There are multiple cooling stands on the market that can help fight overheating and prevent any interruptions to your gameplay. Some sit horizontally, while others lean towards a vertical orientation. Something you’ll want to keep in mind is which edition of the PS5 you have and whether the stand will work for it.

1. NexiGo PS5 Cooling Stand

The NexiGo PS5 Silent Cooling Stand is designed to hold the PS5 in a vertical configuration and works with both the PS5 Disc Edition and the PS5 Digital Edition. At only $60, it’s not overly expensive – especially when you consider it also includes a ten-game organizer and a charging stand for two PS5 Dualsense controllers.

The PS5 attaches to this stand with the included screw, so it’s more secure than if it just sat inside the stand itself. There are three fan speeds to choose from, all of which pull hot air down and away from the system, allowing cooler air to take its place.

The NexiGo PS5 Cooling Stand is available on Amazon for just $60 and is eligible for Prime shipping.

2. Oivo PS5 Cooling Stand

The Oivo PS5 Cooling Stand has many of the same features as the NexiGo, but it improves on it in several ways. It too offers three different fan speeds (low, medium, and high) with LED indicators, two DualSense charging ports, and game storage. However, it offers several advanced safety features including overcharge, overheat, and overvoltage protection. It also has high-speed charging for two PS5 controllers at once, bringing them to nearly full in just 2.5 hours.

The Oivo provides storage for up to 12 video games, as well as a 2-in-1 cable that is conveniently hidden behind the console. It qualifies for free Prime shipping, and at just $40 (with a 20% coupon at checkout), it’s a more affordable choice than the NexiGo.

3. Oivo PS5 Horizontal Stand

The vertical orientation is the default setup for most PS5 consoles, but that can make it a bit difficult for people in the horizontal fan club. This PS5 cooling stand from Oivo is aimed at people that prefer to keep their PS5 on its side. The internal cooling fan spins at 4,500 RPMs, but is still incredibly quiet. This level of power is necessary for keeping the console cool, as some people have reported higher instances of overheating when the PS5 is set up horizontally.

While it doesn’t have any game slots for storage, it does offer two charging docks for PS5 controllers and four USB charging dongles for PS5 accessories like headsets. The Oivo PS5 Horizontal Stand also features overvoltage, overheating, and overcurrent protection, just like its vertical cooling stand.

The Oivo PS5 Horizontal Stand is available for $37 from Amazon Prime, with a 20% coupon that can be applied at checkout.

4. Benazcap PS5 Cooling Stand

While the NexiGo and Oivo stands are very noticeable, the Benazcap PS5 Cooling Stand opts for a more subdued, subtle look. It’s a black base that the PS5 fits neatly into, but it provides a lot of functionality for that small package. In addition to the vertical cooling stand, it includes a dual controller charger, and storage for up to 15 games.

The dual fans keep the console cool, and the metal base assists in pulling heat away from the game console. LED status lights indicate the charge of the controllers, and there’s even a built-in stand for a headset and a cable hook to help keep things more organized. Beside the game storage is a slot for a PS5 media remote, if you have one.

The Benazcap PS5 Cooling Stand is $42, but is eligible for a 10% coupon you can apply at checkout.

5. Yuanhot Vertical Cooling Stand

The Yuanhot Vertical Cooling Stand is the most budget-friendly vertical stand at just $17. That said, it still ranks highly, with a total of 4.5 stars after more than 950 reviews. It has the features you’d expect from higher-priced models, including an all-in-one design with storage for your PS5 games and controller charging.

Two controllers can be charged at once on the cooling stand, but there are also three USB ports for powering other accessories. Charging status lights will tell you whether the controllers are fully charged or not.

The lower price does come at one cost, though: it has only two cooling fans, and only two speed options: high and low. The low speed still helps keep the heat down, but it’s not as efficient as the high speed option. The Yuanhot Vertical Cooling Stand works with both Digital and Disc versions of the PS5, too, and its minimalistic design will appeal to quite a few people who find the larger builds somewhat garish.

Do You Need a Cooling System?

The PS5 fan inside the console is plenty powerful on its own, which means that an entire charging station might be somewhat overkill. Sure, having a charging station for controllers is nice, but is it worth the added cost? A quick Google search will show a lot of gamers that dealt with overheating when the console first launched.

Since then, the problems have seemed to calm down a bit – but if you’re a hardcore gamer that spends most of your time playing, then you’ll want to do anything you can to extend the lifespan of the system.

A cooling station can help. It’s not an absolute necessity, but it can improve your experience and let you spend more time with your favorite titles.

The post 5 Best PS5 Cooling Stands to Prevent Overheating first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

There are multiple security reasons for this, but the most predominant is that the ability to delete transaction history would expose Cash App as a whole to legal repercussions. Since the app is officially recognized as a financial institution, you must be able to view your entire account history and payment records. The only way to completely delete your transaction records is to delete your Cash App account.

Why You Can’t Delete Your History

Cash App is seen as a proper bank account, and a financial institution. Therefore, all transactions must be recorded to comply with federal law. However, Cash App also complies with the California Consumer Privacy Act, or the CCPA. This is a law that protects consumer’s personal data and grants the right to access, delete, and opt out of the distribution of that data.

The two policies are in conflict with one another. Therefore, the only option available for clearing these records is to close your Cash App account. The only way to do this is through a web browser. If you’d rather see the history for yourself, perhaps for tax purposes, you can also download your personal data.

How to Download Cash App History

If you want to download your transaction history to check it for yourself, here’s how.

1. Go to the Cash App website at cash.app/account from any web browser and sign in using your email or phone number. If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you’ll be asked to enter a code.
2. Enter your Cash PIN.
3. On the left side of the screen, select Settings.
4. Scroll down to the Your Info header and then select Download Your Info.
5. If you want to view your payment history, select the Activity tab instead.
6. At the top right corner of the screen, select Statements.
7. You can narrow the selection down to a specific month. To export all activity, select Export CSV.

The downloaded file can be opened in Numbers or Microsoft Excel and lists your entire transaction history. It’s a good idea to keep records of all financial transactions, if only for your personal use. It contains all of your payment details of all money transfers, including the transaction ID, recipient, and more.

How to Delete Cash App Account

The bad news is that you can’t deactivate your account on your own; you’ll need the help of the Cash App support team. The good news is that it’s easy to get to the screen where you can contact them.

1. Open Cash App mobile app on your iPhone or Android device.
2. Tap the profile icon.

3. Scroll down and select Support.

4. Select Something Else.

5. Select Account Settings.

6. Select Delete Your Personal Information.
7. At the bottom of the list, select Contact Support.

This will open a chat window where you can speak asynchronously with the team. You don’t have to respond immediately, which makes it easy to get the answers you need even if you have a busy schedule.

Let the team know you want to delete your Cash App account and delete your personal information.

How to Close Your Cash App Account

If you want to skip the tedium and close your account straight away, you can do it relatively easily. There are a few requirements. First, your account needs to be empty, and you should have no pending transactions, either incoming or outgoing.

1. Open Cash App mobile app on your iPhone or Android device.
2. Tap the profile icon.

3. Scroll down and select Support.

4. Select Something Else.

5. Select Account Settings.

6. Select Close Your Cash App Account.

7. Select Confirm.

Bear in mind that doing this will disable your Cashtag, but it’s a good way to shut down your account if you suspect you’ve been scammed. You can always create a new Cash app account later if you change your mind.

If you don’t want to get rid of your account but you want to ensure no one can access it without your permission, you can enable multiple security features that will keep your account safe.

