Pasta salad is a timeless favorite that effortlessly combines the comfort of pasta with the freshness of vegetables, making it a perfect dish for picnics, barbecues, or a light meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you in creating a delightful pasta salad that can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

To prepare this vibrant pasta salad, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: Choose short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne. These shapes hold the dressing well and add a pleasant texture to the salad.
• Vegetables: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. These add crunch and freshness.
• Cheese: Add cubed mozzarella or feta cheese for a creamy element that complements the other ingredients.
• Olives: Black or green olives introduce a salty flavor that balances the salad’s taste.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can enhance the salad’s aroma and flavor.
• Dressing: Prepare a simple dressing using olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This tangy dressing ties all the ingredients together.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the vegetables. Cut the cherry tomatoes in halves, dice the cucumbers and bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onions. If you’re using fresh herbs, chop them finely.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

4. Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, cheese, and olives. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently to ensure even coating.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with fresh herbs.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad

• Pasta Selection: Opt for short pasta shapes that can hold the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or steamed broccoli to add unique flavors and textures.
• Protein Additions: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or bacon bits.
• Dressing Variations: Customize the dressing by adding herbs like oregano or thyme, or include a touch of honey for sweetness.
• Make-Ahead: Pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to develop even more.

Healthier Alternatives

To make a lighter version of this pasta salad:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to increase the fiber content.
• Greek Yogurt Dressing: Substitute the mayonnaise or cream-based dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and herbs for a tangy and creamy alternative.
• Add More Vegetables: Increase the proportion of vegetables to pasta to boost the salad’s nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled meats like chicken or steak.
• Fresh bread or garlic bread.
• A side of fruit salad or a light soup.

Conclusion

Pasta salad is a versatile and customization dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or dietary preference. By following this simple recipe and incorporating your favorite ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying salad that will be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy the process of making it and, most importantly, savor the delightful flavors in every bite.

Elephants have long fascinated scientists and researchers for their seemingly mysterious behavior during natural disasters—especially earthquakes. There have been numerous accounts, both anecdotal and scientific, that suggest elephants can sense earthquakes before they occur and behave in unusual ways leading up to seismic activity.

Here’s a deeper look into how elephants react during earthquakes and what science has uncovered so far:

How Do Elephants Behave During Earthquakes?

1. Unusual Movements Before the Quake

In several documented cases, elephants have been observed:

• Fleeing to higher ground
• Trumpeting loudly or pacing nervously
• Breaking out of enclosures or chains
• Showing signs of agitation hours before the actual earthquake

One of the most famous instances was during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and earthquake, where elephants in Thailand were seen moving inland to safety before the wave hit.

2. Herd Cohesion and Leadership

During moments of stress, elephants tend to tighten their herd structure, following the lead of older matriarchs who may sense danger. This strong social bond allows them to react as a group and move quickly away from perceived threats.

Can Elephants Really Sense Earthquakes?

There are a few scientific theories that may explain this phenomenon:

1. Seismic Vibrations and Infrasound

Elephants can hear infrasound—very low-frequency sounds below human hearing. These sounds travel long distances through the ground. It’s believed elephants can detect subtle seismic vibrations or low-frequency sounds that occur before an earthquake.

• Their sensitive feet and trunks can pick up these ground-borne vibrations.
• Elephants use infrasound to communicate over long distances, so it makes sense they might detect similar frequencies caused by tectonic shifts.

2. Behavioral Sensitivity to Environmental Cues

Elephants are highly attuned to environmental changes. They may notice:

• Shifts in air pressure
• Unusual behavior in other animals
• Small tremors or foreshocks that humans overlook

Scientific Studies and Observations

• A study published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America suggests elephants are capable of detecting seismic signals and even using them to communicate through the ground.
• In Sri Lanka and India, wildlife officials reported that elephants fled inland before the 2004 tsunami—supporting the theory that elephants sensed the quake or resulting pressure changes.
• In zoos and wildlife parks, elephants have also been recorded reacting minutes before earthquakes with panic-like behavior.

