Developing Minds Want to Know: Q&A with Dennis Gustafsson, co-creator of Sprinkle and Granny Smith

Hot on the heels of their successful liquid/physics/puzzler Sprinkle (for Android and iOS), Swedish app developers, Mediocre, recently unleashed Granny Smith on both Android and iOS devices. Granny Smith made it into our weekly Android Games of the Week because its a fun, fast-paced platformer with some beautifully-drawn graphics and an addictive quality that keeps you coming back for one more game.

In todays installment of Developing Minds Want to Know, we talk to Dennis Gustafsson, co-founder of Mediocre GB alongside colleague Henrik Johansson. This two-man crew, along with their contractors, clearly know how to create hit games and Dennis discusses how he became an app developer, how he harnesses innovation, the technical constraints they face and where he ex pects to the see the mobile industry heading in the future.

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Key Company Facts:

Name and Title: Dennis Gustafsson, Co-founder

Company: Mediocre AB

Location: Malm, Sweden

Size (Revenue and/or Employees): Only the two founders + contractors

Primary Apps/Platforms: Sprinkle and Granny Smith on iOS and Android

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APPOLICIOUS: What inspired you to become an app creator?

DENNIS GUSTAFSSON: Henrik Johansson and I used to work on various games back in the early days of home computing (the Commodore Amiga was our platform of choice). At that time publishing was really difficult, and it was impossible to release a game without being dependent on a big publishing corporation. The mobile platform was primarily a vehicle for us to get a game published, but we were also fascinated by the tablet format when it first came out I don't think we would have started developing Sprinkle if we could only release it for smartphones.

Heres the official trailer from Medicore for Granny Smith, showing off its great illustration and fun gameplay elements:

APPO: How long have you been developing apps, and what is the most significant difference between now and when you began?

DG: We started working on Sprinkle just two years ago. I have a console/PC game background, so the biggest difference for me is that mobile gamin g is now getting broad acceptance across the industry. Some people still roll their eyes when talking about mobile gaming, but for the most part it is now (correctly) accepted as a new paradigm in gaming.

APPO: What apps (outside of those that you develop) inspire you the most and why?

DG: Neither of us actually play a lot of games ourselves nowadays. We get most of our inspiration from old games released in the eighties and early nineties. I think there are a lot of similarities between games now and then. Back then, a lot of people bought home computers and got introduced to gaming that way. Now we see the same pattern with mobile devices. A lot of people who didn't even know they were interested in games have started playing on their phone or tablet. The ri se of casual gaming combined with a whole new touch-based interface makes game developers very creative, and we see a lot of innovation compared to just ten years ago.

APPO: Where do you see the most innovation in the app sector?

DG: From a gaming perspective there has naturally been a lot of innovation with touch and tilt controls over the last couple of years. For console games it is more standardized - you have certain expectations of what a button or joystick will do. For mobile games, many still use unique control schemes, and I think that type of freedom is very positive and inspires game designers to be more creative.

APPO: How do you harness that innovation in your own titles?

DG: Both for Sprinkle and Granny Smith, we spent a lot of time on different control schemes, trying at least a dozen models before we found the right ones.

APPO: In such a crowded space, explain how you generate awareness and drive downloads to your applications.

DG: We have been very lucky to get featured by both Apple and Google. Unfortunately, though, app discovery remains a big problem both on iOS and Android. During the initial launch of both titles we have successfully worked with TriplePoint PR to spread the word, but still, many people only discover featured apps and best-selling apps. We also have an in-game notification system to make our fans aware of new releases. The very best marketing you can get is word-of-mouth, and the best way to get that is by making a great app.

APPO: What are the biggest technical constraints that exist today in the app sector?

DG: Android has gotten a lot better recently, and the whole platform is more unified and nicer to developers than just a few years ago. Performance still varies a lot across Android devices. This is slightly problematic for us, since we want to push the limits of the hardware. However, if we push the limits on a high-end model the game will come to a crawl on budget phones, so it's a constant balance between two extremes. This problem is getting more relevant on iOS as well, where we now have a range from the old 3GS up to dual-core iPads.

APPO: How do you (or will you) make money from your application?