How to Enable Security Lock

Security Lock is a feature that requires Face ID be used to transfer funds. This is a great addition to use on top of your Cash PIN.

1. Tap your profile icon then select Privacy & Security.
2. Tap the Security Lock slider to turn it on. You will be asked to enter your Cash PIN.

Once you enter your PIN, the lock will be enabled. It’s an easy way to prevent anyone from transferring money out of your account if you’re an Apple user.

How to Reset Your Cash PIN

Your Cash PIN is a four-digit code that acts as a sort of password for all Cash App activity on your account. It’s required to check your Cash App payment history and more. If you think it’s been compromised, you need to reset it to something new.

1. Under the profile tab, select Privacy & Security.
2. Beneath the Security header, select Change Cash PIN.

3. Enter the new PIN you want to use. You’ll need to enter it twice to confirm.

Once you’ve entered the new PIN, you’ll receive a confirmation text that it’s been reset. Make sure you have notifications enabled so the Cash App can contact you with changes and important information.

The post Deleting Cash App’s Transaction History: All You Need to Know first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

The good news is that USB ports are easy to clean. It only takes a few minutes to do, and you should do it at least once per month (or maybe more often if you own pets that shed a lot).

How to Clean Your Computer’s USB Ports

Although specialized tools do exist for cleaning your computer’s USB ports, you don’t have to use them. There are plenty of ways to clean them with a few basic items you probably already have around your home.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tweezers
• Toothpick
• Q-Tips or cotton swabs
• Lint-free cloths
• Compressed air
• Isopropyl alcohol

Start With Tweezers

The first step in cleaning any USB port, whether USB-C, USB-A, or even the often-forgotten USB-B, is to turn off the power to your computer or laptop. If it’s a laptop and you have the option, please remove the battery.

The next step is to take a pair of tweezers and remove any large bits of debris that are visible to the eye. This can include dust bunnies, tufts of pet hair, and even bits of food. If a USB device has broken inside the port, remove all pieces that remain behind. Take care not to scratch the contacts with the tweezers. Rubber-tipped tweezers are preferable to traditional tweezers.

Use Compressed Air

You can purchase a can of compressed air from nearly any grocery or big-box store. You can even pick up entire cases on Amazon if needed. The cans include a long, narrow tube that the air flows through. Use this nozzle to angle the air into the USB port.

Keep the can at an angle, so the condensation doesn’t leak into the port. You should also try to blow at an angle, coming at the port from the sides, rather than straight-on to avoid blowing the debris deeper into the ports. This will take care of a lot of dust and debris and loosen anything that might be stuck deeper in the port.

Use a Cotton Swab

For standard USB-A ports, a cotton swab or Q-Tip can pull out any debris the compressed air leaves behind. Dip it into a bit of isopropyl alcohol before inserting it. Any standard concentration will do, but bear in mind that higher concentrations of alcohol dry more quickly – and you need to wait for the port to be completely dry before turning your computer back on.

The rubbing alcohol breaks down oils and grime buildup in the connector, especially those from skin contact. This will clean the port and ensure a better connection without the risk of damage that comes with water. If you need to dry the port more quickly, use a lint-free cloth, not another cotton swab. Doing so might leave behind bits of cotton.

As an alternative to alcohol, you can use contact cleaner (found at most electronics stores) to clean.

How to Clean Your Android or iPhone’s USB-C or Lightning Port

The previous steps work well for cleaning ports on most Windows machines and laptop computers, but they don’t work so well for mobile devices. The main reason is that phones use far narrow USB-C or Lightning ports, and a cotton swab won’t fit inside. This also holds true for most modern Macbooks, too.

There’s an easier solution, which comes in the form of your everyday toothpick.

How to Clean Your Gadgets With a Toothpick

A toothpick is an easy way to clean out the charging port on your mobile device. The phone stops charging or working because the port is filled with debris and pocket lint. A toothpick will be able to snare that lint and pull it out.

If you have ever taken your phone in for repair, you might notice that one of the first troubleshooting steps Apple technicians take is to check whether you have clean USB ports. If they find debris inside, they use a plastic hook that works like a toothpick.

Take care not to break the toothpick inside the port or thrust it into the contacts, or you might do more harm than good.

Use a Toothbrush

Another alternative is to use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush. By gently brushing the USB ports, you can remove debris from inside them without risk of harm. Electronics dusters (like a household duster, but on a smaller scale) can serve the same purpose.

You can purchase an electronics cleaning kit for next to nothing on Amazon that will provide you with all the cleaning tools you might need for your computer or phone.

Use a Vacuum Cleaner

Using a specialized electronics vacuum cleaner is the safest option for cleaning a USB port. These small, handheld devices provide enough suction to rid your device of dirt and debris without risking any level of harm to them. This is the best option overall, but it ranks so low on this list because they are less common than the other supplies.

Whether your USB cable isn’t recognized or you just have a faulty port the device manager thinks is fine, the solution often lies in cleaning. While you might perform routine virus scans to rid your software of anything nasty, you should also implement hardware cleaning into your routine. Just ask yourself: is the motherboard clean?

The post How to Clean Your Computer’s USB Ports first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

The key is understanding PlayStation’s and Sony’s refund policies. While they give a generous 14-day refund period, caveats are attached depending on the type of content.

Making Sense of PlayStation’s Refund Policy

At first glance, PlayStation’s refund policy seems generous. A two-week period from the date of purchase to return a digital game is a lot. However, there’s a major catch.

“If you have started to download or stream the purchased content you will not be eligible for a refund unless the content is faulty.”

Games and Add-ons

This means you can’t return a game because you didn’t like it. In fact, the only valid reason for returning a full game after downloading it is if the game doesn’t work. A game rarely makes it to the store without being tested, though. The only major example of this is Cyberpunk 2077, which revamped PlayStation’s refund policy due to the number of people that hated it.

However, with the current cross-gen transition period, some PS4 games might not be backward compatible with a PS5 console or vice-versa. That counts as “non-functional” and is valid for a refund.

Add-on content, like season passes or game consumables, fall under the same category.

Subscriptions

Subscriptions are slightly different. If you purchase a subscription and find you don’t enjoy it (for example, a battle pass for a game with unreasonable requirements), you have up to 14 days to request a refund. PlayStation might reduce the refund amount based on how much you used the service.

Pre-Orders

If you pre-ordered a game well in advance, you can cancel that pre-order and receive a refund at any point until the game’s release date. On the other hand, if you pre-ordered fewer than two weeks before launch, the game abides by the same rules as normal game purchases: you have two weeks after purchase.

How to Return a Game

Returning a game isn’t as simple as selecting it within the PlayStation menu. You’ll need to contact PlayStation Support for help. Bear in mind that refunds can be issued on a case-by-case basis; even if you’ve started playing something, there’s a chance a representative may give you a refund if you explain the situation.

If you know you want a refund for a game (maybe a sibling purchased it, or it isn’t what you thought it was), here’s how to return it.

1. Open the PlayStation Support page.
2. Select the type of content you’re refunding: games, subscriptions, or preorders.

3. Select Contact PlayStation Support.
4. Select PS Store & Refunds.

5. Select PlayStation Store refunds.
6. Select Live chat.

7. Enter your first and last name, then select Start Chatting.

8. You’ll first speak to a chatbot that will ask if you’re the owner of the PSN account that was charged. Select Yes.

9. Select the type of content you want to refund.

10. Select the reason you want to refund it.

Depending on your answer, the bot will continue to ask questions. Answer all the questions, after which you will be in touch with a live agent. If there is no live agent, the bot will provide you with a Support ID number that you’ll need to keep track of until you can speak with a live agent.

