How Windows 10’s sunset is fueling a platform shift
Mac sales are climbing faster than the rest of the PC market, and the timing is no coincidence. With Windows 10 support ending and AI-capable hardware becoming essential, more businesses are reevaluating their next devices. This shift is reshaping the competitive landscape, and Apple is emerging as one of the biggest beneficiaries. Strong numbers highlight a defining transition Many major analyst firms point to the same trend: Mac shipments are outpacing the rest of the PC industry. While the broader market is growing steadily as millions replace outdated systems, Mac sales are expanding at an even faster rate. That difference matters when hundreds of millions of devices worldwide are due for upgrades. Analysts attribute this surge not only to the retirement of Windows 10 but also to the fact that a large portion of aging PCs cannot run Windows 11. As a result, businesses reevaluating their long-term hardware strategies are more open to considering macOS, especially when their existing systems need to be replaced anyway. Of course, not every new Mac purchase represents a direct switch from Windows. Some buyers are upgrading older Macs; others may be purchasing a computer for the first time. Still, the momentum is unmistakable. The Mac is experiencing renewed traction, strengthening its position in both consumer and enterprise markets. The AI era accelerates the device refresh cycle The transition from Windows 10 isn’t the only force shaping the market. The industry shift toward on-device artificial intelligence has created a second major incentive for users to replace outdated machines. Many older PCs lack the hardware necessary to support advanced local AI processing, making them unsuitable for companies building AI-centric workflows or adopting edge-based computing strategies. Modern Macs, equipped with Apple Silicon, already deliver the type of on-device performance needed to handle emerging AI workloads. Their architecture provides strong processing power, impressive power efficiency, and robust built-in security — qualities that align with the needs of organizations preparing for an AI-driven future. As concerns around data sovereignty grow, the demand for AI models running securely on local hardware is growing. Solutions built on Mac systems are already being used to deliver private, edge-based AI without the need for external servers. This trend is expected to gain momentum as businesses look for ways to stay competitive while keeping sensitive data out of third-party cloud environments. Cost is another factor influencing buying decisions. With many cloud-based AI services facing rising operational expenses, subscription models may become more expensive for end users. Investing in hardware capable of long-term, on-device AI processing can help organizations avoid unpredictable cloud billing while maintaining full control over their data. Apple Silicon drives performance expectations higher Since its introduction, Apple Silicon has rewritten expectations for laptop and desktop performance. Macs released within the past several years are capable of running advanced AI tasks at the edge, and the newest generation of chips continues that trend. Early performance benchmarks indicate that the latest Apple processors rival or outperform many desktop-class chips from established competitors. As desktop versions of these processors arrive, the gap between Mac performance and traditional PC hardware may widen even further. This combination of speed, efficiency, and thermal stability has made Apple Silicon-powered Macs strong candidates for organizations prioritizing both performance and long-term sustainability. The result is a growing perception that Macs are no longer niche devices but fully capable productivity and development machines. More than a trend — a shift in buyer expectations The surge in Mac adoption is not simply a temporary reaction to an operating system reaching its end of life. It reflects how quickly user expectations are changing in a world shaped by AI, security concerns, and rising operational costs. Businesses are looking for stable, efficient, and future-ready platforms, and many now see the Mac as meeting those requirements more reliably than in years past. If you’re evaluating your next steps, we’re here to help. Reach out to our team for all your Windows and Mac needs, from choosing the right devices to supporting your entire environment with confidence.
