Smartphone sales went up 72.1% from 2009 to 2010 and the jump to 2011 doesn’t seem to be slowing down. With the world depending on smart phones more and more each day, which apps are the best ones to have while you’re on-the-go? Here is our list of 10 apps no smartphone user should leave home without:
#1: Bump. Bump allows you to instantly share photos, music, apps, contact information, compare calendars and send invites all with the bump of your phone. Depending on what version of the app you have, you can even connect with friends on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn just by bumping your phones together!
#2: DropBox. DropBox allows you to access your documents, photos and videos anytime, from anywhere. Download DropBox on your computer and any file you drop in will be available on your smartphone or tablet device. Additionally, you have secure access to all your files through the DropBox website.
#3: GasBuddy. Whether you are traveling to a new destination or just want to find the least expensive gas in town, GasBuddy is one mobile app you don’t want to leave home without. The app uses your GPS system to pinpoint your location and provide a listing of nearby gas stations and their current prices. You can sort by price, gas type and location. You can also earn points towards prizes for reporting gas prices in your area.
#4: Foursquare. Foursquare is a location-based platform that allows you to “check in” to businesses and merchants in your area and gain virtual badges while sharing your location with friends and family. The Foursquare app allows you to check-in, leave tips, upload photos and comments and find discounts and specials that merchants are offering nearby. Check in to a location more than your peers, and you might receive something special for unlocking the “Mayor” badge!
#5: Kindle. If you’re thinking of purchasing a Kindle, why not try the mobile app for free? Kindle is Amazon’s free reading app that transforms your smartphone into a Kindle. Browse the Kindle Store, read books online or purchase and download books for later, all from your mobile device. Features include: adjustable text size, bookmarking, notes, highlighting and multiple back light colors.
#6: Pulse. Pulse allows you to categorize and stream all of your news sources into one place, including articles from social network feeds and your favorite blogs. Save articles to read for later; add your own local news sources; and share news easily using Facebook and Twitter integration. Never miss out on your favorite news again!
#7: RedLaser. RedLaser combines the power of a QR code reader and the versatility of a barcode scanner into one app. Users have the ability to scan bar codes, check prices, find stores nearby, find food allergens, locate library books and scan and generate QR codes all from their smart phone. If you see something you want to buy later, just scan the bar code and save it for future use.
#8: Tweetdeck. Tweetdeck allows you to combine your Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare feeds into one application for optimized viewing and usage capabilities. Use the dashboard to track replies, comments and mentions; compose new messages; search for all tweets and check-ins that have been made near your location; and more! Tweetdeck only requires you to add your account once to remain constantly connected.
#9: TripAdvisor. When planning a trip or exploring a new city, TripAdvisor gives you access to reviews, opinions, photos and maps via your smartphone. Not only can you search for hotels, restaurants and entertainment options, but you can get real-time information on flight rates when price shopping. Save your favorite finds for easy viewing later or instantly share them with friends and family.
#10: YouTube. The YouTube app has all the the capabilities of the website, but it’s resting at your fingertips. In addition to browsing YouTube and and viewing your favorites and saved play lists, you can create DVD-quality recordings from your phone and upload them directly to the site. Uploads can be done with one touch utilizing the YouTube widget and appear online within moments. Favorite, share, rate and comment on videos directly from your smartphone as well.
Know of any other apps that should be added to this list? We’d love to hear from you!