Stop Chrome Pop-Ups & Redirects for Good

Stop Chrome Pop-Ups & Redirects for Good

Learn how to enforce Chrome’s built-in pop-up and redirect blocker to regain control, eliminate nuisance ads, and stay productive online.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

August 3, 2025

Ever clicked a page only to be launched into a torrent of new tabs, ads or redirects?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Set Chrome's Pop-up and Redirect blocker.

Chrome has a surprisingly capable blocker built in and tweaking the settings can save you from a day of frustration.

What You'll Gain

▸ A calmer, distraction-free browsing experience

▸ Better control over which sites can open pop-ups or redirect you

▸ Protection from some sketchy redirects that mimic play buttons or hidden overlays

Give Your Contacts Nicknames (and Boost Productivity While You’re At It)

Give Your Contacts Nicknames (and Boost Productivity While You’re At It)

Assigning nicknames in your iPhone or Android contacts lets voice assistants and messaging apps use the names you actually use, saving time, reducing confusion, and making interactions feel more human.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

August 2, 2025

Ever whispered “Call Mom” to your phone and watched Siri stumble, or seen “Jonathan Doe” in your message feed when you only think “Jon”? 

It’s jarring and unnecessary. 

Using nicknames in your contacts finally bridges the gap between what you say and what your device displays. 

It’s a small tweak, but for anyone juggling family, clients, or teammates, it pays off in saved taps and reduced friction.

What Is It and Why It Matters

Nickname support in contact cards allows you to store an alternate name that surfaces instead of the full legal name in apps like Messages, Mail, Siri, and Google Assistant. 

For professionals and educators, this means faster recognition (e.g. "Coach" instead of "Ernie Pantusso") and smoother voice‑driven interactions like “Text Boss” or “Call Vera.”

What You’ll Gain

• Save time by using names you actually speak.
• Reduce misdials or message confusion.
• Boost voice‑assistant reliability.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

iOS (iPhone / iPad)

1. Open Contacts, tap a contact, then tap Edit.
2. Scroll and tap Add Field → Nickname; enter your nickname.
3. Go to Settings → Contacts → Short Name and enable Prefer Nicknames.
4. Now in Messages, Mail, and Siri commands like “Call Honest Abe” or “Text Smitty” you’ll see the nickname.

fig. 1 - Add Nickname Field to iPhone Contacts

Android / Google Contacts

1. Open Contacts in Gmail or the Google Contacts app in browser/desktop.
2. Edit the contact; find More fields or Name fields to add a Nickname field.
3. On your phone, open Google Assistant Settings → You → Your People; add that contact, assign relationship and nickname then save (Household contacts must be enabled).
4. Launch voice commands: “Hey Google, call Honest Abe” will match your nickname.

fig. 3 - Add Nickname to Google Contacts

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Makes voice control smoother: devices understand “Mom” or “Coach” right away.
• Cleaner, friendlier message threads and emails.
• Personalizes communication without losing legal names.

Cons:

• iOS doesn’t show nicknames in Phone app caller ID for incoming calls (nicknames appear in Messages/Mail) which some users find inconsistent.
• Android may ignore “File As” or nickname display in some dialers or third‑party apps.
• Requires upkeep: if you change phones or accounts, settings can reset.

Score

Score   Criterion   Justification

Value (8/10): 

Directly solves recognition and voice‑assistant friction in everyday workflows.

Usability (7/10): 

Simple in iOS and Assistant, though setup in Google Contacts and Assistant roles adds friction.

Wow Factor (6/10): 

Not flashy but it’s one of those subtle touches that makes tech feel more personal and intuitive.

Total: 21/30 → 👍 Good. Worth adopting for most users.

Key Takeaways

Using nicknames makes interaction with your phone feel smarter and more natural. 

You spend fewer seconds hunting through real names, and voice commands become more reliable. 

For productivity enthusiasts, it’s a low-effort tweak with notable payoff.

Try It Yourself

Take two minutes: open one contact, add a nickname field, enable the relevant setting and then text or call using that nickname. 

Notice how much more intuitive it feels. 

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READ MORE

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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What Does 50% Chance of Rain Actually Mean?

What Does 50% Chance of Rain Actually Mean?

Confused by your weather app's forecast? Here's the truth about those rain percentages—and why understanding them could change your plans (and your socks).

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 8, 2025

Ever canceled a picnic over a "50% chance of rain", only to see clear skies all day? 

Or risked a morning walk and got drenched under that same 50% forecast? 

If so, you're not alone. That single, slippery percentage confuses millions every day. 

