You’ve heard the term “Apps”, but maybe you’re not quite sure what they are. Basically an app is like a small computer program that you can easily install and run on your smartphone. There are apps for just about everything – from doing your banking to staying fit, or enjoying games, music, books and much, much more. Here are a few that we recommend downloading if you are heading away on holiday!
SPOTIFY
Spotify originates from Sweden and has become a huge hit internationally. Not surprising, considering that Spotify gives you access to virtually all the world's music via your computer or smartphone. No need to bring along CD's - spotify is like a vast library of music.
Why Spotify?
You can search for all your favourite songs and put together playlists that you can listen to and share with family and friends.
Keep in mind - There's a free version, but you will have to put up with some occasional advertising and other limitations.
For the full version, minus the adverts you can sign up to Spotify Premium for a low monthly rate.
How do I get it?
Download the Spotify app from Google Play. Try the free version first and if you like it you can always switch to the paid service.
Get Spotify now at Google Play »
BBC SOUNDS
Whether you prefer world news, entertainment, sport, factual or drama, there is always something for you on BBC Radio. Via the BBC Sounds app you can listen live to broadcasts from dozens of national or local stations. Keep up with your favourite programmes and podcasts live or on demand, no matter where you go.
Why BBC Sounds app?
You can listen to live BBC radio broadcasts directly on your phone, or download programmes to listen to later on. You can listen to live BBC radio broadcasts directly on your phone, or download programmes for later listening.
Keep in mind - If your going abroad to download your favourite programmes to your phone before you go to avoid an expensive phone bill.
How do I get it?
Download the BBC Sounds app from Google Play. You can also find apps from the same supplier that let you listen to BBC broadcasts in other languages.
Get BBC Sounds now at Google Play »
AUDIOBOOKS FROM AUDIBLE
Audiobooks have become increasingly popular, perhaps because it’s such a great feeling to be able to sit back and listen to a soothing voice read you an intriguing story. Audiobooks from Audible is an app for anyone who loves literature. Audible is a subscription service that gives you access to over 200,000 titles from virtually every genre, enjoy directly on your smartphone.
Why Audiobooks from Audible?
You do not have to bother with CD's or books and you can access lots of good literature of all kinds.
Keep in mind - Audible is a subscription service that you have to cancel if you no longer want the app.
How do I get it?
Download the Audiobooks from Audible app from Google Play. At www.audible.co.uk you can learn more about how the service works and sign up for a free trial.
Get Audiobooks from Audible now at Google Play »
SHAZAM
You know how you sometimes hear a song you like on the radio, e.g. when shopping, but didn’t catch the title? With the Shazam app you can easily find out. The app "listens" to the music and tells you the song title and the name of the artist. It can also provide the lyrics directly to your phone, and it makes iteasy for you to share the music you hear with your friends. Practical and fun!
Why Shazam?
Shazam is an easy way to discover new music, or to refresh your memory regarding the names of old favourites as well as who sang them.
Keep in mind - Shazam is free! But if you want to aviod listening to the advertising you can subscribe to Shazam Encore for a small fee.
How do I get it?
Download the Shazam app from Google Play. Try the free version first to see if Shazam is for you.
Get Shazam now at Google Play »