The new M5 MacBook Pro wows with faster performance and next-level capabilities
Apple has taken the wraps off its latest 14-inch MacBook Pro, and if you thought the previous model was impressive, this one is here to up the game significantly. Thanks to the brand-new M5 chip, Apple’s new pro laptop isn’t just faster — it’s smarter too, with AI performance at the heart of its evolution. M5: A chip built for the AI age At the core of the newest release is the M5 chip, which delivers a huge boost in processing power, graphics performance, and machine learning capabilities. It’s up to 3.5 times faster for AI tasks compared to its M4 predecessor and features a next-generation Neural Engine and graphics processing unit. This enables users to run advanced AI models directly on their Mac, even without a cloud connection. Whether you’re a videographer editing 8K videos, a student using AI apps to take notes, or a developer running thousands of lines of code, the M5 can handle it all. A serious boost for everyday performance The M5 chip isn’t just about AI. Compared to the M4, it boasts graphics that are up to 1.6 times faster, a more responsive CPU, and double the SSD writing and reading speed. Apple says you’ll notice the difference whether you’re importing massive Apple ProRes lossless video files, building apps in Xcode, or gaming with graphics-heavy titles. Gamers will appreciate up to 3.2 times higher frame rates, while video editors get up to 7.7 times faster AI video enhancements. And with support for up to 4 TB of storage, you’ll have plenty of room for high-res projects and local AI models. All-day power, anywhere Battery life remains one of the MacBook Pro’s standout features, and this new model doesn’t disappoint. Apple claims up to 24 hours of usage on a single charge — that’s four more hours than the M1-based MacBook Pro and 14 more than Intel versions. Even better? You get the same performance whether the device is plugged into an outlet or running on its battery. Designed for today’s workflows This laptop features Apple’s stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, a 12MP Center Stage camera for video calls that automatically adjust lighting and focus, and an immersive sound system with six speakers and Spatial Audio support. It includes a full suite of ports and ships out with macOS Tahoe already installed, which introduces Live Activities, a redesigned Control Center, and tight integration with Apple Intelligence. Sustainable and future-ready For eco-conscious buyers, the new MacBook Pro checks all the right boxes. Crafted with sustainability in mind, the machine itself incorporates 45% recycled materials. Its packaging goes a step further, being entirely composed of recyclable, plant-derived materials such as paper, cardboard, and molded pulp. Plus, the device is designed to last for years with long-term software support and energy-efficient engineering. The world of IT is rapidly evolving. If you want to keep pace with it, reach out to our team. We’re here to provide expert insights, device recommendations, and updates on the latest technology, including how AI-powered tools like the new MacBook Pro can improve your workflow.
iOS 26 camera updates: How to make the best of the flash feature
Apple has redesigned the camera interface with iOS 26, placing the flash control in a more accessible location for quicker use and smarter photography. However, if you’re finding the update a bit confusing, this guide breaks down the flash feature in iOS 26, covering its various modes and when it’s best to apply them. Finding the flash in iOS 26 In iOS 18, the flash button was positioned in the upper-left corner of the screen. Now, in iOS 26, the flash control has moved to the right corner when in portrait mode and to the top-left corner in landscape mode. To toggle between Off and Auto, simply tap the icon. To turn the flash on, long press this icon. Alternatively, to make sure you’re on the right setting, you can press and hold the flash icon until a list of options appears. Then you can tap your choice instead of cycling through them. When you’re done, simply tap anywhere else on the screen to close the menu. For a more deliberate selection, follow these steps: Open the Camera app. Tap the menu button — two rows of three dots in the top right corner of the screen in portrait orientation or the left in landscape mode. Tap the Flash icon to cycle through On, Off, or Auto. Flash settings explained: What they do and when to use them Learn how each flash setting works and when to choose the right one for your photos. Flash On: Force the flash to fire This setting forces the flash to activate with every shot, regardless of the lighting conditions in your environment. The Flash On mode is most effective in the following situations: Dark indoor settings: In places such as clubs, basements, or poorly lit rooms where there’s little or no natural light, the flash provides essential illumination. Backlit scenes: When your subject is in front of a bright background, such as a window, the flash helps reduce shadowing, ensuring a well-lit subject. Moving subjects: In low light, the flash can momentarily freeze motion, minimizing blur caused by movement. However, avoid using the flash when you’re too close to the subject, as it can overexpose and flatten features. Flash Off: No flash, no matter what With Flash Off, the flash is completely disabled, allowing you to maintain natural lighting and avoid distractions, perfect for well-lit environments. Flash Off is most effective in the following scenarios: Atmospheric lighting: This mode is ideal for intimate settings such as candlelit dinners, cozy corners with lamps, or golden-hour sunsets where the flash would ruin the ambiance. Shiny or reflective scenes: In scenes with glass, mirrors, or glossy surfaces, turning off the flash helps prevent glare and lighting distortion. Places where flash is discouraged: Flash Off is essential in environments where flash photography is either prohibited or considered disruptive, such as museums, theaters, and concerts. Auto Flash: Let your iPhone decide The Auto setting uses onboard sensors to evaluate the lighting conditions in real time, activating the flash only when necessary. Auto flash is ideal for the following situations: Mixed lighting: Use Auto in