If a game meets the criteria, you should receive a full refund. It’s not as straightforward as some refund policies, like those from Xbox or Amazon, but it’s the only option available for a PlayStation Store purchase.

In most cases, PlayStation will refund the money to the original payment method. There are a few payment types that don’t allow this, though. These include Bancontact, Paysafecard, and money vouchers. In situations like this, the money is refunded to your PSN Wallet.

A few warnings. There are bits of advice online that you can ask for a chargeback on your credit card if you can’t get a PS Store refund. Do not do this. Doing so will result in a ban on your account and losing all your digital content.

In an ideal world, PlayStation would adopt a refund policy similar to Steam. If you play less than two hours, you would have 14 days to return a game. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Be wary of what you buy. Read reviews before purchasing, and request refunds as rarely as possible. The fewer refunds you’ve asked for, the more likely PlayStation Store reps are to help you.

The post How to Return PS4 and PS5 Games to the Playstation Store for a Refund first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Unless absolutely necessary, don’t delete any of your videos. Uploading one by mistake is one thing; bringing down an established video because it doesn’t perform like you want is something else. It could hurt your overall traffic on the platform. While getting docked by the TikTok algorithm can be fixed, it takes a lot of extra work that could be better spent growing your audience.

How to Delete a TikTok Video on Mobile

Deleting a TikTok from the app on iPhone or Android devices is often the easiest approach.

1. Open TikTok and then tap the Profile icon in the bottom-right corner.

2. Select the video you want to delete.
3. Tap the three dots on the lower-right side of the screen.

4. Scroll all the way to the right of the menu and then tap Delete.

5. When the confirmation screen pops up, tap the Delete option. It resembles a trash can icon.

That’s all it takes to delete videos from your TikTok app.

How to Delete a TikTok Video From Your Browser

Deleting a video from your browser is a bit more straightforward than through mobile, if only because there are fewer clicks involved.

1. Open TikTok in your web browser of choice.
2. Select your TikTok account icon in the top-right corner of the screen and then select View Profile.

3. Select the video you want to delete and then select the three dots in the top-right corner.

4. When the confirmation window appears, select the Delete button.

Deleting a video is as simple as that.

What if you want to hide a video without deleting it? This helps you avoid getting dinged by the algorithm, but can also stop the video from accumulating views. You might want to do this if you’re working to build a brand but you have a video that targets the wrong audience through its hashtags. That audience can skew who TikTok shows your content to and make it harder for you to reach the right people. The good news? It’s easy to hide a video from other TikTok users.

How to Make a TikTok Video Private

A private TikTok video can be an alternative to deleting a video. Changing the privacy settings of a video is simple enough.

On mobile:

1. Open TikTok and select the video you want to make private.
2. Tap the three dots icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
3. Scroll over and select Privacy Settings.

4. Select Who can watch this video.
5. Select Only me.

Through a browser:

1. Open TikTok, select your TikTok profile icon, and then select the video you want to make private.
2. Select the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and then select Privacy Settings.

3. Select Public > Private.

4. Select Done.

Once you do this, TikTok will hide that video from your profile so that no one else can see it. Hiding what you post means it won’t appear on anyone’s home page and will disappear from anyone’s favorite videos list, as well as your profile page.

How to Delete Your TikTok Profile

If you decide that your account just isn’t working out for you and you want to leave TikTok for a different social media platform or just start a new account, then you can delete your entire account instead of removing individual videos. Note that this is a permanent decision; once you do this, you can’t reverse the choice. You’ll have to start over from scratch.

On mobile:

1. Open TikTok > Profile.
2. Tap the three lines in the top-right corner and select Settings and privacy.
3. Tap Manage account > Delete account.

4. You can select a reason why you’re leaving the platform, or you can tap Skip in the top-right corner.

5. You can then download all of your TikTok data if you like. Before you are able to continue, tap the icon at the bottom to confirm you have reviewed the data request alert.

Continue to follow the on-screen instructions. Your account will be deleted, and you’ll be free to start a new TikTok account.

Through a browser:

1. Select your Profile icon > Settings.

2. Select Delete beside Delete account.

Follow the remaining instructions to delete your account. The end result will be the same as if you deleted it through the iOS or Android application.

Like all social networking platforms, TikTok is algorithm-driven – but because the platform is so new, it’s hard to keep up with the best practices for growing your audience. If you make a mistake and start to lose followers or just can’t seem to gain the traction you need, consider starting over with a new account, deleting a few offending videos, or just making them private so the algorithm focuses on the kind of content you want to push.

The post How to Delete a TikTok Video first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

These faceplate covers do more than provide unique aesthetics; many of them are actually shock and scratch-proof to better protect your console from damage. They’re easy to install and work with both PS5 Digital Edition and PS5 Disc Edition. That’s one major advantage the PS5 console has over the Xbox Series X: customization.

We’ve rounded up some of the best PS5 console covers and listed them below.

Official PlayStation 5 Covers

Some of the best options — and those with the most guaranteed quality — are the official covers produced by Sony itself. These come in five colors, including the popular Cosmic Red, Midnight Black, Starlight Blue, Nova Pink, and Galactic Purple options. Also, you can get these faceplate covers to match the PS5 controller colors.

Aside from the color options, these PS5 faceplates have no special features. They’re only for aesthetic purposes, but they look fantastic when paired with a DualSense controller. Best of all, they’re only $55.

InnoAura PS5 Faceplate

If you want something a bit outside the norm, check out the InnoAura PS5 Faceplates. These sport an unusual design with an air vent on both sides for improved airflow. While there are six color options, four of the choices are solid colors, but the silver and gold color options stand out with their camo design. These PS5 plates are also shockproof to provide additional protection against impact.

The downside to the InnoAura PS5 Faceplates is that they only fit the Disc Edition. Unfortunately, there are no options for the PS5 Digital Edition yet. Just as a note, there are cover choices for the Nintendo Switch if you’re looking for something portable too.

DBrand Darkplates 2.0

Looking for a faceplate with a bit of edge? Look no further than the dBrand Darkplate 2.0s. These can appeal to the grittier crowd, with many murder jokes and scofflaw-type humor involved. That’s not to say there’s no appeal here, though: the Darkplates 2.0 have greatly-improved thermals that will keep the PlayStation 5 from overheating during even the most intense play sessions.

These plates also feature light strips that can be customized and changed. These plates start at around $70 and are valid for both the Disc and Digital Editions of the PS5, with multiple color options. The black is our favorite, though: it has a very Darth Vader-like vibe.

wds Transparent Faceplate

Remember the days of translucent or transparent cases? That might seem like a thing of the past, but wds has brought it back in style for the PS5 with these replacement faceplates. There are no special features or additional cooling vents, but it does give you an excellent view of the interior workings of the console.

The most appealing part of this case is that it’s only $34, plus you get an extra 5% coupon if you buy it from Amazon. It’s an easy way to customize your PS5 uniquely without breaking the bank.

Dobewingdelou PS5 Faceplates

These PS5 faceplates are made of high-quality aluminum with more than 5050 LEDs lining the metal. You know what that means: crazy lighting effects for your play session. In addition, the Dobewingdelou faceplates include a physical remote and an iPhone app, illustrating just how much work has gone into the lighting.

There’s also an additional cooling vent cutout equipped with LEDs that will help keep the PS5 cooler and reduce the amount of dust that makes its way inside the console. You can choose the color, speed, brightness, and effects. These faceplates are designed for easy installation and are only $60, and there is a 10% off coupon you can apply to drop the price even further.

