Heads Up, iPhone 6 Users! You Could Be Eligible for a New Battery Too

Is it just us, or does everybody you know seem to be having phone battery problems lately? After the long-running disaster that was the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, Apple started having battery problems of their own — albeit much less flamboyant. The company announced that anybody with an iPhone 6s produced within a certain period of time would be eligible for a completely new battery on the house. And now that policy may be expanding.

There’s a rumor going around that iPhone 6 owners will soon be eligible for a new battery. According to an unconfirmed report from a Japanese website, Apple is preparing to allow iPhone 6 users to get a new battery. When Apple originally announced the program, they said that only a “very small number” of phones were plagued with the battery issue — but that number has just kept growing.

Apple generally has a pretty good warranty policy, although the company did come under fire when it charged $149 to fix the separate “touch disease” issue that was affecting certain models of the iPhone 6S. Expanding the battery replacement program could be their way of making amends. Just remember: At the moment this is still nothing but an unconfirmed rumor. We’ll keep you updated should Apple come out and make an announcement.

Have you had battery issues with your phone? Let us know @BritandCo!

(h/t 9-to-5 Mac; photo via Getty)

Apple unveiled their latest and greatest today, most notably introducing the iPhone 15 suite, improved iCloud storage plan options, and the Apple Watch Series 9. The new products bring forth some reasonably big changes to Apple’s existing technology – the company saying ‘goodbye’ to the Lightning port is just one example. Read on for everything, new and improved, that was just announced at the Apple Event.

The iPhone 15

New iPhone

The latest iteration of iPhone is the iPhone 15, and it will also be available as the iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. They’ll come in 5 colors: white, black, pink (rejoice!), green, and yellow. The Pro models are fitted with a strong, lightweight titanium casing, and have a 6.1-inch screen, while the Plus models boast a 6.7-inch screen.

No More Lightning Cables

And yes, you read it right – the Lighting charging ports are no more for new Apple products, including the iPhone 15. From now on, users will only be able to use a USB-C cord (that, according to Apple, ushers in potentially faster charging times) for charging their devices. The change makes things fairly easy for cross-functional purposes, as USB-C cords are also compatible with non-Apple products.

Action Button

The Lightning port isn’t the only thing that Apple said they’re retiring. The new iPhone no longer has a ring silencer slider on the side. Instead, it’s now called an “action button.” The action button will still silence alerts, texts, and calls by default, but will also be capable of other handy commands you tell it to complete.

Sharper-Than-Ever Camera

As expected, the iPhone 15 variations boast an updated camera system. The company’s stepped it up so that the smartphones have a 48-megapixel main camera with a larger sensor than ever before. The back camera also has a new “nanoscale coating” for handling lens flares and lowlight with expert skill. The camera system reportedly has more enhanced color, better image stabilization, and a 4K cinematic video mode.

Improved Connection

The new iPhones also feature an ultra wideband chip, which expands the device’s connection strength. This chip allows iPhones to connect to other devices from up to three times farther away. It’s incorporated into the “Find My’ technology that you may already use to find your friends, devices, and more.

Apple made sure to address pricing for the new iPhone, as well as existing models:

  • iPhone SE will start at $429.
  • iPhone 13 will start at $599.
  • iPhone 14 will start at $699.
  • iPhone 15 will start at $799.
  • iPhone 15 Plus will start at $899.
  • iPhone 15 Pro will start at $999.

The new iPhones start shipping and hitting stores on September 22.

Store More With New iCloud+ Plans

Apple also announced that starting September 18, iCloud+ will offer 6TB ($29.99/mo) and 12 TB ($59.99/mo) storage plans, which expands their previous largest offering of 2TB ($9.99/mo). The new plans are ideal for large photo and video libraries, or users of Apple’s Family Sharing.

Apple Watch Series 9

Shout Out To Sustainability

The company introduced the Apple Watch Series 9, which is reportedly Apple’s first-ever carbon-neutral product. They’ll also be making another sustainability effort by eliminating leather materials from the Apple Watch. The wristbands will no longer be made of leather, but instead, a material called “fine woven,” which is made from 68% post-consumer recycled content.

With The Tap Of A Finger

The most notable news surrounding the new Apple Watch is the introduction of hand gesture controls. With the watch on, users can tap their index finger and thumb together twice to answer (or end) phone calls, play and pause music, or snooze alarms. Siri can also take commands via the watch now.