Challenges in Studying Animal Earthquake Prediction

Despite many observations, scientists remain cautious:

• Much of the evidence is anecdotal or based on retrospective reports.
• Not all earthquakes produce the same conditions, and not all elephants react the same way.

Still, elephants are among the most consistently observed animals displaying pre-earthquake behavior, more so than many other species.

In Summary

• Elephants have shown unusual and sometimes lifesaving behavior before and during earthquakes.
• Their ability to detect infrasound and ground vibrations may allow them to sense seismic activity before it’s felt by humans.
• Their social intelligence and memory likely help them act quickly and cohesively in the face of danger.

In today’s health-conscious world, smartwatches and fitness bands have become more than just stylish accessories—they’re essential tools for tracking wellness, improving fitness, and staying motivated. One of the most fundamental yet crucial features of these devices is the step counter.

An accurate step counter helps you measure daily activity, set realistic goals, and build healthy habits. But not all devices are created equal. Some are wildly inaccurate, undercounting or overcounting your steps by thousands. So, how do you choose a fitness tracker that’s truly dependable?

We’ve tested and researched the top devices of 2025 to bring you this definitive list of the best smartwatches and fitness bands with the most accurate step tracking.

1. Apple Watch Series 9 – Best Overall Smartwatch for Accuracy

Price: Starting at $399
Platform: iOS only

If you’re an iPhone user, it’s hard to beat the Apple Watch Series 9 when it comes to step tracking precision. Apple uses a combination of accelerometer, gyroscope, and machine learning algorithms to deliver top-tier accuracy.

Key Features:

• Accurate step and distance tracking
• Workout detection and automatic logging
• Daily Activity Rings to keep you motivated
• Seamless integration with Apple Health
• Always-On Retina display

Why It Stands Out:

In multiple third-party tests, the Apple Watch consistently reports within 2–3% of actual step counts, outperforming many rivals. Plus, it’s incredibly user-friendly and packed with extra features like ECG, SpO2, and Siri support.

Best for: Apple users who want a powerful, all-around health and productivity tool.

2. Fitbit Charge 6 – Best Fitness Band for Step Counting

Price: Around $159
Platform: iOS & Android

Fitbit has been synonymous with step tracking since its inception, and the Charge 6 continues that legacy with impressive accuracy and affordability.

Key Features:

• 24/7 heart rate tracking
• Built-in GPS
• Google Maps and Wallet integration
• Stress management tools
• Lightweight, sleek design

Why It Stands Out:

Fitbit’s proprietary PurePulse algorithm and 3-axis accelerometer make the Charge 6 one of the most accurate wearables in its class for step counting. It’s also great for users looking for a focused fitness tracker rather than a full-fledged smartwatch.

Best for: Fitness enthusiasts and those who want reliable step tracking in a slimmer form factor.

3. Garmin Venu 3 – Best for Athletes and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Price: Starting at $449
Platform: iOS & Android

Garmin has always been a top choice among runners, cyclists, and adventurers, and the Venu 3 is their most stylish and feature-rich offering to date.

Key Features:

• Multi-band GPS for pinpoint location tracking
• Advanced workout and sleep tracking
• AMOLED display with customizable faces
• Long battery life (up to 14 days)
• Accurate step and motion sensors

Why It Stands Out:

The Venu 3 uses multi-sensor tracking, combining GPS, altimeter, and accelerometer data for unmatched accuracy—even during complex workouts or trail hikes. It also adjusts to different activities (like pushing a stroller or walking on uneven terrain), ensuring precise readings.

Best for: Outdoor adventurers, serious athletes, and those needing ultra-accurate metrics.

4. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – Best Android Smartwatch for Daily Activity

Price: Starting at $299
Platform: Android (limited features on iOS)

The Galaxy Watch 6 offers a fantastic mix of style, health tracking, and smart features—with much-improved accuracy over previous Samsung wearables.

