EACH WEEK, WE highlight five apps that are worth downloading for your smartphone and tablet. There are a lot of apps released on a daily basis, but not all of them are worth paying attention to.
This week features Adblocker’s arrival on the mobile web scene, camera apps that age photos and glitch that becomes the focus on a game.
Adblock Browser
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
- Ad blocking is slowly becoming more popular and with iOS 9 now supporting it, such measures are only going to become more prevalent.
- AdBlock Browser does exactly what it sets out to do. It prevents ads from appearing but also prevents tracking, malware, anti-ad blocking messages and social media buttons from appearing as well.
- The browser itself had a decent number of features and customisation options that will keep you going. The majority are ad related, but you can customise your home page, search, and bookmarks.
- It’s not the fastest browsing experience mind. Compared to other browsers, it takes a bit of time to move between pages and some mobile pages don’t quite load up properly.
- If you prioritise an ad-free experience over everything else, then there’s no harm in giving this a go.
Base
For: iOS
Cost: €0.99
- The focus on camera apps tends to be on the editing process rather than shooting. That gives those who focus on the latter more opportunity to stand out with smart ideas like Manual.
- Base says it brings the “look of film to your iPhone” which may sound like hyperbole, but it’s clever and it could become a serious contender for your camera app.
- It’s the retro style you would get with Instagram but without Instagram. You can view your shot through 14 live filters. It’s very similar to the standard iPhone camera app in that it’s easy to use and straightforward, but the twist is your photos age. The more you use the app, the more faded and aged the photos become.
- That’s a weak point as it gives no way to easily switch between filters. You have to swipe left and right to change. It is quite minimalist so there is no real focus and exposure control if you’re interested in minute details.
- Still, the subtle changes and clean interface means this is a camera app that will slowly grow on you.
Aerize Optimizer
For: Windows (Desktop and Mobile)
Cost: Free (includes IAP)
- As with all devices, sometimes your device will become a little slow over time. Age is usually a factor but it can be a case of resources being used up.
- Aerize Optimizer monitors your system memory and resource uses and finds anything that might be causing your device to run slower.
- The more resources that are taken up by other programmes and apps, the more aggressive it becomes as it finds ways to fix the problem.
- There is a pro version for those who want to have all ads removed and gain access to premium features should you need some extra tools at your disposal.
- For those who feel their device isn’t running as quickly as it should be.
ADV Screen Recorder
For: Android
Cost: Free
- One of the good things about Android is how open the service is. Recording your screen used to require rooting your device but there are more Google-approved apps popping up now.
- ADV allows you to record with two different engines (advanced and default), pause when needed and resume and a number of other actions on the fly.
- You can add drawings to a video, if you want to highlight something, trim videos and use either the front or back camera when recording.
- The way it does this is simple but takes a little bit of getting used to. The top part of the screen acts as a control bar while you’re recording. Tapping it correctly is a small case of trial and error but you get used to it.
- It’s free and surprisingly free of bugs so it’s a valuable tool if you want to capture what’s on screen.
Pac-Man 256
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free (includes IAP)
- Ok, we’ll admit. This isn’t exactly a new game (it came out late last month) but if you haven’t come across it yet and you like Pac-Man, you’re in for a treat.
- Pac-Man 256 is from the team behind Crossy Road, the addictive endless runner. This follows the same addictive format but with a few different twists.
- For one, you are in an endless maze where you have to continue moving forward as a glitch (level 256) chases you down. You have the usual powerups as well as additional ones like lasers and freezing.
- It’s free but you only get a limited number of credits per day but if you want unlimited plays, you’ll have to pay for it. Considering how good it is, we won’t blame you if you do pay for it.
- Another fresh perspective on a classic game. If you’re looking for something more traditional, Pac-Man Championship Edition DX is a better fit.
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