iPhone Life - Best Apps, Top Tips, Great Gear

A quick and fun way to delete e-mail messages (in the list view of a folder) is to simply swipe your finger across it (in either direction). A red Delete button will appear to the right of the message to confirm the deletion. If you change your mind, you can tap anywhere outside the button to cancel the action. This finger swiping action lets you delete items in a number of the built-in applications.

If you are not using a Microsoft Exchange push e-mail service, you can configure your iPhone to “Auto-Check” for new e-mail messages every 15, 30, or 60 minutes, or Manual. To set Auto-Check:

1. Go to the Home screen
2. Tap on the Settings icon
3. Select Mail at the bottom of the screen.
4. Auto-Check is below the Accounts section.

NOTE: The more frequently the iPhone auto-checks for e-mail, the more battery power you use. Set the time higher or set it to Manual to conserve battery power.

To erase all the content on your iPhone or iPod touch, including e-mail, Contacts, media content, and Settings, go to:

1. Settings
2. General
3. Reset
4. Erase All Content and Setttings

After you confirm the erase with two taps, your device will delete everything (which takes a few moments) and then reset itself.

You have the option of locking your SIM card so that it can’t be used by other phones. To do this, go to Settings >Phone >SIM PIN, tap the On button, enter a passcode, and tap Done. Note that if you set a passcode, you must enter it every time you power on your iPhone.

If your iPhone locks up or stops working for any reason other than a low battery, you’ll need to reboot it. This is analogous to turning your desktop or laptop computer off and on again, and it clears up a lot of problems. Press and hold down the Sleep/Wake button on the top edge of the device and the Home button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Then release both buttons and wait until the Home screen appears.

The iPhone is covered by a one-year limited warranty that covers it against defect, but not misuse. So, for example, if you bounce it off the wall or throw it on the ground, you’re responsible for the damages. In addition, if you hack the device, open up the case, or make unauthorized repairs, you void the warranty. You can extend the iPhone limited warranty for an additional year for $69 ($59 for the iPod touch). Repair for an iPhone not covered by a warranty will cost you $200-$250 plus shipping ($150-$250 plus shipping for the iPod touch).

Battery replacement kits with instructions and tools are available for both the iPhone and the iPod touch. This approach is usually less expensive than sending the device in to Apple or AT&T, but if you do it yourself, you’ll void your warranty. A Google search will help you find instructions.