Technology is an integral part of our lives, but how well do we understand it? There are many myths and misconceptions about how technology works, what it can and cannot do, and who can or cannot work in tech. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common tech myths and provide some clarity and facts.
Myth 1: Mac computers can’t get viruses
Many people believe that Apple computers are immune to malware, and that only Windows PCs are vulnerable to viruses. This is not true. Apple computers can also get infected by malicious software, and they have been targeted by hackers in the past. For example, in 2012, a Trojan affected thousands of Mac computers. Apple used to claim that its computers were more secure than Windows PCs, but it changed its marketing language after this incident.
The truth is that no computer system is completely safe from malware, and that users should always take precautions to protect their devices and data. This includes installing antivirus software, updating the operating system and applications regularly, avoiding suspicious links and attachments, and backing up important files.
Myth 2: Closing apps on your iPhone saves battery life
Another common myth is that closing apps on your iPhone will extend its battery life. Many people swipe away all the apps running in the background on their iPhone, thinking that this will prevent them from draining the battery. However, this does not have any effect on the battery life of your iPhone. In fact, it may even make it worse.
According to Apple’s senior vice president of software engineering, Craig Federighi, closing apps on your iPhone is not necessary for battery life. He confirmed this in an email reply to a customer who asked whether he quits his iOS multitasking apps frequently. The reason is that iOS is designed to manage apps efficiently, and it automatically suspends apps that are not in use. When you close an app, you force the system to reload it from scratch when you open it again, which may consume more power than resuming it from the background.
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The truth is that closing apps on your iPhone does not save battery life, and that there are other factors that affect the battery performance of your device. These include the screen brightness, the network signal, the location services, the notifications, and the battery health. To optimize your battery life, you can adjust these settings, use low power mode, or replace your battery if it is degraded.
Myth 3: Private/Incognito browsing keeps you anonymous
Many people use private or incognito mode in their web browsers, thinking that this will keep their online activity secret and anonymous. However, this is not the case. Private or incognito mode only prevents your browser from storing your history, cookies, and cache. It does not hide your identity or activity from the websites you visit, your internet service provider, or anyone else who can monitor your network traffic.
The truth is that private or incognito mode does not make you anonymous online, and that there are other ways to protect your privacy and security on the internet. These include using a virtual private network (VPN), a proxy server, or a Tor browser, which can encrypt and mask your online traffic. However, even these methods are not foolproof, and they may have some drawbacks or limitations. Therefore, you should always be careful about what you do and share online, and read the privacy policies and terms of service of the websites and services you use.
Myth 4: Tech is just an “old boys’ club”
Some people may think that tech is a male-dominated industry, and that women have a hard time breaking into it or advancing in it. While it is true that men are still overrepresented in tech careers, especially in leadership positions, this does not mean that tech is just an “old boys’ club”. There are many women who work in tech, and who are making significant contributions and innovations in various fields of technology.
The truth is that tech is a diverse and inclusive industry, and that it welcomes and benefits from people of different backgrounds, genders, races, and perspectives. Tech is also a dynamic and exciting field that offers many opportunities for learning, growth, creativity, and impact. Women who are interested in tech should not be discouraged by stereotypes or myths, but rather pursue their passions and goals with confidence and determination.
Myth 5: Tech is boring and tied down to an office
Another myth is that tech is a boring and monotonous field, and that tech workers are confined to an office and a computer all day. This is not true. Tech is a vibrant and varied field, and tech workers can have different roles, responsibilities, projects, and environments. Tech workers can also work remotely, travel, collaborate with other professionals, and interact with customers or users.
The truth is that tech is an exciting and rewarding field, and that tech workers can have fun and fulfilling careers. Tech workers can also have a positive impact on society, as they create, improve, or solve problems with technology. Tech workers can also enjoy a good work-life balance, as they can have flexible schedules, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement.