NexiGo PS5 Faceplate

Want more bang for your buck? The NexiGo PS5 Faceplate has two matching controller covers, regardless of your chosen color. So you can ensure your PS5 Dualsense controller matches the style of your console. The covers are made of ABS plastic with an installation process designed to be entirely DIY.

With four color options to choose from, you can have a blue, gold, matte black, or even red PS5. Unfortunately, the NexiGo faceplates are only for the Disc Version of the PS5. At only $55, it’s the same price as the official faceplates, and the inclusion of two controller covers gives it extra value.

IFEEHE Protective Faceplates

The new PS5 color options look great, especially the black faceplates. Still, not everyone has been lucky enough to pre-order one. If you can get your hands on a PS5 and want to customize it, the IFEEHE faceplates give you two design options that look different than existing PS5 accessories.

The first is a red skull-like pattern that conjures up Gears of War vibes and almost looks like a decal on the side of the console. The second is a black faceplate with a light pattern that looks like an Arc Reactor from Iron Man. The plates are focused more on aesthetics than anything else, but they are scratch and drop-proof, according to their Amazon page. At $60, it’s not a bad price for such a unique look.

Customize Your PlayStation

You don’t have to have a faceplate. It’s not strictly necessary — but in the same way, you might add stickers to your phone — adding a faceplate lets you customize your PS5 to be yours. You can even go all-out and get a headset that matches the color for a completely coordinated look. The other benefit is the improved cooling features in many of these faceplates.

They’re all relatively inexpensive, and to is a low price for potentially improved longevity in a 0 console.

The post 7 Best PS5 Faceplate Covers and Where to Buy Them first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Most of these fixes are simple enough that even the most non-tech-savvy person can pull them off without a problem. For example, buffering and playback problems are common issues with easy solutions.

Check DownDetector

The first step is to verify whether your problems with HBO Max not working on Roku lie in your app or a server outage. You can do this by going to DownDetector.com and looking for reports from other users about the service. A rapid, widespread number of reports indicates the problem is likely because the HBO Max servers are down, and your best option is just to wait it out.

Check Your Internet Connection

If the servers aren’t down, the next troubleshooting step to check is your internet connection. First, ensure your router is working, and then check that you’re meeting the minimum bandwidth requirements for the streaming service.

According to HBO Max, you need a download speed of at least 25 Mbps to stream content in 4K. Anything less than that, and you won’t get the whole experience. HBO Max also suggests Wi-Fi speeds of 50 Mbps or more for the best movie experience.

Turn Off Your VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) protects you when surfing the web. When used with a streaming service, it can let you access content only available in other countries. However, it can also interfere with the performance of streaming services.

Disable your VPN while watching HBO Max and check whether the performance improves. It might be just what you need to fix HBO Max on your streaming device.

Restart Your Roku

The tried-and-true method of turning it off and back on again also holds for the Roku.

1. Select System > Power > System restart > Restart.

It does exactly what you expect it to do – it will restart your Roku and hopefully clear up any problems with performance. A power cycle is one of the easiest steps you can take

Update Your Roku

After you’ve addressed all the potential causes or network issues, the next thing to examine is your Roku itself. Make sure it’s using the latest version of the firmware.

1. Press the Roku Home button to return to the Roku home screen.
2. Select the Settings menu > System > Software update.

If there’s a system update available, Roku will automatically download it.

Clear Your Roku Cache

Did you realize your Roku had a cache? It doesn’t work quite as it would on a browser, but it can still be home to stored data with glitches that might interfere with the performance of an app. The good news is that it’s relatively easy to clear.

1. Select the HBO Max channel from your home screen and press the Asterisk button on your remote.
2. Select Remove channel.
3. After this, reboot your Roku device to perform a full system restart.

This will not only clear the HBO Max cache but also delete the channel from your device. Then, you’ll need to reinstall HBO Max from the channel store and log back in.

Change Your HBO Max Account Password

This is a weird workaround, but Roku users have reported it to work. So take it with a grain of salt. Sign out of your account on Roku, and change your password. Since you can’t do this through Roku, you’ll need to use a web browser.

1. Open HBO Max in a web browser.
2. Select your profile icon in the top-right corner and select Settings.

3. Beneath Account, select the pencil icon beside your password.
4. You’ll be prompted to enter a six-digit verification code sent to your email. Enter this code and select Continue.

5. You’ll be asked to enter your new password twice on the next screen. Do so, and then you’ll have a new password.
   

After you’ve changed your password, log back into your HBO Max account on Roku.

Perform a Factory Reset

If nothing else works (or you’re encountering other problems besides just HBO Max), you can perform a system reset to clear the system of any potential glitches completely. Again, you’ll have to reinstall all your channels and log back into them. Consider the factory reset option to be the method of last resort.

1. Select Settings > System > Advanced system settings.
2. Select Factory reset.
3. Enter the code provided into the box and select OK.

It can take several minutes to perform a full factory reset. Once completed, you’ll need to set up your Roku again as if it were fresh from the box.

If none of these methods work, consider reaching out to Roku support. There may be a problem with the software side of things. Perhaps your account isn’t authorized to launch the HBO app, or something else is to blame. Something like this is unlikely, but it’s good to know what other options are available when HBO Max stops working on Roku.

The post HBO Max Not Working On Roku? 8 Fixes to Try first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Coins can be bought with real money, but there are a few ways to get coins for free. You just have to know the right approach. Be careful, though; there are a lot of scams centered around free TikTok coins.

How to Buy TikTok Coins

You should first know how to buy coins the default way.

1. Open TikTok and select Profile, then go to Settings.

2. Select Balance.

3. This will show your current coin balance. Tap Recharge.
4. There are various lists of coin amounts and their associated cost listed out. Tap the amount you want to buy and then confirm the purchase on your mobile device.

There are seven different amounts you can purchase that gives an idea of the value of the coins:

• 65 Coins for $0.99
• 330 Coins for $4.99
• 660 Coins for $9.99
• 1321 Coins for $19.99
• 3303 Coins for $49.99
• 6607 Coins for $99.99
• 16500 Coins for $249.99

If you buy Coins for the first time while watching TikTok live content, you get a Welcome Pack. This is a $0.99 package that provides 65 Coins plus 45 extra, an 80% discount on a unique gift, and a badge that appears next to your TikTok name for 24 hours.

You can buy coins through a bank or PayPal account, with a credit card, or with Google and Apple Pay.

What Are TikTok Coins For?

While you can use TikTok coins to buy and send gifts on TikTok Live, they have other uses, too. For example, you can send gifts to a creator through the comment section.

The other primary use for TikTok coins is in post promotions. If you want to boost a specific video and get it in front of many people, you can use the TikTok Promote feature. This feature costs different amounts based on the time you want the promotion to run and your target number of views.

For creators using TikTok to advertise or generate revenue, the TikTok Promote feature is a valuable tool. It allows you to fine-tune your targeting around age, gender, and interests. The key to TikTok is that views tend to generate more responses than on other platforms, which is why sponsored TikToks are growing in popularity.

How to Get TikTok Coins for Free

The first thing to note is that none of these methods is guaranteed. TikTok relies on coins to generate revenue, so giving them away for free is an uncommon event. Still, some users have reported success through these methods, so feel free to try them – but be cautious and know the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

1. TikTok Gifts

The first and simplest way is to receive them as gifts. Users can send coins to someone else, but you have to invest time and make content that will invite people to send you coins. Ask yourself: is the time it takes to do that worth the small amount you’d save?

