6 apps you need to download NOW (according to an app designer)
Being a digital product designer, it’s part of my job to be a nerd for smartphone apps. As a result, I’ve tried lots of apps that are amazing, and lots of apps that are not.
After doing a recent app clear out on my phone, I’ve compiled a list of apps that I’ve managed to keep on my phone, and have gained “Stephanie won’t delete this because it’s so good” status.
Basically, I’m about to change your life.
The List…
- For staying up-to-date on news
FT Edit is a simple app featuring 8 fresh stories everyday, curated by FT editors. It feels very basic but I think that’s actually a good thing. It keeps me updated on the news, and reduces the content overwhelm users often complain about when I test digital products with them. Also, it’s a great budget-friendly alternative to an FT subscription.
2. For storing your passwords
Dashlane is a password management tool that allows you to access all your unique passwords in one place. As I learned from a recent design project involving account security, the #1 reason people’s accounts get hacked is because they use the same email and password pair for everything. With this app, I have easy access to all my unique passwords wherever I am.
3. For organizing your thoughts
MyMind is a Pinterest alternative that allows you to save things you like, upload photos or write notes. Items are tagged so you can just search “your mind” for whatever you had posted in relation to certain topics. Their app is great for when you see stuff you like and want to note it quickly, without going through the cumbersome task of making a Pinterest board.
4. For getting inspiration from the world around you
Adobe Capture is great for people (like me) who get excited about beautiful colour palettes in movies, hotels and other spaces. This app allows you to generate colour palettes from a picture. I’m OBSESSED.
5. For building positive habits
Streaks is a habit tracking app I’ve been playing with recently. I love the simple design, Apple Health integration, and how it accommodates numerous types of habits you want to track.
6. For knowing what the weather’s like
Carrot Weather is a classic app that makes me laugh while informing me how bad the weather is here in England. It’s a design award-winner, really informative and is my go-to “favourite app” example in job interviews.
This week…
I challenge you to download one of these apps, and let me know how you get on. Also, I want to know — what apps are you loving lately? Let’s continue the conversation over on LinkedIn! 👋