environments with fluctuating light, such as indoor/outdoor spaces, shaded areas, or cloudy days. Everyday photography: Auto is perfect for quick, spontaneous shots of friends, pets, or food, especially when you don’t want to worry about manual adjustments. Fast and easy mode: If you’re unsure whether the flash is required, Auto eliminates the guesswork, letting the camera handle the decision for you. Additional flash tips To maximize your flash usage, consider these additional tips: Use flash for fill light: Even in outdoor settings, the flash can help reduce harsh shadows, particularly under eyes or hats. Avoid red eye: To prevent red eye, try stepping back slightly and avoid shooting directly head-on; angling your shots can make a big difference. Experiment: In tricky lighting situations, take one shot with the flash and one without to compare the results. Use a diffuser trick: Soften the harsh light from the flash by holding a tissue or white card in front of it (just be sure not to block the lens). The iOS 26 Camera app makes using the flash simpler and smarter, but understanding when to take control is key to getting the best results. Whether you choose to set the flash to On, Off, or Auto, making the right choice can significantly improve your photos. For more tips on using your iOS 26 device or other Apple products, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help.
Fortify your Mac: Top picks for anti-malware software
Cyberthreats are everywhere, and Macs are common targets. To keep your device and data safe, you need to choose the right anti-malware software. In this quick guide, we walk you through the most important features of antivirus solutions and provide recommendations on the top software options for 2025. Do Macs need anti-malware software? Macs are typically targeted less than other devices because macOS is built on a Unix-based system, which inherently offers robust security features. The macOS architecture includes strong protections such as sandboxing, which isolates apps to limit their ability to access system resources, and app vetting through the App Store, which ensures that only trusted software is installed. These built-in security measures make it more difficult for malicious software to infiltrate and spread within the system. However, as Macs have grown in popularity, particularly in business and creative industries, they have become more attractive to cybercriminals. The misconception that Macs are immune to malware can lead to complacency, leaving devices more vulnerable to evolving threats such as adware, spyware, and ransomware. While macOS remains a relatively secure platform, the increasing sophistication of attacks means that relying solely on built-in protections is no longer sufficient. To fully safeguard a Mac, additional layers of defense through anti-malware software are essential. Key features to look for in anti-malware software When selecting anti-malware software for your Mac, focus on features that provide comprehensive protection without compromising performance. Here are the key features to consider: Real-time protection: Continuously monitors your system for threats and blocks malware as soon as it is detected, preventing it from causing damage Complete system scans: Checks all files and applications on your Mac to find hidden malware and remove it before it can affect your system Web browsing protection: Blocks dangerous websites and warns you about phishing attempts, helping you avoid malicious online threats Quarantine and removal: Isolates detected malware to prevent it from spreading and lets you safely remove it from your system Email scanning: Scans incoming and outgoing emails for harmful attachments or links that could compromise your Mac’s security Low footprint on performance: Runs in the background without slowing down your system, keeping your Mac fast and responsive Automatic updates: Keeps the software up to date with the latest virus definitions, protecting your Mac from new threats automatically Simple user interface: Provides an easy-to-use interface, so you can manage your Mac’s security without technical expertise Performance cleanup and optimization: Removes unnecessary files to free up storage space and helps your Mac run efficiently Integrity monitoring: Watches key system files for unauthorized changes and alerts you if something attempts to tamper with your Mac Top anti-malware software for Macs in 2025 Choosing the best anti-malware software for your Mac involves considering several standout options. These tools provide robust protection, performance optimization, and a user-friendly experience. McAfee Total Protection McAfee’s Total Protection suite for Mac comes with real-time threat monitoring, email safety checks, web browsing protection, and a robust firewall. There’s also the option for automatic updates to keep your device protected from the latest threats. Plus, its intuitive user interface makes it easy to configure security settings and check the health of your device.Norton 360 Deluxe Norton 360 is a feature-packed security solution for Mac users. Beyond malware protection, it offers a built-in VPN for privacy, cloud backup for file recovery, and dark web monitoring to track any signs of your personal data being sold. Avast Premium Security Avast Premium Security is a budget-friendly option for protecting Macs. It features real-time scanning, phishing protection, and an intelligent firewall. One standout feature is its advanced webcam protection, which prevents unauthorized access to your camera, a growing concern as cybercriminals are able to stealthily tap into your webcam and peripheral devices. Avast’s performance optimization tools also ensure that your Mac stays fast and secure. Bitdefender Total Security Bitdefender offers one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac users. It includes real-time protection, web browsing security, and an excellent anti-theft feature for tracking lost or stolen devices. Bitdefender’s minimal impact on system performance makes it ideal for users who want solid protection without compromising on speed. Protecting Macs from various cyberthreats can be incredibly difficult without the right tools. For personalized recommendations or more information on keeping your Mac secure, contact us today.
