Just before the holidays, we launched Mind the App, a new video series created by Andrew Love, our video production specialist. The series will highlight the best of what app stores everywhere have to offer, and will explain how businesses can use these apps to be more productive in the workplace.
And check out Mind the App’s first video on process automation with If This Then That.
So you recently leapt into the Android world, either from another phone or smartphone, or maybe it’s even your first. Either way, you’re looking at a brand new phone in desperate need of a new app collection. Don’t worry, MTA has got you covered. Let’s take a look at some essential apps to get you started on your new Android phone – this time on Mind the App.
Right off the bat, the first thing you’re going to expect your new smartphone to do is improve your communication and access to social media. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Skype are already familiar with them. If not, Android makes it easy for new users to get started.
While Android is a Google operating system, many manufacturers and cell providers provide their own browsers and utilities. To get the most out of the Google experience, I recommend downloading Google Calendar and Google Chrome. With the Android ecosystem in mind, Chrome works more seamlessly with Google services and tools than other browsers and includes many features you would find in a full desktop browser.
If you feel like you need a camera app with more features than your phone is providing you, CameraZoom FX is a featured packed alternative with a nice interface and lots of additional functions and editing tools you won’t find in your average camera app.
Now, depending on who makes your particular device, like the camera app, you may find that the included music player isn’t up to snuff. I recommend Rocket Player. It is full featured and has a slick, skinnable UI. If you are lost as to where to buy your music, fear not. There’s a music section on the Google Play store where you can buy tunes to your ear’s content. Hear a song playing while you’re out and want to know what it is? Don’t forget to download Shazam so you’ll never be left wondering, or worse, having to ask.
If you’ve got cloud on your mind, to keep all your documents safe and accessible, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Skydrive all have Android apps that integrate seamlessly with the Android OS, so whatever flavour of cloud you use, the option is there for you.
I’m going to leave it at that for now, and give you some time to go download those apps. In part two we’ll talk banking, finding your lost phone, and much more.
I’m Richard Boelens. Thanks for watching Mind the App.
Is there an app you’d like to see featured on the show? Drop us a line in the comments, or send us an email to apps@mindtheapp.ca.