Apple Watch Tune-Up

The Series 9 watch is now made with a custom S9 chip for faster processing, according to Apple. The screen features a new edge-to-edge display that doubles the brightness levels, plus the model is available in a new pink color!

Apple noted these updated prices for the Apple Watch:

  • Apple Watch SE starts at $249.
  • Apple Watch S9 starts at $399.
  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $799.

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Images via Apple.

We’ve all been there. You head to your fridge to make your daily sandwich — grab the bread, the lettuce, the tomato, but wait — the deli meat you bought a little week ago is looking a little suspect. How can you tell if it’s still good to eat?

First, let’s define exactly what deli meat is. Sliced bologna, sausage, salami, pastrami, turkey, beef, and chicken are just a few general proteins classified as deli meats. There are a slew of different types of each meat — for example, roast beef or corned beef, pancetta, or prosciutto, etc. But we're talking about the classic packaged deli meats you pick up at stores here.

According to the USDA, you can store packaged lunch meats in the refrigerator for two weeks before opening it. If you open the package, you can keep deli meat in the refrigerator for three to five days (note: the refrigerator has to be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less).

Now that we have the lowdown on how long you can keep the protein around, here are some other frequently asked questions about all things deli meat.

​Can you freeze deli meat?

Photo by Meruyert Gonullu/PEXELS

Yes! If you opt for freezing the deli meat upon purchase, you can keep it in the freezer for one to two months for best quality. Per the USDA, frozen foods are safe indefinitely if kept at zero degrees Fahrenheit.

​How can you tell if deli meat goes bad?

Photo by Hillshire Farm/Unsplash

Like most foods, the ‘smell test’ will do the trick. If the deli meat even smells slightly off or funky, toss it in the garbage. The USDA notes change in color, mold, or a new slimy or sticky film/texture as signs that the protein has gone bad. Always check the expiration date before consuming.

​Can you eat deli meat when you're pregnant?

Photo by Vlada Karpovich/PEXELS

According to the American Pregnancy Association, you should avoid deli meats until after pregnancy due to a risk of Listeria (a bacterial infection caused by contaminated food). If you do choose to eat deli meats while pregnant, it’s important to take precautions, such as cooking them until they are steaming to rid of possible bacteria.

​How many hours can deli meat sit out?

Photo by Anastasia Kalinkina/Unsplash

The USDA's rule of thumb is to not leave out perishable foods (AKA deli meat) at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. If the temperature in the room or outside is hotter than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, then you should only leave deli meat out for a maximum of one hour.

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Header photo by Mae Mu/Unsplash

I am a very prepared person, which means I do my best to handle life's unexpected chaos with grace. A recent curveball that I did not prepare for was my phone dying in the middle of New York City. When you live in Manhattan, there's always a show to see, friends to grab margaritas with, and events to attend. That means you lose phone battery pretty quickly, which is exactly the one thing you don't want to go without in the middle of the city.

Ahead of my show at Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, I was #influenced to buy this viral gadget to bring into the stadium with me — and it's the best portable phone charger I've ever used. I can't believe I've gone this long without it!

First Impressions

I grabbed the iWALK Small Portable Charger(which I got for $30), and the first thing I noticed was the size. The whole thing is smaller than my iPhone, meaning that it'll fit in just about any size bag and works with a lot of stadium concert rules!

It comes in multiple colors like pink and teal, but I got it in white.

The Timeline

I left for the concert at 2pm with a fully charged phone. I had to use Spotify, Google Maps, Uber, and my camera all before Taylor even came out, which means that by the time Gracie Abrams and Phoebe Bridgers had finished their opening acts (around 8 pm), my phone was on death's door.

The portable phone charger went right into the port and kept my phone alive for the rest of the night! It also didn't interfere with the audio in any of my recordings, which was super important to me.

Final Thoughts On This Portable Phone Charger

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

This product really surpassed my expectations because of how much power you get from such a small device. I've used it multiple times, and every time I do, my phone ends up fully charged, meaning I have enough battery for another round of adventures and antics.

I'll definitely have it in my bag all summer long. You can search on the internet for some other portable phone chargers for your summer, but this is definitely my favorite.