DG: Our games are paid apps, so the business model is very straightforward. Plummeting game prices is a big problem in the industry. The competitive market has taught gamers to expect long-lasting, high-quality games with tons of free updates for 99 cents. That's crazy when you think about it a bottle of water is more expensive. If you get a big hit and make it to the charts you still make a lot of money, but for the vast majority that don't it's almost impossible to recoup the development cost. The freemium model is getting very popular for games, but it only applies to certain types of games and we have no plans going down that road.

APPO: What advice do you have to those working on their first applications?

DG: Our best advice must be to spend that extra time polishing your app then go back and polish it even more. Don't release it too soon, spend that extra time on the interface and make sure it is responsive at all times, make sure it starts fast and looks pretty. All those little details make the user want come back to it. Also consider marketing at an early stage. The app market is a brutally competitive env ironment, and there are literally hundreds of apps released every day. It is easy to forget that when browsing the charts.

APPO: Where do you see the app sector one year from now? Five years from now?

DG: In the gaming space I think more console-quality AAA titles will be released for tablets in the next few years. The tablet is a particularly suitable format for gaming, and we have only seen the beginning of this transition. Dedicated gaming consoles will have a hard time keeping up. It's a blessing and a curse the quality of mobile games will improve, but potentially at the cost of innovation.

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Via: Developing Minds Want to Know: Q&A with Dennis Gustafsson, co-creator of Sprinkle and Granny Smith

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Ski Safari is a long and wild ride

Ski Safari does not really feature a safari, at least not if I'm understanding the word correctly, but it is a pretty fun game that will manage to keep you occupied for ten or so minutes at a time... Or more, if you're really, really good at it.

Ski Safari is an incredibly simple game. You ride down a 2-D mountain (it's a side-scroller) on skis while an avalanche chases you. Also, you can jump and do flips. Oh, and along the way down the mountain, which may or may not go on forever (the avalanche always caught me), you will encounter penguins and yetis that you can ride on, and if you ride through a cabin, you might just come out the other side on a snowmobile.

It's good to ride on things, because they make you go faster, and if you don't go faster, the avalanche hits you.

The objective, as with most phone games, is to get a high score. The longer you go, the higher your score will be, but you also get bonuses for doing flips and collec ting coins and riding on things. So you'll want to do that stuff.

There is joy to be found in this game, and its simplicity is a virtue. It's the kind of mindless game that can keep you occupied for any stretch of time, but it's so slight that you may forget it's on your phone. But you'll enjoy yourself when you do remember to pick it up and give it another go.

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Android apps for improving womens health

Its important for everyone to strive for a healthy lifestyle, but we all have our special needs. Women in particular have different health goals than men, as age and dietary needs also play a role. Fortunately for the modern woman, we have countless resources at hand, many available as Android apps. Heres a few that address fitness, breast cancer, health education, stress reduction and more.

WeightWatchers Barcode Scanner (Free)

Shopping for groceries can sometimes feel like a doctoral-level research study, reading labels for nutritional facts and ingredients, comparing each aisles products. The pressure is compounded for someone using a highly disciplined service like Weight Watchers. Thankfully Weight Watchers has a barcode-scanning Android app that gives you all the information you need for your personal goals. Check grocery items a gainst Weight Watchers database, add it to your PointsPlus Tracker or your Favorites. You can even scan multiple products for comparisons, access your scanned history and use the PointPlus calculator right from the app. Youll need to be an existing subscriber to Weight Watchers Online to use the full features of this app.

Womens Health Workouts ($1.99)

Not many womens health magazines have an Android presence, but Womens Health was an early supporter of mobile apps. With Womens Health Workouts you get the sleekly designed programs the print publication is known for, in a convenient mobile package. Youll receive step-by-step workout s developed by top female trainers and experts, shareable training logs and timers, all designed to optimize your exercise goals. The app also comes with built-in support to request expert guidance. Get the pro version for full-featured access to workout plans.

Take a Break from Stress (Free)

Women take on a great responsibility in caring for their families, often combined with the added pressure of a career. Stay stress free throughout your busy day with Meditation Oasis app, called Take a Break from Stress. This voice-guided app comes with two programs - one for a seven-minute break, and the other for 13 minutes. You can listen with or without music, turn off the voice guide, and practice your stress reduction techniques to keep you sane throughout the day. After a while, you may be able to skip the app all together.

