Apple® computers are some of the most intelligently designed products on the market, packed with a wealth of popular and lesser-known features that allow you to customize your machine. Whether you’re tired of ads or want to fine-tune your screen, a Mac® has settings that will make your computing experience more pleasant and productive. Here are a few hidden features to check out on your desktop or MacBook® laptop.

What Are the Most Basic Hidden Features on a Mac?

1. Mute Siri®

Siri is an indispensable assistant for many people, but you may not want her to respond verbally to your questions and requests. Fortunately, you can easily mute the service so that she replies on-screen instead. This is especially useful when you're listening to music or streaming content.

To access this setting, click the Apple button, then go to System Preferences and choose Siri. Check the "off" box next to Voice Feedback to mute the voice. In this menu, you can also change the voice or hide the Siri icon from the menu bar.

2. Switch to Dark Mode

Apple computers actually received a dark mode upgrade long before iPhone® or iPad®. When you turn this setting on, all apps that support dark mode will switch to a nearly black background.

To engage dark mode, open System Preferences and choose General. You’ll find light settings at the top of the panel. Choosing “dark” turns dark mode on all the time, while “auto” switches from light to dark depending on the time of day.

3. Block Ads & Distractions

Ads, pop-ups, and other embedded website features can make browsing the web intrusive and annoying. Fortunately, the Safari® web browser’s reader mode will strip out the unwanted elements, giving you a clean, ad-free browsing experience.

To enable reader mode, click on Preferences in the Safari menu in your browser. Next, choose the Reader tab and select “on” from the “When visiting other websites” drop-down list.

As your local Apple experts, Experimax Haymarket offers an incredible selection of certified pre-owned devices in Prince William County, VA. Each of their refurbished Mac desktops and MacBook laptops has been thoroughly inspected by a trained technician and comes with a one-year warranty. Visit their website to browse their inventory of Apple computers, follow their Facebook for tips and advice, or call (571) 342-3550 to speak with a team member.