2. TikTok Challenges

Participating in TikTok challenges is a bit like receiving a gift; if your TikTok videos are funny enough, someone might send you coins as a tip. Challenges come through on a somewhat routine basis – typically the latest trend that’s front and center on TikTok. A few of these in the past include the ill-fated milk crate stacking challenge and the cinnamon powder challenge.

3. Grow Your TikTok Followers

TikTok coins are meant to be a way of supporting your favorite users. So if you can create a steady flow of content and grow your TikTok followers, you’ll naturally receive more coins whenever you do live content.

4. TikTok Coin Hacks

Before we explain this, a caveat: this is not an officially supported method and can result in a ban. Various third-party apps (mostly for Android platforms) let you game the platform and produce coins for free. TikTok has begun to crack down on these tools, and many people are temporarily or permanently banned from using them. Since coins are the in-app currency, using these tools is essentially theft or fraud.

The TikTok Coin Adder is one tool. Enter your username, choose the coins you want to add and follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll be asked to download apps and create accounts on both, after which you’ll be rewarded with TikTok coins.

There are others, but several requested a username and a password and were clear phishing attempts. You’re free to make your own decision, but we advise against using third-party coin generators.

While there’s no surefire way to get TikTok coins for free, the best bet is to just participate. Don’t worry about getting coins – just have fun using TikTok and participating in the community.

The post Top 4 Ways to Get Free TikTok Coins first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

While almost all games are good, it can be overwhelming to decide what to play. So we’ve put together a list of the best PS Plus Premium games you don’t want to miss. This selection focuses mainly on more modern titles rather than PSP or PS3 games.

Stray

Stray is by far the most recent game on this list. If you haven’t heard of it, you play as a lost cat in a post-apocalyptic city inhabited entirely by robots. Much of the game is about exploring the desolate streets and solving the mystery of what happened to the humans, but you must also find a way back home to your family.

Annapurna Interactive, the publisher behind Stray, is well-known for making out-there games. Still, there’s just something about having a dedicated “meow” button that appeals to the deepest part of any gamer. So if you’re in a slump that Assassin’s Creed Valhalla can’t seem to break, try Stray. It’s a breath of fresh air in a somewhat stale gaming environment.

Returnal

Returnal likes to make you suffer. It’s a Metroidvania that truly earns the title of Souls-like, especially with the high level of difficulty it presents; of course, that’s to be expected in any roguelike game. Returnal is a lot of fun, with tight, intense gameplay that makes the most of the PS5’s haptic feedback. But you will die a lot, and mastering the game means practicing.

Co-op and multiplayer elements, too, can make the game slightly less difficult. Returnal looks better than most, but it can be tough to admire the scenery while running for life. Don’t let the talk of difficulty deter you.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

Final Fantasy VII is one of the most beloved and best games of all time. No one will argue that. The remastered version for PlayStation 5 is even better, especially with the DLC that gives you a glimpse into Yuffie’s story.

Gone are the retro visuals from the original PSOne title, replaced with crisp graphics you’d expect from a PS5 game. Instead, the story is deep and immersive, and the gameplay is a mixture of the real-time and turn-based combat that you’d expect from a JRPG. Remaking Final Fantasy VII is one of the best moves Sony could have made, and you owe it to yourself to try it out.

Fallout 76

The MMO equivalent of Fallout is free to play for fans with a PlayStation Plus account. Sure, while the game might have been a disaster when it was released, Bethesda has put a ton of work into revamping it into something worth trying out. Daily events, a vast amount of content, and a brand-new world to explore make Fallout 76 a game you should play.

It’s part of the PS Plus Extra tier. You won’t get anything besides the game (although there is a game-specific subscription you can pay for), but if you get a few friends together, Fallout 76 will provide you with hours of fun.

Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds is a standout story. You take the role of an unnamed character stuck in a time loop, and you have a few minutes each play session to explore the universe around you before the star you’re orbiting goes supernova. Each bit of information you learn can be used in the following sequences, saving you time. It’s reminiscent of Nintendo’s Majora’s Mask.

It’s a fun, unique experience among games. It won’t take long to beat, but that makes it the perfect game to play between longer titles like God of War or Guardians of the Galaxy.

Shenmue 3

If you’re an older gamer, you remember the Shenmue series. It first got its start on Dreamcast, and its gameplay is similar to the Yakuza games of today. Shenmue 3 is the last in the series and a solid conclusion to a beloved cult classic. While it still feels a little dated compared to modern games, if you’ve played the first few Shenmue games, you should play Shenmue 3 just to finish the series.

Plus, it’s just a fun game with a great story. Of course, the gameplay is important, but sometimes a great story is all you need.

Moonlighter

Moonlighter is an indie title that takes inspiration from old classic games. There are more Legend of Zelda references than you can shake a stick at. The gameplay is a shop simulator; you dive into the dungeon, collect loot, and then sell it to your store’s customers. You must figure out prices, keep an eye out for thieves, and deal with low stock.

It’s a short game, no more than nine hours – but you will love every second of it. It’s a lot of fun and a great departure from the more traditional gameplay style in titles like Warhammer: Chaosbane.

The new tiers of PlayStation Plus come with an impressive games list, but sometimes the best games are those that are sometimes overlooked. Next time you find yourself in a gaming slump, try one of these seven titles.

The post The Best Playstation Plus Premium Games You Don’t Want to Miss first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

You can download some of these titles and play them directly, but you can only stream others. Either way, it’s a great chance to revisit older favorites that never received a remake or remaster. These are some of the best PlayStation 2 games available now.

Dark Cloud 2

Dark Cloud 2 was the follow up to the critically acclaimed Dark Cloud, but it sets itself apart in many ways. First, the Invention System takes the classic JRPG system of searching for new items and gives it a twist; instead of trying to find new weapons, you make them yourself. The system lets you make hundreds of different items.

Dark Cloud 2 offers players more than 100 hours of gameplay, and now it also includes a Trophy system and uprendering to make it look just as great now as it did when it was first released years ago. It’s included with the PS Plus Premium subscription, but you can also pick it up for just $14.99 if you don’t want to pay for a subscription service.

Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus is from the studio behind Ico, one of the most iconic games in the PlayStation 2 library. The storytelling is incredible, especially for a game with so few lines of dialogue. Instead, the atmosphere tells the story: a kingdom fallen to ruin, inhabited by massive beings just as beautiful as they are deadly. Your goal is to take down the creatures by any means necessary, typically traversing their bodies to reach the weak points as they do everything to swat you off.

Shadow of the Colossus was a game unlike anything made before it was first released, and many titles have drawn inspiration from the game. It’s worth a revisit now, especially if you consider video games to be art pieces in and of themselves. If you played The Last Guardian, it owes much of what it is to Shadow of the Colossus.

Final Fantasy X

While the Final Fantasy series has always been popular, Final Fantasy X and the success of the PlayStation 2 launched the franchise to another level. Final Fantasy X and its spin-off/sequel Final Fantasy X-2 are available as part of the PlayStation Plus Extra tier. While this is the upgraded PS4 version of the game, it maintains the original spirit of the PS2 version – it just looks better.

Explore the world as Tidus and experience the glory of the Sphere Grid (one of the Final Fantasy franchise’s best level-up systems) as you fight to defeat Sin. It’s a touching story with genuinely excellent music. Of course, if FFX isn’t your favorite, you can also play the original Final Fantasy VII as part of the PS Plus Extra tier.

