5 BEST WALLPAPER APPS FOR YOUR IPHONE

There are numerous ways to personalize your iPhone, whether it’s by adding widgets to your lock screen, assigning custom ringtones for different contacts, or using unique icons on your home screen. But the easiest and quickest way to give your phone a fresh appearance is by changing your wallpaper. While the iPhone comes with a good variety of default wallpapers—some of which change color based on the time of day—you have even more options to explore. Best wallpaper apps

You can use any photo from your gallery as your wallpaper. However, while some people take beautiful photos themselves, many of us prefer to look for wallpapers elsewhere. You might use Pinterest or find images on Google, but these pictures often aren’t optimized for your phone’s resolution, leading to blurry or cropped results.

This is where third-party apps come in handy. The App Store offers a variety of wallpaper apps designed specifically for high-quality images that fit your iPhone. Below is a list of five great wallpaper apps for iPhone, each with unique features to enhance your phone’s look.

Unsplash

With a library of over six million photos, Unsplash is a top destination for high-resolution images perfect for wallpapers. The app’s simple interface makes it easy to find what you’re looking for without hassle. You can search by category or browse the “Discover” feed, which highlights trending images. If you want to know more about an image, you can tap the info icon to see details like camera type and image resolution.

Though you don’t need an account to use Unsplash, creating one allows you to make collections, sync them across devices, and share them with others. The platform also has user-curated collections, including ones specifically for iPhone wallpapers.

While not all images will match your iPhone’s screen ratio, you can easily crop high-quality images to fit. Unsplash also lets you upload your own photos, which others can download. Despite its extensive selection, the app is free and doesn’t have any intrusive ads, making it a great option for finding premium wallpapers.

Wallcraft

Another excellent option is Wallcraft, which has earned a solid 4.6-star rating on the App Store. This app offers wallpapers in various categories, such as abstract, anime, cars, and space. These are easily accessible from the menu, allowing for simple navigation.

Like Unsplash, Wallcraft allows you to create an account to upload your images and access your downloaded wallpapers. The app also provides live wallpapers for iPhone 6s and newer, which animate briefly when you wake your phone’s screen.

To access premium wallpapers—such as live, double, and exclusive options—Wallcraft offers a subscription for $4.99 per year or a one-time purchase of $12.99, both of which remove ads. Alternatively, you can watch ads to earn credits to unlock specific wallpapers. Even without the premium subscription, Wallcraft’s extensive library makes it a strong choice for wallpaper fans.

Zedge

Zedge is a well-known app for phone customization, offering not only wallpapers but also ringtones and notification sounds. It maintains a 4.4-star rating on the App Store and allows users to search for wallpapers by category or color. This feature makes it easy to find images that match your phone’s theme.

Zedge also features a home screen widget, so you can change your wallpaper frequently without opening the app. Plus, Zedge offers Apple Watch faces and has an AI tool that lets users generate custom wallpapers.

While Zedge charges $4.99 per month for its subscription, users can opt for a lifetime premium option for $19.99. This price includes access to a variety of features beyond wallpapers. However, you can still use Zedge for free without ever needing to upgrade, making it a popular choice for many users.

Vellum Wallpapers

Vellum stands out with its minimalist design and unique interface. Instead of a profile or navigation menu, Vellum organizes wallpapers into curated collections, making it easy to browse through them quickly.

When you select a wallpaper, the app gives you a preview of how it will look on both your lock screen and home screen, so you can see how it will interact with other elements like widgets and app icons. Vellum also offers a blur tool, allowing you to soften the background while still seeing your apps clearly.

Vellum’s premium version costs $2.99, which removes ads. However, all wallpaper collections are available for free, making the app a great choice for discovering beautiful, unique wallpapers.

Backdrops

Lastly, Backdrops is a favorite for many and offers an excellent user experience. It has a regularly updated “Explore” section, showcasing high-quality wallpapers handpicked by the developers. The app also features a “Community” tab where you can find more user-generated content.

Backdrops doesn’t require an account, but logging in allows you to favorite wallpapers and organize them in one place. The app’s clean interface and curated selection make it easy to find the perfect wallpaper that suits your iPhone’s aspect ratio.

For $3.99, you can remove ads and unlock the Pro collection. The free version, however, offers a wide variety of wallpapers that should be enough to refresh your phone’s look.

Choosing the Right Wallpaper App

These five apps were chosen based on their popularity, user reviews, and firsthand testing. Whether you want an extensive library like Unsplash or a carefully curated collection like Vellum, each app provides high-quality wallpapers for iPhone users.

While some apps, like Wallcraft and Zedge, rely on ads, they also offer large collections for free. Meanwhile, apps like Vellum and Backdrops offer a more streamlined experience with well-designed wallpapers that perfectly fit your iPhone. Whatever your preference, these apps will help you give your iPhone a fresh, new look.

Trevor Milton, the founder of Nikola, is charged with attempting to sabotage the bankruptcy case

On Instagram, the mothers are thrifting

A new search engine powered by OpenAI is being tested by Netflix

LinkedIn users are being turned into incredibly boring dolls by ChatGPT.

