What Is Airplane Mode for Apple OS 4?
Apple's iPhone OS 4 became iOS 4 in 2010, as it applies to multiple Apple mobile devices such as the iPad and iPod touch. Airplane Mode in the iOS software places your mobile device in a state that is safe to use during air travel. You can also use Airplane Mode in other situations that do not require cellular signal.
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Function
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Airplane Mode blocks all incoming and outgoing wireless signals to your Apple mobile device. This includes cellular data and voice, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. You can shut each of these off individually, but Airplane Mode gives you an easy way to cut all of these signals with a single tap, and then restore to your previous settings with another tap, whether you had all or only one or two of these wireless features turned on.
Purpose
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Certain wireless signals, particularly cellular and Bluetooth, can interfere with an airplane's communications systems. Placing your iPhone or other device in Airplane Mode lets you use the device's offline features while flying without worrying about interference. For example, you can read from your electronic library, listen to music or work on offline documents on your device as you fly. Anything you want to use in-flight must be downloaded onto your device before placing it in Airplane Mode, but anything stored within the device is accessible in this mode.
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Alternate Uses
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Airplane Mode can also help if you are using accessories such as a microphone that is getting interference from cellular signals. Placing the phone in Airplane Mode shuts off the cellular data so you can use your accessory without this interference. When you finish with the accessory, you can easily restore your wireless data settings. Airplane Mode can also be useful if you need to use offline features of your Apple device without being interrupted by phone calls, texts and emails.
Airplane Mode vs. Off
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When you fly, airline personnel will most likely ask you to turn your electronic devices fully off, not just place them in Airplane Mode. This is because there is still a small chance of interference during the crucial times of takeoff and landing, when most airline accidents occur. Place your iOS device in Airplane Mode before you turn it off pre-flight, so when you turn it on during the flight it will not send out any inappropriate signals. If you are on a Wi-Fi equipped flight, turn off your cellular data and Bluetooth connections manually, turn on your Wi-Fi, and then place the device in Airplane mode before shutting off for takeoff. When you are instructed that it is safe to use the Wi-Fi, turn on the device and take it out of Airplane Mode to begin.
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References
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