Editor's Message
Finding App Inspiration
ur society spends a lot of time using apps. In fact, according to analytics firm App Annie, last year Americans spent what amounted to a whole month using apps—that's more than two hours every day! Personally, I've come to rely on apps as part of my daily routine, much like I savor my hot cup of coffee in the morning with a swirl of cream in it. Each app serves a purpose and imparts a quiet sense of pleasure when I use it. The study also found that we are creatures of habit, sticking to a rotation of just nine apps on a daily basis. It's no wonder then that the iUser profiles we include in each issue of iPhone Life magazine featuring real people's Home screens are a favorite among readers, because they offer a window into how others are using apps to conquer small tasks or pursue big aspirations. In honor of our annual apps issue (pg. 33), I am borrowing from this idea and sharing with you the apps that are making a difference in my life right now. While we grow fond of the apps we use, we can all benefit from a little app inspiration now and then. O
My App Routine
theSkimm (Free) This app lets me access the Skimm's daily newsletter, which offers up the day's headlines in a way that makes you feel like you're having witty banter with a friend. Mealime (Free) Mealime is the perfect companion for the busy person who likes to eat well. Each weekend it generates a meal plan and grocery list for me, so I can spend my time having fun. Trello (Free) Trello helps me collaborate on big picture work projects with coworkers and move toward goals one task at a time. Moments (Free) I discovered Moments during a vacation in Mexico and keep coming back to it. It lets you privately share pictures with friends so you have joint access to photos from parties and trips without oversharing on Facebook. Kindle (Free) Ever since I joined a book club in the spring, I try to read a little each evening. If I buy Kindle books that offer Whispersync, I can alternate between reading and listening. I love having that flexibility. Pocket Casts ($3.99) I like listening to podcasts while I cook dinner. Pocket Casts makes it easy to discover new favorite shows and has a helpful setting that speeds playback by trimming out silences between words. Donna Cleveland Editor in Chief iPhone Life magazine, donna@iphonelife.com, @schillcleveland