iPhone and iPad Tips of the Week - Take Control of Your Dictionary, Folders, Camera, and GMail

This week's tips show you how to reset your iOS User Dictionary (which we recommend you try after getting used to the iOS virtual keyboard), renaming iOS folders instead of accepting the default name that iOS creates, using the focusing feature on the camera included in most last model iOS devices to take better photos and videos, and a way to get more out of your Google mail, contacts and calendar by setting up your Gmail access using Exchange ActiveSync versus IMAP.

Reset Your User Dictionary

A lot of people out there that are new to the iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad struggle with the iOS virtual keyboard. Over time, as you type you might spell a word wrong more than once. If you don't accept the iOS option to change it, then eventually iOS stops suggesting a correction. As time passes more and more of these "mistakes" can accumulate in your iOS User Dictionary.

You can backpedal by resetting the User Dictionary from the Settings app, under General > Reset, and tap Reset Keyboard Dictionary. If you have a Passcode set you'll have to enter it. Finally, you'll be prompted to tap a red button labeled Reset Dictionary. Tap it to reset the User Dictionary to factory default or Cancel if you change your mind.

Compatibility: iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.

Rename iOS Folders

If you want to rename an existing iOS folder simply tap and hold any app, locate the folder you want to rename, tap that folder, tap the white X inside of the a gray circle to clear out the previous name, and then enter a new name. Press the Home button to save your changes.

Compatibility: iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.

Setup Google Mail to Use Exchange ActiveSync

The simplest way to configure Gmail on any iOS device is by tapping the Gmail icon under Add Account in the Settings app. iOS will then prompt you to set it up as an IMAP account. However, it's not as feature heavy as Exchange ActiveSync.

Setting up your Gmail account using Exchange ActiveSync on your favorite iOS device gives you access to push email along with automatic syncing of your Google contacts and calendar. It is like a free version of MobileMe, which offers similar services.

You can find the exact details about configuring Exchange ActiveSync for Gmail on Google's website.

Compatibility: iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.

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