App stores are crowded places these days, and because storage space on your phone is often at a premium, you’ll want to fill it with not only the best, but also the most helpful apps out there. Because they come and go quicker than the latest fashion trends, and digging through Google Play, the iTunes App Store, or any of the others is such a mission; a little nudge in the right direction is often very welcome. Here are the apps we think you need to check out this week.
Pixty
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and as cameras have improved — along with data speed and mobile network coverage — pictures truly have become a means of conversing with people. We’ve all had that moment in the middle of a text conversation where we’ve stopped typing and said, “let me just show you.”
Pixty is a messenger built around photos first. The app allows you to create photo streams with groups of people that you pick. It can be as few as one or as many as 200. Everyone in the group can share what they’re up to by snapping a picture and sending it into the stream. The process takes just three taps. Others in the group can comment or send a picture back. To save data, the photo-heavy app displays a compressed version of the photo until you’re connected to WiFi, then you can access the full resolution image.
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Squad
Squad is billed as “Tinder for groups,” though you probably should withhold whatever dirty thoughts that concept inspires in your mind. Add your friends to your squad so you can keep track of who’s going out with you, what they’re doing, and when. Then browse through other squads and see what likeminded people are up to in your area. Meet up with the ones you like and maybe make your night even better.
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SelfieX
Taking a great selfie is an art, and one that requires full resolution. While front-facing cameras are getting increasingly better, they still aren’t up to snuff with the high-resolution lenses on the back of the devices. SelfieX is the equalizer, helping you get perfect selfies while using the better camera. The app provides you with directions on where to point the camera so you’re assured to get your best side in every photo you take.
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WeatherIf
You know what the weather is like right now. You can look out your window and figure it out pretty quickly. But your plans for tomorrow could wind up ruined if you’re greeted by an unexpected hurdle from Mother Nature. If there are any changes in weather on their way overnight, WeatherIf will notify you of what to expect so you don’t step out into a rain storm without an umbrella. If you truly need to know what the weather is like right now, the app widget has you covered.
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Spark
We’re all looking for a little inspiration. As it turns out, you might be able to find it in an app. Spark exists to jumpstart your brain and get you thinking in creative ways. The app provides prompts and ideas to keep your mind churning and thinking about things in new ways. You can share your favorite cards via Twitter and get feedback and ideas from your connections, making for an impromptu brainstorming session.
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