Key Features:

• BioActive Sensor for heart rate, body composition, and SpO2
• Sleep coaching and stress tracking
• Google integration (Maps, Assistant, Play Store)
• Sleek, customizable interface
• Accurate motion sensors

Why It Stands Out:

The Watch 6’s step tracking has been fine-tuned to rival Apple’s, with readings typically within 3% of actual steps during daily movement. The device also offers detailed workout analytics and auto-recognition of over 90 exercises.

Best for: Android users who want a beautiful, reliable smartwatch with health features.

5. Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro – Best Budget Tracker with Accurate Steps

Price: Around $65
Platform: iOS & Android

For those on a budget, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro punches well above its price point. While it lacks some of the premium features of higher-end models, its step counting is surprisingly spot-on.

Key Features:

• 1.74-inch AMOLED display
• 10+ days battery life
• 150+ fitness modes
• Basic sleep and heart rate tracking
• Lightweight and waterproof

Why It Stands Out:

Despite the low price, Xiaomi has equipped this band with precise motion sensors and an optimized algorithm for accurate step counting. It’s ideal for casual users who want simple tracking without the bells and whistles.

Best for: Budget-conscious users who want reliable basic fitness tracking.

6. WHOOP 4.0 – Best for Data-Driven Users (Non-Display Tracker)

Price: Subscription-based ($30/month or $399/year)
Platform: iOS & Android

The WHOOP 4.0 is unique—it doesn’t have a screen and is purely focused on health metrics. While step tracking isn’t its primary purpose, it still offers highly accurate movement data using a combination of sensors and machine learning.

Key Features:

• Tracks strain, recovery, and sleep in detail
• Battery lasts 4–5 days
• Minimalist design, can be worn on wrist, arm, or torso
• Excellent for athletes and biohackers

Why It Stands Out:

WHOOP excels at analyzing patterns and delivering insights. Though it doesn’t show real-time step counts, it tracks activity with clinical-grade accuracy, and the companion app provides deep health trends over time.

Best for: High-performance users and athletes interested in long-term insights more than real-time numbers.

7. Amazfit GTR 4 – Best Mid-Range Smartwatch for Fitness Tracking

Price: Around $199
Platform: iOS & Android

The Amazfit GTR 4 is a rising star in the wearable market. It offers a wide range of fitness features—including step counting—with impressive accuracy and a very attractive price tag.

Key Features:

• Dual-band GPS
• 150+ sports modes
• Alexa voice assistant
• 14-day battery life
• BioTracker 4.0 sensor

Why It Stands Out:

Tests show that the GTR 4’s step tracking is within 2–4% of actual steps, on par with much more expensive competitors. It’s perfect for anyone who wants solid performance without overspending.

Best for: Mid-range buyers who want premium fitness tracking without the Apple or Garmin price tag.

Final Tips for Getting the Most Accurate Step Counts

No matter which tracker you choose, here are some ways to ensure more accurate results:

Wear it snugly: A loose fit can result in missed steps or phantom counts.
Calibrate your stride length: Some devices allow manual entry for better distance tracking.
Use GPS for walks/runs: This improves tracking accuracy during outdoor workouts.
Avoid non-wrist placement (unless specified): Wearing your watch in a pocket or bag reduces accuracy.
Sync regularly: This ensures your data uploads correctly to companion apps.

Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?

• Want the best overall accuracy and features? Apple Watch Series 9
• Prefer a fitness-first band? Fitbit Charge 6
• Outdoor adventurer or serious athlete? Garmin Venu 3
• Android user needing a full smartwatch? Galaxy Watch 6
• On a budget? Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro
• Looking for long-term performance tracking? WHOOP 4.0
• Want balance between price and features? Amazfit GTR 4

Whatever your lifestyle, there’s a smartwatch or fitness band out there that can help you move more, live healthier, and stay motivated—with accurate steps to back it up.

