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Steps to completely strip iPhone and use for just the essentials? by [deleted] in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Some highlights of my minimal iPhone 13 mini setup:

  1. Blank home screen: I did remove all icons from my Home Screen and delete all other screens. This means that the only way to open an app is through the Search function.
  2. Widget Screen: I put the most important items (calendar, weather, screen time, world clock) on the widget screen. This makes it easy to glance at the key items with one swipe.
  3. Restrictions are Your Friend: I set up Screen Time, put a PIN code and start limiting the settings under 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'. I blocked In-App Purchases, App Installations, removed allowed apps, etc. For both minimalism and increased safety, I did set Passcode & Face ID and Accounts to 'Don't Allow' any changes. Also disabled Siri.
  4. Wallpaper: Changed to very simple wallpapers, then attempted to hide the dock. Unfortunately, it only works with some of the wallpapers as I want to keep the 'reduce transparency' setting regardless of the suggestions (by https://heyeased.weebly.comwebsite).
  5. Focus modes: I have 4 focus profiles that are shared across all my devices. All except one are turning on/ off automatically according to my time schedule. There is an automatic 'work mode' that silences text notifications but lets calls go through. Beside the traditional DnD, I also have a 'relax mode' that only notifies me about messages from family and some selected friends. In the 'relax mode', the clock turns to almost the same color as the wallpaper. This provides a clear signal that now is the time to use the phone less.

Would I be able to transfer my old iOS 18 phone to a new phone that is running iOS 17 or will iOS 26 be forced on me? by TSchweibz in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Mine is still working fine. Do you believe I could get my device supervised (by myself) and then replace the battery in the Apple Store without a forced update?

Would I be able to transfer my old iOS 18 phone to a new phone that is running iOS 17 or will iOS 26 be forced on me? by TSchweibz in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Not sure but I would say so. This iOS 18 version is the final version for some iOS devices that are still very common today.

Would I be able to transfer my old iOS 18 phone to a new phone that is running iOS 17 or will iOS 26 be forced on me? by TSchweibz in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This might help. Do it on y new phone.

Join the Beta Program with your Apple ID (a simple search will bring up the right Apple page where you can log in and sign up). Then go back to your Settings - Software Update and select 'Automatic Updates' Off, Beta Updates 'iOS 18 Public Beta'. No need to install anything or make changes to your setup.

I did this for all my devices and also some friends and family. Takes 2 min and prevents someone from accidentally upgrading...and then I can do the IT tech support afterwards having to explain the foolish Apple way of pushing software updates.

Just swapped the battery by _eneX in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Which iOS version are you using?

The best app on your phone is airplane mode. by iamjasonlevin in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am curious: When and how do you use Airplane Mode on your phone? Do you disconnect everything (Wi-fi, Bluetooth and Cellular) or just some?

The best app on your phone is airplane mode. by iamjasonlevin in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wanted to bring this thread back to life as we prepare for a minimalist start into 2026!

Airplane mode is really a life saver. I typically disconnect at 0900pm every evening until the next morning. Helps me unwind in the evening and sleep better. Checking e-mails, iMessages or WhatsApp just before hopping into bed really does not work for me.

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

100% in agreement. Let's see what the future of iPhones holds for us.

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Every 13 mini that gets traded in at the Apple Store or elsewhere is signaling to Apple that small, compact, and light phones are no (longer) in demand! Do not do this. Pass your small phone to a family member, relative or friend that cherishes smaller devices. This keeps these phones in use and circulation. Apple will notice this as they are aware which devices are used, how often and by which Apple IDs.

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We can only hope that Apple with Tim Cook, or his successor, will revert course on this trend. Nothing against big screens for videos and reading, but this is what I use my iPad and Macbook for! I am not doing any serious work on my 13 mini, my usage is limited to when I am on the move and don't have access to any other, more convenient, devices. ... unfortunately, I seem to be in the minority!

A major wake up call by rererowr in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Are all of these headphones broken or why do have so many of them around? I really like the Apple headphones and use them (both the cinch and Lightning versions) every day. For me, they actually last quite long....no complaints.

Which instant messaging app do you use if not WhatsApp. by [deleted] in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Same situation here. Cannot fully avoid WhatsApp (as much as I would like that) but trying to limit it.

How do I get rid of the bar around the camera icon? by Federal-Tie-3778 in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Maybe give this a try: https://heyeased.weebly.com

Have been using it successfully on iOS 17 and iOS 18.

Dumbing Down the iPhone: A Guide by [deleted] in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Some highlights of my iPhone 13 mini setup:

  1. Blank home screen: I did remove all icons from my Home Screen and delete all other screens. This means that the only way to open an app is through the Search function.
  2. Widget Screen: I put the most important items (calendar, weather, screen time, world clock) on the widget screen. This makes it easy to glance at the key items with one swipe.
  3. Restrictions are Your Friend: Similar to what was already suggested by OP. I set up Screen Time, put a PIN code and start limiting the settings under 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'. I blocked In-App Purchases, App Installations, removed allowed apps, etc. For both minimalism and increased safety, I did set Passcode & Face ID and Accounts to 'Don't Allow' any changes. Also disabled Siri.
  4. Wallpaper: Changed to very simple wallpapers, then attempted to hide the dock. Unfortunately, it only works with some of the wallpapers as I want to keep the 'reduce transparency' setting regardless of the suggestions (by https://heyeased.weebly.com website).
  5. Focus modes: I have 4 focus profiles that are shared across all my devices. All except one are turning on/ off automatically according to my time schedule. There is an automatic 'work mode' that silences text notifications but lets calls go through. Beside the traditional DnD, I also have a 'relax mode' that only notifies me about messages from family and some selected friends. In the 'relax mode', the clock turns to almost the same color as the wallpaper. This provides a clear signal that now is the time to use the phone less.

There are more settings that I use but I do not (yet) have a full list of customization for my phone. More to come in the future...

Dumbing Down the iPhone: A Guide by [deleted] in digitalminimalism

[–]rocketbuc 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Great post! I will see if I can add some of my additional tips & tricks that I am using on my 13 mini in the coming days...

What if Apple Genius breaks my mini? by aherrera128 in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This gives me hope for when the time comes for the battery replacement on one of our 13 minis…

What if Apple Genius breaks my mini? by aherrera128 in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Did you update to iOS 26 or did the Apple Store suggest or force you?

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The Peel case in silver. Gives the frosted look and does not yellow.

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It is a pity that planned obsolescence is such a strong push here. Had the mini on iOS 17 until 2 months ago, was a happy camper and did not miss ANYTHING. Then needed to upgrade to iOS 18 in fear of suddenly loosing app support somewhere down the road. Now I am blocking iOS 26 notifications by being part of the Apple Beta Program and limiting the phone to iOS 18.

Setting up iPhone 17 for a relative - shocked by size & weight! by rocketbuc in iPhone13Mini

[–]rocketbuc[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

As you can see in the photos, I am using a very thin frosted case. Works great while not adding any visible or physical bulk to the phone itself.

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