What are Mobile Apps and why use them?

Weeell, a mobile app is like a pocket-sized genie that lives inside your phone and grants all your wishes! OK so maybe not all of them, but it can definitely help you do a lot of cool stuff.

Websites offer a wide array of content to everyone surfing the internet. Whether you're browsing articles or shopping for the latest trends, websites provide a broad canvas for exploration and discovery. Apps however are basically programs that you can install onto your smartphone or tablet to perform specific functions or access certain services - and the best bit is that they're all about having personalised, interactive experiences, often working even when you're offline. They’re great for helping you personally. You can post on social media, play games, order food, track workouts, check the weather and organise your life…and those are just a few ways they can help! There are also loads of ways that mobile apps can help you professionally too - from receiving and sending emails, to updating invoices, storing documents and uploading client info.

The best part is that you can take your mobile app with you wherever you go! It's like having a little helper in your pocket that's always ready to assist. Whether you're on the bus, at the park, waiting for a meeting or just lounging on your couch, your mobile app is there for you, ready to make your life easier and more fun.

You can download any of the millions (yes, you read that right, millions) of available apps either from the Apple Store for iOS users or from Google Play for Android users, until you find the app that suits your needs.

Here's just a snapshot list of some mobile apps that have gained popularity over the last couple of years:

1. TikTok: A platform for short-form videos that took the world by storm, captivating users with its creative and entertaining content.

2. Instagram: A photo and video-sharing social networking app that continued to be widely used for sharing moments, stories, and connecting with friends and influencers.

3. WhatsApp: A messaging app known for its ease of use and end-to-end encryption, allowing users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share media with friends and family. One of the best things about WhatsApp is the ability to create groups, which can be with friends, family members and/or colleagues.

4. Zoom: A video conferencing app that became indispensable for remote work, online classes, and virtual social gatherings during the Covid-19 pandemic.

5. Snapchat: A multimedia messaging app popular for its disappearing messages, augmented reality filters, and interactive features like Snap Maps and Bitmojis.

6. Spotify: A music streaming app that offers a vast library of songs, personalised playlists, and podcasts, catering to all music lovers. It can even analyse the songs you’ve been playing throughout the year and let you know what the most played song was!

7. Netflix: A leading subscription-based streaming service for movies and TV shows, providing users with a wide range of on-demand entertainment.

8. Google Maps: A navigation app that offers detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, public transportation information, and local business reviews.

9. Uber: A ride-sharing app that connects passengers with drivers for convenient and affordable transportation services in various cities worldwide.

10. Pinterest: A visual discovery and bookmarking app that allows users to explore and save ideas, inspirations, and creative projects across various categories.

11. Microsoft Teams: A collaboration and communication platform designed for remote work, facilitating team chats, video meetings, file sharing, and project management.

12. Duolingo: A language-learning app that gamifies the process of learning new languages, making it fun and engaging for users of all ages.

13. Calm: A meditation and sleep app that helps users relax, practice mindfulness, and improve their sleep quality through guided meditations and soothing sounds.

14. Airbnb: A platform that allows users to find and book unique accommodation options worldwide, ranging from apartments and homes to treehouses and castles.

15. Fitbit: An app that pairs with Fitbit fitness trackers and smartwatches, allowing users to track their physical activity, sleep patterns, and overall health and wellness.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a little extra help in your day-to-day life, just head to the relevant app store, and download yourself a new mobile app. Who knows what kind of magic you'll be able to unlock!