper. Your synced phone contacts are the first stop since there’s a good chance you want to connect with them. Then it starts looking at your profile – your workplace, the schools you have graduated from, and even your location to find people with the same places listed in their profile information.

That’s not all. The algorithm also keeps track of your Facebook activity, including the posts you have liked or commented on, and suggests the people who have made those posts or are engaging with them.

And the worst part is that you cannot stop this. Even the methods we have explored in this guide can only block the notifications – you will still get in-app suggestions in your news feed. There is an option to disable these as well, but the effect is temporary – after a while, you will start seeing a suggested friend pop in while you browse your news feed.

Setting your profile to private doesn’t even stop the dedicated stalker (there are ways to view private profiles), let alone Facebook’s own algorithm. And while you can keep track of who is observing your Facebook profile, there is no way to know what the algorithm is documenting.

Conclusion

While there is no way to stop Facebook’s friend suggestions coompletely, even cutting down the frequency of these suggestions (and stopping the irritating alerts) is a much-needed step.

The easiest way is to disable the People You May Know feature from the settings menu, blocking the notifications sent to your inbox. This setting is present on both the web app and the native mobile apps, including iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows.

Don’t worry – if you like discovering people through these suggestions, you will still see them elsewhere while using Facebook. This form is far less intrusive than notifications, and you can directly send a friend request to the suggested friend.

The post How to Stop Friend Suggestions on Facebook first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Mobile games have become an increasingly popular way to play video games, and as such, there are many notable games available to play on smartphone devices. Whether you’re looking for action and adventure, puzzle games, strategy, or any other genre, you can find all kinds of games on mobile devices.

We’ve chosen the top 11 best mobile games of 2025 across different genres. These are games you can find on both iOS and Android devices. This list contains Triple A games and games created by indie studios, but all are worthy of being played at least once.

1. Minecraft

Now considered a video game classic, Minecraft is well known as a creative open-world game where players can build structures, gather and craft items, encounter creatures, and much more. The game first rose to popularity in 2012; since then, it has remained popular.

You can play Minecraft directly from your mobile device and play with others in multiplayer mode. You can buy Minecraft for $6.99 on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Download Minecraft for iOS

Download Minecraft for Android

2. Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is a popular role-playing game released in 2020. It features open-world exploration and real-time battles. Gameplay centers mainly on its gacha mechanics, which allow you to obtain new characters to add to your party in-game. The game has been widely regarded for its battle mechanics and expansive environment.

Genshin Impact is available on mobile for free, though the game is monetized through the gacha element. Though you can enjoy the game on a smartphone, playing on a tablet is recommended for an enhanced experience.

Download Genshin Impact for iOS

Download Genshin Impact for Android

3. Pokemon Go

Though the initial hype for Pokemon Go has died down over the years, the game still has a substantial player base that keeps the game going strong. The game is based on catching Pokemon through AR technology, meaning you can see the Pokemon in the real world on your screen through your smartphone’s camera. You can also battle at Pokemon Gyms to vie for control over it with other players.

Pokemon Go is completely free to play and is often updated with new events and Pokemon to capture. You can even send some Pokemon you find into other games within the Pokemon franchise.

Download Pokemon Go for iOS

Download Pokemon Go for Android

4. Roblox

Roblox is another game that has been popular for quite some time. It’s a creative multiplayer game similar to Minecraft, though Roblox is more focused on game creation and programming. Players can also fully customize their avatars and buy and sell virtual items.

Roblox is free to play but monetized through an in-game currency known as Robux. Robux can be obtained through a Premium membership or by creating and selling your own items. Mobile is an excellent platform for playing Roblox, as you can take it anywhere.

Download Roblox for iOS

Download Roblox for Android

5. League of Legends: Wild Rift

League of Legends: Wild Rift is a MOBA, or multiplayer online battle arena. It’s a free to play, mobile version of the original League of Legends game for PC. Like the PC game, the objective is to capture the opposing team’s base. However, in the mobile game, map size is reduced, and respawn time is shortened, among other changes which result in shorter game times. If you’re a League of Legends fan, Wild Rift is the perfect way to take the game on the go.

Download League of Legends: Wild Rift for iOS

Download League of Legends: Wild Rift for Android

6. Monument Valley

This is a puzzle game developed by indie studio Ustwo Games. The focus is on guiding the main character, Princess Ida, through mazes of optical illusions. The game has ten levels, and each is beautifully designed and relaxing to play. This game looks wonderful on any device, but you may want to play on an iPad for the full effect. You can get this game for $3.99, and there’s also an expansion of more levels you can purchase for $1.99.

Download Monument Valley for iOS

Download Monument Valley for Android

7. Stardew Valley

One of the most beloved PC games can also be played on mobile devices, with only minor differences. For example, the mobile version has no co-op mode and is also a bit behind on game updates. However, mobile Stardew Valley does offer automatic saves. If you’ve never played Stardew, it’s a farming simulator where you can build your own farm, gather items, complete quests, and much more. All in a cute and colorful 2D pixel world.

Download Stardew Valley for iOS

Download Stardew Valley for Android

8. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp

Animal Crossing is a popular console game from Nintendo, but there is also a separate mobile Animal Crossing game that is just as fun to play and free! In this version, you run your campground, and animal campers can come to stay. You can fully customize your campground and character, participate in events, complete daily quests, and more. If you own the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game, you can link it to Pocket Camp to access new, unique items. Although the Pocket Camp is generally free to play, some in-app purchases are available for items or Leaf Tickets.

Download Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp for iOS

Download Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp for Android

9. Call of Duty: Mobile

The popular Call of Duty franchise has debuted on mobile, providing fans with a first-person shooter similar to its console counterpart. In COD: Mobile, you can play in ranked or unranked multiplayer matches. You can also play multiplayer against friends in a private game. There is also a battle royale mode and even a zombie mode for fans of this feature. The game is free, though you can make in-app purchases for items and skins.

Download Call of Duty: Mobile for iOS

Download Call of Duty: Mobile for Android

10. Subway Surfers

Subway Surfers is a long-time favorite that has increased in popularity in 2023. It’s a relatively simple endless runner game where you swipe to avoid obstacles for as long as possible. It is, however, extremely addicting and is great for beating boredom or killing some time. You can also collect coins in-game that can be used on powerups and customization. The game is free, but you can also purchase more coins and other items in-app.

Download Subway Surfers for iOS

Download Subway Surfers for Android

11. Rubikverse

Rubikverse is a mobile-friendly Rubik’s Cube solving web app that features interactive solvers and detailed step-by-step tutorials, making on-the-go puzzle-solving easy and engaging for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cubers. This intuitive puzzle platform truly stands out as a fun, educational, and unique entry among the best mobile games.

If you need a new game, you should try one of these as your first choice. Some of them have been favorites of many for a long time, while others are newer but have received praise.

Need more games? Why not check out our list of the best offline mobile games for Android?

The post The 11 Best Mobile Games of 2025 first appeared on Online Tech Tips.