Justin Drake Carroll Apple

What to Do When Your Apple Watch Touchscreen Is Not Working

Touchscreens have come a long way since they were first invented back in 1965. Bulky early devices could only register one touch at a time, and even early consumer models retailed for thousands.

Today, a compact and affordable Apple Watch includes a powerful touchscreen that registers multiple touches, understands how hard you’re pushing, and has low latency to make every interaction a breeze.

However, with only two physical buttons, these devices rely heavily on their digital surface – which can lead to serious frustration when your Apple Watch touchscreen is not working! If you’re dealing with a laggy, glitching, or frozen screen, here’s how to troubleshoot.

Do a Quick Cleanup

Before you assume the worst, consider how clean your device is. Your Apple Watch is designed to stand up to sweat, liquid, and grime, but those substances aren’t great for the touchscreen’s sensitivity. Worse, every time you use the device, you may leave residue from your fingers behind on the screen.

Do a gentle cleaning of your Apple Watch. Apple has specific instructions for this and does not recommend using cleaning products or soap on your device.

Instead, power down your Apple Watch and remove the band to be cleaned separately. Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the surface of the device. You can also run water over the surface of your Apple Watch to help.

While you’re cleaning your watch, wash your hands as well. If your hands are dirty or oily, they might interfere with your touchscreen’s sensitivity.

Check Your Screen Protector

If you’ve installed a screen protector over your Apple Watch, its design might make it harder for the touchscreen to sense your movements. Consider removing this barrier to see if it fixes the issue.

Apple does not recommend using screen protectors on its Apple Watch line, as these durable devices have crack-resistant surfaces. If you must use a screen protector, make sure you’re choosing a high-quality product.

Disable Water Lock

Unlike older iPhones, which were notorious for taking easy water damage, an Apple Watch can take a splash with no issue. To work more effectively when wet, these devices use Water Lock, a setting that blocks the touchscreen from interacting with moisture. This is helpful when you’re swimming or showering, as the screen won’t recognize each drop of water as a touch.

However, the feature may also cause touchscreen issues. It may also make your device trickier to use if your hands are wet.

You’ll only be able to see if Water Lock is switched on if your touchscreen is still functioning enough for basic use. Swipe up from the bottom of your Apple Watch’s screen to see the Control Center. The water drop icon controls the Water Lock feature, so deselect it if it’s highlighted and see if it resolves your issue.

Restart Your Apple Watch

If the steps above haven’t helped and your touchscreen is still malfunctioning, do a restart.

To do this, hold down the button on the side of your Apple Watch. After a few seconds, you’ll see the power slider appear. Drag the power icon to the right to turn your device off, then press the side button to power it on again.

Keep in mind that you can’t restart an Apple Watch while it’s charging.

If your touchscreen is completely frozen or malfunctioning badly enough you can’t slide the power icon, you can still force a restart. Hold the side button and the Digital Crown (the elevated knob on the side of the device) for ten seconds until the Apple logo appears.

Perform a Software Update

Software updates may not fix every issue, but if you’re lucky, one of the fixes in the latest update will patch whatever bug you’re experiencing.

If you can use your touchscreen enough to navigate your Apple Watch’s settings, try updating that way. You can do this by visiting Settings > General > Software Update and following the instructions on the screen.

If not, you can perform an update on your phone via the Apple Watch app. You’ll have to go to the My Watch tab before selecting General > Software Update and following the instructions on the screen.

Check the Accessibility Settings

If you recently went through your Apple Watch’s settings, it’s possible that you adjusted the accessibility settings by accident. These settings help users who need special accommodations, and they can affect how your Apple Watch screen reacts to touch.

Using the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, select Accessibility > Touch Accommodations. You can either turn these accommodations off altogether or play with them to see if adjusting the settings resolves your problem.

Unpair Your Apple Watch

Last, try unpairing your Apple Watch from your phone. Repairing the device might create a fresh connection that resolves whatever issue made your touchscreen malfunction.

It will also wipe your Apple Watch. This shouldn’t be an issue, as Apple creates a backup on your phone to let you restore your data fast.

You’ll use your iPhone to unpair the devices. In the Apple Watch app, select My Watch > All Watches and find the faulty device that’s paired with your iPhone. Tap the info button next to this device and select Unpair Apple Watch.

Choose to keep your cellular plan at the next step. You’ll need to enter your Apple ID passcode to confirm the unpairing.

Once it’s unpaired, your Apple Watch should pull up a screen that asks you to pair it with a new device. See if the touchscreen functions better now, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair it with your iPhone again. If you don’t mind ditching your backed-up data, you can also select Set Up as New Apple Watch during the pairing for a fresh start, which may help keep touchscreen issues at bay.

Apple Watch Touchscreen Not Working? Call Us!

Hopefully, the steps above have helped you resolve your frustrating touchscreen issues. However, if your Apple Watch touchscreen is not working even after troubleshooting, or if your screen is completely bricked, call a pro.

Expert Apple Watch repair can help you get the personalized support you need to get your device back up to speed. As Virginia’s trusted repair team, Fruit Fixed is here to help! Contact us for reliable Apple Watch touchscreen repair or drop by one of our locations.

Justin Drake Carroll iPhone

How to Replace iPhone XR Screen

Perhaps you were in a hurry because you were late for work or school. Or maybe you were doing something else when you accidentally dropped your iPhone XR.

Whatever the reason, your phone now likely has a cracked screen. And according to a 2023 poll, it’s a common issue; 24% of Americans say they have a cracked or scratched phone screen.

The good news is that you may still be able to save your phone with a screen replacement. This could be an option if you’re not ready to buy a new phone yet.

This iPhone XR repair guide discusses your screen replacement options. So read on, as it can help determine which approach best suits you.

The AppleCare+ Way

AppleCare+ is part of Apple’s multi-billion-dollar services department. It’s an extended warranty service covering incidents of accidental damage. This includes liquid damage and screen breakage resulting from unintentional drops.