Want more expert guides on wearable, health tech, and smart living? Explore our latest reviews at Next Now Media for up-to-date tips, tech roundups, and buyer-friendly insights.

In today’s world, buying a used smartphone can be a smart way to save money. Whether you’re purchasing from an online marketplace, a friend, or a secondhand electronics store, you can often find great deals. But one critical risk looms over secondhand purchases—the possibility of buying a stolen or blacklisted phone.

If you unknowingly buy a phone that’s been reported stolen or flagged by a carrier, you could be stuck with a device that’s unusable. Worse, you might even run into legal trouble.

So how can you protect yourself? Here’s everything you need to know to check if a used phone is stolen or blacklisted, along with tips for safe buying.

What Does “Blacklisted” Mean?

A blacklisted phone is one that has been blocked from being used on cellular networks. This usually happens because the phone:

• Was reported stolen or lost by the original owner.
• Is associated with unpaid bills or was acquired through fraud.
• Was flagged by a mobile carrier for other legal or security reasons.

When a phone is blacklisted, its IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is added to a database shared among carriers. As a result, that phone cannot connect to any major mobile network in the region, or sometimes even internationally.

Why This Matters When Buying Used Phones

• You may not be able to use the phone at all, even with a new SIM card.
• Reselling the phone becomes difficult or illegal.
• You could be unintentionally supporting theft or fraud.

That’s why checking a device’s status before buying is essential.

Step-by-Step: How to Check If a Used Phone Is Stolen or Blacklisted

1. Ask for the IMEI Number

The IMEI number is a 15-digit code that uniquely identifies a mobile phone. You’ll need this to check if the device is blacklisted.

Here’s how to find it:

• Dial *#06# on the phone’s keypad.
• Or, go to Settings > About Phone.
• Or, look on the phone’s original box or SIM tray.

Tip: If the seller refuses to give you the IMEI, walk away—that’s a red flag.

2. Check the IMEI on a Trusted Blacklist Database

Use one of the following free or low-cost services to verify the phone’s status:

Popular IMEI Check Tools:

• IMEI.info
• CTIA Stolen Phone Checker (USA only)
• Swappa IMEI Check
• [T-Mobile or AT&T IMEI Checkers] on their official sites.

What You’ll Learn:

• Whether the phone is blacklisted or clean.
• The carrier lock status.
• Some may show if the phone is under financing or contract.

Note: Always verify the IMEI yourself. Don’t rely on screenshots provided by sellers—they could be fake.

3. Confirm the Phone Is Not Carrier Locked

A phone can be blacklisted and carrier locked—or just one of the two. Even if it’s not stolen, it could still be locked to a specific carrier, meaning it won’t work with other providers.

You can check the lock status by:

• Inserting a SIM card from a different carrier and seeing if it works.
• Asking the seller which network it was originally tied to and verifying through that carrier’s website.

4. Inspect the Phone Physically and Verify Ownership

Sometimes, stolen phones are sold with factory reset screens or new cases to look brand new. Here are some red flags and tips:

• Look for activation lock warnings (especially on iPhones). If it’s asking for the previous Apple ID, it’s iCloud locked, and likely stolen.
• Ask to meet at a carrier store. They can often run an in-store IMEI check.
• Request a receipt or proof of purchase from the seller. Most legitimate sellers will have one.

What to Avoid When Buying a Used Phone

• Too-good-to-be-true pricing: If a $1000 phone is being sold for $200, something’s off.
• Unwillingness to meet in person: Scammers often operate online only.
• No box or accessories: Not always a red flag, but combined with other signs, it could mean trouble.
• Refusal to test the phone: Always test functionality (calls, Wi-Fi, camera, etc.).

What If You Already Bought a Blacklisted Phone?

It can be tricky, but here are your options:

Return It

If you bought it from a marketplace (like eBay, Swappa, or Facebook Marketplace), report the issue immediately and request a return or refund. Platforms like eBay have buyer protection programs.