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It’s summer, which means pants are a no-go. Why struggle (and profusely sweat) in perhaps the most restricting piece of clothing known to womankind? Instead, opt for a maxi skirt that gives you total breathability and freedom of movement.

These maxi skirts for summer embrace comfort all the way, so you can frolic around in style this season. From neutrals to brights and ginghams to polka dots, these 15 skirts will give your summer ‘fits an instant boost.

Sunday Best Mars Skirt

This tiered maxi skirt with an elastic waistband is a staple you need to have in your closet for summer. It's super easy to pair with essentially anything you've already got, plus it just looks effortlessly chic for any occasion. Dressed up or down, the lightweight twill material will feel like an absolute dream against your legs.

The Sunday Best Mars Skirt is available in 4 other colors and sizes XXS-XL for $98.

Free-est Caught In The Moment Maxi Skirt

The raw vertical seaming on this mid-rise style lends it an especially casual air, which is just want you want for those scorching-hot summer days. Though it masters the art of breathability, this skirt will also last you well into fall and winter, depending how you layer up and style it.

The Caught In The Moment Maxi Skirt from Free-est comes in 4 other colors and sizes XS-XL for $70.

Flat White Drop-Waist Maxi Skirt

Okay, drop waist effect! This maxi skirt that comes in an eye-catching blue hue adds a touch of whimsy to your look. It's easy to slip into and secures with a side zipper. The tight ruching along the hips makes this piece anything but ordinary.

The Flat White Drop-Waist Maxi Skirt comes in sizes XXS-XL for $138.

Abercrombie & Fitch Crochet-Style Maxi Skirt

You gotta love a flirty sheer skirt for summertime! This one flaunts a loose crochet construction, so it's still impressively breathable. The mix of crochet patterns add visual interest alongside the contrasting black lines. This 100% cotton skirt is part of a matching set and even has a mini-length liner underneath for additional coverage!

The Crochet-Style Maxi Skirt from Abercrombie & Fitch is also available in white-on-black and sizes XXS-XL for $90.

Urban Renewal Remnants Slub Linen Maxi Skirt

The dainty waistline with a tiny bow in the center on this skirt is to die for! The length fully falls to the floor if you wear it low-waisted, which can be a super fun silhouette to play with if you normally don't rock it. This piece is created from deadstock or discarded fabrics that would have gone unused otherwise.

The Urban Renewal Remnants Slub Linen Maxi Skirt comes in 5 other colors and sizes XS-XL for $65.

Free-est The Convertible Skirt

You can wear this maxi skirt any way you want. That's right – it can also be worn as a dress! It boasts a tiered, layered silhouette with a unique asymmetrical hem, so it's sure to be the staple of your 'fits. There's also a super wide waistband with lotsa elastic for easy, effortless, everyday wear.

There are 4 additional color options for the Free-est The Convertible Skirt. It's shoppable in sizes XS-XL for $88.

Whimsy + Row Marni Maxi Skirt

It's giving cool French girl to the max. This maxi skirt – part of a matching set – is pretty simple in design. Though it doesn't have many extra bells or whistles, the chic polka dot pattern calls attention to your look instantly. The waistband on this number is fully elastic, so everyday wear is as comfy as can be!

The Whimsy + Row Marni Maxi Skirt is also available in solid white or pink and sizes XS-XL for $162.

Gap Crinkle Gauze Denim Maxi Skirt

Denim maxi skirts may be trending right now, but they're not always entirely practical for warm weather. Luckily, this one's a bit more breathable since it's made from a gauzy material. The three-tiered design gives it shape while the smocked wide waistband hugs your figure in the most flattering way.

The Crinkle Gauze Denim Maxi Skirt from Gap is shoppable in sizes XXS-XXL for $70.

Abercrombie & Fitch Drama Tiered Maxi Skirt

The dramatic tiering on this maxi skirt lands a bit more on the formal side. It's part of a matching set, so you could complete your look for a wedding or dinner party pretty easily! The gorgeous yellow shade of this number is dotted with tiny blue blooms and the waistline is part stretchy, part not-stretchy with a side zipper for security!

The Abercrombie & Fitch Drama Tiered Maxi Skirt is also available in a pink colorway and sizes XXS-XL for $90.