You may have forgotten about it, but you may have bought AppleCare+ for your iPhone XR. You might be paying for it monthly, meaning your plan could still be valid. In this case, you can get Apple to fix your cracked iPhone display screen for only $29 (plus taxes).

If you can still do and see things on your damaged iPhone screen, you can use it to check if you have a valid AppleCare+ Plan. To do this, open your phone’s Settings app and go to General, About, and Coverage.

On the Coverage menu, you should see your iPhone XR’s name under the This Device field. Tap that to view its details; it should tell you if it is under a valid AppleCare+ Plan.

What if your iPhone XR’s faulty screen is too cracked to unlock? Then, you can use another device to visit Checkcoverage.apple.com. Type in your device’s serial number and follow the instructions provided.

Alternatively, you can call Apple Support about your cracked iPhone XR screen. Ask the representative to check your AppleCare+ Plan’s validity. If it’s still valid, the agent should give you further instructions on how to use it to get your device fixed.

The Apple Way

If you don’t have AppleCare+, you can still choose Apple to fix your cracked iPhone XR screen. However, prepare yourself to pay $199 for the screen replacement alone. If Apple finds any other problem with your phone (e.g., a broken camera lens that can also be due to a fall), expect a higher bill.

The Do-It-Yourself Way

Replacing a busted screen is an iPhone repair you can do at home with the correct aftermarket repair kit. It should be compatible with your device’s country (e.g., the U.S.) and have the following included:

  • Glass digitizer face
  • Replacement display screen
  • Front panel frame
  • Front-facing camera bracket
  • Pentalobe screwdrivers
  • Display assembly adhesive
  • Opening pick and tool
  • Suction and tweezers
  • Spudger

You can buy these kits online for around $60 to under $100. They should come with complete instructions, which you should follow to a T.

Before you decide to DIY your iPhone XR screen replacement, please know it’s a complex task. While the kit should have step-by-step instructions, you could still make mistakes. For example, you may damage other parts if you insert the opening tool too far into the phone.

Another risk is damaging the fragile ribbons or cables attached to other parts of your phone. This includes the flex cable connecting the earpiece and sensors. If this breaks, you’ll have even more iPhone problems to shell out money on.

Professional iPhone XR Repair

If you don’t want to pay the premium Apple price or risk more damage, we’ve got good news for you. You can save money on top-notch repairs by taking your phone to a reputable screen repair service. They don’t charge as much as Apple does, which is heavily influenced by the company being a premium brand.

So long as you pick a trustworthy iPhone screen repair store, you can expect these benefits.

High-Quality Parts and Services

When you buy stuff online, there’s always a risk of the product being defective. Indeed, e-commerce experts say 20% of consumers have received a faulty item.

Some product defects are easy to spot because they’re visible damages. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case with iPhone XR screen replacements. You may not know they’re defective until after you’ve installed them.

And if you made a mistake while installing one, the seller may no longer honor your return warranty. So, all that time and money you’ve expended will go to waste.

You can avoid such problems by working with a reputable local iPhone repair store. You’ll know you can depend on them because they offer a lifetime warranty. This is a testament to their use of high-quality parts and delivery of top-notch services. 

Plus, you’ll know if the replacement screen works since you can test it immediately. 

Repairs Done by an Experienced Technician

Take your phone to a well-known repair center, and you can rest easy knowing an experienced tech will fix it. This also means you can expect your phone to have a brand-new display screen in under an hour. This still depends on the store’s workload, though, but usually, they can finish repairs in 25 to 45 minutes.

Professional Insight on Other Potential Problems

While changing your screen, a skilled tech can spot other problems with your phone. For example, they may find other damaged parts that require fixing or replacing, too. They’ll tell you immediately, giving you time to have it fixed before more problems occur.

Ready to Fix Your Busted iPhone?

Now that you know your iPhone XR repair options, you can make a more educated choice. You can take it to Apple, but you’ll pay more for a service you can get for less. A DIY fix will cost you less upfront, but it can also cost you more if you make mistakes.

So, why not let our team here at Fruit Fixed deliver the iPhone XR repair services you need instead? Give us a shout now, or pop into one of our stores across Virginia to have your phone fixed today!

Justin Drake Carroll iPhone

How to Lock Hidden Photos on iPhone iOS 15

Have you ever stopped to think about how often you take your iPhone out to snap photos?

Well, if you’re like the average American, then you likely do so at least six times every day. That’s according to a recent poll, which also found that six in 10 folks like to keep their photos to themselves.

The good news is that the iPhone iOS 15 not only makes it easy to store your precious snaps. It also lets you have hidden photos and even lock them for more privacy!

So, are you ready to keep those images all to yourself? Then, keep reading, as we’ll tell you how in this guide.

Set Up Privacy and Security Protocols

Throughout the nation, over 100 smartphones get pinched or lost every single day. Considering that the latest iPhone model (15 Pro) has a starting price of $999, it’s easy to see why thieves like it. Even the cheapest brand-new iPhone (SE) already costs $429.

That’s enough reason to protect your iPhone using its privacy and security features. By enabling these, you can keep snoopers and thieves from accessing the data stored on your phone. That includes your private photos.

Use a Strong Passcode

Locking your entire phone effectively locks your Photos app (and hidden photos). So, the first step to securing your private photos is to set up a strong phone passcode. For this, consider using either custom alphanumeric or custom numeric code.

Set Up Face or Touch ID

If you have an iPhone X or later, you should also set up Face ID, your phone’s facial biometric technology. Once enabled, it lets you unlock your phone, authorize payments, and sign in to third-party apps.

In older phones, Touch ID is the biometric option. Activate this, as it helps make your iPhone more secure than a passcode alone.

Hide Your Photos

Launch your iPhone Photos app and tap the photo (or video) you want to hide. Next, tap the More button (the icon with the three consecutive dots) at the top-right-hand corner of the screen. Then, select Hide and confirm the action.

You can also hide multiple photos and videos in one go.

To do that, return to your Photos app and tap Recents (or the album where the photos and videos are). Then, tap the Select button on the upper-right-hand corner of the screen.

