Smartphones – oh all of the things you can do with them! It is a market that is growing rapidly, especially for Apple, which according to figures from research firm Gartner, saw sales of its iPhone models grow by 125 per cent during the second quarter of 2011.
Sales of smartphones in general grew by 74 per cent over the same period.
That’s a hell of a lot of phones, also meaning a whole load of apps!
Over at Mashable.com they have put together a list of the top 25 apps they consider essential for owners of the new iPhone 4S.
I thought I’d find out what everyone here at Parcel2Go thought of the list and then let you know what our top five favourite free apps are.
I’ll be the first to admit this research isn’t perhaps what you’d call scientific, but if nothing else then it should give you something to think about next time you’re heading to the app store.
1. Spotify
Well, it is first on Mashable’s list and it’s first on mine too! Only a few others had this music app on their phone, but without doubt it is one of my most frequently used apps.
You do have to pay a monthly subscription, but the app itself is free and provides an endless supply of quality free tracks which can be downloaded to your handset. It even suggests music that you may like based on what you already listen to, ensuring you never get bored with your music!
2. Facebook
Thanks to its recent facelift, Facebook’s smartphone app is now easier to use and a lot quicker than before. A new menu system means navigating around is simple. And it’s still free. So if you weren’t addicted to Facebook before, I warn you, this app may become a new obsession.
3.iTunes Movie Trailer
I don’t know about you, but I never know what’s on at the cinema, which is why I probably never go. But with this app, you can watch exclusive trailers for upcoming films which is pretty exciting I think! Everyone else in the office agrees also.
4. Starbucks
Lover of coffee? Then definitely get this app. With a touch of a button you’ll be able to discover where to get your closest caffeine fix, and how to get there.
You’ll also get details about the store’s opening hours and facilities, along with info on food being served and relevant nutritional information (which as a lover of caramel frappucinos I don’t want to know, thank you very much!)
5. Socialcam
Although no one in the office had used this before, the app really appealed to us. Socialcam allows you to shoot video footage and add a variety of filters such as Noir, Sepia and Bohemian to customise your footage the way you want.You can also use the app to easily share your videos through Facebook, Twitter and email.
No doubt you already have one or more of these apps on your iPhone, but if not then make sure you keep an eye out for them when you’re next browsing the Apple app store.
If you were putting together a list of your top five free apps, what would you include?