I’m curious how long Vine will be around now that Instagram has video capabilities? In my opinion, Vine’s major mistake was not developing an Android app when it first launched. It could have really owned the video market on both phones, but by the time Android users could get the app–which only worked with later versions of Android–Instagram made its announcement shortly thereafter.
Category: Apps
Six new apps worth trying
As I was sitting on a bus last week surrounded by students on spring break, I couldn’t help but notice how many of us were on our phones. Not to exaggerate, but nine out of 10 students were on their phone. Then I noticed that we weren’t just using our phones for texting or calling, we were using phones for almost everything else.
Old news? Maybe for some but this got me thinking, what is everyone doing on their phone? Most people were using Twitter or Facebook while some introduced me to other apps. Here is a list of six apps, in no particular order, that I have recently fallen in love with (click on their logo to download app):
1. Sound Cloud: It’s like Twitter, but instead of statuses, they’re songs. I get all my new music here.
2. Relax Melodies: I sometimes have a hard time falling asleep or relaxing. This app makes relaxing easy. There are so many sounds and features to choose from!
3. Hill Climb: This game is addicting! The more levels you complete the more points you have to earn features for your car. Check this game out for yourself!
4. Cultiwords: It’s a cognitive training program developed and tested by the learning club. Expand your vocabulary with this app.
5. Ruzzle: A fast pace word game where you can challenge your friends. You must give it a try!
6. Reddit: User-generated news, pictures, videos, etc. I’ts not new, but it’s one of my favorites.
Big hands like to text, too
Do you feel left behind when it comes to texting because you think your fingers are too chubby?
“Fat fingers” joins “bad eyesight” as reasons people can’t type a text message. The average person texts 20-30 messages per day, and not all of them have thin fingers.
Here are some alternate ways you can send text messages, instant messages and emails on your smartphone:
- use a soft touch stylus, a writing tool that provides more precision and looks like a ballpoint pen.
- use custom apps such as iMean for iPhones and Big Buttons Keyboard for Android phones.
- use SwiftkeyX predictive typing app for the Android.
- use speech-to-text systems for voice dialing and messaging.
- get a phone with a Qwerty keyboard, as it’s roomier and you get more tactile precision.
Remember, a big phone and big screen doesn’t mean a big keyboard. But at least you have options now for staying connected.