Tap each of the photos and videos you want to hide. Alternatively, you can tap and drag your finger across the thumbnails if they sit beside each other.

After that, press the More button, which should now be at the lower-right-hand corner of the screen. Once the menu pops up, hit the Hide button.

Hide the Hidden Photos Album

Once you’ve hidden photos and videos, they will go to a folder labeled “Hidden.” However, you’ll still find this in your Photos app under Utilities at the bottom of the list.

You can make your Hidden album disappear by going to your iPhone Settings app. Scroll down until you see the Photos field, then tap that.

On the Photos menu, look for the Hidden Album option. Toggle the switch to the left to turn it off (it should turn from green to white). After this, the album should no longer appear under Utilities in your Photos app.

Create Personal Automation With Shortcuts

Shortcuts is a native app for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS that lets you create shortcuts.

A shortcut allows you to automate tasks, such as making reports or reminding you about breaks. You can also make one to notify you whenever someone tries to access your photos. This can be an ideal extra step if you often lend your phone (for example, to friends and family).

First, open your iPhone’s Clock app, then hit Timer, and tap the option When Timer Ends. On the following screen, scroll down and tap Stop Playing. Once a checkmark appears on this field, hit the Set button in the upper-right-hand corner.

Next, launch the Shortcuts app and hit the Automation icon at the bottom center of the screen. Tap Automation, then scroll down and tap the App option. Ensure the check mark is on the icon for “Is Opened,” then tap Choose.

You should now see a list of apps and a search field. You can either scroll down to Photos or type the word in. Then, tap the Photos app to ensure it has a checkmark before hitting Next.

On the new menu, tap Add Action, and then type “Start Timer” in the search field. Select this, set the Start timer for one second, and tap next. On the field that says “Ask Before Running,” toggle the switch to turn it off before hitting Done.

Whenever someone opens your Photos app, your Timer will go off after one second. You can then take your phone back before that person snoops further.

Update to iOS 16

If you can update your iPhone from iOS 15 to iOS 16 or 17, please do so. A good enough reason is that failure to update software is one of the many bad habits that can ruin gadgets.

Besides, when you update to iOS 16 or 17, your Hidden album will get another safety feature: an automatic lock. Your phone will then require your biometrics or passcode for access. So, as long as you don’t share your passcode, your hidden photos will stay private. 

As with iOS 15, you can also hide the Hidden album so that it won’t show up on your Photos app. 

Keep Hidden Photos Under Lock and Key

To lock hidden photos in your iPhone, start by securing your entire phone with a passcode and Face/Touch ID. Then, hide the Hidden album, and lastly, update your iOS.

But if your iPhone isn’t compatible with iOS 16, it may be time for a device upgrade.

In that case, Fruit Fixed has got you covered. While we are a leading provider of professional mobile electronic repairs, we also sell Apple products. So, take your pick from our selection today, and then ring us up to learn more about it!

Justin Drake Carroll Apple

What to Do When Your Apple Watch Is Not Vibrating

When tech giant Apple launched the Apple Watch in 2015, some analysts said it might flop. After all, it came with a hefty starting price tag of $350, making many folks disinterested.

That has since changed, with some even saying the Apple Watch has saved their lives, literally. In May 2023 alone, it made headlines as its Fall Detection feature saved two people.

But as incredible as this smartwatch is, it’s not perfect, and it can malfunction from time to time. One such common problem you may encounter is your Apple Watch not vibrating.

Fortunately, this issue is, for the most part, easy to resolve. We’ve shared the steps you can take and try yourself before taking it to a repair pro, so read on.

Adjust the Fit

If you aren’t wearing your Apple watch correctly, its sensors won’t work, either. These sensors require skin contact with your wrist. So, ensure your bands are snug and not too loose or tight.

Also, keep in mind that you must be wearing your Apple Watch for it to receive notifications. You must also ensure your iPhone has its screen locked so that alerts get sent to your Watch. You can only receive notifications on either device, not both.

Check the Haptics Setting of Your Watch

“Haptics” is the fancy term for the pulse or vibration setting of your Apple Watch. If this is off, your Watch won’t produce taps or pulses.

To check your Haptics setting, launch the Settings app on your Apple Watch. Then, scroll down and select Sounds & Haptics. Toggle the slide for Haptic Alerts to the On position (the switch should turn green).

When enabled, the Haptic Alerts setting should show two options: Default and Prominent. The chief difference is that the latter’s pulses and taps feel stronger.

If, at this point, you’re not wearing your Watch, put it on before you tweak your Haptics setting. Then, tap the Prominent option under Haptic Alerts. You should feel a pulse or a tap as soon as you do.

Confirm Devices Aren’t on Airplane Mode

One of the most common Apple Watch problems is that it sometimes fails to sync with other Apple devices. In some cases, this is due to the other device being on Airplane Mode.

Airplane Mode switches all radios off, including your mobile data service and Wi-Fi. So, any SMS, MMS, chat messages, and calls will not come through your iPhone. Since it won’t receive any of these, it won’t have anything to reroute to your Apple Watch.

To check if you have Airplane Mode turned on, look at the upper right-hand corner of your iPhone screen. If there’s an icon of an airplane there, then its Airplane Mode is on. To turn it off, swipe down from the same corner to bring up the Control Center screen.

On the upper left-most side of the Control Center is the Airplane Mode button, which should be orange now. Tap it to turn it off, and then lock your phone. You should now receive SMS, MMS, chat, and call notifications on your Apple Watch.

Check if You Have Focus Enabled

Focus is a nifty feature that lets you turn off all notifications. This allows you to reduce distractions when you work, sleep, or drive.

You can also customize it to allow only specific alerts to your Apple devices. For instance, you can set it only to notify you if you get texts or calls from particular people and apps.

So, if you have a Focus turned on, your devices, including your Apple Watch, may not vibrate.

To see if you have a Focus enabled on your Watch, press its side button. This should bring up the Control Center.

If there’s no Focus turned on, you should see a “Do Not Disturb” button on the Control Center. If there’s one enabled, you might see labels like “Personal,” “Sleep,” or “Work.” Tap that mode to turn it off.