Rogue Galaxy

Seriously: space pirates, anime-style graphics, and open world gameplay? Rogue Galaxy is basically Treasure Planet: the Game, and what a game it is. It might be closely related to Dark Cloud – there are a lot of rumors that Rogue Galaxy is the finished product of the development of Dark Cloud 3.

If you like innovative JRPGs, Rogue Galaxy is a must-play title. Combat is real-time, and there’s no loading time between exploration and combat. Everything flows seamlessly from one to another, and the Revelation Flow system is reminiscent of the Sphere Grid in many ways. Oh, and the cartoon visuals make it a unique experience that ages much better than more polygonal titles.

Jak Trilogy

This one is cheating a little bit, especially since it’s multiple games at once – but no self-respecting gamer should miss out on Jak and Daxter and the subsequent titles. They hail from the age of mascot platformers that dominated the early 2000s, but they’re also some of the best Sony-exclusive titles. This isn’t a game you’ll not find on Xbox Game Pass.

The Jak Trilogy follows Jak, an elf-like creature, as he attempts to reverse an experiment gone wrong on his best friend – an experiment that turned him into a little weasel. The three are a mix of puzzle solving and sci-fi action games and are well worth spending a weekend playing.

Devil May Cry

All of your favorite action games, from Batman to Miles Morales, owe a debt of gratitude to the originals. The Devil May Cry franchise paved the way for modern action games unlike anything before them and packed to the brim with fast-paced gunslinging and exploration. You play as the demon hunter Dante as he fights hordes of demons and overcomes some serious daddy issues.

The first three games are included in the Devil May Cry collection on PlayStation Plus. They’re not long games – about seven hours each – but you will have a blast with the experience. Pun intended. If you haven’t played these before, give them a shot and see how you like them, then check out the next two entries in the franchise.

Wild Arms 3

Wild Arms has always been a bit of an outlier – a cult classic game among a swarm of much more popular RPGs. It’s set on a desert planet with western motifs, so if you’re looking for a break from the usual fantasy, this is one you don’t want to miss. One of the unique elements is the map. Rather than opening up as you find new locations, you have to ask and search using a built-in GPS.

There’s a deep, rich story to the game, which you can explore over the 30.5 hour main story, although you can expect 50+ hours of gameplay if you try to complete everything. If you like RPGs, check this one out.

The PlayStation 2 might not have been home to many indie games, but it did have a massive number of blockbuster titles that modern gaming distinctly lacks. The good news is that you can play them all on your PlayStation 5 through the new PS Plus tiers, and you should take advantage of that chance.

The post The 7 Best PlayStation 2 Games on PlayStation Plus first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

You can encounter Hulu code 94 on almost any streaming device, including Apple TV, Xbox One, and Android TVs. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do to fix Hulu error code 94.

What Is Hulu Error 94?

Hulu error 94 occurs when your internet connection is intermittent or slow. Secondly, outdated software or device incompatibility can trigger it.

How to Fix Hulu Error 94

There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue.

Restart Hulu

The easiest method is to close Hulu and restart it. Most of the time, you select Hulu and close the application. In some instances, though, it’s not that easy. The Fire TV Stick comes to mind.

• Open Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications > Hulu > Force Stop.

Shutting down and restarting apps varies depending on your device, but they all follow a similar method.

Power Cycle Your Device

No matter what you’re watching Hulu on, whether a smart TV, Firestick, or another device, there’s an easy solution: power cycle your device. You can clear any internal memory and reboot the Hulu app by turning it off and back on again. Remember to also power cycle your router during this process.

Disable Your VPN

If you use a VPN to watch Hulu content in another country, try disabling it. While more secure VPNs often cause issues with loading streaming services.

Check Another Streaming Service

As annoying as it is when Hulu doesn’t work, check that other services are working before you dive into any more complicated steps. If the problem lies in your internet connection, work on fixing that before you clear your cache, uninstall the app, or any other troubleshooting step that takes time.

Alternatively, perform a speed test. You might have difficulty streaming content if your Internet speed is below the recommended speeds of at least 3.0 Mbps for the basic library (or 16.0 Mbps for 4K content). That said, Hulu does say that viewers can possibly stream with reduced quality at speeds as low as 1.5 Mbps.

Clear Your Cache

If you’re watching Hulu through your web browser, the problem might lie in a corrupt cache. If you clear your cache, it can solve a lot of issues that might arise through Hulu. Each browser has its method for clearing the cache, but here’s how to do it in Chrome.

1. Select the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and then select More Tools > Clear Browsing Data.
2. Make sure Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data is selected.
3. Select Clear data.

Once you do this, your cache will be clean. While you’ll have to re-login to websites and services, it’s an easy fix for many glitches.

Clear Your App Cache

You can clear your app cache if error 94 occurs while watching Hulu on a mobile device. Android and iOS differ in how you do this, but a clear cache acts like the app is brand-new on your device. When you relaunch it, you’ll have to log back in. Here’s how to clear it on iOS:

1. Open Settings > General.

2. Select iPhone Storage > Hulu.
3. Select Offload App.

If prompted, confirm your choice. This will remove all data relating to Hulu from your phone but won’t delete the app. It will take slightly longer to boot next time as it reinstalls the necessary background files, but it will hopefully start without the error.

Uninstall and Reinstall the Hulu App

Another common problem lies in an outdated application. If you haven’t updated the Hulu application in a while, then try removing the app entirely by uninstalling it from your device and downloading the latest version of the software.

(Note: you can also avoid doing this as long as you make it a point to check for updates.)

Update Your Device Software

Performing routine Hulu updates is essential, but you must also remember to update your streaming devices. Even something as small as a missed Windows 10 update can interfere with streaming, especially if the update involves your GPU or drivers.

Software and hardware updates ensure continued compatibility between your device and other services. There are different ways to look for updates depending on your device. Here’s how to do it for Roku.

1. Select Settings > System > System Update.
2. Select Check Now.

If an update is available, Roku will give you the option to download it. While most hardware updates are applied automatically, if the device has been disconnected for an extended period of time, you might have to perform a manual update.

Hulu has quite a few error codes, but don’t worry – so do most streaming services. These codes are just a way of pinpointing what’s causing a problem, even if some of the codes are vague and can be caused by a variety of different sources. So just follow these steps to get back to binge-watching How I Met Your Mother (and yes, it’s okay to skip the last season).

The post How to Fix Hulu Error 94 on Your Devices first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Now, jobs for teens aren’t limited to traditional jobs. They can find jobs in data entry, as customer service representatives, as lifeguards, and more. The internet makes looking for job opportunities easier than ever before and gives teens the chance to earn real-world work experience.

Snag

Snag was once known as Snagajob. It’s an excellent tool for teenage job seekers. While anyone can use the tool, it specifically has a module built for teen job seekers. You can search by zip code, too. Jobs are tagged as full-time, part-time, and/or teen, making it easy to see which positions might be right for you at a glance.

All teens have to do is enter their zip code and a keyword relating to their job. They can then filter by the menu options at the top of the screen.

Hire Teen

Hire Teen is a service aimed specifically at teenage workers, offering employment in various categories. Teens can search by keyword, city, and state, and age, or they can specifically look for jobs in their age range. For example, jobs for 15 year olds might include food service, camp counselors, dishwashers, and more.

Teens can also search by categories that include amusement parks, government agencies, restaurants, retail stores, and even modeling jobs for teens. Taking an entry-level job helps build up experience for post-graduate employment.

