Like a kid in a candy store (and I suspect most iPhone owners), I began my foray into the world of smartphones by downloading as many apps as my phone could handle. Months later, these are the ones I still use – with an emphasis on utility rather than pure entertainment value (sorry, AngryBirds.)
1. ESPN ScoreCenter: Sports apps are a dime a dozen and this may not be the most comprehensive, but at the hard-to-beat price of $0 this is the perfect source of sports info for anyone looking to check up on his or her team on the go. With up-to-the second scores from all of the major leagues arranged in an easy to use, customizable format, ScoreCenter is perfectly tailored to be the MVP of a sports fan’s phone.
2. MusicID: This app is for anyone who has ever heard a song playing on the radio or at a bar and thought, “Boy, I like this, but who the heck sings it?” Rather than plugging the lyrics into a search engine or just forgetting altogether, open this app and tap “identify song” while holding the phone towards the source of the tunes. Not only will it (usually) tell you the artist, song title, and album, but you can also view lyrics and even purchase the song through a link to the iTunes app. Instant gratification has never sounded so good.
3. OpenTable: The only thing worse than waiting to eat is waiting to find out if you’ll have to. With OpenTable, simply select the date, time, location, and size of your party, and a list of available reservations in your area will pop up. Equally useful the night of or days in advance, and instant reservations are confirmed by e-mail; may also clue you in to a new or long-forgotten dining choice in your neighborhood. Dine out, don’t freak out.
4. AllRecipes: From aspiring chefs to hapless college kids, this app offers access to a library of easy to follow, user submitted (and vetted) recipes. Using the recipe “spinner” (think slot machine for cooking), simply select the course, desired ingredients, and ideal cooking time, and the app does the rest. Not only will you have a variety of options, but user feedback will steer you towards the best bets as well as helpful hints for the preparation or customization of your recipe. Now you’re cookin!
5. Mixology: Mixing drinks may be more art than science, but why take chances? A must-have for the 21+ crowd, this app synthesizes the seemingly disparate combo of mixers and liquors already in your house into one tasty and cohesive drink, recipe included. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, use this app to find the nearest liquor store and supplement your supplies. It may not put your bartender out of business, but Mixology will at least ensure that you get your buzz without opening a book.
Happy apping.