Mobile

Skype Shuts Down After 23 Years: How to Migrate to Microsoft Teams or Explore Alternatives

by George Mensah 2025-03-17

After more than two decades of connecting people across the globe, Skype, the pioneering video-calling service, is officially shutting down. Microsoft, its parent company, has announced that Skype will sunset on May 5, 2025. This marks the end of an era for a platform that revolutionized communication, enabling millions to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues through voice and video calls.

For current Skype users, the transition doesn’t have to be daunting. Microsoft is offering two primary options: migrate to Microsoft Teams or export your Skype data and switch to an alternative video-calling service. To help you navigate this change, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to migrating to Teams, exporting your data, and exploring the best Skype alternatives available today.

How to Migrate from Skype to Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams has emerged as the natural successor to Skype, offering a more robust and feature-rich platform. Here’s how to make the switch:

Sign in to Teams: Before May 5, 2025, Skype users can log in to Microsoft Teams using their existing Skype credentials.
Automatic Data Transfer: Once logged in, all your Skype contacts, chat history, and files will automatically migrate to Teams.
Explore Teams Features: Teams offers everything Skype did—and more. Key features include:
- One-on-one and group calls (supports up to 10,000 participants).
- Messaging and file sharing.
- Advanced security features for business and personal use.
- Integrations with tools like Office 365, OneDrive, Trello, Salesforce, and Evernote.

Teams is available on Android, iOS, Mac, PC, and web browsers, making it a versatile choice for both personal and professional use.

How to Export Your Skype Data

If you prefer not to switch to Teams, you can still preserve your Skype data for future use. Here’s how to export your information:

Log in to Skype: Open the app and sign in to your account.
Access Settings: Click the three horizontal dots under your account name in the top-left corner.
Navigate to Account Settings: Go to Settings > Account & Profile > Your Account.
Export Data: On the Skype web portal, choose from the following options:
- Export contacts (.csv)
- Export Caller ID numbers (.csv)
- Export files and chat history (includes conversations and files).
Submit Request: Click Submit Request and Continue.
Download Your Data: Once the export process is complete, click Download to save your data locally.

This ensures you retain access to valuable information, such as messages, files, and contact details, even after Skype shuts down.

Top Skype Alternatives for 2025

If you’re looking for a new platform to replace Skype, here are some of the best alternatives available:

1. Google Meet

Best For: Casual users and businesses already using Google Workspace.
Key Features:
- Free for up to 100 participants (60-minute limit for groups of 3+).
- Screen sharing, meeting recordings, and live captions.
- Paid plans ($7/month and up) offer breakout rooms, polls, and AI-powered tools via Gemini.

2. Zoom

Best For: Professionals and businesses needing reliable video conferencing.
Key Features:
- Free plan supports 100 participants (40-minute limit).
- Screen sharing, whiteboard, and meeting transcripts.
- Paid plans ($13/month and up) include AI Companion for meeting summaries.

3. Webex by Cisco

Best For: Enterprises and teams requiring advanced collaboration tools.
Key Features:
- Free plan for 100 participants (40-minute limit).
- Screen sharing, whiteboard, and meeting recordings.
- Paid plans ($12/month and up) include AI assistant and live polling.

4. Discord

Best For: Gamers, small teams, and informal groups.
Key Features:
- Free plan with unlimited meeting lengths.
- Screen sharing, breakout rooms, and meeting recordings.
- Affordable paid plans ($5/month and up).

5. Slack

Best For: Teams needing seamless chat-to-call transitions.
Key Features:
- Huddle feature for quick audio/video calls.
- Free plan supports 2 participants; paid plans ($7/month and up) support up to 50.

6. Signal

Best For: Privacy-conscious users.
Key Features:
- Encrypted group video calls for up to 50 participants.
- Free to use with no time limits.

7. WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Apple FaceTime

Best For: Mobile users and small groups.
Key Features:
- Free, easy-to-use platforms for casual video calls.
- Limited to smaller groups compared to other alternatives.

Why This Matters

The shutdown of Skype marks a significant shift in the world of digital communication. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to a platform that has been a staple for so many, the transition to newer tools like Microsoft Teams or other alternatives offers exciting opportunities to explore more advanced features and capabilities.

Whether you’re migrating to Teams or exploring other platforms, the key is to choose a service that aligns with your needs—be it for personal use, professional collaboration, or privacy-focused communication.

Key Takeaways

Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025.
Users can migrate to Microsoft Teams or export their Skype data for backup.
Top alternatives include Google Meet, Zoom, Webex, Discord, Slack, and Signal.
Each platform offers unique features, so choose one that best fits your communication needs.

Final Thoughts

As we bid farewell to Skype, we also embrace the next generation of communication tools designed to keep us connected in an increasingly digital world. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a smooth transition and continue enjoying seamless communication with your loved ones, colleagues, and communities.

Mobile

Why the Windows Phone Failed

by George Mensah 2025-03-12

In the early 2010s, the smartphone market was a battleground. Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android were dominating the scene, but there was a third player that aimed to shake things up: the Windows Phone.