Master your Mac: Keyboard shortcuts to maintain momentum
For most people, using a mouse to navigate their Mac is second nature. But when you’re focused on a task, breaking your flow to reach for the mouse can disrupt your momentum. That’s where keyboard shortcuts come in handy. Whether you need to manage multiple apps, declutter your desktop, or navigate a dozen windows, these Mac device shortcuts will help you get it all done faster. For your convenience, we’ve organized the shortcuts into clear categories based on their function. Organize your workspace Too many open windows can slow down both your system and your brain. Fortunately, there are shortcuts that can instantly clear the clutter so you can concentrate on higher-priority tasks: Minimize current window: Command + M Tuck the active window into the Dock without closing it. Minimize all windows from the same app: Option + Command + M Clear your view when juggling multiple files or browser tabs. Close without quitting everything Sometimes, you only want to reduce the number of open windows or tabs without fully closing an app. The shortcuts below allow you to stay organized without losing your place or restarting the app: Close active window/tab: Command + W Use this when you’re finished with an active window or tab but want to keep the app open for other tasks. Close all windows (keep app open): Option + Command + W Use this when you’re done reviewing documents or browsing but still need the app open for later. Force an app to shut down Apps can freeze, causing frustration, or run in the background, slowing down your Mac’s performance. These shortcuts allow you to regain control over unresponsive apps: Quit an app completely: Command + Q Unlike clicking the red X in the corner of a window, this method is guaranteed to completely close an app. Force quit unresponsive apps: Option + Command + Escape Open a Window’s Task Manager-style menu to shut down frozen software. Instantly force quit the front app: Command + Shift + Option + Escape Shut down the currently active app immediately. Hide what you don’t need If you need to quickly hide sensitive data or simply declutter your screen without closing anything, this shortcut is handy: Hide the current app: Command + H Clear your screen without closing your work. Jump to key folders instantly Save time navigating through Finder. These shortcuts take you straight to the folders you use most often: Applications folder: Command + Shift + A Utilities folder: Command + Shift + U Desktop: Command + Shift + D Home folder: Command + Shift + H iCloud Drive: Command + Shift + I Computer shutdown If you’re in a rush or just want to power off without extra clicks, this shortcut handles it all at once: Full system shutdown: Control + Option + Command + Power or Control + Option + Command + Media Eject Either command closes apps, ends sessions, and powers down your Mac. Screenshot capture Screenshots are not only helpful for tech support, but also great for sharing ideas, keeping a visual record, or logging important information. Mac makes it easy to capture exactly what you need with the following commands: Full screen: Command + Shift + 3 Take a snapshot of your entire screen. Selected area: Command + Shift + 4 Transform your cursor into crosshairs that allow you to select specific areas on your screen. Specific window: Command + Shift + 4, then press Spacebar Take a screenshot of your current window (e.g., browser, Notes app, etc.) without altering its size. Other shortcuts for daily use These underrated keyboard combos streamline everyday Mac tasks: Open Spotlight Search: Command + Spacebar Quickly find apps, files, or even perform simple calculations. Hide/Show the Dock: Command + Option + D Maximize your workspace by hiding the Dock bar. Cycle browser tabs (Safari): Command + Shift + [ or ] Quickly switch between open tabs. Switch between open apps: Command + Tab Bounce between open programs as if flipping through pages in a book. View all browser tabs (Safari): Command + Shift Display all open tabs in a grid for quick navigation. Open app settings: Command + , Access a menu to customize how your apps behave. Reopen closed browser tab: Command + Shift + T Restore a tab you accidentally closed. By mastering these keyboard shortcuts, you’ll save valuable seconds throughout the workday — and that time adds up. Whether you’re using a MacBook, iMac, or Mac Studio, these quick key combos allow you to focus on what you’re doing, not how to do it. For more tips and insights about your Mac, consult with our experts.