Teens4Hire

Teens4Hire is a site aimed at helping people aged 14 to 19 find seasonal, volunteer, or part-time jobs. High schoolers have to register with an account. Employers also have to register to list jobs online. It also has information tools for preparing for interviews and impressing in the office.

Recruiters can use the site as a way to find prospective employees, too. Teens4Hire is an organization, which means many of its staff work on a volunteer basis with the interest of kids at heart.

Survey Junkie

If you aren’t looking for a traditional job, then Survey Junkie might offer a solution. It’s like an online job; teens sign up and build a profile, after which the site matches them with surveys that best fit them. Completed surveys are worth a certain amount of points, which they can redeem for PayPal or gift cards. No bank account is required.

There are articles on how to monetize social media accounts, as well as how to seek out self-employment. If you’re trying to get a job, but none of the standard job listings seem right, then Survey Junkie offers an alternative.

Summer Jobs

As the name implies, Summer Jobs aims to connect people with potential seasonal work. This is ideal for minors who might not qualify for jobs in other fields, but it’s an easy way to get work as a lifeguard or summer camp counselor. Sometimes, summer jobs can even entail babysitting for a working family or just mowing the lawn for nearby businesses.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a social media platform broken down by neighborhoods and zip codes. You must prove you live in a specific area to take advantage of the platform. If you have extra-curricular activities or other responsibilities that get in the way of the job search, NextDoor is an easy way to find odd jobs to earn a little extra cash.

Anyone interested in finding work on NextDoor can post in the For Sale & Free section of the site or make a general post in their neighborhood with the services they’re offering.

Fiverr

Fiverr is an online freelance website where vendors can offer services of nearly any kind, from drawing and animation to programming and writing. You can even offer online tutoring. Fiverr is an excellent choice for teens because the age requirement is only 13, unlike other freelance outlets like Upwork.

At a time when traditional job openings might not suit the specific type of job a teen is looking for, freelance options are the way to go. Fiverr also has a mobile app on which a teen can track their work. In addition, freelance work can help build up an impressive portfolio that someone can use in the future when applying for a more traditional job title.

The post The 7 Best Sites With Lists of Jobs for Teenagers first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

The good news is that you can remove TikTok watermarks from videos and reupload them to other locations. It’s not always that straightforward, though. You have to have the right tools, or you can distort your video and make them unwatchable.

Why Can’t You Crop Out a TikTok Watermark?

A quick web search will show a common advice thread: “Just use a video editing tool and crop out the watermark.” That doesn’t work, though. At one time, TikTok watermarks might have remained in the same location in the video, but now the watermarks move periodically to different parts of the frame.

While you could individually crop the watermark according to its timestamp, the result would be nearly unwatchable. Instead, you need proper tools to help remove the watermark without destroying your carefully-created video.

How to Save a TikTok Video

Not sure how to save a TikTok video? It’s easy.

1. Open TikTok.
2. Open the video you want to save. Near the bottom right corner of the screen, select the Share button.

3. Select Save Video. The icon looks like a download button.

After you do this, the video will be saved to your camera roll or in your Photos app. You’ll receive a version of the video with the TikTok logo. Unfortunately, you can’t download the original video.

How to Remove a TikTok Watermark

There are a lot of ways to remove a TikTok watermark.

Use a Service Like MusicalDown

What’s better than removing a TikTok watermark? Never having to deal with one in the first place. Numerous websites make it possible to download TikTok videos without a watermark, bypassing the entire need to find a way to remove the videos. You’ll access these tools through your web browser.

MusicalDown is simple to use. Just enter the link to the TikTok video, and you can download the video file, perfectly ready to be re-uploaded somewhere else (like Instagram). You can also use SnapTik or any of a half-dozen other websites.

Use an App

If you want to edit videos directly from your phone, there are plenty of watermark remover tools on both the App Store and the Google Play Store. Most apps are targeted toward Windows and Android devices, but there are a few options for iOS and iPhone users. Be warned that not all the apps are free, though – and if TikTok changes the way its rendering algorithm works in the future, these apps might not be able to remove the watermark.

There are numerous examples of these apps. If you’re on an iPhone, look for VideoEraser or Media.io. Windows and Mac users can use Wondershare UniConverter. Android users have many options, but FilmoraGo is one of the best options.

Resize the Video

One thing you can do is resize your TikTok video. Note that this will cut out a tremendous amount of the footage and reduce the overall quality, so don’t do this for anything that needs the full frame. However, this can work if you just want to capture a specific moment from a video and don’t care about the edge details.

Though it’s called resizing, a better term is cropping. By cutting off the exterior edges of the video, you eliminate all the areas where the watermark might appear.

Create Your Own Video Outside TikTok

While saving someone else’s video and removing the watermark is difficult, you can create the video and then upload it to TikTok with almost all the same benefits. Numerous creator tools are available, but one of the best is CapCut.

It lets you create numerous projects and gives access to a vast suite of editing tools. For example, you can create fantastic videos for TikTok and then just upload that same video to other social media platforms. Assuming you don’t re-download it from TikTok before uploading it, you won’t have any watermark to deal with (except at the last frame, when the CapCut logo appears.)

Downloading TikTok videos without watermarks isn’t easy, but there are steps you can take to save TikTok videos to watch later. Best of all, you can do it using free tools that won’t destroy the video’s aspect ratio and spoil the fun.

The post How to Remove a TikTok Watermark first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

Can You See Who Viewed Your TikTok Profile?

Yes, you can—but only if you and the people who view your profile turn on the “Profile view history.”

TikTok’s profile view history feature lets you see accounts that viewed your profile within 30 days. The feature is available to TikTok users aged 16 (or older) with fewer than 5,000 followers.

The number of views you get on your profile is a solid indicator of the kind of social media pull you have. Many views suggest that your TikTok account generates interest or controversy. Only a few views mean you might still have some growing to do.

How to Turn On Profile View History on TikTok

Follow the steps below to turn on profile view history in the TikTok app for Android and iOS:

1. Tap the profile icon in the bottom-right corner.
2. Tap the hamburger or 3-line menu icon in the top-right corner and select Settings and privacy.
3. Select Privacy.

4. Tap Profile views and toggle on the Profile view history option.

How to See Who Viewed Your TikTok Profile

Now that you’ve turned on profile view history follow the steps below to see users who viewed your TikTok profile in the past 30 days.

1. Open your profile page in the TikTok app.
2. Tap the footsteps or profile icon in the top-right corner to see your profile viewers.

Think of TikTok’s “Profile view history” feature as a two-way street. Only users with “Profile view history” enabled in their account settings will appear in your profile view history. So, if someone turns off “Profile view history” on their device, TikTok won’t show that they visited your profile.

Also, if you visit someone’s profile and you both have “Profile view history” enabled, they’ll see that you viewed their profile. They won’t know when you visit their profile if they don’t have the feature turned on.

Can You See Who Viewed Your TikTok Videos?

You can see who viewed your TikTok videos by turning on “Post view history” in your account settings. The feature provides information about users who viewed your posts within seven days.

With post view history, TikTok will show views from your followers and users who don’t follow you. However, to see views from your followers, they must also have “post view history” turned in their account settings. Otherwise, TikTok won’t let you know that they viewed your post.

Additionally, turning on post view history notifies your followers that you viewed their post—if they also turn on post view history.

Post view history is turned off by default and only available to users aged 16 with less than 5,000 followers. Follow the steps below to turn on profile view history in the TikTok app for Android and iOS.