Microsoft, a tech giant with a storied history, entered the smartphone arena with high hopes. The Windows Phone was sleek, innovative, and backed by one of the most powerful companies in the world. Yet, despite its potential, the Windows Phone failed to capture the market and was eventually discontinued in 2017.

What went wrong? How did a product from a company as influential as Microsoft fall so short? This is the story of why the Windows Phone failed—a tale of missed opportunities, strategic missteps, and fierce competition.

The Promise: A Fresh Start for Smartphones

When Microsoft launched the Windows Phone in 2010, it was hailed as a breath of fresh air in a market dominated by Apple and Android.

The Design: Metro UI

The Windows Phone stood out with its unique Metro UI, featuring live tiles that displayed real-time information. This design was clean, modern, and unlike anything else on the market. It won praise for its simplicity and innovation, even earning design awards.

The Vision

Microsoft envisioned the Windows Phone as more than just a smartphone—it was part of a broader ecosystem that included Windows PCs, tablets, and the Xbox. The idea was to create a seamless experience across devices, something Apple would later perfect with its ecosystem.

The Problems: Why the Windows Phone Struggled

Despite its promising start, the Windows Phone faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to its downfall.

1. Late to the Game

By the time the Windows Phone launched, Apple and Android had already established a strong foothold in the market. The iPhone had been around since 2007, and Android was gaining traction with a wide range of devices. Microsoft’s late entry made it difficult to compete.

2. Lack of Apps

One of the biggest criticisms of the Windows Phone was its lack of apps. Developers were hesitant to invest in the platform, leaving users without access to popular apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and even Google’s own services.

The App Gap

While Microsoft tried to incentivize developers, the app gap remained a significant issue. For many consumers, a smartphone without their favorite apps was a deal-breaker.

3. Weak Ecosystem

Microsoft’s vision of a unified ecosystem was ahead of its time, but the execution fell short. The integration between Windows Phone, Windows PCs, and Xbox was clunky and inconsistent, failing to deliver the seamless experience Microsoft had promised.

4. Poor Marketing

Microsoft struggled to communicate the value of the Windows Phone to consumers. While Apple and Android had clear, compelling messaging, Microsoft’s marketing efforts were often confusing and failed to resonate with the public.

5. Carrier and Manufacturer Support

Unlike Android, which had the backing of numerous manufacturers and carriers, the Windows Phone had limited support. This made it harder for Microsoft to compete in terms of device variety and distribution.

The Competition: Apple and Android’s Dominance

The failure of the Windows Phone wasn’t just about its own shortcomings—it was also about the strength of its competitors.

Apple’s Ecosystem

Apple’s ecosystem, with its seamless integration between the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, set a high bar. The Windows Phone couldn’t match this level of cohesion, making it less appealing to consumers.

Android’s Flexibility

Android’s open-source model allowed for a wide range of devices at various price points, giving consumers more choices. In contrast, the Windows Phone was limited to a handful of devices, most of which were mid-range or high-end.

The Turning Point: Nokia’s Acquisition

In 2013, Microsoft acquired Nokia’s mobile division in a $7.2 billion deal, hoping to boost the Windows Phone’s prospects.

The Nokia Lumia Series

Nokia’s Lumia phones, with their colorful designs and impressive cameras, were some of the best Windows Phones on the market. However, even these devices couldn’t overcome the platform’s broader issues.

A Costly Mistake

The acquisition proved to be a costly mistake. Instead of revitalizing the Windows Phone, it added to Microsoft’s financial losses and ultimately led to the division being shut down.

The End: Discontinuation and Legacy

In 2017, Microsoft officially discontinued the Windows Phone, marking the end of an era.

What Went Wrong?

The Windows Phone failed for several reasons:

It was late to the market.
It lacked a robust app ecosystem.
Its ecosystem integration was weak.
It faced fierce competition from Apple and Android.

Lessons Learned

The failure of the Windows Phone offers valuable lessons for tech companies:

Timing is crucial. Entering a market too late can be a significant disadvantage.
Ecosystems matter. A seamless, integrated experience is key to winning consumers.
Developer support is essential. Without a strong app ecosystem, even the best hardware can fail.

The Legacy: What Remains of the Windows Phone

While the Windows Phone is no longer around, its influence can still be seen in the tech world.

Design Innovations

The Metro UI’s live tiles inspired similar features in other platforms, such as Android’s widgets and Apple’s Today View.

Microsoft’s Mobile Strategy

Microsoft has shifted its focus to software and services, such as Office and Azure, rather than hardware. This strategy has proven more successful, allowing the company to remain relevant in the mobile space without competing directly with Apple and Android.

A Cautionary Tale in Innovation

The story of the Windows Phone is a cautionary tale in the fast-paced world of technology. It’s a reminder that even the most innovative ideas can fail without the right strategy, timing, and execution.

While the Windows Phone may be gone, its legacy lives on—not just in the lessons it taught, but in the impact it had on the tech industry. It’s a testament to the challenges of innovation and the importance of staying ahead in an ever-changing market.

Load More Posts