Making sense of Apple identity management for businesses
Enterprise identity management has evolved far beyond local accounts and Active Directory logins, especially with Apple devices entering the mix. This article breaks down Apple’s current approach to identity and device management, how managed Apple Accounts fit in, and why integrating with services such as Apple Business Manager and mobile device management (MDM) tools is key to simplifying Mac and iOS administration. The legacy of directory binding Back in the early 2000s, Apple added support for Active Directory in Mac OS X Panther, making it relatively easy to integrate Macs into enterprise networks. Apple also ran its own directory service, Open Directory. However, Apple later deprecated and discontinued Open Directory. While macOS can still authenticate with Active Directory, this process is considered outdated. To effectively manage Macs today, you’ll need MDM tools. Apple Business Manager and managed Apple Accounts Apple Business Manager (ABM) is the central hub for managing Apple devices, apps, and user identities. Through ABM, organizations can: Create and manage user identities using managed Apple Accounts (formerly Apple IDs) that are typically linked to federated identity providers such as Microsoft Entra, Okta, and Ping Identity. Integrate with MDM platforms for device enrollment, provisioning, and policy enforcement. Assign and distribute App Store licenses. Managed Apple Accounts act as a bridge between personal and corporate usage. They support iCloud features, secure access on both personal (bring your own device, or BYOD) and corporate devices, and enable app and data management across Apple platforms. However, some businesses still use outdated practices, such as using personal Apple Accounts for work, inevitably creating challenges. While Apple offers some tools to convert these accounts, its identity ecosystem, which spans iCloud, Apple IDs, and Managed Apple IDs, still lacks a fully unified experience, particularly for Mac users. Challenges with shared Macs, FileVault, and SSO Apple identity management becomes more complex in a business setting because of the multiuser nature of macOS. Unlike iPhones and unshared iPads — which are designed for single users — Macs support multiple user accounts, each with distinct home directories and local data. This difference gives macOS more flexibility but also introduces complexity to syncing preferences, policy enforcement, and consistent identity handling across multiple devices. Even with ABM and identity federation in place, macOS requires a local user account, which leads to a few key challenges involving: Shared Macs When multiple users access the same Mac, each one creates a local account on every machine they access. These accounts retain user-specific settings, files, and preferences, which are not shared or synced across devices, leading to variations in the user experience depending on which machine is being used. While managed Apple Accounts can now sync more data via iCloud, this doesn’t completely solve the problem of shared-user environments. FileVault management FileVault, Apple’s disk encryption tool, requires a local account with the proper permissions to unlock the system at boot or restart. This poses challenges when managing shared Macs, especially if access isn’t consistently provisioned. Single sign-on (SSO) Apple’s Platform SSO enables authentication via federated identity providers and supports features such as multifactor authentication. However, it works best for single-user or BYOD environments. It doesn’t fully replace the seamless SSO experience previously available with directory binding in shared-use scenarios. Thankfully, third-party tools such as Jamf Connect, Kandji Passport, and SimpleMDM provide more robust SSO solutions for enterprise Macs, but they introduce added complexity and cost. The role of MDM in identity management MDM solutions bridge the gap between ABM and your identity provider. They enforce policies, deploy configurations, provision devices, and manage app installations. But they don’t handle identity directly — that’s where integration with ABM and your identity provider comes in. Think of it like this: ABM holds the managed Apple Accounts and handles device assignments. Identity providers authenticate users and define access rules. MDM platforms enforce those rules on the devices themselves. Making these systems work together smoothly is one of the biggest challenges for IT teams managing Apple fleets. Confronting complexity in enterprise identity Apple’s enterprise identity framework has developed incrementally