As you most likely already know, Google are the operators of the Android Operating System for the majority of brands of mobile phones. But they also develop a wide range of applications for the OS, including some of the best android apps available on the android app store. It goes a lot further than the simple Google Search app! We will explore the top 5 free Google applications that you aren’t using (but probably should).
Google Translate
You have probably already heard of Google translate. But what you might not know is some of the most powerful translation technology available. Have a string of text to translate? Simply paste it in. Need to translate a conversation with a native as you have it? No problem. Need to translate that menu? Simply snap a photo using the app and it will be translated to your language before your eyes. As it is all AI driven, you will of course get a few grammatical mistakes, so it’s not for someone looking for 100% accuracy. But for someone on holiday, it may be worth picking up a refurbished phone so you can always have your ability to translate ready.
Android Auto
Android Auto is an app designed for drivers. There are 2 versions, one that can link to a car with a suitable screen or HUD, or one that simply works using your phone screen. Simply mount your phone using a dashboard mount and launch the application. You will be greeted with a fairly unsightly screen with huge icons and text, but it’s there for a reason. This makes it a lot easier to view on your phone screen at a glance, so you will never miss that upcoming turning. It brings all the apps that you may need while driving to one, customisable list. It even offers full Google Assistant integration meaning you retain full control over your phone using voice commands, so you can keep your attention on the road without touching your mobile phone.
Google Find My Device
If you are a techie or have used an Apple iPhone in the past, you will have likely heard of Apple’s ‘Find My iPhone’ function. Google Find My Device is essentially the Android version of this! It ties your device to your Google Account, allowing you to see the exact location of your device on Google Maps, navigate to your device’s location at the touch of a button, play a sound on the device allowing you to find it, and even erase all the data on the device to ensure your data is kept safe. It also locks the phone, stopping someone from finding or stealing your device, and performing a simple factory reset and run off with your precious device.
Google Arts and Culture
Okay, this one won’t be for everyone. For those of us that love the arts and culture, it’s a fantastic tool. It allows you to virtually visit some of the most famous art installations in the world, from the comfort of your own home. It will offer you VR tours, and AR options to place paintings in locations in real life. It allows you to personally curate a favourite art collection, and even allows you to take a selfie, which will then try to match your face up with paintings that look a bit like you. We tried it out, and it does work surprisingly well. A fantastic addition for any art lovers’ new mobile phone.
Grasshopper: Learn to Code
Grasshopper is a fantastic mobile phone app that is not only fun, but educational. It provides a fun, yet engaging way to learn to write JavaScript. Weather you are a beginner that just needs something for their new mobile phone to keep them occupied, or you already know JavaScript and just want to hone your skills. We don’t think this is going to make you a JavaScript pro, but it is a fantastic free starting place.
Agree with our choices? Let us know! Do you want to make use of these apps? 4Gadgets are one of the UK’s leading online stores with mobile phones for sale. Buy a refurbished phone with 12 months warranty and free next delivery.