Then, have someone text or call you to test if your Apple Watch now vibrates. With Focus now turned off, it should.

Restart Your Apple Watch

If your Apple Watch still doesn’t vibrate, restart it and your iPhone. There could just be a glitch that a software reboot can address. Once they’re back on, ask someone to text you to see if you’ll now feel your Watch vibrate.

Ensure You Have the Latest Software

If the problem persists after doing all the above, it may be due to an outdated Apple Watch software (watchOS) or iOS. Glitches and incompatibilities can occur if one runs on an older OS version.

If your Apple Watch is on watchOS version 6 or later, you can directly check it for available OS updates. First, ensure you have it connected to a stable Wi-Fi. Then, launch the Settings app, tap General, and finally, select Software Update.

If there’s an available update, it should show up on the screen. Tap the Install icon and follow the on-screen directions to download and install it on your Watch.

To check if your iPhone is on the latest iOS, plug it into a power outlet and connect it to your Wi-Fi. Then, launch the Settings app on your phone, go to General, and select Software Update.

If an update appears on the list, your phone is on an older OS version. Tap the software update’s Install Now or Download and Install option.

After installing the updates, test your Apple Watch to see if it now vibrates. If it still doesn’t, it may already be a sign that you need Apple Watch repair services.

You can contact Apple Support if your device is still under warranty. If not, take it to a reliable Apple repair technician.

Get That Apple Watch Not Vibrating Fixed Today

Hopefully, one of the DIY steps we shared for an Apple Watch not vibrating will make yours pulse again.

But if all else fails, don’t worry, as our team of expert technicians here at Fruit Fixed has your back. We’ve been delivering quality repairs for Apple and Android devices since 2011.

So, ring us up or drop us a line! One of our seven centers throughout the Richmond area will be happy to help fix your Apple Watch.

Justin Drake Carroll iPad

How Much to Replace an iPad Battery?

You turn on your tablet to look up a recipe. As you put the ingredients in the pot, you notice something. Your battery is draining at a breakneck pace.

At this rate, you’ll have a blank screen staring back at you before you finish preparing your meal. 

It might be time for you to have the battery replaced. As iPads age, their ability to hold a charge starts to deteriorate. This is true for most electronic devices. 

The question is, what will you pay? How much to replace an iPad battery? There are three different avenues you can go down. Continue reading as we delve into them. 

Signs You Need iPad Battery Replacement

When your iPad needs a replacement battery, it will give you signs. Your device may shut down on you out of nowhere.

The back of the tablet could swell or it may overheat. The time might come when you can’t use the device without it being plugged into the wall. 

It Can’t Hold a Charge

As stated above, the older your iPad gets, the harder it will struggle to keep a charge. You may notice that you have to put it on the charger more often than not. 

Browsing through the web won’t suck up a lot of battery power, but if you’re watching videos or streaming music, the iPad won’t be able to keep going for too long. 

Overheating

It’s natural for your iPad to run a bit hot, depending on what you’re doing. It’s another thing entirely if it’s so warm that it’s hard to hold. That means your device is overheating. 

Overheating doesn’t only make tablets difficult to hold for long periods of time. It can also pose a major safety risk. 

Stop using the iPad and turn it off until you can send it to Apple or take it to an iPad repair shop. 

Swollen Battery

If the back of your iPad is swelling, that’s an indicator that the battery is damaged or malfunctioning. Age can also lead to battery swelling. 

Regardless, the device won’t be easy to use in this condition. Oftentimes, a swelling battery will lead to a bulged-out screen. The best thing you can do is turn off the device and take it in for repairs. 

Performance Issues

If your device is running slowly, you’ll need to do a little iPad troubleshooting. Just because your tablet is having difficulties with loading webpages and playing videos, that doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with the battery. 

You might have too many tabs open or neglected to update your device to the newest operating system. An app on the device might be what’s causing the problem. 

However, if after running down this checklist, the tablet’s performance doesn’t improve, that means you need a new battery. 

Frequent Shutdowns 

You’re in the middle of watching a video when your iPad’s screen blanks out. You’re cooking a delicious recipe that you looked up on your tablet, and it shuts down. 

It never happens at a convenient time. 

Your device is likely shutting down because it can’t hold a charge. You might be able to stick a bandaid on the problem by simply keeping the device plugged in while you’re using it, but that’s not a permanent solution. 

The only way to stop the shutdowns in this case will be to replace the battery. 

It Only Powers on While on the Charger 

The best indicator that your battery needs to be replaced is if it only powers on while it’s plugged in. That means that it’s 100% done for. 

Sometimes the battery will drop even while it’s plugged in. That doesn’t always mean that it’s on its way out. Try using the charger with a different device.

If it works fine, then it’s your iPad battery. If it doesn’t work, you know you need a new charger. 

Age

When your iPad starts showing signs of battery problems, there’s a big decision you’ll have to make. Should you replace the entire device or get a new battery? 

Depending on the age of the device, the better answer might be the former. However, if it’s still functioning fine other than showing some signs of battery issues, keeping it and replacing the battery would be the cheaper call. 

Replacement Options

Now that you’re sure that your battery is the problem and have decided to replace it, you’ll need to weigh your options. You can send it off to AppleCare+. 

However, if your device is no longer under warranty, you might be better off taking it to a third-party store. You could attempt to buy a battery and DIY it, but that’s ill-advised. 

AppleCare+

If you’re subscribed to AppleCare+ you can get your battery replaced for the low cost of free. The only downside is that your battery has to be almost 100% shot. 

Having an AppleCare+ subscription also costs money. You’ll have to pay $7.99 a month or dish out a hefty one-time fee of $219. If you don’t want to pay the subscription price, you can still ship your device off to Apple for repairs as long as it’s still under warranty. 

If your device isn’t in warranty, Apple will fix it, but you’ll pay for it. You’ll have to cover the cost of the battery and shipping fees. This will bring your total to about $110. 

Third-Party Store

If you don’t want to go the Apple route, there is an alternative. Fruit Fixed can fix your device without breaking the bank. In fact, we have a low price guarantee. 