over time, rather than being specifically designed for the demands of the cloud era. It began with directory binding, the process of devices to existing user directories. MDM was then added for more comprehensive control. After that, managed Apple Accounts were layered on to standardize Apple service access. Most recently, Platform SSO was implemented for an easier sign-on process for users. But because Apple had been addressing issues only as they arose, businesses were often left piecing together systems that weren’t designed to work together from day one. What to do next: Best practices for Apple devices in enterprises If your organization has the flexibility to start fresh, follow these best practices for Apple identity management: Use a federated identity provider that reflects your current user directory. Set up ABM and create managed Apple Accounts. Deploy an MDM solution that integrates with both ABM and your identity provider. Layer in Platform SSO (and third-party tools if needed) for improved login experiences, especially on Macs. For organizations with legacy systems or a patchwork of Apple IDs and user setups, it’ll take more work — and some compromises — to modernize. But understanding how these pieces connect is the first step toward a more streamlined, secure, and scalable Apple identity framework. Need help managing your Apple environment? Contact our IT experts to learn how to simplify Apple device management in your organization.
Free up Mac space fast: Hidden files you can safely delete
Is your Mac running low on storage or feeling sluggish? Hidden files could be to blame. This article dives into the lesser-known corners of macOS, revealing which concealed files you can safely delete to reclaim space and improve performance. Understanding hidden files on macOS macOS hides certain files and folders to protect critical system components. However, not all hidden files are essential. Some are temporary or cache files that can be safely deleted to free up space. To reveal hidden files in Finder, open a Finder window and press Command + Shift + . (period). This will make hidden files and folders appear grayed out. To hide them again, simply press the same key combination. Hidden files you can safely delete 1. Temporary files in /private/var/tmp and /private/tmpThese directories store temporary files used by the operating system and installed applications. Most files here can be safely deleted unless they’re currently in use (indicated by a red circle with a white dash). Note that macOS typically clears these folders upon restart. 2. User cache files in ~/Library/CachesApplications generate cache files to streamline processes and improve performance. However, these files can accumulate over time, gradually consuming a substantial amount of storage space. You can delete the contents of this folder to free up space. Be cautious not to delete the entire Caches folder—only its contents. 3. Application support filesLocated in ~/Library/Application Support, this folder contains data for applications. When you uninstall an app, its support files might remain. You can safely delete folders related to apps you no longer use. 4. Crash reports in /Library/Application Support/CrashReporterCrash reports for applications are stored in this folder. If you’re not troubleshooting any issues, these files can be deleted without impacting system performance. 5. Old log filesSystem and application logs are stored in /private/var/log and ~/Library/Logs. These logs can grow over time. You can delete old log files, but make sure that no applications are still using them. Files to avoid deleting While cleaning up, avoid deleting the following: System and library folders – Files within /System and /Library are critical for macOS operations..DS_Store files – Folder view preferences are stored in these files. Deleting them won’t harm your system, but may reset folder settings.Hidden files you don’t recognize – If you’re unsure about a file’s purpose, it’s best to leave it untouched or consult a professional. Tips for safe cleanup When you’re cleaning up your Mac, there are some things you should remember: Back up before deleting – Always back up your data before making changes to system files.Use disk cleanup tools – Consider using reputable tools such as OnyX or CleanMyMac to automate the cleanup process.Plan routine maintenance – Schedule periodic cleanups to prevent the buildup of unnecessary files. Regularly managing hidden files will help you maintain optimal performance and free up valuable storage on your Mac. Remember to proceed with caution and when in doubt, contact our team.
