WordPress 5.0 introduces a flexible block-based content editor

Automattic has just released version 5.0 of its immensely popular WordPress CMS, with a bunch of new features centred around customizable content blocks – catching up at last to its rivals who have offered this for years now.

At the heart of this new version is the content editor, which lets you insert all kinds of media in blocks, and adjust them so they’re displayed however you like: as horizontal banners, full-width images, or narrow sidebars.

ou can move these around a page to create the layout you want. Plus, if you’re delivering a site design to a client who’ll maintain it on their own, you can create reusable blocks that retain your text and image styling so that newly created pages and content have a consistent look.

There’s also a new default theme called Twenty Nineteen, which takes advantage of the new block-based content editor to show you what the CMS is capable of. And in case you don’t care for the new editor, you can always switch to the old one by using the Classic Editor plugin.

You can download the latest version of WordPress on this page; if you’re already using the CMS, you can update your install from the Dashboard. Of course, you’ll want to back up your site before doing so

The Apple Watch’s new ECG feature is already saving lives

Sure, Apple may have announced three new iPhones, a new MacBook Air, and the new iPad Pro this year, but the most important product is the company’s Apple Watch Series 4. It was just last night that Apple activated the Watch’s electrocardiogram (ECG) feature, and it appears to already be saving lives.

Redditor u/edentel posted his experience today after receiving an alert on his Apple watch indicating he may have atrial fibrillation – afib for short – and decided to go to the doctor. The Doctor confirmed the Watch’s reading, saying “this probably saved you.”

The Apple Watch is first ECG device with FDA clearance for consumers (which is not the same as being FDA approved. It gives people access to important heart health data without having to see a doctor first.

It’s not going to replace actually going to the doctor – the basic ECG can’t detect all the conditions a medical-grade one can – but it’s still a remarkable feature I hope reaches other smartwatches soon.

It’s this type of feature that reminds me technology can be a force for the better. It’s estimated Afib affects 2 to 3 percent of Europeans and North Americans; Considering how many Americans avoid going to the doctor in the first place due to high costs, I expect many similar stories to show up in the weeks and months to come.

If you have an Apple Watch Series 4, you can read more on how to use the ECG feature in our post here.

How to enable eSIM and Dual SIM on iPhone XS or iPhone XR

We reported that Dual SIM support for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR would be coming in a software update later this year. With today’s release of iOS 12.1, Apple is now officially supporting Dual SIM and eSIM on the latest round of iPhones.

Follow along to learn how….

The setup process for setting up eSIM is similar that of cellular-enabled iPads, which also sports an eSIM. On iPhone, however, you’re able to use multiple SIMs with a combination of eSIM and a physical nano-SIM. For users in China, Apple offers a special version of iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR that supports two physical SIMs but does not support eSIM.

Fortunately, the process is pretty straight forward and applies to both eSIM and activating a second physical SIM.

How to enable eSIM and Dual SIM on iPhone XS or iPhone XR

1.  Go to Settings > Cellular.
2. Tap Add Cellular Plan.
3. Use your iPhone to scan the QR code that your carrier provided.

If you’re setting up a second SIM, you’ll be asked how you’d like the feature to work. Some examples include using your secondary SIM as data only, or having separate work and home lines on the same phone.

Depending on carrier, you may need to enter a confirmation code to enable eSIM. If the QR code isn’t working you can optimally manually enter the eSIM information provided by your carrier.

Some carriers will require you to download their app. For that, simply go to the App Store and download the aforementioned app. This method is typically used with pre-paid carriers as you’ll be purchasing the plan directly from within the app.

Unlike physical SIMs, you’ll be able to store multiple eSIMs on your iPhone, however, you’ll be limited to using one at a time. Apple says:

You can store more than one eSIM in your iPhone, but you can use only one at a time. You can switch eSIMs by tapping Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans and tapping the plan you want to use. Then tap Turn On This Line.

Unfortunately, eSIM adoption seems to be a mixed bag at the moment. While the three major U.S carriers: Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T announced support for the feature, all three have seemingly pulled out, noting that support for eSIM is coming later this year. This means no major carrier in the U.S. is currently supporting this feature. Outside of the U.S., support is limited but you can check hereto see if your carrier support the feature.

Learn more about eSIM and Dual SIM here. For more help getting the most out of your Apple devices, check out our how to guide.