It's one of the most misunderstood figures in modern weather forecasting.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Once you know what it really means, you’ll never look at a rain forecast the same way again.

Search ESRB Game Ratings: A Smart Way to Spot Age-Appropriate Games

Search ESRB Game Ratings: A Smart Way to Spot Age-Appropriate Games

Discover how to quickly check ESRB game ratings, content descriptors, and interactive flags—and why it matters for busy educators, parents, and professionals.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 24, 2025

Ever wondered what “T for Teen” really covers or how to check if a game includes in-game purchases before downloading? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Check the ESRB Ratings site.

With ESRB game ratings easily searchable online, you can get clarity in seconds—not minutes. 

That peace of mind makes all the difference when deciding between a quick educational game or a complex shooter.

What You'll Gain

• Fast lookup of age ratings, content descriptors, and interactive flags
• Save decision-making time with concise game ratings
• Boost confidence: know exactly what’s in the game before download or purchase

Fresh Look, Faster Editing: Google Snapseed 3.0 Lands on iPhone and iPad

Fresh Look, Faster Editing: Google Snapseed 3.0 Lands on iPhone and iPad

What’s changed, how it helps—and why Android users should pay attention.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

June 14, 2025

Ever opened Snapseed on your iPhone lately and wondered if you’d accidentally launched a preview of iOS 26? 

That’s no glitch. 

Here's a Cool Tip: Check out the updated Snapseed photo editor for iPhone and iPads.

Google has given its beloved reactive photo editor—not updated much since 2021—an all‑new face with version 3.0 

We first told you about this amazing photo editing software way back in 2015.

For business users, educators, and productivity enthusiasts who use image editing as part of their workflow, this refresh brings both aesthetic elegance and real efficiency.

Restart Rescue: How to Reboot a Frozen iPhone or Android the Right Way

Restart Rescue: How to Reboot a Frozen iPhone or Android the Right Way

When your phone stops responding, knowing how to restart it properly can save time, stress, and even your data. Here's how to perform both a standard and force restart on iPhone and Android.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 8, 2025

You're mid-call, juggling apps, or just checking your email when your phone suddenly freezes. 

No swipes. 

No taps. 

Just the digital equivalent of a cold stare. 

Before you head to a repair store or panic-reboot your phone 20 times, take a breath. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Force a Restart.

Whether you're using an iPhone or an Android device, there's a correct way to reboot - and knowing the difference between a normal and a force restart is key.

New Power for Siri: How to Add ChatGPT to iOS

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Want a smarter Siri? Apple now lets you integrate ChatGPT with Apple Intelligence, making your iPhone’s assistant more powerful than ever. Here’s how to set it up and why it matters.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 29, 2025

What If Siri Got a Brain Boost?

Imagine asking Siri to summarize a complex article, write an email draft, or generate ideas for your next presentation—and getting a natural, coherent response. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Integrate ChatGPT with Siri.

Apple’s latest innovation—Siri + ChatGPT integration via Apple Intelligence—unleashes a more capable and context-aware assistant. 

With just a few taps, you can upgrade Siri’s skills by enabling access to ChatGPT, giving your iPhone a serious AI IQ boost.

Let’s discover what it is, why it matters, and how to enable it today.

Share with Siri

Share with Siri

Want a super speedy way to share photos with friends and family? Unlock the magic of Siri and discover how effortlessly you can send pictures with just your voice!

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 13, 2025 (originally published May 4, 2023)

Did you know you can use Siri, Apple's Voice Assistant, to share photos to contacts?

You can with this Cool Tip.

To share a photo or your screenshot with a contact:

1. Go to the photo or screen you want to share
2. Say Hey Siri, share this with… and then add the name of your contact.
3. If there is more than one phone number for that contact, Siri will ask you which one you want to send it to.
4. Siri will share the photo or screenshot with your contact!

Simplify Your Search: How Google's New iOS Feature Streamlines Your Mobile Experience

Simplify Your Search: How Google's New iOS Feature Streamlines Your Mobile Experience

The Google iOS app just got a whole lot more user-friendly! The new Simplify feature is designed to cut through the clutter and bring you the information you need, faster than ever.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 8, 2025

Ever stumbled upon a web article filled with technical jargon that left you scratching your head? 

Whether it's medical terminology, legal lingo, or scientific concepts, complex text can be a barrier to understanding.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Google's New Simplify Feature on iPhone.

Google's new Simplify feature for its iOS app declutters the search experience, making it easier and faster to find what you're looking for. 

In today's fast-paced world, time is of the essence. 