Bring in a local competitor’s price, and we’ll replace your battery for $5 less. At Fruit Fixed, we’re not only affordable. We also have professional technicians on our side who only use the most high-quality parts. 

How Much to Replace an iPad Battery? You Have Options 

How much to replace an iPad battery? It all depends if it’s under warranty or not. If it’s not, you can still send it to Apple, but you’ll pay over $100 for repairs. 

At Fruit Fixed, our repairs aren’t only cheaper than Apple. They’re also quick. 

Our team of professional technicians will get your iPad back to you in 30 minutes or less! Go here to request a service today! 

Justin Drake Carroll Apple

What to Do When Your Apple Pencil Won’t Charge

Whether you’re taking notes during a business meeting or using one to draw, it’s safe to say digital pens have revolutionized how we work and play. The digital pen industry is growing at a whopping 13.3% per year, with many people using them to replace the traditional pen and paper.

Of these pens, the industry-leading Apple Pencil may be the king. With low latency and stellar precision, they’re perfect for any iPad user.

That’s why battery issues can be so devastating to your workflow. When your Apple Pencil is not charging after you’ve come to rely on it, what can you do? Here’s a quick look at how to troubleshoot the issue and get back to work.

Know Your Apple Pencil Version

Before you start worrying about your Apple Pencil battery, figure out which version of the device you have.

1st Generation

If you have the 1st-generation Apple Pencil, you’ll see a rounded design with a silver ring on one end. These devices use a Lightning connector to charge.

You’ll need to plug the pencil into your iPad’s Lightning connector or use a charging adapter to insert your Apple Pencil into a Lightning cable. You can also use a USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter, also called a Pencil Connector.

2nd Generation

If you have the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, the design will have long planes that make it look more like a pencil, with no silver ring on the end. These devices use Bluetooth to charge. Simply attach the pencil to your iPad’s magnetic connector.

USB-C

If you have the new Apple Pencil (USB-C), it will look much like the 2nd-generation model. However, it also has a hidden port that you can use to charge the device with any USB-C cable.

Double-Check Your Apple Pencil Compatibility

If you have a 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, it will only charge with compatible iPads. If you have an older model and your Apple Pencil isn’t charging, it might be because the device doesn’t have the ability to do so.

The iPads that are compatible with the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil include the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd and 4th generation) and any iPad Pro 11-inch.

Do a Restart

If your Apple Pencil isn’t charging, even when you’re sure you have the right chargers and devices, use a tried-and-tested strategy: a system reboot. This might seem like a no-brainer, but many users forget that some errors will resolve themselves with a quick restart.

Update Your iPad

If a restart doesn’t work, a software update might. If you haven’t updated your iPadOS in a while, it’s possible that a glitch or bug affecting your system has been addressed in the update. Follow Apple’s instructions to update your device, then try to charge your Apple Pencil again.

Troubleshoot Your Bluetooth

The 2nd-generation Apple Pencil needs Bluetooth to charge. If you turned your iPad’s Bluetooth off, this may be the reason for your charging issues.

If you have a different Apple Pencil model, Bluetooth might still be causing your problem. Is it possible that your Apple Pencil is charging, but you can’t tell by looking at your iPad? If there’s an issue with your Bluetooth, the Apple Pencil’s battery icon might not display the correct information, or it may not show the device is connected at all.

Turn your Bluetooth off, then turn it back on and see if the battery indicator updates.

If that doesn’t work, try unpairing the device and then pairing it again. In your iPad’s settings, tap Bluetooth>My Devices. Find your pencil, tap the info button beside it, and select Forget This Device.

Restart your iPad for good measure, then pair your Apple Pencil again.

Try a Different Cable

If you have an Apple Pencil that charges with a cable, the cable itself may be to blame. This is especially true if you have an old, worn, or dirty cable.

Troubleshoot your cable the same way you’d troubleshoot a phone charging issue. Switch the cable out with a different Lightning or USB-C cable, plug in your Apple Pencil, and see if the problem persists. While you’re at it, try a different outlet as well.

Clean Your Port

If you have a 1st-generation Apple Pencil or an Apple Pencil (USB-C) that won’t charge, there may be an issue with the port. Cleaning loose dust or debris may be all your device needs to charge.

However, you’ll need to be careful: cleaning the port on your own can damage the device if done incorrectly.

Grab a flashlight to look for any debris inside the port. If you see anything, try to dislodge it with a wooden toothpick and very light pressure. Never use sharp or metal objects inside your Apple Pencil’s port.

Apple does not recommend using compressed air on any of its devices, though some users find success with it. This substance can dislodge smaller particles, but it can also shoot them further into crevices within your Apple Pencil’s port. Be careful!

Get Apple Pencil Repair

If your Apple Pencil still isn’t working after you’ve tried the steps above, you may have a battery issue you can’t fix on your own. The lifespan of the average Lithium-ion battery is long, but heavy use can degrade it over time.

If you’ve left your Apple Pencil uncharged for a long period, you may have damaged the battery by accident. Like your phone’s battery, these devices are designed to remain active and should have at least a small charge at all times.

Whatever the cause of your battery issues, a repair expert can solve them. By troubleshooting various hardware and software issues, they can help you decide whether you should repair or replace your Apple Pencil.

Trust Us if Your Apple Pencil Is Not Charging

If you rely on your iPad for work or school, there’s nothing more frustrating than an Apple Pencil that’s not charging. Fortunately, following the steps above can help you troubleshoot the problem, which might save you a lot of headaches.

If the issue seems too complicated to figure out, don’t struggle with it alone! The experts at Fruit Fixed make sure broken devices don’t stay that way for long. Find your nearest store for device repairs or contact us today with questions.

Justin Drake Carroll Repair

What to Do When Your Samsung Galaxy Watch Won’t Charge

As great as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is, it does have a few flaws. One that most of its owners will point to is the middling battery life.

To an extent, this isn’t a surprise. Galaxy Watches, other than the rugged Watch 5 Pro, never had a particularly big battery. Still, having to charge them a bit more often is a small price to pay for what they offer.