Babaton Slip Satin Maxi Skirt

We're obsessed with this sultry smoky blue color. Made from a "drapey satin fabric with a lustrous, glossy sheen that’s extremely soft to the touch," this maxi skirt comes complete with a broken-in, cozy fit. It's made from recycled waste material and wood-based fibers, so it's *sustainably* stylish. It pulls on easily with an elastic waistband.

The Babaton Slip Satin Maxi Skirt comes in 5 other colors and sizes 00-12 for $98.

Free-est Like A Mermaid Skirt

This mermaid-cut maxi feels super whimsical, and it's perfect for giving a little twirl! It pulls on and secures to your liking with a drawstring tie. The frayed, detailed tiering supplies extra oomph with this 100% cotton piece.

The Free-est Like A Mermaid Skirt is available in 6 other colors and sizes XS-XL for $78.

J.Crew Collection Maxi Skirt in Lightweight Chiffon

This maxi skirt carries total profesh vibes with its fine pleats, but it comes out to play with a sheer chiffon material. It's just perfect for that hot, sticky summer weather you know is on its way. This piece is lined with a mini skirt on the inside, so you'll have some nice breathing room!

The J.Crew Collection Maxi Skirt also comes in black and sizes 00-24. It's currently on sale for a limited time for $135 (was $198).

Neon Rose Ricrac Gingham Maxi Skirt

With a playful mismatched squiggly trim at the bottom and youthful gingham pattern, this piece is sure to be the #1 statement of any of your outfits. It boasts a cute little bow at the elastic waistband, which is meant to fit low-waisted. Pair with sandals or your fave sneaks for an adorable summer look!

The Neon Rose Ricrac Gingham Maxi Skirt comes in sizes XS-XL for $64.

Abercrombie & Fitch Crinkle Flowy Maxi Skirt

This red turns heads. Made in an ultra-high rise silhouette, this maxi skirt with a fully elasticated waistband flaunts a light lining on the inside for added coverage, so you can feel cozy all day long. You can even snag the matching top for an easy summer outfit to wear to dinners and dates alike.

The Crinkle Flowy Maxi Skirt from Abercrombie & Fitch comes in 3 other colors and patterns and sizes XXS-XL for $70.

Wild Fable Mid-Rise Lace Trumpet Maxi Skirt

This is summer festival fashion at its finest! This skirt is super lacy for utmost breeziness and even has some built-in shorts so you can wear 'em with ease.

The Wild Fable Mid-Rise Lace Trumpet Maxi Skirt is also shoppable in black and is available in sizes XXS-4X for $25.

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Lead image via Urban Outfitters.

It's almost summertime which means parents are going to be thinking about how many kid-friendly summer vacation ideas we can fit in before a new school year starts. I know I'm not the only parent feverishly planning toddler activities to keep my son entertained, so I'm thinking long-term — and thinking of something fun we can all do together.

Last year we took a family trip to the Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta, GA and my son still talks about it. He also walked around the entire park without losing an ounce of energy which means I've got my work cut out for me. In the same boat as I am and need ideas that won't require you to travel out of the country? Keep scrolling for fun, family-friendly summer vacation ideas!

Kid-Friendly Summer Vacations

Image via Brett Sayles/Pexels

Gonzales Jambalaya Festival (May 24-26) in Gonzales, LA

Take a trip to Gonzales, LA in time for the city's annual Gonzales Jambalaya Festival! According to official site for the festival, Gonzales has the best Jambalaya you'll find in the bayou. Each day will feature live music from popular acts that truly capture Louisiana's sound and will make your bones feel good as you enjoy food that makes your taste buds swirl.

There's also a cooking contest, pageant, car show, plenty of vendors, and a carnival for the whole family to enjoy!

Image via Caroline Cagnin/Pexels

Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, FL

I'm a Florida native so any theme park or resort is always at the top of my list, but I'm partial to visiting Universal Orlando Resort during the summer. Although it's at the top of my own kid-friendly summer vacation ideas list, there's tons of stuff adults can have fun doing. The resort usually have packages that allow you to bundle a few days together so you visit a different park each day — something my mom and stepdad definitely took advantage of.

From there you and your kids get to let loose. There's rides dedicated to Jurassic Park, Harry Potter and Dr. Suess, and you dine at the famous Hard Rock Café! Everyone will need a nap once you're done exploring which isn't a bad idea.