All-in YOGA+ ($0.99)

Yoga is another great way to relax the mind, body and spirit while improving blood circulation and toning muscles. A popular program for women, yoga is a great opportunity to take some time for yourself to do something that has long-lasting benefits for your overall health. The All-in YOGA app for Android comes with over 300 poses, complete with instructions and photos. Theres a video and voice-guided option, as well as the ability to create custom programs with the dozens of yoga poses available in this app. And dont worry about getting ahead of yourself with this yoga trainer--poses are grouped according to level and type (strong abs, breathing or stretching exercises, to name a few), so you can work your way up to the hard stuff. The app comes with music if you dont have any of your own, with 40 programs to choose from. Track your progress on a calendar, see 3D views of poses, and coo l down when youre done.

Pink Link (Free)

Breast cancer is a disease that affects many of us in one way or another, becoming a foremost important health concern for every woman you know. Self-examination is key to womens health, and the Pink Link app offers a guide on how to conduct a breast self-exam. The app also lets you schedule reminders for yearly mammograms and monthly self-exams, and provides information on breast cancer screening guidelines. Pink Link is an app released by Mount Carmel, a womens health center in Central Ohio, so if you live in the region you can also use the app to contact nearby centers. For a more general app on self- exam techniques, try Breast Test.

MyPill ($0.99)

If you take oral contraceptives daily, you know the importance of staying on track with your pills. The My Pill app lets you set an alarm to ring daily, pausing automatically between cycles. You dont have to do much manual work with this app--even when you reboot the app, it will reset its schedule. Alarm tones are customizable, and can be set to vibrate. This Android app will also track the number of pills remaining in your pack, and available in English and French.

BabyBump Pregnancy Pro ($2.99)

Pregnancy is unique to women, and requires a great deal of attention, time and care. Simplify some of the processes around trac king your pregnancy with the Baby Bump app for Android, considered one of the most inclusive apps of its kind. View schematic embryo pictures of baby development week-by-week, along with common symptoms, cravings and bodily changes you can expect throughout the pregnancy. The app comes with a journal and a weight-tracker, so youll have a database to take to doctors visits. Your progress can also be charted for weight gain, BMI and low/high estimates against your actual weight on a weekly basis. Theres a social component for sharing pregnancy stories, a countdown widget for your homescreen, and a contraction tracker with a start/stop button when the big day arrives.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Read more »

Android apps for improving womens health

Its important for everyone to strive for a healthy lifestyle, but we all have our special needs. Women in particular have different health goals than men, as age and dietary needs also play a role. Fortunately for the modern woman, we have countless resources at hand, many available as Android apps. Heres a few that address fitness, breast cancer, health education, stress reduction and more.

WeightWatchers Barcode Scanner (Free)

Shopping for groceries can sometimes feel like a doctoral-level research study, reading labels for nutritional facts and ingredients, comparing each aisles products. The pressure is compounded for someone using a highly disciplined service like Weight Watchers. Thankfully Weight Watchers has a barcode-scanning Android app that gives you all the information you need for your personal goals. Check grocery items against Weight Watchers database, add it to your PointsPlus Tracker or your Favorites. You can even scan multiple products for comparisons, access your scanned history and use the PointPlus calculator right from the app. Youll need to be an existing subscriber to Weight Watchers Online to use the full features of this app.

Womens Health Workouts ($1.99)

Not many womens health magazines have an Android presence, but Womens Health was an early supporter of mobile apps. With Womens Health Workouts you get the sleekly designed programs the print publication is known for, in a convenient mobile package. Youll receive step-by-step workouts developed by top female trainers and experts, shareable training logs and timers, all designed to optimize your exercise goals. The app also comes with built-in support to request expert guidance. Get the pro version for full-f eatured access to workout plans.

Take a Break from Stress (Free)

Women take on a great responsibility in caring for their families, often combined with the added pressure of a career. Stay stress free throughout your busy day with Meditation Oasis app, called Take a Break from Stress. This voice-guided app comes with two programs - one for a seven-minute break, and the other for 13 minutes. You can listen with or without music, turn off the voice guide, and practice your stress reduction techniques to keep you sane throughout the day. After a while, you may be able to skip the app all together.

