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Long a source of inspiration for entrepreneurs and designers alike, Apple has just announced its latest toys: the iPhone 6, the iPhone 6 Plus and the Apple Watch. Many will be looking forward to faster emails, crystal clear screens and longer battery life – but what about using your phone to do good? Here are four simple ways you'll be able to use your new iPhone (or even your old device) for some positive impact on yourself and the world around you.
1. HIT THE PAVEMENT
As the old adage goes – "as long as you've got your health." The new iPhones will give you an extra push to keep in shape with the Health app, fully integrated with third-party apps like MyFitness Pal and Nike+. Developed in conjunction with doctors from the Mayo Clinic, the app will gather nutrition, fitness and other vital information, which you can access through various iPhone apps and even forward to your doctor. It even has a caffeine tab to track your consumption throughout the day.
ONE MORE THING: These features will also sync with the Activity and Workout apps on the new Apple Watch, to measure your heart rate, count your steps and set personal workout goals. To make it super fun, you can even earn badges for sitting less, moving more, and exercising.
2. UPCYCLE THE OLD ONE
If you're planning on buying the new iPhone 6, there are plenty of resourceful ways to put your old device to use. From making a professional camera to a home scanning system, this creative list from our pals at Mashable gives you plenty of repurposing ideas.
ONE MORE THING: Another option is to take advantage of the Apple recycling program and get credit towards a new one. Alternatively, you could recycle the device in exchange for cold hard cash, if you've got an ecoATM in your area.
3. GET SNAP HAPPY
Every two minutes, we snap as many photos as humanity as a whole did in the 1800s – and digital photography has a huge role to play in that statistic. The new iPhone has improved camera specs – lots to look forward to there - but did you know that you can use your photos to do good? Donate a Photo and #foodsharefilter are two of a rising trend of initiatives that utilize the digital sphere for the greater good.
ONE MORE THING: Spread the love! In the personal sphere, use your shiny new toy to share your favorite pictures with family and friends.
4. MAX YOUR BATTERY POWER
The battery in the new iPhone will be even more long-lasting than previous versions - but that doesn’t mean it won’t run out. And lithium-ion batteries only last a limited amount of charges. To get the most from your battery - and avoid having to get it replaced and recycled prematurely - follow these tips to maximize your power. To begin with: Use wifi whenever possible, adjust your screen brightness, and turn off unnecessary push notifications.
ONE MORE THING: Check out the ”Better” film for an inspirational, Apple-flavored take on looking after the environment.
5. MAKE SOMETHING
Take inspiration from the creativity that went into developing the new iPhone 6 - and create something new and unique of your own. Edit an image, record a tune, pen a poem - whatever it is, take a few minutes off refreshing your News Feed to express yourself and entice the inventor within.
ONE MORE THING: U2’s new album Songs of Innocence is now available free for download on iTunes - try it out as the soundtrack to your creative burst.
6. TURN IT OFF
Everything in moderation. Every so often, when you're done using your phone for good, take a break – whether it's for an evening or a weekend. You could even make it a nightly habit – taking a couple of hours away from electronic devices before you hit the sack ups your chances of getting a good night sleep.
ONE MORE THING: Check out these tips for a full digital detox for inspiration.
