Google Search
Platform: iOS
Price: Free
The big update in this app is that Google Now is available for iOS.
After a week of use though, is this much-hyped feature worth all the talk?
As it presently stands: No.
And that's because I will not allow Google to enable its Google Web History for my profile. That results in missing out on all the nifty timely cards for regularly searched items, such as sporting teams and the like.
The conspiracy theory part of my brain says that the search giant is probably storing that data anyway, so why not embrace the insanity and just let Google Now do its thing?
It's just that I do not think Google and I are ready to take our data mining relationship to the next level.
It's not you Google Now, it's me.
Facebook Beta
Platform: Windows Phone 8
Price: Free
Facebook is going beyond "Metro" with its latest app refresh, ditching the standard Windows Phone look for one that is more at home on iOS or Android.
And when I say Facebook, I actually mean Microsoft. A glance at the apps page will reveal that this app is being credited to Redmond, not the social giant.
An interesting development, as is the fact that this app is restrcited currently to only Windows Phone 8.
Loyal Windows Phone users, this app is not for you. Sorry.
Qantas
Platform: iOS
Price: Free
Qantas' flagship app for iOS received an update last week, and it looks far better than before.
The app has the ability to search and book flights, has integration with Passbook, can check flight status, and has price alerts.
If you fly Qantas regularly, this app looks like a must-have.
Google Keep
Platform: Chrome
Price: Free
Although this isn't an "app" in the mobile-centric sense of the word, adding Google Keep to Chrome is rather app-like.
This app opens a window in Chrome that deals only with Keep items, and they remain available offline as well.
Location Alert
Platform: iOS
Price: Free
For commuters that want to be able to catch a quick forty winks before alighting, this app will hopefully solve the problem of sleeping past your stop.
This app plays an alarm when the user gets within 100/200/500/1000 metres of the chosen destination.
ClipNote Special
Platform: Android
Price: Free
If you want to save yourself a dollar, and are not using a phone that comes with a clipboard history app, then jump on this special.
rediATM Finder
Platform: Android
Price: Free
Are you one of the unfortunates that uses a bank that relies on the rediATM network? Are you sick of having to skulk down back alleys in a vain attempt to find a cash machine that will not dock you a couple of dollars for a 20 second transaction?
I can't say that this app is going to solve all those problems, but at least it'll be easier to use than the website.
Field Guide to Pest Animals of Australia
Platform: iOS
Price: Free
Would you like a one-stop reference to 31 of the 56 foreign animals that have arrived on our shores since European settlement?
This app contains photos, footprint information, audio of animal calls, maps, and control techniques for each species.