Remember the days when a cell phone only made calls? Those days are long gone! Now, cell phones are good for so much more. They are tools that we can use to improve our lives, but first we must be able to leverage the possibilities of the tiny computer that we carry with us everywhere we go.
Are you making the most of your cell phone? Check out our app suggestions, and maybe download a couple that you’re interested in trying. We will provide the links to each app for Android and iPhone, so you just have to click and install.
Utilities
Weather: You don’t even have to look outside to know what the day’s weather is going to be with apps like Accuweather (Android/iPhone) and DarkSky (Android/iPhone). Know whether you need an umbrella or a jacket before you leave the house, and without turning on the news and waiting for the ‘every ten minutes’ weather broadcasts of yesteryear.
Photos: It seems like all phones nowadays come with at least one camera. Do you use your phone to take photos? It’s a great way to make memories! What many people don’t know is that there are many alternatives to the default camera app that comes pre-installed on your phone. For more features, try VSCO Cam (Android/iPhone).
Productivity and Organization
Notes and Reminders: Imagine this – you’re out running errands and remember something that you need to do when you get home. What do you do? Thankfully, you can use your phone to organize a to-do list so that you don’t forget the important tasks. Try Todoist (Android/iPhone) or Remember the Milk (Android/iPhone) and see what works for you.
Password Manager: It’s nearly impossible in today’s world to manage the accounts you have across a variety of platforms, especially if you’re trying to follow the recommended password practices of having a unique code for each of your accounts. Instead of fumbling with an infinite amount of papers to keep yourself organized, try a password manager. With Lastpass premium (Android/iPhone), you can even have your account information available on your cell phone. This service also makes it easy to create secure passwords and to share your passwords with others securely.
Entertainment
Music: Not only have cell phones replaced cameras, they have also replaced Walkman’s and iPods. Now, it is easy to play music from your phone with apps like Spotify (Android/iPhone).
Games: If you have a few minutes and need to blow off some steam, a quick mobile game could be the answer. There are new games coming out every day, and there is something for everyone at every skill level. Need a place to start? Check out CNET’s Best Mobile Games of 2018 list.
Podcasts: If you’re looking for mobile entertainment that’s a bit more productive, you need to check out the wide world of Podcasts. These are bite-size episodes that you can download and listen to anywhere, and they are available for people with any interest. Pocket Casts (Android/iPhone) is a favorite player of choice here at the Vargas and Vargas Insurance office. You can find Podcasts about improving yourself both personally and professionally, as well as tons of news aggregates, and casts about any hobby you can think of. There is definitely something available for everyone.
Connectivity
Email: What would you do without access to your email while you’re away from your desk? If you’re an email-aholic (like most of us) then make sure that you’re not missing out on features. There are plenty of upgrades available, depending on your email provider and phone. The possibilities include Airmail, Inbox, Mailbird, and more.
Social Media: Stay connected no matter where you are with social media apps. Everyone knows about apps for Facebook and Twitter, etc. But have you heard of apps like Hootsuite? They allow you to manage all of your Social Media accounts in one place. And let’s face it – the less fragmentation, the better. They even allow you to schedule posts for your social media profiles!
Chat: Text messaging used to be the best way to communicate with others on your phone if you weren’t able to call. Now, some people barely use texts anymore in favor of other chat platforms like Slack (Android/iPhone) or Google Hangouts (Android/iPhone). One of the best parts of having these apps is that they also have computer integration, so you can carry on a seamless conversation whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go.
If you’re looking for insurance information while you’re on the go, you can always visit the Vargas and Vargas Insurance website on your mobile browser. There you will find plenty or resources to answer any questions you may have. And if you have a more specific need and want to talk to a top-notch Massachusetts insurance agent, reach out via email or call 617-298-0655.