All-in YOGA+ ($0.99)

Yoga is another great way to relax the mind, body and spirit while improving blood circulation and toning muscles. A popular program for women, yoga is a great opportunity to take some time for yourself to do something that has long-lasting benefits for your overall health. The All-i n YOGA app for Android comes with over 300 poses, complete with instructions and photos. Theres a video and voice-guided option, as well as the ability to create custom programs with the dozens of yoga poses available in this app. And dont worry about getting ahead of yourself with this yoga trainer--poses are grouped according to level and type (strong abs, breathing or stretching exercises, to name a few), so you can work your way up to the hard stuff. The app comes with music if you dont have any of your own, with 40 programs to choose from. Track your progress on a calendar, see 3D views of poses, and cool down when youre done.

Pink Link (Free)

Breast cancer is a disease that affects many of us in one way or another, becoming a foremost important health concern fo r every woman you know. Self-examination is key to womens health, and the Pink Link app offers a guide on how to conduct a breast self-exam. The app also lets you schedule reminders for yearly mammograms and monthly self-exams, and provides information on breast cancer screening guidelines. Pink Link is an app released by Mount Carmel, a womens health center in Central Ohio, so if you live in the region you can also use the app to contact nearby centers. For a more general app on self-exam techniques, try Breast Test.

MyPill ($0.99)

If you take oral contraceptives daily, you know the importance of staying on track with your pills. The My Pill app lets you set an alarm to ring daily, pausing automatically between cycles. You dont have to do much manual work with this app--even when you reboot the app, it will reset its schedule. Alarm tones are customizable, and can be set to vibrate. This Android app will also track the number of pill s remaining in your pack, and available in English and French.

BabyBump Pregnancy Pro ($2.99)

Pregnancy is unique to women, and requires a great deal of attention, time and care. Simplify some of the processes around tracking your pregnancy with the Baby Bump app for Android, considered one of the most inclusive apps of its kind. View schematic embryo pictures of baby development week-by-week, along with common symptoms, cravings and bodily changes you can expect throughout the pregnancy. The app comes with a journal and a weight-tracker, so youll have a database to take to doctors visits. Your progress can also be charted for weight gain, BMI and low/high estimates against your actual weight on a weekly basis. Theres a social component for sharing pregnancy stories, a countdown widget for your homescreen, and a contraction tracker with a start/stop button when the big day arrives.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Via: Android apps for improving womens health

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New Android apps worth downloading: Xbox Smartglass, Snapchat, Need For Speed: Most Wanted

Its a big week for video game releases, and if youre grabbing new stuff for your Xbox 360, you should check out todays leading new Android app, Xbox Smartglass. If you sometimes use your Android device to send pictures and texts you wouldnt want to recipient to save, you can use Snapchat to send messages with a time limit. Finally, Need For Speed: Most Wanted updates the series with more high-speed racing action.

Xbox SmartGlass (Free)

Whats it about? Use your Android devices to control your Microsoft Xbox 360 video game console with Xbox SmartGlass. The app lets you control things like video playback and access lots of the Xbox Live web services social features.

Whats cool? Smart Glass lets you turn your Android devices into remote controls for your Xbox, and that can be super-useful if you use the console for things like watching Netflix Streaming. Thats handy by itself, but you can also access other Xbox Live features, allowing you to edit your Xbox profile and send messages to friends. The app also supports other interactive entertainment experiences created specifically for using your Android device together with your Xbox.

Whos it for? Youll need to be a fan of the Xbox 360 and an Xbox Live subscriber to get full usage out of SmartGlass. Itll probably help that youre someone who uses Xbox Live for more functions than just playing video games online with your pals.

Whats it like? Try OnLive for a start, which allows you to stream PC games over the Internet and play them on your Android devices, and OnLive Desktop to mirror your PC on your tablet. Its not 100 percent the same thing, but both are somewhat similar to SmartGlass.

Snapchat (Free)

Whats it about? Snapchat lets you send texts and images to friends and contacts that have an expiration date. After the timer expires, they get deleted.