Contact the Carrier

Call the carrier associated with the device. In some cases, if the blacklisting was due to unpaid bills and not theft, it might be possible to negotiate a resolution.

Report to Authorities

If you believe the phone is stolen, report it to the police. You may not be able to recover your money, but you’ll help stop criminal resale rings.

Tips to Buy a Used Phone Safely

Meet in person at a public location. Better yet, meet at a phone store.
Check the IMEI before you hand over money.
Test the phone’s key functions: call, camera, Wi-Fi, fingerprint/face unlock.
Avoid cash-only deals unless it’s a trusted seller. Use traceable payment methods like PayPal or credit cards.
Ask for ID or proof of purchase, especially for newer models.

Special Note for iPhone Buyers: Activation Lock Check

For iPhone users, Apple offers Activation Lock (aka iCloud lock), which is meant to protect against theft. Even if a stolen iPhone is reset to factory settings, it will still ask for the original owner’s Apple ID and password.

Check this by:

1. Turning on the iPhone.
2. If you see a message like “iPhone Locked to Owner”, it’s activation locked.
3. Only the original owner can unlock it.

DO NOT buy an iPhone that is still linked to someone else’s Apple ID. It will be completely unusable.

Final Thoughts

Buying a used phone is a great way to save money and reduce electronic waste—but it requires a bit of caution and due diligence.

To sum it up:

• Always ask for the IMEI and check it yourself using trusted databases.
• Avoid phones that are iCloud or Google-locked.
• Don’t buy from sellers who refuse transparency.
• Be wary of super cheap deals and pushy sellers.

A clean, unlocked, used phone can save you hundreds—but a stolen one could cost you even more.

Stay smart, stay safe, and never get stuck with a blacklisted phone again. For more digital security tips and buyer guides, visit Next Now Media, where we help you stay informed in the modern tech world.

In the dynamic world of social media, Instagram remains one of the most influential platforms for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands. But here’s a fact that many miss: while content is king, your settings are your strategy.

Instagram’s behind-the-scenes tools and configurations can significantly influence your visibility, engagement, and follower growth. From algorithm-friendly adjustments to privacy controls that impact discoverability, leveraging the right settings can transform a stagnant profile into a growth machine.

If you’re serious about growing your account in 2025, here are the Top 5 Instagram settings you need to optimize—today.

1. Switch to a Professional (Business or Creator) Account

Why it matters: Access to analytics, promotion tools, monetization features, and professional credibility.

One of the most crucial first steps in building a high-growth Instagram profile is switching from a personal account to a Professional Account—either Creator or Business.

Benefits:

• Instagram Insights: See detailed metrics on reach, impressions, demographics, and engagement.
• Branded content tools: Tag paid partnerships, boosting transparency and trust.
• Call-to-action buttons: Let users contact you directly or visit your website.
• Content scheduling access: Plan your content using Meta Business Suite or third-party tools.

How to switch:

1. Go to Settings > Account.
2. Tap Switch to Professional Account.
3. Choose either Creator (for influencers/artists) or Business (for brands or service providers).
4. Select your category (e.g., Blogger, Public Figure, Coach).

Pro Tip: Creator accounts are ideal for influencers and content creators, while business accounts are better suited for companies and brands with customer service needs.

2. Adjust Privacy and Tagging Settings to Increase Visibility

Why it matters: Being visible and taggable expands your exposure beyond your current followers.

Your account’s visibility can make or break your growth potential. If your privacy settings are too restrictive, your profile won’t show up in tags, mentions, or Explore feeds.

Key privacy settings to adjust:

• Allow Mentions from Everyone
  Go to Settings > Privacy > Mentions Set to Everyone so others can mention your username in captions and stories.
• Allow Tags from Everyone
  Go to Settings > Privacy > Posts Enable tagging by everyone and turn on Manual Approval to manage unwanted tags.
• Allow Story Sharing
  Go to Settings > Privacy > Story Enable “Allow Resharing to Stories” so followers can share your posts to their own stories, which boosts reach.

