How to Remotely Control Another iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to help a loved one troubleshoot their iPhone over the phone. Whether it’s guiding them through an app, fixing a setting, or navigating a website, the process can feel like a game of digital charades. Thankfully, Apple has introduced a game-changing feature that allows you to remotely control another iPhone—or let someone control yours—during a FaceTime call. This feature, available in iOS 18 and newer, makes it easier than ever to assist friends and family with their tech issues, even if you’re miles apart.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use this feature, its benefits, and important safety tips to keep in mind.

What Is Apple’s Remote Control Feature?

Apple’s remote control feature is an extension of screen sharing, allowing you to take control of another iPhone or grant control of your own during a FaceTime call. Unlike traditional screen sharing, which only lets you view someone’s screen, this feature enables you to interact with their device—opening apps, typing, and navigating menus—as if you were holding it in your hands.

Key Benefits

No Need for the Same Apple ID: Unlike controlling an iPad from an iPhone, this feature doesn’t require you to share the same Apple ID.
Enhanced Privacy and Security: Apple has built-in safeguards to protect your data and privacy.
Real-Time Assistance: Perfect for helping less tech-savvy friends or family members troubleshoot issues.

How to Set Up Remote Control on iPhone

Before you begin, ensure both devices are running iOS 18 or newer. If you’re not using the latest iPhone 16, check for updates in your settings. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Start a FaceTime Call

Open the FaceTime app on your iPhone.
Call the person you want to assist (or who will assist you).

Step 2: Request Screen Sharing

During the call, tap the Share button at the top of the screen.
A menu will slide up with two options:
- Share My Screen: If you want someone to control your iPhone.
- Ask to Share: If you want to control the other person’s iPhone.

Step 3: Grant or Request Control

If you’re requesting control, tap Ask to Share.
The other person will see a prompt asking if they want to share their screen. Once they accept, you’ll see their screen on your device.
Tap the finger icon in the bottom-right corner to request control.
The other person must approve your request before you can start controlling their device.

What Can You Do with Remote Control?

Once control is granted, you can:

Open and navigate apps.
Use the on-screen keyboard.
Adjust settings (with some restrictions).

However, there are limits to protect privacy and security:

You cannot change Apple ID or Face ID settings.
You cannot make payments or access sensitive information.
The phone’s owner retains priority and can override your actions at any time.

How to End a Remote Control Session

Ending a remote control session is simple and ensures you’re never stuck with someone else controlling your device.

If Someone Is Controlling Your iPhone

Tap the Stop button in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
This will immediately sever the connection.

If You’re Controlling Someone Else’s iPhone

Tap the same finger icon you used to request control.
This will end your control session.

Alternatively, either user can end the FaceTime call, which will automatically terminate the remote control connection.

Safety Tips for Using Remote Control

While this feature is incredibly useful, it’s important to use it responsibly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Only Share with Trusted Contacts
Apple restricts remote control to contacts saved in your phone. However, only share control with people you trust completely.
Be Aware of Restrictions
Apple has built-in safeguards to prevent misuse, but it’s still important to stay vigilant. For example, if you recently added someone as a contact, their request to control your device may be automatically declined.
Monitor the Session
If someone is controlling your iPhone, keep an eye on what they’re doing. You can override their actions at any time by swiping or typing on your screen.
End the Session When Done
Always end the remote control session as soon as you no longer need it. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.

Why This Feature Is a Game-Changer

Apple’s remote control feature is a game-changer for several reasons:

1. Simplifies Tech Support

No more struggling to explain how to fix an issue over the phone. With remote control, you can handle the problem directly.

2. Saves Time and Frustration

Whether you’re helping a parent set up a new app or guiding a friend through a tricky setting, this feature eliminates the back-and-forth.

3. Enhances Accessibility

For individuals who may have difficulty navigating their devices, remote control provides a hands-on way to get the help they need.

Real-Life Scenarios Where Remote Control Shines

Here are some examples of how this feature can make life easier:

Scenario 1: Helping a Parent

Your mom calls because she can’t figure out how to update her iPhone. Instead of walking her through the steps, you take control of her device and handle the update for her.

Scenario 2: Fixing a Friend’s Settings

A friend accidentally changed a setting and can’t figure out how to fix it. You remotely access their iPhone, correct the setting, and explain what went wrong.

Scenario 3: Teaching a New App

Your sibling just downloaded a new app but doesn’t know how to use it. You take control of their iPhone, demonstrate the app’s features, and answer their questions in real time.

Final Thoughts: A Smarter Way to Help

Apple’s remote control feature is a powerful tool that simplifies tech support and enhances connectivity. Whether you’re helping a loved one troubleshoot an issue or teaching them how to use a new app, this feature makes the process seamless and stress-free.

However, it’s crucial to use this feature responsibly. Only share control with people you trust, and always end the session when you’re done. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of this innovative tool while keeping your data and privacy secure.

So, the next time a friend or family member needs help with their iPhone, skip the frustration and take control—literally.

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Mobile

Signal’s latest Windows version stops the system from taking chat screenshots

by George Mensah 2025-05-22

Signal has rolled out a critical privacy-focused update for its Windows app, introducing a “screen security” setting that prevents the system from capturing screenshots—directly countering Microsoft’s controversial Recall feature.

This move reinforces Signal’s commitment to user privacy, ensuring sensitive conversations remain protected even against AI-powered background surveillance. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Signal Is Blocking Windows Screenshots

Microsoft Recall: A Privacy Concern

Microsoft’s Recall feature (announced in 2023) continuously captures and stores screenshots of user activity, allowing Windows 11 users to “scroll back in time” and revisit past actions.

