Curious about tech myths? Unveil the truth behind the rumours and stereotypes surrounding technology. Prepare to challenge your assumptions and gain a fresh perspective on the digital landscape.

In today's digital age, technology plays a significant role. But along with the rapid advancements and innovations, several myths have persisted.  Is it okay to leave your smartphone charging overnight? Do Macs get viruses? And what about those 5G towers? What's going on with those?  Everyday tech myths can often lead to misunderstandings. They can even hinder your ability to use various tools and devices fully. This blog post will debunk some of the most common tech myths circulating. We'll also explore the truth behind them.

Leaving your device plugged in overnight damages the battery

First is one of the most persistent tech myths. Leaving your device plugged in overnight will harm the battery life. But this myth is largely outdated. 

Modern smartphones, laptops, and other devices have advanced battery management systems. These systems prevent overcharging. 

Once your device reaches its maximum charge capacity, it automatically stops charging, even if it remains connected to the power source. Keeping your device plugged in overnight is often recommended to ensure a full charge by morning. 

So, feel free to charge your gadgets overnight without worrying about battery damage.

Incognito mode ensures complete anonymity

Many users believe that using incognito mode in web browsers guarantees complete anonymity. They feel utterly secure while surfing the internet using this mode. But this is only partially accurate. While incognito mode does provide some privacy benefits, they're limited.

For example, it mainly prevents your device from saving the following items:

• Browsing history

• Cookies

• Temporary files

However, it does not hide your activities from your internet service provider (ISP). Nor from the websites you visit. ISPs and websites can still track your IP address. They can also still watch your online behaviour and collect data. 

Do you genuinely want to remain anonymous online? Then consider using a virtual private network (VPN). Or other specialised tools that provide enhanced privacy protection.

Macs are immune to viruses

Another prevalent myth is that Mac computers are impervious to viruses and malware. Indeed, Macs have historically been less prone to such threats than Windows PCs, but they're not immune.  

Some people tout this myth and point to malware statistics; for example, in 2022, 54% of all malware infections happened in Windows systems. Just 6.2% of them happened in macOS.

But you must also factor in operating system (OS) market share. As of January 2023, Windows had about 74% of the desktop OS share. Mac's OS had just 15%. 

Considering this, the systems regarding virus and malware risk aren't that different. The infection rate per user on Macs is 0.075, slightly higher than on Windows, at 0.074. Both systems have a pretty even risk of infection, even though Macs have a significantly lower infection count.

As the popularity of Macs has grown, so has the interest of hackers in targeting these devices. Malicious software designed explicitly for Macs does exist. Users should take proper precautions, no matter the operating system in use. 

You need to install reliable antivirus software and keep the operating system and applications up to date; exercise caution when downloading files or clicking on suspicious links. Being aware of potential security risks and practising safe browsing habits is crucial; this is true for Mac users, just as it is for any other platform.

More megapixels mean better image quality

When it comes to smartphone cameras, savvy marketing sometimes leads to myths. Many people believe that more megapixels equal better image quality, which is a common misconception. 

Megapixels are an essential factor in determining the resolution of an image. But they are not the sole indicator of image quality. Other factors play a significant role. Such as:

• The size of individual pixels

• Lens quality

• Image processing algorithms

• Low-light performance

A camera with a higher megapixel count may produce larger images. But it does not guarantee superior clarity, colour accuracy, or dynamic range. 

Manufacturers often strike a balance between pixel count and other image processing technologies. They do this to achieve optimal results. When choosing a smartphone or any camera, consider the complete camera system. Focus on more than just the megapixel count.

Separate Fact from Fiction

In a world where technology is integral to our lives, you must separate fact from fiction. Debunking common tech myths can empower you to make informed decisions. It can also maximise the potential of your digital experiences, as understanding the truth behind these myths helps you use technology more effectively. It can also help you better protect your privacy.

Get the Technology Facts from a Trusted Pro. Whether you need help with an infected PC or setting up a corporate network, we're here for you. We cut through the tech myths to bring you reliable and efficient service. get in touch today.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.