From storage to video conferencing, these are the apps that you should be using.

Millions of apps are out there; some more valuable than others. We’ve put together a list of eight of the best apps you should use to make your digital life easier.

WhatsApp

There’s a reason WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app in the world. With a loyal base of more than two billion users across 180 countries, WhatsApp started as a way for family and friends to stay in touch. However, one of its recent defining features, WhatsApp Business, is now embraced by many top brands. These brands use WhatsApp to connect with customers, share the latest updates and offer support.

WhatsApp is a must-have app for anyone because of its handy features, such as video calls, group calls, and data backup. With a few mouse clicks, you can share contacts, documents, and media, such as photos. A web version lets you connect via desktop. This app, owned by Meta (behind Facebook), also supports encrypted messaging created by the designers of Signal, establishing it as one of the most secure messaging apps.

Google Drive

You are likely already using Google Drive if you regularly work on Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. However, if you are unfamiliar with Google Workspace, this tool is an AI-powered, cloud-based storage system that allows you to store and access your data securely from anywhere. It would help if you took advantage of Google Drive, as it’s a game changer when managing data – whether you’re a small business owner or not.

Google offers 15GB of free storage per user as standard, but with the paid version, you can get as much as 2TB for a really reasonable annual fee. You can also collaborate on documents and presentation decks in this app.

Waze

Traffic can sometimes be a nightmare, especially when commuting, or rushing to a meeting. Enter Waze. It’s a convenient navigation app that tells you what’s happening on the road. Know if there’s traffic, accidents, police, and construction. You’ll also receive an estimated ‘Arrival Time’ based on real-time traffic data. Besides saving time and a headache, Waze makes the journey much sweeter by syncing the app with your music and podcast apps.

Waze is free to download and use but check for the best deals from your network provider to ensure you have the fastest yet most affordable data plan for using Waze on the go.

Duolingo

We live in a truly diverse country, and learning a new language couldn’t hurt, whether you are a business owner or not. With more than 40 languages to learn, such as isiZulu, Arabic, and Chinese, Duolingo is one of the must-have apps for learning a new language. It uses gamified characters, such as the iconic green owl, to take you through fun lessons and help you speak, write and read a new language. It also uses an audio tool to help you improve your listening skills. Learn at your own pace, keep track of your progress and get rewards and achievements for regular practice. Such fun!

And the best part? It’s completely free! If you’re interested in an even smoother experience, a paid option called ‘Super Duolingo’ eliminates ads and provides some extra features. Plus, when you sign up, you’ll enjoy a 14-day free trial that you can cancel anytime. 

Zoom

Video conferencing tools have been around for a while. Remember Skype? But in a post-COVID world where we’ve seen a sharp rise in virtual meetings, we’ve been spoilt for choice. Zoom offers a range of valuable functions like screen sharing, allowing you to showcase your PowerPoint deck seamlessly. As the host, see who's waiting to join the meeting, giving you even more control. Also, the app has exciting features like filters and live emojis that make your meetings more interactive! Is the lighting a little dim? Zoom lets you adjust the brightness. Download the Zoom app on your phone and catch your next meeting on the move!

LinkedIn

Some say that LinkedIn is the Facebook for professionals. That’s because it’s much more than a job-seeking platform – it’s one of the best ways to network and make new business connections. Also, over the years, LinkedIn has become a great way to promote your business, offering different targeted ads tailored to your business needs. They also provide analytics, such as visitor metrics, which are handy when creating your corporate strategy. While the free version is sufficient, the paid-for side of the app offers more benefits, such as an AI writing assistant and smarter search with insights and recommendations.

MyFitnessPal

Focusing on health and wellness has never been easier! Improve your fitness habits with MyFitnessPal and say hello to your best self. The app helps you track your workouts and your caloric intake. Its food database contains more than 18 million foods and connects with +50 apps and devices, so you can see all your exercise and calorie consumption in one handy place!

The app also allows you to share your progress with your fitness buddies, helping you to keep each other accountable to reach your fitness goals faster. While it has a free version, go premium if you’d like to barcode scan, cut out all the ads, and so much more.

Udemy

One of the best things about technology is that we can access more knowledge than ever before. Seriously, it’s just a click away! Empower yourself and upskill with the Udemy app, which boasts extensive online courses taught by real-world experts. The mobile app is user-friendly and features audio, video, and text-based lectures. Learning a new skill like graphic design or investing is now easier than ever.

Don’t have time to sit down and focus on a new course? No problem! You also have access to podcast-style audio lectures – perfect for learning on the go. Show off your business acumen by attempting the quizzes to test your understanding of the topic.

Bonus App

Microsoft Authenticator

Cybersecurity is more critical than ever. The Microsoft Authenticator app helps you sign into your accounts using multi-factor verification (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security, making it significantly harder for unauthorised individuals to access your business' systems. It’s straightforward; when logging on to your Microsoft account on your laptop or PC, you get instantly prompted by the Microsoft Authenticator app to insert the two-digit number displayed on the screen to verify that it’s actually you signing in. Remember, never share your code with anyone.