Whats cool? Some of us use our smartphones and tablets to send things that are potentiallycompromising. Snapchat is the kind of app that can help with that sort of thing (and with other sensitive things you dont want to hang around on other peoples devices in perpetuity). Timers go up to 10 seconds and start when the message is opened, an d Snapchat also will let you know if the receiver takes a screenshot after receiving the message.

Whos it for? If you use your Android app for sending things that you might not want saved forever by the people receiving them, Snapchat is for you. We wont ask what youre using it for.

Whats it like? Look for messaging apps that offer similar functionality, because there arent a ton in the same class as Snapchat. Tango Text, Voice, Video Calls offers a lot of voice-over-Internet capabilities, and KeepSafe Vault will help you password-protect photos on your device.

Need For Speed: Most Wanted ($6.99)

Whats it about? Corresponding with the release of Electronic Arts new racing title of the same name, Need For Speed: Most Wanted puts players in the drivers seat for lots of street races, police chases and online battles.

Whats cool? Need For Speed packs some awesome graphics for most Android devices, for a start. It includes 35 different cars that you can earn and drive along the way. Theres a single-player campaign, as well as a multiplayer one that lets you challenge friends and other players all over the world. The app also includes both touch and tilt controls, which is something players asked for after the last iteration of the Need For Speed series.

Whos it for? Racing game fans will want to check out Need For Speed, as well as fans of the series and the console versions of the game. If you want to flex the graphical capabilities of your device, this is a good game with which to do it.

Whats it like? Other entries in the Need for Speed series, like Hot Pursuit, are a good place to start for similar games. Real Racing 2 is also a graphical powerhouse for racing fans.

Download the Appolicious Android app

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New Android apps worth downloading: Xbox Smartglass, Snapchat, Need For Speed: Most Wanted

Its a big week for video game releases, and if youre grabbing new stuff for your Xbox 360, you should check out todays leading new Android app, Xbox Smartglass. If you sometimes use your Android device to send pictures and texts you wouldnt want to recipient to save, you can use Snapchat to send messages with a time limit. Finally, Need For Speed: Most Wanted updates the series with more high-speed racing action.

Xbox SmartGlass (Free)

Whats it about? Use your Android devices to control your Microsoft Xbox 360 video game console with Xbox SmartGlass. The app lets you control things like video playback and access lots of the Xbox Live web services social features.

Whats cool? SmartGlass lets you turn your Android devices into remote controls for your Xbox, and that can be super-useful if you use the console for things like watching Netflix Streaming. Thats handy by itself, but you can also access other Xbox Live features, allowing you to edit your Xbox profile and send messages to friends. The app also supports other interactive entertainment experiences created specifically for using your Android device together with your Xbox.

Whos it for? Youll need to be a fan of the Xbox 360 and an Xbox Live subscriber to get full usage out of SmartGlass. Itll probably help that youre someone who uses Xbox Live for more functions than just playing video games online with your pals.

Whats it like? Try OnLive for a start, which allows you to stream PC games over the Internet and play them on your Android devices, and OnLive Desktop to mirror your PC on your tablet. Its not 100 percent the same thing, but both are somewhat similar to SmartGlass.

Snapchat (Free )

Whats it about? Snapchat lets you send texts and images to friends and contacts that have an expiration date. After the timer expires, they get deleted.

Whats cool? Some of us use our smartphones and tablets to send things that are potentiallycompromising. Snapchat is the kind of app that can help with that sort of thing (and with other sensitive things you dont want to hang around on other peoples devices in perpetuity). Timers go up to 10 seconds and start when the message is opened, and Snapchat also will let you know if the receiver takes a screenshot after receiving the message.

Whos it for? If you use your Android app for sending things that you might not want saved forever by the people receiving them, Snapchat is for you. We wont ask what youre using it for.

Whats it like? Look for messaging apps that offer similar functionality, because there arent a ton in the same class as Snapchat. Tango Text, Voice, Video Calls offers a lot of voice-over-Internet capabilities, and KeepSafe Vault will help you password-protect photos on your device.

