Increase Your Phone’s Potential with These 15 Must-Have Apps for Android in 2023
The Google Play Store welcomes a sea of apps every year, leaving users overwhelmed and unsure of which ones to choose. To save you the trouble, here are the top 15 apps that you absolutely need on your Android phone in 2023.
Brave Browser
When it comes to privacy, no other browser can beat Brave. It comes equipped with an ad blocker that can fend off pop-ups, third-party cookie trackers, and other malicious links. Brave Browser also takes your security a step further by using HTTPS Everywhere to encrypt your communications with major websites. Not only is Brave available for Android, but it also has versions for Windows, Mac, and iOS.
1Weather
If you’re in search of a reliable weather app, look no further than 1Weather. This app offers a clean and user-friendly design, making it easy to access current conditions, radar, and future forecasts. Additionally, 1Weather provides customizable widgets for your phone’s home screen to keep you up to date with the weather at a glance. While the free version does contain ads, they are not intrusive. If you prefer an ad-free experience, you can opt for the AdFree version through an in-app purchase.
Duolingo
Whether you’re starting from scratch or brushing up on your language skills, Duolingo has got you covered. This app breaks down language lessons into bite-sized pieces, making learning more convenient and enjoyable. As you progress, you’ll unlock more lessons and languages. Currently, Duolingo offers lessons in Spanish, French, Chinese, Italian, German, and more. Duolingo also offers a premium subscription called Super Duolingo that removes ads, provides unlimited hearts, and offers AI-powered mistake reviews.
Google Maps
Google Maps needs no introduction. It remains the go-to GPS app for most people. Constantly updated with new features, such as AI-powered Immersive View and Google Lens in Maps, Google Maps is always keeping users on track.
Link to Windows (formerly Your Phone Companion)
If you own a Windows PC and an Android phone, Microsoft’s Link to Windows app is a must-have. This app seamlessly connects your Android phone to your PC, enabling you to reply to text messages, make calls, and view notifications directly from your computer. Additionally, select phones allow you to drag and drop files and content between your phone and PC. To check if your Android phone is compatible with drag and drop functionality, see the list of supported devices. You’ll need an Android phone running Android 11 or later with 8GB of RAM and a Windows PC with either the Windows 10 May 2020 update or Windows 11 for Link to Windows to work.
Pocket Casts
If you’re a podcast enthusiast, Pocket Casts is the ultimate app for you. It boasts a visually appealing and intuitive interface, simplifying your podcast listening experience. Features like volume boost, trim silence, and skip playback make navigating through podcasts a breeze. With a Pocket Casts account, your podcast subscriptions are automatically backed up to the cloud, allowing you to continue where you left off on other devices or the web app (requires the Pocket Casts Plus subscription).
Google Photos
Google Photos is a fantastic app that keeps getting better. It excels in its ability to group and identify faces, animals, objects, and places in your photos, making searching for specific images a breeze. The app also offers features like collage and video creation and the option to order photo books and prints.
Google Keep
For a simple and efficient note-taking app, Google Keep is the go-to choice. This app allows you to create notes, lists, and voice memos that are automatically transcribed. You can set reminders for your notes and collaborate with friends and family on shared notes and lists. Google Keep is frequently updated, ensuring continuous improvement and functionality.
Flipboard offers a unique approach to staying updated with the news. You can select your interests and follow news from various verticals, including business, tech, sports, and travel. The app curates news specifically tailored to your preferences, presenting them in a flip-through format. If the app accurately understands your tastes, you can seamlessly transition from one intriguing story to another.
Facebook Messenger
When it comes to messaging, Facebook Messenger is a popular choice for its universality. It allows you to connect with friends through messaging, audio calls, and video calls. With customization options like custom backgrounds, Facebook Messenger provides an enjoyable and convenient messaging experience. The app is not limited to Android devices and is available on multiple platforms, including phones, tablets, and computers.
JustWatch
If you find yourself in search of something to watch but aren’t sure where to find it, JustWatch is the perfect app for you. This app exclusively searches legal options like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It even checks for channels where you can buy or rent specific content, such as iTunes or Google Play. JustWatch eliminates the hassle of scouring the internet for streaming options.
Plex
Plex is an excellent app for organizing your extensive media collection. By setting up a Plex server, you can stream your content to various devices, including your Android phone. To fully optimize your Plex server, consider a Plex Pass subscription that grants access to all Plex features, such as downloading content for offline viewing. Additionally, Plex offers a selection of ad-supported movies and TV shows for free.
VLC
VLC is a renowned video player with an Android app that lives up to its reputation. This app allows you to watch any video stored on your device and supports a wide range of video file formats. VLC ensures a seamless playback experience devoid of any intrusive ads. Best of all, VLC is completely free to use.
Files by Google
If you’re in need of a user-friendly file manager, Files by Google is a top choice. This app lets you seamlessly view, organize, and clean up your files, optimizing your phone’s storage. You can also back up your files to cloud sources like Google Drive and share files offline between devices. Files by Google simplifies file management tasks.
Backdrops
Backdrops is a fantastic wallpaper app that offers a vast collection of original wallpapers created by the Backdrops team. These wallpapers come in various styles, including patterns, earth views, architecture, and scenic landscapes. The app also features daily additions of new wallpapers from both users and the app’s team. By upgrading to the Pro version, users can enjoy an ad-free experience and gain access to exclusive Pro Pack wallpapers.