How to Turn on Post View History on TikTok

1. Tap the Profile icon in the bottom-right corner.
2. Next, tap the hamburger or 3-line menu icon in the upper-right corner and select Settings and privacy.
3. Tap Privacy.

3. Tap Post views and and toggle on Post view history.

Find Viewers Through Post Engagement (Likes, Comments, or Favorites)

Post view history isn’t available to users below 16 years old or users with over 5,000 followers. There’s a workaround, though—deducing post viewers from likes, shares, comments, and favorites. Whoever liked your video or left a comment must have first viewed the video in question, right?

While this is a valid alternative, it’s not the best or most accurate way to determine who viewed your posts. That’s because some users might view your post without liking or commenting.

Enabling “Post view history” is the best way to find users in this category. If the feature isn’t available in your app, you’ll find some viewers in the post/video engagement tab.

1. Open your profile page in the TikTok app and select a video or story.
2. Tap the view count in the bottom-right corner.
3. Check the Comments, Likes, and Views tabs to see users who viewed and engaged your post.

4. Return to your TikTok profile, open the Inbox tab, and tap Activities.
5. Expand the View all drop-down button to see users who added your videos to Favorites.

Choose Who Can View Your TikTok Videos

TikTok allows you to change the privacy settings for new and old videos. Make your story or videos private if you want only specific users to view them.

Change Who Can Watch Your Old/Published TikTok Videos

1. Open your profile and select the video you want to make private.
2. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the bottom-right corner and select Privacy settings.
3. Choose Friends to allow only your followers to watch the video. Select Only me to make the video inaccessible to your followers and other users.

Change Who Can Watch Your Old/Published TikTok Stories

1. Open your profile and select a story you have already posted.
2. Tap Settings in the bottom-right corner. Alternatively, tap the three-dot menu icon in the bottom corner and select Settings.
3. Choose your preferred privacy settings—Friends (followers you follow back) or Only me (just you).

Choose Who Can Watch Unpublished TikTok Videos

1. Create the video you want to post and tap Everyone can view on the post screen.
2. Choose if you want to share the post with Everyone, Friends (followers you follow back), or Only you.

Choose Who Can Watch Unpublished TikTok Stories

1. Create the story you want to post and tap Next.
2. Tap Everyone can view this post and choose who can view the story.

Summarily, turning on “Profile view history” lets you see who visits your TikTok profile. With the “Post view history” setting, you can see TikTok users and followers who viewed your posts.

Remember that profile view history is available for up to 30 days, while TikTok only displays post view history for the previous seven days.

Learn More About Viewers Using Analytics

TikTok’s Analytics tool provides detailed insight about your followers and viewers—location/territories, age, gender, etc. With Analytics, you’ll also get insights on your posts—traffic source type, total play times, shares, etc.

Analytics is turned off by default, so you must manually activate the tool to access these insights.

1. Tap the menu icon in the top-right of your TikTok profile and tap Creator tools.

2. Select Analytics and tap the Turn on button.

TikTok takes about 48 hours to populate insights about your content, followers, and viewers after turning on Analytics. Check back in two days to view your TikTok account analytics.

The post How to See Who Viewed Your TikTok Profile and Videos first appeared on Online Tech Tips.

This is most readily apparent in the Meta Quest headset, though. Apps like Horizon Worlds have brought virtual workforces closer together and allow you to attend meetings in VR, eliminating much of the isolation and solitude of working from home. Even if you don’t use the Meta Quest 2 headset for that purpose, many productivity apps are still available to streamline your workflow.

1. VSpatial

VSpatial is about the closest app to a real-life JARVIS that exists. It allows users to create an infinite number of virtual desktops and virtual monitors. There are also a host of screen-sharing features that let you show your coworkers precisely what you’re doing.

The ability to connect to your PC means you can take full advantage of its power through the Meta Quest 2, making this an ideal way to do high-intensity work like video and image rendering. There are even entertainment options available within VR, like a basketball hoop you can throw to while you think about your next move. It’s not a full VR game (probably best for productivity), but still a good way to kill time.

2. Gravity Sketch

Do you work in a creative-focused field? Gravity Sketch works like a scaled-down CAD program that allows you to create 3D models within VR, capture concept art, and much more. It’s an excellent way to depict your creations within a virtual whiteboard or set them against a background to visualize the result better.

Gravity Sketch offers six different creation tools and three geometry types: Mesh, NURBS, and SubD. Unlimited layers, custom environments, and much more are available to you. Best of all, it’s a free platform. Try it out and see if it’s right for you.

3. Horizon Workrooms

The Horizon Workrooms beta is a way of bringing remote teams back together from anywhere in the world. You set up a “room,” just a virtual office, and your coworkers’ avatars can sit across from you. You can bring images and resources into the virtual space, display them on the whiteboard, and even connect remotely to your computer.

While Horizon Workrooms still has room for improvement, it’s off to a great start. The ability to join meetings through a video call on your mobile device if you don’t have VR makes it accessible for everyone. It’s the promise of the Metaverse rolled into an app, and you can even enable passthrough just enough to see your keyboard, making for a mixed reality experience. Horizon Workrooms is also designed to work with hand tracking for better productivity.

4. Noda

Noda is a brainstorming app that tries to create the sensation of standing inside your own mind. You create “nodes” – individual points of interest from which you can branch. For example, you could create a node for “nouns.” From that node, you make three branching nodes for “person,” “place,” and “things.” Then from the “person” node, you create more branches for “George Washington” and “Barack Obama.”

Noda has a free plan that lets you create a limited number of rooms and node systems, and it limits the amount of voice to text that’s available to you. Typing in Noda uses the virtual keyboard that you have to point and click to use, so it’s not an ideal option. If you need more voice-to-text, you’ll need to sign up for one of their subscription plans.

The good news is that the free plan gives you enough of an idea of how the app works to determine if it’s the right choice for you or not.

5. Immersed

When it’s still somewhat iffy to spend a lot of time in coffee shops, many people miss the experience. Immersed places you in a completely virtual workspace while giving you access to multiple virtual screens, along with the ability to bring your keyboard into VR.

It’s perfect for solo work, but you can also use Immersed to interact with your team in a real-time conference room. Multiple monitors are a fantastic way to see more information at once. Immersed is a free application, but you can pay for the Elite version to access a larger workspace with more screens and whiteboards.

6. ShapesXR

ShapesXR is designed for collaboration with your team – specifically, for pitching 3D ideas and models in an easier-to-understand way. This tool is handy for VR and AR content designers, and it also works with multiple game engines so you can explore immersive content in its concept form.

While not as detailed as something created in Maya or Unity, ShapesXR lets you lay the groundwork. You can then export from VR, through the Web, and with plugins. It’s ideal for early planning. ShapesXR is free, but there are in-app purchases you can invest in to expand its functionality and capabilities further.

There are a lot of different apps available on Quest, and some are more niche than others. However, between the ones listed here and those on the way and apps available through platforms like SteamVR via Air Link, there is virtually no end to the amount of work you can get done while wearing a headset.

If you plan to be in virtual reality for long periods, you might want to invest in a more comfortable head strap and an additional battery. Consider a Bluetooth keyboard that works within VR, too – one with low latency to prevent typing errors.

In-app integrations make it easy to use your favorite tools, even if they’re exclusive to Apple or Microsoft, without ever leaving your VR space. Moreover, many of these tools work cross-platform, so it doesn’t matter what your VR platform of choice is. Whether you use the Meta Quest 2 or something like the HTC Vive, you can still work together with people across the globe.

The post 6 Best Meta Quest 2 Productivity Apps first appeared on Online Tech Tips.