Image via Los Muertos Crew/Pexels

Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, CA

If you've memorized all the different versions of "Baby Shark," you may be entitled to a kid-friendly trip to Monterey Bay Aquarium. While the trip itself won't be free, you'll love watching your kid's face light up when they get to see real sea animals. You can enjoy visiting the following habitats with them:

  • Beaches & dunes
  • Coastal waters
  • Coastal wetlands
  • Coral reefs
  • Deep sea
  • Kelp forest
  • Open waters
  • Reefs and pilings
  • Sandy seafloor
  • The rocky shore

Image via Momentos Reales/Pexels

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa in Pigeon Forge, TN

Take a dream to Pigeon Forge, TN to book a fun stay at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa! The theme park alone is situated on 160 acres of land which should tell you how much fun you and your family will have. Still need convincing? No worries!

If you have smaller kiddos, rides like Busy Bees and Black Bear Trail are available for them to enjoy. But if they need to burn off excess energy, they can run and jump as much as they want inside of Hidden Hollow. It's a secret play area that's based on the forest so your kids will feel like they're little explorers.

If you want to sneak off for a little me time, you can find goodies at The Southern Pantry or Mountain Laurel Home!

Image via Arthur Krijgsman/Pexels

Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio, TX

Everything's bigger in Texas, including the kid-friendly summer vacation ideas. That's the main reason why Morgan's Wonderland is on my list. The 4D Cinema alone is enticing, but there's also tons of other rides and attractions to see! There's everything from the classic carousel to Pirate Island (sorry Squidward — there's not any robots here), plus a Sensory Village that encourages creative play!

And if your kid's birthday is this summer, you can throw a birthday party for them at Morgan's Wonderland.

Image via Yan Krukau/Pexels

Keystone Resort in Summit County, CO

All I can picture is the episode of Bob's Burger when the Belchers spend a night at a national park so that Tina can make up for a Thunder Girls event she missed, but the tubing that'll be done at Keystone Resort will be supervised. It'll officially open June 20 for a summer of fun that your family will love remembering.

There's Lakeside Village activities to enjoy, snow tubing, hiking, tennis, yoga, and more! You can also choose from 16 dining options.

I don't know about you, but I love having options.

Image via Valdemaras D./Pexels

Atlantic White Shark Conservatory in Cape Cod, MA

Still have "Baby Shark" on the brain? Travel to Cape Cod, MA to visit the Atlantic White Shark Conservatory. Beginning May 16, Shark Center Chatham and Shark Center Provincetown will be open for the 2024 season. You can book an expedition that lets you see everything from great white sharks to various seabirds. It's an all day tour so make sure you and your family are prepared for that if you choose this option!

Image via Olya Harytovich/Pexels

The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, UT

If you prefer to deal with nature in a different way, The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, UT may be just the place you need to visit this summer. Besides hiking, you can introduce your kiddos to the Little Vaqueros Camp. Here's a daily breakdown of what each day offers:

  • Monday — Wilderness Explorers
  • Tuesday — Cowboys & Cowgirls
  • Wednesday — Mountain Creativity
  • Thursday — Culinary Exploration
  • Friday — Discovering Gracie's (rehabilitation center for animals)
  • Saturday — Little Miners
  • Sunday — Love of the Land
If one of your kids is a teenager, they'll be able to participate in activities like axe throwing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Image via Sergey Makashin/Pexels

Explore Activities in Hilton Head, SC

Instead of focusing on one singular thing, I decided Hilton Head, SC deserves it's own spotlight. There's so much to do and it's probably one of the best kid-friendly summer vacation spots to create new memories in. You can visit The Sandbox Interactive Children's Museum, Station 300 Bowling Lanes, or Commander Zodiac Kids Camp. At the latter, you and your kids can go on a private boat tour that allows you to see wildlife like dolphins.

Image via Ivan Torres/Pexels

Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls, NY

Have your kids been expecting to see a big miracle and can't stop talking about what they think it could be? Sounds like it's time to plan a trip to Niagara Falls State Park! There's literally so much to do that you'll even be talking about this trip during Thanksgiving. Here's some of the attractions that are available to visit:

  • Cave of the Winds
  • Aquarium
  • Maid of the Mist
  • Fireworks Show
  • Observation Tower

There's also hiking trails you and your kids can take advantage of!

Which kid-friendly summer vacation ideas sound like they're perfect for you and your kids to enjoy in the coming months?

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Lead image viaYulianto Poitier/Pexels