Migrating to Apple Passwords: A simple guide for importing your old credentials
Apple Passwords, introduced with iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, makes switching from your old password manager easier than ever. While the process is relatively straightforward, there are a few things you’ll need to know before making the jump. This guide will walk you through how to import your saved logins into the app and make sure you’re ready to use Apple’s official password manager. The catch: macOS is required for importing Though Apple Passwords is available across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, there’s a simple limitation: importing your passwords can only be done through the macOS version of the app. If you don’t have access to a Mac, the import process is unfortunately not possible at this time. Step-by-step guide to importing passwords into Apple Passwords If you’re using a Mac, here’s how to import your credentials into Apple Passwords. Download your password list The first step is to export your saved passwords from the password manager you’ve been using. Be sure to download the list as a comma-separated values (CSV) file, which is a format that Apple Passwords can read. Open Apple Passwords on your Mac Once you’ve downloaded the CSV file, open the Apple Passwords app on your Mac. This is where the import process will take place. Import your passwords In the Menu Bar of Apple Passwords, click File > Import Passwords. When prompted to select a file to upload, choose the CSV file you previously exported from your old password manager. Finalize the import Apple Passwords will read the file to import your passwords. The process may take a few seconds or minutes, depending on the size of your file. Once the import is complete, you may review any passwords that have not been imported successfully. What to do if some passwords don’t import correctly Some of your passwords might not be imported perfectly into Apple Passwords, and the tool may not explain why certain logins failed to transfer. In such cases, you’ll need to open your old password manager, find the affected entry, and copy it over manually into Apple Passwords. This can be a bit tedious, but it’s important to double-check that everything is transferred properly. Additionally, some passwords might be missing crucial details such as an email address or username. Hold onto your old password manager for a few months for easy access to any information you might still need. Once everything is successfully imported, don’t forget to delete the CSV file from your system. It contains plain text passwords, and keeping it could put your information at risk. Moving everything over to Apple Passwords may be time-consuming, but the peace of mind knowing your passwords are securely stored with Apple’s built-in solutions is worth the effort. And as a bonus, it will make future logins much more seamless across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS. Looking for more tech tips to drive efficiency, productivity, and security? Don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable team. Send us a message today.
Activate Siri on macOS without giving Apple access to your contacts
Mac users love the convenience of Siri for performing quick tasks or finding information. However, enabling Siri on macOS often comes with a privacy tradeoff: sharing your contacts and more with Apple. While this may not seem significant to some, it raises valid concerns for users deeply invested in safeguarding their personal data. Why does Siri need access to your contacts? When you enable Siri on macOS, Apple collects certain data, including your contact names, nicknames, and relationships (e.g., “Mom” or “Boss”). This helps Siri provide personalized assistance such as calling a specific contact or setting location-based reminders. Apple claims to use this data to enhance Siri’s capabilities, but some users prefer to keep their information out of reach. If you value privacy but still want to benefit from Siri’s features, there’s no need to compromise. A couple of workarounds can let you enable this useful virtual assistant while keeping your data safe. The temporary contact detour This method involves temporarily removing your contacts, enabling Siri, and then restoring them. It might sound a bit involved, but it’s a reliable way to get Siri working without a constant data stream to Apple. Option 1: The archive approach Here’s the simplest way to block Siri from accessing your contact data: Back up your contacts: Open the Contacts app on your Mac. Click on File in the menu bar and select Export > Contacts Archive…. Save this archive file in a safe and easily accessible location. This is your lifeline to getting your contacts back. Remove your contacts: With your archive safely stored, select all your contacts in the Contacts app (Command + A) and then go to Edit > Delete. Confirm the deletion. Don’t worry, they’re in your archive! Enable Siri: Go to System Settings (or System Preferences depending on your macOS version), find the Siri settings, and enable it. You should be able to do this now that your contact list is empty. Restore your contacts: Once Siri is enabled, go back to the Contacts app, click File > Import…, and select the contacts archive file you saved earlier. Your contacts will be back where they belong. Option 2: The Finder folder backup This method is a bit more technical but achieves the same result. Reveal the Contacts database: Open Finder, click Go in the menu bar, and select Go to Folder…. Type in ~/Library/Application Support/AddressBook/ and press Enter. Back up the AddressBook folder: Right-click on the AddressBook folder and choose Compress ‘AddressBook’. This creates a zip file of your contacts data. Store this zip file somewhere safe. Move the original folder: Move the original AddressBook folder to your desktop or another temporary location. Enable Siri: Go to System Settings/Preferences and enable Siri. Restore your contacts: After enabling Siri, delete the newly created AddressBook folder (it will be mostly empty). Then, unzip the AddressBook.zip file you created earlier and move the extracted AddressBook folder back into the ~/Library/Application Support/ directory. You might need to restart your Mac for the changes to apply. The alternative: The dual boot strategy For those who only need Siri occasionally and are comfortable with managing separate system installations, creating a secondary macOS Startup Disk is an option. You could enable Siri on that secondary disk, allowing Apple access to the contacts on that specific system, and then boot into it only when you need Siri. This keeps your primary system’s data separate. However, this is significantly less convenient for everyday use. Striking a balance: Privacy vs. convenience Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to enable Siri and share your contacts is a personal one. These workarounds offer a way to find a balance between using Siri’s functionality and maintaining your privacy. While they might require a few extra steps, they empower you to have more control over your data. Hopefully, future macOS updates will offer a more privacy-conscious way to use Siri, but for now, these methods provide a viable solution. Disclaimer: Always ensure you have a reliable backup of your entire system before making significant changes to system files or data. While these methods are generally safe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. For more tips on protecting your data and ensuring privacy, call our experts today.