But what if your watch doesn’t charge at all? Well, a Samsung Galaxy Watch not charging could indicate a variety of issues. Some of them happen due to a faulty battery, but there could also be a problem with the watch itself.

Want to resolve your Galaxy Watch charging issue? This guide will let you know how to do it as quickly as possible!

Reboot the Watch

“Turning it off and on” is a cliche, but sometimes it does work. If the charging issue occurs due to a software bug, a simple reboot will fix it.

If your watch still has some battery left, try rebooting it before doing anything else. Swipe down from the watch face, then select Power > Turn Off. Wait 15 seconds, then hold the Power button to turn the watch back on.

If your watch is unresponsive, you’ll need to force-reboot it. You can do so by holding the Home and Power buttons for about 10 seconds. Release them as soon as you see the “Rebooting” message on the screen.

Once you’ve rebooted the watch, place it on the charger. If it’s still not charging, move on to the rest of this guide.

Use Another Charger

The next step you should try is to use another charger. If the new charger works, you’ll know that the issue doesn’t lie with your watch.

For best results, use the official Samsung wireless charger. Many third-party charging accessories aren’t compatible with Samsung watches. In the worst-case scenario, using them may even damage your battery.

While trying out the new charger, ensure it’s aligned with the watch. If you’re using a charging dock, the back of the watch must be in the center of it. Ensure you’re not using the wrong charging dock for your watch model.

While you’re at it, check the charging cable for damage as well. Many cables get frayed over time, particularly if you’re not careful about using them. If you notice any fraying or debris, try another USB-C cable.

Try a Different Power Source

If the new charger or cable doesn’t resolve the issue, use another power source. Fortunately, these watches come with a variety of charging options.

The easiest way to do this is to plug your charging cable into another outlet. You can use any laptop or phone with a USB-C port for this purpose. The watch won’t charge as fast as with the official charger, but it should work.

You can also try to charge your watch via Wireless PowerShare. To do this, you’ll need a WPC Qi-enabled phone. Keep in mind that this charging method will only work if your phone’s battery is over 30 percent.

To use PowerShare, go to your phone’s Settings and click on Battery and Device Care. Go to Battery > Wireless Power Sharing and enable it. Then, place the devices with their backs facing each other until they connect.

Give the Watch Time to Cool Down

All Galaxy Watches have a thermal protection system. If the battery gets too hot, the watch will stop charging, seemingly at random.

If your watch does seem a bit hot, give it time to cool down. Disconnect it from the charger, wait 15 minutes, then try charging it again. If you’re using third-party charging accessories, replace them with the original charger.

Of course, inconsistent charging is far from the only reason why overheating is bad news. If your Samsung Galaxy Watch battery gets hot often, take the device to a repair shop as soon as possible.

Update the Software

Rebooting your watch will deal with most minor software bugs. If your watch still seems buggy, there may be a new update that you need to install.

To get a new software update, first connect your watch to Wi-Fi. Then, head to Settings and select Software Update > Download and Install. Wait until the watch installs the update, then try charging it again.

Another way to update your watch is via the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone. This app is one of the biggest advantages Samsung has over Apple. Simply open it, then go to Watch Settings > Watch Software Update. 

Reset Your Watch

If none of the above methods work, the issue likely lies with your watch. The only question is whether it’s a software or hardware issue.

If it’s a software issue, you can resolve it by doing a factory reset. This will delete all the data on your watch and restore it to factory settings. To keep your data, use the Galaxy Wearable app to back it up in the Cloud.

To reset the Galaxy Watch, hold the Power and Back buttons until you see the Rebooting message. Press Home to get into the Reboot Mode menu, then head to Recovery and follow the on-screen instructions.

Once you’ve reset the watch, see if it can charge again. To restore your data, open Galaxy Wearable, then go to Settings > About Watch > Back up and Restore. Select the data you want to restore, then tap Restore Now.

Head to a Repair Shop

If resetting doesn’t work, you’re dealing with a major hardware issue. The only way to fix that is to take your watch to a repair shop.

For watches under warranty, your best bet is to head to the Samsung service center. Find the original invoice and take it to the nearest repair shop. You can also contact Samsung customer service to learn more about your issue.

Dealing With Samsung Galaxy Watch Not Charging

As you can see, a Samsung Galaxy Watch not charging can happen due to a variety of issues. Follow the above guide to learn how to make it work as intended again!

Is your Galaxy Watch out of warranty? If so, our experts at Fruit Fixed can fix it for you at the best available price! Click here to learn more about our low-price guarantee!

Justin Drake Carroll Tablet

Key Considerations for Choosing a Tablet Repair Service

So, your tablet’s acting up, and you’re in a bind? We get it. These devices are like our digital Swiss Army knives. We use them for everything-work, play, socializing, you name it. Now you’re at a crossroads: Where do you go to get this thing fixed? This guide is your roadmap to making an informed decision about choosing a tablet repair service.

Stick with us, and you’ll be armed with all the knowledge you need to make the right choice.

The Real Cost of a New Tablet

Before you even think about repair, the allure of a shiny new tablet might be calling your name. But let’s pump the brakes and consider what that really means.

Financial Implications

Buying a new tablet isn’t just about the sticker price of the device itself. You’ve also got to think about all the extras. A new case, perhaps a screen protector, and if you’re into it, a stylus or other accessories.

These costs add up quickly, and before you know it, you’re shelling out way more than you initially thought. Repairing your existing tablet could be a much more cost-effective option, especially if the issue is minor.

Environmental Toll

It’s easy to forget that every new gadget we buy has an environmental footprint. From the materials used to make it to the energy consumed in manufacturing, it all adds up. And let’s not forget about e-waste.

Your old tablet has to go somewhere, and often that ‘somewhere’ is not very eco-friendly. Repairing your device means one less item in the landfill and one less demand for a newly manufactured device.

Emotional Investment

You’ve spent time setting up your tablet just the way you like it. Your favorite apps are all there, your settings are customized, and your photos and files are just a tap away. Getting a new device means starting from scratch, and that’s a hassle most of us could do without.