Despite Microsoft pausing Recall’s rollout after backlash, the company reintroduced it in April 2024 via the Windows Insider Preview Channel with key changes:
✔ Opt-in requirement (users must enable it manually)
✔ Pause functionality (temporary deactivation)

However, Signal argues that Recall still poses risks:
🔴 Potential exposure of sensitive chats (even if encrypted)
🔴 Lack of granular app-level control (Recall captures everything by default)

How Signal’s “Screen Security” Works

When enabled, this setting:
✅ Blocks Windows from screenshotting Signal’s window (shows a blank screen instead)
✅ Prevents Recall from storing private conversations
✅ Maintains end-to-end encryption integrity

⚠ Trade-off: Some accessibility tools (like screen readers) may not function properly with this setting active.

How to Enable (or Disable) Signal’s Screen Security

Step-by-Step Guide

Open Signal Desktop
Go to Settings > Privacy > Screen Security
Toggle “Block screenshots” (enabled by default)

🔹 Disabling the feature requires confirmation (to prevent accidental deactivation).
🔹 A warning appears reminding users of potential privacy risks.

Signal’s Critique of Microsoft’s Approach

In a blog post, Signal expressed frustration with the need for such workarounds:

“We hope that AI teams building systems like Recall will consider these implications more carefully. Apps like Signal shouldn’t need a ‘one weird trick’ to protect user privacy—developers deserve better tools.”

Key Issues with Recall

🔸 No API for apps to opt out (forcing manual workarounds like Signal’s)
🔸 Potential security vulnerabilities (stored screenshots could be accessed by malware)
🔸 Privacy vs. convenience imbalance (users may not fully understand the risks)

What This Means for Windows Users

✔ Signal users gain stronger privacy protection against Recall.
✔ Other encrypted apps (like WhatsApp, Telegram) may follow suit.
✔ Microsoft faces continued scrutiny over AI-powered surveillance features.

Should You Disable Recall Entirely?

If privacy is a priority:

Avoid enabling Recall (if using Windows Insider builds).
Use Signal’s screen security for encrypted chats.
Monitor future Windows updates for improved privacy controls.

Final Verdict: A Necessary Move for Privacy

Signal’s update highlights the growing tension between AI convenience and user privacy. While Microsoft positions Recall as a productivity tool, its always-on screenshotting raises legitimate security concerns.

By proactively blocking Recall, Signal sets a precedent—tech companies must prioritize privacy by design, not as an afterthought.

Mobile

Trump, Musk, Altman, and Zuckerberg converge for a summit while a Saudi prince launches an AI venture

by George Mensah 2025-05-14

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has made a strategic leap into artificial intelligence with the launch of Humain, a state-backed AI company poised to transform the Kingdom’s technological capabilities. This ambitious venture represents more than just another tech startup—it’s a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its oil-dependent economy and establish itself as a global AI leader.

Inside the Humain Initiative

Infrastructure Development

Massive data center construction across strategic Saudi locations
Cloud computing capabilities to rival global hyperscalers
AI research facilities with cutting-edge hardware

Financial Backing

Funded by Saudi Arabia’s $940 billion Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Part of broader $40 billion AI investment plan announced earlier this year
Positions Saudi Arabia as the world’s largest AI investor

The Geopolitical Context

High-Profile AI Summit Coincidence

The Humain launch coincides with a major U.S.-Saudi investment forum attracting tech titans:

Elon Musk (Tesla, xAI, SpaceX)
Sam Altman (OpenAI)
Mark Zuckerberg (Meta)
President Trump’s scheduled visit to the region

Strategic Partnerships

American tech giants are already engaging with Saudi’s AI ambitions:

Google’s cloud partnership with Saudi Aramco
Salesforce’s Middle East expansion
Microsoft’s $2.1 billion Saudi cloud investment

Why This Matters for Global Tech

1. Shifting AI Power Centers

Saudi Arabia’s move challenges traditional tech hubs, offering:

Alternative funding sources beyond Silicon Valley VCs
Geopolitical neutrality in US-China tech tensions
Energy advantages for power-intensive AI operations

2. Economic Transformation

The PIF’s strategy mirrors successful sovereign wealth plays:

SoftBank Vision Fund model at national scale
Norway’s oil fund approach applied to tech
Singapore’s Temasek -style strategic investing

3. Technology Sovereignty

Humain addresses critical national priorities:

Reducing dependence on foreign tech
Creating high-value domestic jobs
Securing data localization compliance

Challenges and Considerations

Potential Roadblocks

Talent acquisition in competitive global market
Cultural adaptation for international tech workers
Regulatory environment for AI development

Ethical Questions

AI governance in authoritarian context
Surveillance technology concerns
Content moderation approaches

What’s Next for Humain?

Industry analysts predict several likely developments:

Major university partnerships for AI research
Acquisition of niche AI startups
Joint ventures with established tech firms
Saudi-specific AI applications for:
- Arabic language processing
- Islamic finance technology
- Smart city implementations

The Bigger Picture

This move positions Saudi Arabia at the center of three converging trends:

The AI arms race among nations
The petrodollar to tech-dollar transition
Middle East’s emergence as a tech hub

With Humain, MBS isn’t just investing in AI—he’s attempting to future-proof Saudi Arabia’s economy and influence in what may become the most strategically important technology sector of the 21st century.

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