How to manage Apple devices in your business
Apple devices are popular in business settings for their reliability and security, but managing a fleet of Macs, iPads, and iPhones can be challenging. IT teams need the right strategies to track devices, enforce security policies, and streamline updates. In this blog, we’ll cover essential tools you should use to simplify oversight and control. Apple Configurator Apple Configurator helps IT teams set up and deploy Apple devices efficiently. Designed for businesses and educational institutions, this macOS-based app allows administrators to configure multiple iPhones, iPads, and Macs at once, eliminating the need for manual setup. Apple Configurator comes with: Automated setup – Apple Configurator simplifies device onboarding by enabling bulk configuration. IT teams can install apps, apply settings, and enforce security policies before distributing devices to employees. Supervision mode – Businesses can supervise devices via Apple Configurator, giving IT administrators more control over settings, restrictions, and software installations. This is particularly useful for enforcing security measures and preventing unauthorized changes. Profile installation – Custom configuration profiles can be applied to ensure devices follow company policies. These profiles define network settings, Wi-Fi access, VPN configurations, and more. Despite Apple Configurator’s ease of use and general effectiveness, there are some limitations to consider. For one, each device must be physically connected to a Mac for configuration, making it time-consuming and impractical for larger organizations. Additionally, it doesn’t support over-the-air updates or remote management, which means IT teams must manually apply changes and security updates, increasing the risk of inconsistent protections across several devices. Apple Business Manager (ABM) ABM enables businesses to manage Apple devices, apps, and users at scale. This cloud-based platform acts as a centralized hub, allowing IT administrators to oversee company-owned Apple products from a single dashboard. With ABM, companies can use the following features: Automated device enrollment – New Apple devices can be set up automatically with preconfigured settings and security policies as soon as they are powered on, reducing IT workload. App and content distribution – Businesses can purchase and distribute apps, books, and software licenses in bulk, giving employees access to the right tools without needing individual Apple IDs. User and role management – ABM allows administrators to create and manage user accounts, assign specific roles, and control access levels. Mobile device management (MDM) MDM solutions provide businesses with full control over Apple devices. While Apple Business Manager focuses on enrollment and user access, MDM solutions handle the ongoing oversight of company-issued devices. MDM platforms come in various forms, including solutions from Sophos and Microsoft Intune, each offering different levels of control and integration. Some of the most common MDM features, include: Remote configuration and updates – IT teams can push software updates, configure settings, and install applications without requiring physical access to the devices. Security enforcement – MDM platforms allow businesses to enforce security policies such as password requirements, encryption, and remote data wiping in case of loss or theft. Device monitoring and reporting – Administrators can track device status, monitor compliance with company policies, and receive real-time alerts if a security issue arises. App and network control – Businesses can restrict app installations, block specific websites, and manage network settings to prevent unauthorized access. Managing Apple devices doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and strategies, businesses can maintain security, efficiency, and ease of use. If you need expert guidance on Apple device management, contact us today.