Criteria for Choosing a Tablet Repair Service

So you’re leaning toward repair. Smart move. But how do you pick the right service?

Specialization in Tablet Repairs

You wouldn’t take your car to a bicycle mechanic, would you? The same logic applies here. Make sure the repair service you’re considering specializes in tablets.

They should be familiar with various brands and models and have a proven track record in tablet repairs.

Warranty Offers

A warranty isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a promise. It says, “We stand by our work.” Any reputable tablet repair service will offer a warranty on their repairs.

This gives you a safety net in case something goes wrong shortly after the repair.

Speed of Service

In today’s fast-paced world, being without your tablet for an extended period can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a real problem.

Look for a service that can promise a quick turnaround without compromising on quality.

Customer Feedback

Online reviews, testimonials, word-of-mouth-these are the currencies of reputation in the gadget repair world. Take the time to read what other customers have to say. A few bad reviews are one thing, but a pattern of poor service is a red flag.

Questions to Pose Before You Commit

Choosing a repair service is a commitment, and like any commitment, it comes with questions. Here are some crucial ones to ask before you hand over your beloved tablet.

What’s the Total Cost?

Sure, they might quote you a base price for the repair, but what about those pesky hidden fees? Are there charges for diagnostics? What if they discover additional issues while fixing the initial problem?

Get a detailed breakdown of the costs, including labor and parts. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when it’s time to pay up.

Do You Offer Loans During Repair?

Being without your tablet can be a major inconvenience, especially if you rely on it for work or other important tasks. Some top-notch tablet repair services offer loaner tablets to keep you connected while your device is in the shop. It’s a nice perk that can make your life a lot easier.

So, don’t hesitate to ask if this service is available and what the terms are. Is it free, or is there a rental fee? Knowing this can be a game-changer in your decision-making process.

Where Do the Parts Come From?

The quality of the replacement parts can make or break your tablet’s performance post-repair. Ask the service where they source their parts. Are they Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, or are they third-party components?

OEM parts are generally more reliable and often come with their own warranties.

Third-party parts can be cheaper but might not offer the same quality or longevity. Make sure you’re comfortable with the type of parts they plan to use.

Warning Signs: Proceed with Caution

Not every repair service is on the up-and-up. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

Vague Pricing

If the service can’t or won’t give you a clear price estimate, that’s a problem. Transparency in pricing is a must.

Poor Customer Service

First impressions matter. If the staff isn’t courteous or willing to answer your questions, take your business elsewhere.

No Warranty Policy

A tablet repair service that doesn’t offer a warranty is a no-go. It’s as simple as that.

Making the Smart Choice for Tablet Repair

You’re now armed with a wealth of information to guide you in selecting the right tablet repair service. It’s not just about the dollars and cents or how quickly you can get your device back. It’s about the full package-expertise, speed, warranties, and stellar customer service.

Your tablet isn’t just a piece of hardware; it’s your gateway to the digital universe. Trusting it to the right hands is crucial.

Ready to take the plunge? With all this knowledge at your fingertips, you’re more than prepared to make an informed, smart decision. 

If you’re on the lookout for a quality tablet repair service, get in touch with us today! Check out our locations on our site, we look forward to hearing from you.

Justin Drake Carroll Repair

Selecting the Right Computer Technician for Desktop Computer Repair

You have a choice of over 204,299 desktop computer repair technicians in the USA, reports Zippia. That is a vast amount of choice, and it is vital you pick the right technician for your computer repair work.

Without your desktop, productivity grinds to a halt. You stare in frustration at the oblong box that used to be your center of communication, entertainment, and management. You need to get back online fast.

So, how do you get the desktop computer repairs you need? You need to be clear about the work you need and the ideal type of technician.

Today, we’ll learn how to find the right tech for the job. Read on!

Desktop Computer Repair Certifications

Indeed reports that computer repair technicians need a high school diploma at the absolute minimum. This is for entry-level work, and they would also need to complete extensive on-the-job training. Most desktop computer technicians complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer hardware, IT, computer science, cybersecurity, or engineering.

Professional certifications come next. Technicians can gain CompTIA certifications to cement their right to work in the industry. CompTIA is the leading certifying body in the IT world, and certification shows a commitment to the industry.

Technicians can study system-specific certifications for major computer companies. Microsoft and Apple both offer training courses, and techs can gain Linux qualifications from several online schools.

Computer Repair Experience

You should ask which systems your desktop repairs technician has experience working on. Skilled techs can adapt their approach to various systems, but for tricky issues, they should specialize in your platform.

You should ask if they have experience with your specific problem. Broken screen repair can differ by brand, for example. Like with systems experience, this will save you time and help you get high-quality computer desktop repairs.

Time in the industry is also key. It can feel a bit rude to ask this but look on their website to see how long they have been in business. Subpar technicians tend to last a short time in the industry. Reputation is crucial, but we’ll look at that later!

Specialisms

The top desktop computer technicians tend to specialize in a subset of computer skills. This narrows their field of study but boosts their proficiency with specific desktop computer repairs.

Some desktop computers use legacy technology. For example, traditional banks use legacy systems written in COBOL, RPG, and Assembler. These languages are so specific that it is hard to find a technician versed in them; you may need to pay a premium for these computer repairs.

You may need a technician who specializes in physical repairs. CPU, hard drive, motherboard, and other hardware repairs need precise engineering to get right. The technician should have all the tools needed to complete the job fast.

Performance and Maintenance

You may only need to boost your system’s efficiency. Nothing may be physically wrong, but your computer has become so slow it is unworkable. This is frustrating but also costly to your productivity, as each extra minute could shave dollars from your work.

You could attempt to do this yourself, but freeing up RAM and hard drive space is risky. You may delete sensitive system files, making your problem 100 times worse. You could also lose access to essential business files.

You could think of RAM as your working short-term memory. It is like trying to recall a shopping list in your head, and eventually, you struggle to remember extra items. Your hard drive is like a huge filing cabinet, and the more clutter you have, the harder it is to find the right documents.