Bonus Tip:

Also allow Remix and Collaboration requests under Settings > Privacy > Reels and Posts. This gives creators the option to use your content as part of their own Reels, expanding your visibility exponentially.

3. Optimize Your Bio and Contact Settings

Why it matters: First impressions are everything. A well-structured bio builds credibility and conversions.

Think of your bio as your digital storefront. In 2025, Instagram bios need to be sharp, searchable, and action-oriented.

Settings to focus on:

• Category Label: Under Edit Profile, choose a category that matches your niche (e.g., Digital Creator, Photographer, Coach).
• Call-to-Action Buttons: Enable “Email,” “Book Now,” or “Get Directions” based on your goals.
  Go to Settings > Business > Contact Options.
• Website Link: Use tools like Linktree or Beacons to house multiple links (store, blog, other platforms).
• Bio Text: Incorporate 1–2 keywords for searchability, a value statement, and a CTA like “ DM for collabs!”

Example Bio:
Travel Vlogger | 250k+ on YouTube
Helping you explore smarter
Watch the latest vlog

A good bio not only tells visitors what you do—it invites them to stay, engage, and follow.

4. Dive Into Instagram Insights to Guide Your Strategy

Why it matters: Data is your compass. Knowing what works lets you double down on growth.

Once you’ve switched to a professional account, Instagram grants access to Insights—a powerful tool that reveals what content resonates, when your followers are online, and where they’re located.

Where to find it:

Go to your profile, then tap Professional Dashboard > See All Insights.

Focus on:

• Top Performing Posts: Look at reach, saves, and shares.
• Audience Activity: Check what time your followers are most active to schedule posts.
• Follower Growth: Track spikes or drops and match them to recent content.

Actionable Tips:

• If your Reels are consistently outperforming image posts, shift your content mix.
• Notice high saves? Create more “saveable” content (e.g., infographics, how-tos).
• Use engagement spikes to reverse-engineer successful formats.

Bonus Tool: Pair Instagram Insights with Meta Business Suite for cross-platform performance analysis (Instagram + Facebook).

5. Use Suggested Content & Keyword Preferences Wisely

Why it matters: You can train the algorithm to associate your account with the right topics.

Instagram’s algorithm increasingly relies on contextual relevance. This means that what you interact with influences where Instagram places your content and who sees it.

Settings and behaviors that shape this:

• Search Activity: Regularly search for niche-relevant terms and hashtags.
  Example: A fitness coach should be searching “#fitnessjourney,” “#homeworkout,” etc.
• Post Interactions: Like, comment, and save content similar to what you create.
• Suggested Content Preferences: In Settings > Suggested Content, you can manage topics you want to see more of—or remove irrelevant ones.

By aligning your engagement behavior with your niche, Instagram begins showing your content to users in the same category. This is the essence of organic discoverability.

Final Thoughts: Small Settings, Big Growth

Growth on Instagram isn’t just about luck or viral Reels. It’s about understanding the ecosystem of the platform—and using every tool it gives you to your advantage.

By optimizing these five powerful settings:

1. Switch to a Professional Account
2. Update Privacy and Tagging Permissions
3. Craft a High-Impact Bio with Contact Options
4. Use Insights to Guide Your Content Strategy
5. Train the Algorithm via Engagement & Preferences

You’re no longer just posting—you’re positioning. These adjustments are quick to implement but deliver long-term growth potential.

Start Today: Spend 15–20 minutes updating your account settings
Begin posting with intentionality
Monitor your insights weekly
Stay consistent and authentic

And remember—growth isn’t about gimmicks, it’s about strategy.

For more expert tips on social media growth, content creation, and digital strategy, follow us at Next Now Media, where we help you stay ahead of the curve in the creator economy.