Need For Speed: Most Wanted ($6.99)

Whats it about? Corresponding with the release of Electronic Arts new racing title of the same name, Need For Speed: Most Wanted puts players in the drivers seat for lots of street races, police chases and online battles.

Whats cool? Need For Speed packs some awesome graphics for most Android devices, for a start. It includes 35 different cars that you can ea rn and drive along the way. Theres a single-player campaign, as well as a multiplayer one that lets you challenge friends and other players all over the world. The app also includes both touch and tilt controls, which is something players asked for after the last iteration of the Need For Speed series.

Whos it for? Racing game fans will want to check out Need For Speed, as well as fans of the series and the console versions of the game. If you want to flex the graphical capabilities of your device, this is a good game with which to do it.

Whats it like? Other entries in the Need for Speed series, like Hot Pursuit, are a good place to start for similar games. Real Racing 2 is also a graphical powerhouse for racing fans.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Via: New Android apps worth downloading: Xbox Smartglass, Snapchat, Need For Speed: Most Wanted

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Listen to radio on-the-go with these Android apps

Back in the 80s The Buggles sang Video Killed the Radio Star. Despite the songs prediction, radio is still alive and kicking. It has changed somewhat over the years, but is still one of the best forms of communication. Todays list looks at some of Android apps that allow you to take your favorite radio stations with you wherever you go.

iHeartRadio (Free)

iHeartRadio is probably one of the most popular radio apps for Android. When you first start it up you are given the option of creating an account or just looking for stations. The top menu has Live Stations, Create Custom Station, and My Stations, an area where your favorites are kept for easy access. When you access the Live Station section, you can search by station name or location. The local search option uses your phones location to find stations. The other option is to search by U.S. city. Finally, you can search stations by genre, which is broken up into talk radio and musi c & entertainment.

Overall, the app is very much like its website. There are a huge number of genres and stations to choose from when searching. Within the app there are a number of interesting features: You can filter out stations with explicit content for those under 13. There is also Ford SYNC, which I assume will work with Ford vehicles. You can enjoy the app without logging-in, but to create favorites or share songs you will need an account. This is a free app but I did not see any extra ads in it.

Live365 Radio (Free)

When you first start the app, you can type in what you are looking for or browse through the 23 genre they have listed. Within each genre, there are a number of options from which to choose. Once you have made a selection, a list of the appropriate stations will appear. When a song begins, you can get information on the station and the song. With each song you will be able to like/dislike it, make it a favorite or share with others via Facebook, Twitter and email.

The app is very straightforward and has a few options to it. You can set the streaming mode, the buffer settings (5-25 sec), and the connection quality. You can change the app theme and even scan Livio devices via Bluetooth. There is also a corresponding website. The app features banner ads and radio ads. You can get rid of these by becoming a VIP.

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Stitcher Radio - News & Talk (Free)

When the app begins you will be asked to log-in. You can register with Facebook or with an email address. The main reason to use Facebook is so you can share with friends. If you want to listen on the Stitcher website, you will need to log-in there also. You will be asked to select three topics of interest. Based on your interests, the app will create a favorites station which is made up of seven different stations. Once that is done, then you can hit the main screen. Here you have four options: On Demand Shows, Live Radio, Front Page and My Favorites. The custom station that was initially created will be under My Favorites.

The Live Radio section will allow you to search for nearby stations, browse Internet-only stations, or by state, and then city. On Demand Shows section will allow you to search by interest or sources. The Front Page section is the news in various sound bytes. The app does not have a lot of options but you can setup notifications, play your favorites when you start the app, enable sharing, and play new only (probably for programs). The app is ad supported.

TuneIn Radio Pro ($0.99)

Tun eIn Radio has a very simple user interface. The top menu has Favorites, Browse and Recordings. The browse button takes you to the main screen that gives you the following areas: Local radio (based on your phone), Recent and Recommended. The radio stations are broken into music, news, sports, talk, location, language, and podcasts. When you go into the music section, then you can select by genre.

You can listen to the app without an account but you can link the app with Facebook, Twitter or email if you like. The app has a nice car mode where main screen is broken up into four large buttons with one allowing voice search. There are a few settings to take note of: push notifications, shake device to find related stations, auto reset and buffer before play. There is also a free version of the app.