How to Use the New Perplexity Voice Assistant on iPhone

How to Use the New Perplexity Voice Assistant on iPhone

Unlock hands-free knowledge with the new Perplexity Voice Assistant for iPhone. Learn how to set it up, use it efficiently, and maximize your productivity with natural voice conversations.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 26, 2025

Have you ever needed quick, reliable information but didn’t have a hand free to type?

Imagine an AI assistant that lets you ask follow-up questions naturally—no repeated prompts or awkward rephrasing.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the new Perplexity AI Voice Assistant on iPhone.

With the new Perplexity Voice Assistant for iPhone, that experience is now at your fingertips (or rather, your voice).

What Is the Perplexity Voice Assistant?

The Perplexity Voice Assistant is a new feature integrated into the Perplexity iOS app, allowing users to ask spoken questions and receive live, research-backed answers.

Unlike basic voice assistants, Perplexity's system actively gathers updated information from across the web, citing credible sources in real-time.

Unlock Serenity with iOS 18.4's Hidden Ambient Music Feature

Unlock Serenity with iOS 18.4's Hidden Ambient Music Feature

Apple's iOS 18.4 introduces a discreet yet powerful Ambient Music feature, offering curated soundscapes directly from the Control Center. Designed to enhance focus, relaxation, and well-being, this feature is accessible to all users without requiring an Apple Music subscription.​

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 24, 2025

In our fast-paced digital age, finding moments of tranquility can be challenging. 

What if your iPhone could serve as a gateway to serenity, offering tailored soundscapes to match your mood or task? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the New Ambient Music in iOS 18.4.

Apple introduces  in iOS 18.4, Ambient Music—a subtle yet impactful feature designed to enhance your daily experience.​

Understanding Ambient Music in iOS 18.4

Unleash Your Inner Trainer: How to Catch Pokémon with Google Search!

Unleash Your Inner Trainer: How to Catch Pokémon with Google Search!

Did you know you can encounter and "catch" Pokémon directly through Google Search? This hidden feature lets you engage with the beloved franchise in a fun, interactive way, right from your browser or mobile device.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 11, 2025

In a world where technology constantly surprises us, Google Search holds more secrets than you might imagine. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Catch Pokémon in Google Search.

Beyond answering your burning questions and directing you to the best websites, Google occasionally hides delightful Easter eggs – and one of the most charming is the ability to "catch" Pokémon. 

Yes, you read that right! 

Forget complex apps and dedicated gaming consoles for a moment. Google Search transforms into a mini Pokémon adventure, offering a unique and nostalgic experience for fans of all ages. 

But how does it work, and what Pokémon are waiting to be discovered?

iOS 18.4 Emoji Update: A Smorgasbord of New Expressions

iOS 18.4 Emoji Update: A Smorgasbord of New Expressions

iOS 18.4 brings a delightful wave of new emojis to iPhones, offering a wider range of expressive options for users to communicate more vividly and authentically. This Cool Tip explores the latest additions, highlights their significance, and shows you how to enjoy them.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

March 10, 2025

Tired of the same old emoji repertoire? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the New Emojis in iOS 18.4!

Apple has answered the call with a vibrant assortment of new emojis in iOS 18.4, injecting fresh life into your digital conversations. 

From playful animals to heartwarming symbols, this update expands the expressive canvas, allowing you to paint your emotions with greater nuance and precision.   

A Closer Look at the New Emoji Lineup

iOS 18.4 introduces a diverse range of new emojis, catering to a wide spectrum of emotions and interests:

How to Set WhatsApp as Your Default Calling and Messaging App on iPhone

How to Set WhatsApp as Your Default Calling and Messaging App on iPhone

iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default calling and texting app, a significant development that could change how we communicate. This Cool Tip explores the implications of this new feature and how to set it up.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

March 30, 2025

Tired of juggling multiple apps just to make a call or send a text on your iPhone? 

What if you could streamline your communication by making your go-to messaging platform the default for everything?

For years, Apple users have been limited to using the built-in Phone app for calls and texts. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Set WhatsApp as Your Default Messaging and Phone App.

However, with the recent iOS and WhatsApp updates, iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default calling and texting app. 

This is a major development that could change the way we communicate, especially for those who rely heavily on WhatsApp for both personal and professional interactions.

Mastering Apple Notes on iPhone: How to Link One Note to Another

Mastering Apple Notes on iPhone: How to Link One Note to Another

Apple Notes for iPhone now supports internal linking between notes—bringing powerful organization tools to your pocket. Here’s how to use this feature to transform your mobile note-taking workflow.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

March 22, 2025

Ever Wished You Could Jump Between Notes on Your iPhone Like a Pro?

