Getting the Most From Your Smartphone
A smartphone without useful apps is like a toolbox with no tools. The good news? There are hundreds of excellent free apps that can make your daily life easier, safer, and more connected. Here are seven of the best, chosen specifically for people who are new to smartphones or just want simple, reliable tools.
1. Google Maps — Never Get Lost Again
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free
Google Maps is arguably the most useful app on any smartphone. It gives you turn-by-turn directions whether you're walking, driving, or using public transport. It works in most countries, shows real-time traffic, and even works offline if you download a map area in advance.
Best for: Getting directions, finding nearby shops, restaurants, and services.
2. WhatsApp — Free Calls and Messages
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free
WhatsApp lets you send messages, photos, and make voice or video calls — completely free, as long as you have Wi-Fi or mobile data. It's hugely popular for keeping in touch with family, especially those who live far away. Messages are encrypted, meaning they're private.
Best for: Staying in touch with family and friends, sharing photos, group chats.
3. Google Photos — Automatically Back Up Your Pictures
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free (with storage limits)
Google Photos automatically saves copies of all your photos to the cloud (the internet). This means if your phone is lost or broken, your precious memories are safe. It also lets you search photos by subject — type "birthday" and it finds all your birthday photos.
Best for: Keeping photos safe, freeing up storage on your phone.
4. BBC News (or Your Preferred News App) — Stay Informed
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free
A reliable news app keeps you up to date without needing to visit multiple websites. The BBC News app is clean, easy to read, and covers national and world news. Other good options include Reuters or your local newspaper's app.
Best for: Reading the news, getting breaking news alerts.
5. Zoom — Video Calls With Anyone
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free (basic plan)
Zoom lets you have face-to-face video conversations with one person or a group. It's widely used for family get-togethers, doctor's appointments, and community meetings. The free version lets you have unlimited one-to-one calls and group calls up to 40 minutes.
Best for: Video calling family, virtual meetings, online classes.
6. NHS App / Health Apps — Manage Your Health
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free
Many countries have official health apps that let you book appointments, order repeat prescriptions, and access health records from your phone. In the UK, the NHS App is the go-to. Check what's available in your country — these apps can save a lot of time.
Best for: Booking GP appointments, ordering prescriptions, health records.
7. Amazon Shopping — Easy Online Shopping
Available on: Android & iPhone | Cost: Free
If you want to try online shopping, Amazon's app is one of the most straightforward places to start. You can search for millions of products, read reviews, and have items delivered to your door. Always check the seller's ratings before purchasing.
Best for: Shopping from home, comparing products and prices.
How to Download These Apps
- iPhone users: Open the App Store (blue icon with an "A").
- Android users: Open the Google Play Store (colourful triangle icon).
- Search for the app by name, tap Install or Get, and wait for it to download.
Start with one or two apps that interest you most — there's no need to install everything at once. The more you use them, the more natural it becomes.