Android is one of the smartphone platforms on the market, and there are more than just a few applications out there that are truly outstanding. The best programs on the market are more often than not the most innovate and the simplest at the same time. They’re the types of applications that make you ask, “Why didn’t I think of this myself?” Listed in this article are a handful of the best apps currently on the market, and some information about what they do.
Thinking Space. Thinking space is a mind mapping application. Basically with this application what you do is you connect thoughts and ideas. It’s a great program for formulating and creating new ideas and concepts. This program doesn’t cost anything; however the free version comes with advertisements. If you pay $4 you can have the ad-free version, which makes for a much more pleasant user experience.
Astro File Manager. This program is great if you’re constantly manipulating files on your Android device. Basically what it does is give you Windows Explorer type functionality on a smartphone. You can search through files and folders and move them around. You can rename, copy, archive, and compress files. You can even identify files and send them as attachments. In short this you’ll get a lot of productivity out of this app if you’re the type of user who does more than just run “out-of-the-box” apps on your Android device.
Handcent SMS. Handcent gives your Android device customizable texting tools with the iPhone style speech bubbles. In short Handcent makes your texting experience in Android almost infinitely customizable, and in general makes the whole texting experience more fun. It’s totally free, so go ahead and download it because you don’t need to pay anything for this one.
Toddler Lock. This is a great device that locks your phone up from kids and turns it into a toy so that your little ones won’t go on calling people or texting folks they’re not supposed to. Basically it turns your phone into a rattle like toy that will keep your kid entertained for hours. And because this is free as well, it’s easy on the wallet.
Barcode Scanner. This is a wonderful application that enables you to scan UPC codes from almost any item. Then once you’ve scanned them, you can research the products and cross-check pricing online. You can take it with you anywhere you go, and as long as you have cell phone signal you can check prices and do your market research.