You’re not alone. If your Notes app looks like a digital junk drawer—stuffed with ideas, lists, and reminders—it’s time for an upgrade. 

Here's a Cool Tip: Link to Other Notes in Apple Notes.

Apple recently introduced a simple but game-changing feature to the iPhone version of Apple Notes: you can now link directly to another note.

Whether you're a student, a busy professional, or just trying to stay organized, this internal linking feature turns your notes into a connected system—without needing a third-party app like Notion or Evernote.

What Is “Link to a Note” in Apple Notes on iPhone?

“Link to a Note” lets you add clickable hyperlinks inside a note that instantly open another note in your collection. 

3 Best iOS 18 Cool Tips to Enhance Your iPhone Experience

3 Best iOS 18 Cool Tips to Enhance Your iPhone Experience

Discover how these 3 iOS 18's Cool Tips can transform your daily interactions with your iPhone.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

March 6, 2025

In today's fast-paced digital world, staying updated with the latest technological advancements is crucial. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try these 3 Cool Tips.

Apple's iOS 18 introduces a suite of features designed to elevate user experience, making daily tasks more intuitive and engaging. 

Here are three standout Cool Tips that every iPhone user should explore:​

Forget the Buttons! Power Off Your iPhone from Control Center

Forget the Buttons! Power Off Your iPhone from Control Center

Tired of fumbling with buttons to power off your iPhone? With iOS 18, you can now turn off your iPhone from the Control Center, making the process faster and easier. 

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

February 22, 2025

Ever found yourself fumbling with button combinations just to turn off your iPhone?

Turning off your iPhone has traditionally required a series of button presses—a process that, while effective, can be cumbersome. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the new Power Off button in the Control Center.

With the advent of iOS 18, Apple has introduced a simple and elegant solution.

The Control Center serves as a centralized hub for accessing essential features and settings on your iPhone. 

In iOS 18, Apple added a "Power Off" button.

Unveiling iOS 18's Enhanced Reader Feature: A Seamless Reading Experience

Unveiling iOS 18's Enhanced Reader Feature: A Seamless Reading Experience

Apple's iOS 18 enhances Safari's Reader feature, providing users with a streamlined, distraction-free reading environment. The update introduces a table of contents and high-level summaries for longer articles, allowing readers to grasp key points before delving deeper. 

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

February 13, 2025

Have you ever clicked on an article, only to be bombarded by autoplay videos, sign-in prompts, and endless ads? 

Such distractions not only disrupt the reading flow but can also deter users from engaging with valuable content. 

Here's a Cool Tip: Try the improved Reader feature in iOS18 for iPhone.

With iOS 18, Apple addresses these pain points by enhancing Safari's Reader mode, ensuring that users can access content in its purest form.

In today's digital age, the abundance of online content can often be overshadowed by intrusive ads, pop-ups, and cluttered interfaces. 

The Reader feature in Safari reformats web pages to display only the essential text and images, eliminating unnecessary elements like navigation menus, ads, and pop-ups. 

Apple's New 'Invites' App Revolutionizes Event Planning

Apple's New 'Invites' App Revolutionizes Event Planning

Apple has unveiled 'Invites,' a groundbreaking app designed to streamline event planning by offering customizable invitations, seamless RSVP tracking, and collaborative features, all within the Apple ecosystem.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

February 6, 2025

Have you ever found yourself juggling multiple apps and platforms just to organize a simple gathering? 

In today's digital age, coordinating events often involves a maze of tools and communications. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the new Apple Invites App.

Apple has introduced 'Invites,' an innovative application aimed at simplifying the event planning process.

Get Better Sleep with Your Smartphone’s Sleep Mode

Get Better Sleep with Your Smartphone’s Sleep Mode

In our hyper-connected world, smartphones often hinder our sleep quality. However, leveraging your device's built-in Sleep Mode can transform it into a tool for better rest. This Cool Tip explores how to utilize Sleep Mode to enhance your sleep hygiene.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

February 4, 2025

Do you often wake up groggy from late-night notifications? 

Are you constantly checking your phone when you should be sleeping?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Sleep Mode.

Sleep Mode, also known as Bedtime Mode on some devices, is a feature designed to minimize smartphone-induced sleep disruptions. 

It typically silences notifications, dims the display, and reduces blue light emission, creating a more sleep-conducive environment. 

By limiting disturbances and exposure to stimulating content, Sleep Mode helps users wind down and maintain healthier sleep patterns.