how-to
How to Travel Solo During the Pandemic
The way we travel may be changing with the spread of Covid-19, but here are ways to stay informed and stay as safe as possible.
By Anne McCarthy
Now Is a Good Time to Update Your Recovery Email Addresses
You know those “emergency” email addresses you can use to get into your email and other accounts in case you're locked out? Make sure they're up-to-date.
By David Nield
How to Order Your Free At-Home Covid-19 Tests
The US government is finally sending 4 at-home tests to every household. Here's how to get yours, and how to troubleshoot common problems.
By Medea Giordano
How to Shut Up Your Gadgets at Night So You Can Sleep
Cut out the beeps and bloops and get some rest for a change.
By David Nield and Reece Rogers
How to Get Work Done—From Anywhere
These tips and gear will help you maximize productivity from a backpack, airplane, or hotel.
By Leigh Shulman
The Mega-Guide to Fixing Your Own iPhone
Battery not holding a charge? Wi-Fi woes? We break down ways to solve almost any issue you can think of.
By Simon Hill
How to Reboot Your Gadgets and How Often to Do It
Your IT department is right. Turning your electronics off and on again is so helpful that you might want to schedule regular reboots.
By Simon Hill
Reset Your Computer Once a Year for a Happier Life
It's easier than ever to restore your Mac, PC, or Chromebook to factory conditions—and you'll be surprised at how much zip it'll add.
By David Nield and Reece Rogers
6 Ways to Delete Yourself From the Internet
You’ll never be able to get a clean slate—but you can significantly downsize your digital footprint.
By Matt Burgess
How to Send Messages That Automatically Disappear
Need to be discreet? Here's how to set up vanishing texts, photos, or videos in most popular chat apps.
By David Nield and Reece Rogers
How to Delete Your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok
Breaking up is hard to do, especially when it's with one of those oh-so-clingy social networks. Harder yet when there's a deactivation period.
By WIRED Staff
Save Money on Subscriptions Thanks to This iOS Loophole
This is one weird trick, but when it works, it works well and can save you cash on apps.
By Harry Guinness
The Gear You Need to Shoot Indie Films at Home or on Location
Ready to try your hand at filmmaking? You don't need that much to get going, but these items will give you a bit of a head start.
By Eric Ravenscraft
How to Upgrade Your YouTube Recording Setup
Whether you're recording specifically for YouTube or making movies that may just end up there, this gear can help.
By Eric Ravenscraft
How to Set Up Your New Android Phone
Your shiny new gadget will be up and ready in no time with these handy tips.
By Simon Hill and Gear Team
How to Set Up Your New iPhone
Welcome to your new iPhone. Here's how to get the most out of it right out of the box.
By Simon Hill and Brian Barrett
How to Stop Those Annoying Siri Notifications on AirPods
Tired of Apple's voice assistant interrupting your jam sessions? Turn off the feature in a few simple steps.
By Brenda Stolyar
How to Return and Exchange Your Unwanted Gifts or Purchases
You can’t always get what you want. But there are smarter, more sustainable ways to get cash (or store credit) instead.
By Gear Team
19 Surprising Things Your Nintendo Switch Can Do
Did you just get one of Nintendo's three Switch consoles? Here are some of their best (and most secret) abilities!
By Jeffrey Van Camp and Eric Ravenscraft
Snagged a PS5? Here Are Tips for Setting It Up
Here’s how to transfer your data from a PS4, log into a PSN account, set up multiple accounts, and make the most of your new console.
By Eric Ravenscraft
How to Set Up Your New Xbox Series X/S
There are a few things you'll need to do before you can jump right into Halo: Infinite
By Eric Ravenscraft
How to Take a Slick, Professional Headshot With Your Phone
Snapping that perfect self-portrait on your phone is a skill. Here’s how to do it, according to the experts.
By Claire Sibonney
How to Use SharePlay to Virtually Connect With Loved Ones
You can watch movies, listen to a new album, share your screen, or even work out with others on FaceTime through your Apple devices.
By Julian Chokkattu
The Best iPhone 13 Deals—and Which Model to Pick
Get those Apple Wallets ready. From the Mini to the Pro Max, we break down all your options.
By Brenda Stolyar