Smartphones ain’t that bad. It is all about how you use them. Here are some apps that combine fun with learning or productivity.
Buddhify
URL: www.buddhify.com, Category: Mindful meditation, Platform: iOS, Android, Cost: 3 USD approx.
It is a mindful meditation app that helps to infuse meditation into your daily life. It is a collection of audio guides tailored to various situations and purposes. For example, there is one set of guides designed for use while traveling or walking. This way, you can’t excuse yourself for lack of time and avoid meditation. Do it on the go!!
Originally an iPhone-only app, it is now available for Android phones. Though not free, you won’t regret the small amount for its usefulness.
Elevate
URL: www.elevateapp.com, Category: Brain Games, Platform: iOS, Android, Cost: Basic Version Free + Premium Plans
Marketed as a brain training app, it can stimulate your mind through simple and interesting exercises. The free version offers 3 exercises everyday on various topics like – Reading, Writing, Math, Listening and so on. A session takes just about 5-10 minutes.
I suggest to use it in the morning or before the start of your workday. A productive way to get your mind ready for a busy day ahead.
QuizUp
URL: www.quizup.com, Category: Knowledge, Platform: iOS, Android, Cost: Free
This is my recent find and I am already addicted. Install this app, connect your Google account and start taking quizzes on various topics. You will be playing against real players (and sometimes bots) and build impressive stats with performance. You also have the possibility to play against your friends on Google and Facebook.
Though there are some negatives about the quality of questions and the bots, it is overall an interesting app. I hope they make it better going forward.
Memrise
URL: www.memrise.com, Category: Language Learning, Platform: iOS, Android, Cost: Free
A language learning app that uses simplicity and repetition as strategies to plant the words in your mind. Though not a replacement for language classes or advanced training tools, it can certainly help build some quick vocabulary. But make sure to use it regularly for better results.
7-Minute Workout
URL: 7-Minute Workout , Category: Health, Platform: Android, Cost: Free, with in-app purchases
For all those busy-bees who don’t have any time for physical workout, this app might help. Using a proven technique of intensive 7-minute workout, this app sounds promising. But unfortunately, I don’t have a lot of experience and started very recently. I invite you to give a try and see if it helps.
There are many more apps and games that can make you “smart”, using your smartphone. Choose the right ones and use them wisely. Be the one who controls your smartphone and not the other way around. Have fun!
Image credit: Flickr Creative Commons by Highways Agency
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