Whether you’re a loyal iPhone user or are getting excited to purchase the latest version, new apps are constantly being released and updated. Check out some of HC Skidmore’s Top 5 Favorite Apps (in no particular order) and how they could improve your day-to-day:
1.Waze
If you have ever found yourself driving around an unknown neighborhood without a passenger, you know it can get pretty tricky (and dangerous) trying to read your Maps app. Waze has solved that problem. Unlike most navigation apps, Waze uses voice guidance so you never have to look down at your phone. Whenever you are approaching a turn or an exit on the highway, Waze gives you full warning. Waze uses real-time maps and has an added social component that enables drivers to share road reports and accidents that they encounter along their way, helping to give a heads up to other Waze users in the area. Why risk ever taking your eyes off the road ever again? This app is free.
2. Words With Friends
If you like Scrabble, you will love Words With Friends. With WWF, you can challenge your friends or other users to a Scrabble-like game and you can be instantaneously notified with each play your opponent makes. The point system may be different than Scrabble, but achieving high scores that can exceed 500 will definitely make your SAT tutor proud. This app is free.
3. Flixster
This app gives you movie times, theater locations, reviews, and trailers on the go. Flixster is very easy-to-use app and provides information on the current movies playing and also on upcoming ones (some debuting in as late as 2014!). It also uses your current location so whether you’re in Saratoga or AT home for the weekend, Flixster will automatically filter out movie times for theaters located right where you are. This app is free.
4. Sleep Cycle
Waking up for your 8 am class is hard enough, but waking up in the middle of your deepest sleep during an REM cycle makes it nearly impossible to get out of bed. With the Sleep Cycle app, you can set your alarm for the time you need to wake up, say 7:30. Sleep Cycle will analyze your sleep pattern and wake you up at the moment of your lightest sleep between 7 and 7:30. Never wake up sleepy again! This app costs $0.99.
5. Beluga
Ever wanted to emulate the BBMs (Blackberry Messanger) your friends send each other, but with your iPhone? Now, you don’t have to miss a beat. Beluga makes group messaging easy, with the ability to create different Pods (private groups). You can have a Pod for school friends, friends from home, and one for family. It makes staying in touch simpler and more fun, with an option to share pictures and send instant updates, even with non-iPhone users. This app is free.
What’s your favorite app? Let us know in the comments!