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iOptimize

iOptimize is a recurring Digital Trends series dedicated to helping Apple users get more out of their devices. From hidden iPhone features and smarter Mac workflows to standout apps, overlooked tools, and productivity-enhancing tricks, the series explores practical ways to improve the everyday Apple experience.

Nadeem Sarwar
Nadeem Sarwar
Managing Editor
Sleep record in Apple Watch Series 11.

I hated sleeping with my Apple Watch, but science just changed my mind in two ways

A new study just found a link between bedtime disciple and two serious ailments. Turns out, my Apple Watch has been logging it automatically for months.
Wearables
Nadeem Sarwar
Running Loook app on Mac

I found a Mac app to take care of my health, and it’s a godsend for all desk warriors

An app to fix your posture, gaze, stress, and water intake – in the most minimalist way possible? That's what Loook is all about.
Computing
Nadeem Sarwar
Loopty app switcher for Mac

I found a Mac tool that you’ll love as a sleeker dock with extra tricks

If you're ever wished to replace the Mac's dock with something more functional and less drab, Loopty is the free app that will answer your productivity prayers in impressive style.
Computing
Nadeem Sarwar
IPhone 17 Pro in a hand

I turned the Notes app on my iPhone into a ChatGPT-powered memory bank

There's a smarter way to save important nuggets of information, and the iPhone already offers the fundamental stack to do it with some AI assistance.
Phones
Nadeem Sarwar
Rear shell of iPhone 17 Pro.

I found how to turn an iPhone camera nuisance into a savior for your snaps

Live Photos is one of the most controversial iPhone camera features, but there's a rescue side to it that can help you click better quality memories in challenging scenarios.
Nadeem Sarwar
AirPods Pro on a trackpad.

I used AirPods for navigation on my Mac and it was an effortless bliss 

ScrollPods lets you scroll up and down on websites and local files by simply using the vertical head gestures as motions cues. It works surprisingly well, too.
Nadeem Sarwar
- SideTab on MacBook Air, running in the sidebar

I put a sidebar on my Mac for focused work, and it also fixed a huge Safari gap

SideTab puts a cluster of frequently-used utilities in a collapsing edge panel. It's fantastic for focused work, but also supercharges the Safari experience if you love Apple's browser.
Nadeem Sarwar
Transparency settings for AirPods Pro.

AirPods Pro are nice, but I tweak these hidden settings to push them even further

The latest generation AirPods Pro sound terrific, but they lack audiophile perks. There are, however, a few tools buried in the Settings app that came as a revelation for my listening experience.
Nadeem Sarwar
Nadeem Sarwar
Nadeem Sarwar
Managing Editor

Nadeem is a tech and science journalist who started reading about cool smartphone tech out of curiosity and soon started writing professionally. His coverage interests lie at the intersection of science, AI, wearables, and how they affect human lives. He is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and regularly interacts with scientists and researchers to simplify the advancements in technology for Digital Trends readers.

Aside from keeping a track of the latest developments in the segment, he also tests out the newest gizmos, serves hot opinions about disastrous product decisions, and talks to smarter people for stories that connect tech with our lives.

His work has appeared at reputed outlets like WIRED, Slate, MIT’s Undark, Rest Of World, Al-Jazeera, and NDTV, among others. When he’s not busy furiously typing on his precious mechanical keyboard, he likes to play Doom Eternal and cook weird delicacies.