Your computer repair technician should offer cloud and backup services. These can be tricky to set up over large networks, so you may need a tech specialized in cloud and network engineering. You should automate your backups to ensure your files are there when you need them.

Security and Data Protection

Cybercrime cost the USA $6.9 billion in 2021! Your desktop computer technician should comply with data protection laws while they work on your system. Depending on your type of work, you could have sensitive personal information or client data on your hard drive.

They should back up your files before they start their computer repairs. This is elementary-level stuff in the industry, but mistakes can happen. Make sure they use a secure deletion system after they complete repairs.

Need cybersecurity computer repair work? You should look for technicians certified by CISSP, CISA, Security+, CEH, or CISM. These are the main cybersecurity certifications; some schools offer intensive courses to improve technicians’ security skills.

Find Your Desktop Computer Repair Technician

You know what to look for, now let’s find you a quality tech! Online search is the place to start, so try putting your specific problem into your favorite search engine. Location keywords help to localize your search, and you can input your system type to filter results.

Check some online reviews once you have a list of potential repair techs. Their reputation should be stellar, and reviews that talk about your specific issues are the most useful. If you have friends who have used a desktop computer repair tech, ask them for their advice.

Turnaround time is key to getting back online again. The best technicians should complete most desktop repairs in under 4 hours. If you need mobile device repair too, you can ask about how long this takes at the same time.

Get Back Online in No Time!

Fruit Fixed can solve your desktop computer repair woes. Our team of professional technicians can repair most desktops in 2 to 4 hours. Mobile device repairs take under 30 minutes in most cases – you can grab a coffee and be ready to go when you come back!

We only stock high-quality replacement parts, and we offer a lifetime warranty on all of our work. Find us at 6 locations in Virginia, easy to reach from most places. We operate on a walk-in basis, but you can use our web app to get extra information first.

Start your desktop repair today!

Justin Drake Carroll Gaming Systems

Game Console Repair with Professional Help: When to Hire a Pro

According to a recent survey, almost one-third of gamers admit to thinking about gaming pretty much all the time. When these people aren’t actually playing video games, they’re giving a whole lot of thought to how things will play out the next time they’re able to sit down and turn a game on.

If you’re someone who loves gaming this much, you won’t be able to live without your favorite gaming console for very long. You’ll need to arrange to have game console repair services carried out at the first sign of trouble with your preferred game console.

So, what are some signs that will show that you should take it upon yourself to schedule game console repairs? There are quite a few of them that might start to stand out when you’re trying to play a game console.

Here are several signs that will suggest you need to arrange to have professional console repairs made to gaming consoles.

Game Console Won’t Turn On

Are you having a hard time simply getting your gaming console to turn on? If so, you should obviously check to see that it’s plugged in. You should also make sure the electrical outlet it’s plugged into has power.

If you take a look at these things and find that there don’t appear to be any issues, you might have a bigger problem on your hands. You’ll want to have a professional look at your console and perform the right game console repair to get it back up and running again.

Game Console Keeps Crashing

Does your game console turn on but crash on you almost every time you go to play it? This can be almost more frustrating than not having your gaming console turn on at all.

When this happens, you’ll cross your fingers and hope your gaming console remains on the next time you go to sit down and play it. But if there is something wrong with it, it’ll more than likely continue to crash until you have game console repair performed.

A professional will be able to determine what’s going on with your game console so that they can fix it and get it working like it’s supposed to.

Game Console Makes Strange Sounds

Does it sound like your game console is going to take flight every time you fire it up so that you can play it? Sounds like this might show that there is an issue with your gaming console that’ll need to be dealt with. It could, for example, be overheating and forcing the fan inside of it to go into overdrive.

You might be able to ignore these kinds of strange sounds for a little while. But eventually, they’re going to get on your last nerve and make you wish you had taken it to a professional so they could perform game console repair sooner.

You might also find that this problem will keep on getting worse if you don’t do anything about it. It could lead to you having to make more extensive console repairs to it.

Game Console Can’t Read Discs

Is your game console struggling to read discs when you put them in? Or is it either not allowing you to put discs into it or refusing to spit these discs back out when you’re done with them?

Whatever the case, you’ll have a difficult time playing video games if your gaming console isn’t able to accept discs and read them properly. You may need to have a professional take your console apart so that they can make the proper repairs to it. It’ll enable it to start reading discs again so that you can get back to enjoying your gaming experiences.

Game Console Won’t Save Anything

Are you finding that you aren’t able to save anything when you’re in the middle of your gaming sessions? There could be something wrong with your hard drive that will necessitate game console repairs.

In some cases, a professional might be able to salvage your existing hard drive so that you can continue to use it when you game moving forward. But there is also a chance you may need to have your game console’s hard drive replaced entirely.

Game Console Can’t Connect With Controllers

Do you find it almost impossible to get your gaming console’s controllers to connect to the console itself? Whether it’s doing this intermittently or all the time, you won’t be able to take control of your favorite games without fully functioning controllers.

There could be something going on with the controllers themselves. You might simply need to repair or replace these controllers to remedy this situation.

But there could also be something going on with your gaming console that’s stopping you from being able to connect your controllers to it. A professional can carry out game console repair services and figure out which category your console falls into.

Game Console Can’t Maintain Network Connection

Is your game console not connecting to your network when you go to play it? This might result in you not having as much fun as you normally do while playing video games.

Recent surveys have shown that about three-fourths of Americans play video games to some degree nowadays. And almost all of them do so online where they’re able to play with other people from all across the country and world.

If you can’t get your gaming console to connect to your network, your network might be to blame for it. But you might also have a game console that needs to be fixed. It would be worth looking into game console repair services.

Call Us to Schedule Game Console Repair

If you love gaming and pretty much live for it at this point, you won’t be able to survive without a gaming console for too long. You’ll need to have game console repair done right away when you experience issues with your console.

Fruit Fixed can set you up with the gaming console repairs you need. Find out about the game console repair services we offer and contact us to set up an appointment.