For many people, Apple devices provide them with a multitude of solutions to handle business and personal tasks whether they are in the comfort of their own home, in their cars or away from the office. Apple's canon of products have created a multitude of platforms that can perform any and all tasks with equal capability. Sending an email from an iPhone is about as easy as doing so some a conventional computer. The capability of these products has made Apple a trusted source for all of one's technological needs.
With the offering of Apple products constantly expanding, finding new ways to link disparate devices is imperative to the success of new technologies like the Apple Watch. The new interface that a smart watch provides users with takes some getting used to. Facilitating user development can be accelerated through the use of Apple's new Handoff feature. Handoff seeks to improve continuity between mobile iOS devices and Mac computers that are used in home and commercial offices. The goal of the new feature is to allow Apple users to access their work from each of their separate devices while reflecting the most current changes made to documents.
Handoff has been integrating into fundamental Apple iOS apps such as Calendar, Contacts, Mail, Maps, Messages, Notes, Reminders, Safari, Pages, Numbers and Keynote. Third party apps have also started to integrate the newest iOS feature into their developmental plans. Pocket, Wunderlist and the New York Times app have already incorporated this tool.
Effectively utilizing Handoff requires a degree of technical expertise. In order to access documents with complete continuity, devices using Handoff must be linked to the same iCloud account, Wi-Fi network and Bluetooth settings. Only iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite have the ability to run the data integration tool. This means that the feature is only applicable to devices that are as current as the iPhone 5, iPad 4 (including the iPad mini) as well as the iPod touch 5.
Bluetooth capabilities are especially important for hosting this new feature. Devices must be able to utilize the Bluetooth Low Energy feature in order to enable Handoff. Apple support services provide IT consulting that can help users navigate their settings to understand which version of iOS is installed as well as the applicable features that are prerequisite for tools like Handoff.
MC Services has provided a tutorial to iOS users who must confirm that their device is integrated with Bluetooth Low Energy:
- Hover over the Apple symbol on the top, right corner of your Mac's menu bar
- Select "About This Mac"
- A new window will appear: click "System Report."
- Click "Bluetooth" in the left column
- Look for the category "Bluetooth Low Energy Supported." Either a Yes or No will follow.
A list of Macs with Bluetooth LE include the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini and Mac Pro. However, the year these devices were manufactured will have ultimately determine whether or not this feature is available. Exploring Bluetooth settings via the aforementioned tutorial is the only sure way to determine whether or not your Mac will be able to support Handoff.
Understanding the nuances of iOS settings is a formidable task for any user, especially those new to the Apple iOS. Coming to understand the impact that particular settings can have on connectivity is important for optimizing the use of Apple devices. The continuity provided by features like Handoff can improve user experiences by seamlessly integrating devices that are used on-site as well as remotely. MC Services provides its customers with Apple support consulting that can allow them to get the most out of any and every product offered by Apple. In doing so, users can improve the impact of these tools on their personal and professional lives.