XiiaLive Instant Radio (Free)

Xiialive is powered by Shoutcast. Overall, the app has a very minimalistic look to it. The main screen has all the buttons you will need to access: Top hits, Genre, Search, Favorites, Tags, History, Settings and Player. When you select a button, the menu will move to the top of the screen. The app is pretty much set up to find stations via a genre, not location. Once you find a station you like, add it to your favorites to find it quickly.

The app has a ton of settings. You can set an alarm, turn animations on/off, set to have full screen, and determine the screen timeout. With the app itself you can change the theme, scan options, Bluetooth, stream settings, buffering length, even backup and restore your preferences. If you need help setting up the app, there are videos online. The free version is supported by banner ads but you can remove them with the pro version.

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These Android apps help you get in shape

It wouldnt be entirely good if you were just to sit around and play games on your Android phone all day. You need to get out and stretch those leg muscles every once in a while, and since there are hundreds of apps designed to enhance your workouts, you might as well take your Android phone with you! Todays post covers some of the neat apps out there to help you get or stay fit.

Runkeeper GPS Track Run Walk (Free)

Runkeeper is a fitness app that uses your GPS to track your activity. When you first turn on the app, you will be prompted to make sure your phones GPS is turned on and then prompted to set up an account with Runkeeper. If there are problems getting a strong GPS signal, the app will let you know about it. In general, the setup is very simple. You can set the units, primary display, get audio cues for different items, set up Facebook and Twitt er, and of course your personal profile.

The layout of the app is also very simple, as there are four main items in the menu. The Start tab is is where you select the type of physical activity such as running, hiking, skiing, swimming and the type of workout. There are some pre-made workouts, but you can set up your own. The next tab is Goals, where you can set long term workout goals. The Activity tab will have a log of what you have done, and finally there here is the Settings tab. The app will sync your completed activity information with their website, where you can view your stats online and even share them with friends.

Runtastic (Free)

When you first start Runtastic, you will need to set up an account via email or Facebook. There is a basic, free version of the app and a Pro version, and the latter sports extras such as voice feedback, live tracking, heart rate sensors, auto-pause, and geo-tracking.

You can access Runtastics four screens by swiping back and forth. There is the History screen, which has your past activities, the Map screen, the Go Pro screen (in free version) which gives you all of the extras, and finally the Main screen. On the Main screen, you can select the type of workout: Basic, Workout Goal, Manual, Routes, with each having their own options. After setting your workout, you can select the activity from a long list. When done, hit the Start Workout button and begin. The app will track your pace, speed, and so much more. As a bonus, you can can sync Runtastic with MyFitnessPal.

Sports Tracker (Free)

This is the official app for Sports-tracker.com. As with the other services, you create an account and link it to the website. On their website and within the app, you can access a map of the local area and see what other users are up to. In my area alone, there are currently over 12 users who have uploaded their results. You can add other users to your friends list through the app or via Facebook, and sharing and connecting is strongly encouraged.

The main homepage of the app provides a quick summary of all of your workouts, time spent and energy used. When ready, simply click the Start New Workout button. Next select the activity and the auto-pause feature. The main activity screen will appear and shows your time, distance, speed, and a map of where you are. There is a button to allow you to listen to your favorite mp3s and to take photos as you work out. When done, the app will upload your info to your online account and put it in your diary. There are a number of options you can set in the app, such as your heart rate belt, altitude offset and GPS filtering.

Active.com (Free)

Active.com is a thriving online community for folks that are looking for activities in which to participate. While this app does not track your progress or monitor your heart rate, it will help you find things to do to help you get more fit.

The app is broken down into four sections. There is Read Articles, where you can read articles on a variety of topics. The Favorites section is wh ere your bookmarked articles and activities will be listed for quick reference. The View Your Events section is where you can see what you have done. The main section is Activities. Here you can see what is going on around you. The app allows you to set the location, search radius, sort of date, and search specific types of activities. After you put in your criteria, a list will appear. Click on an item and a new window will open with the specifics. You can favorite the event, see it on the map, get more details, and many times register for it. The app makes it very easy to find stuff to do!

Being active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It is too easy these days, with all of our technology to just sit around. So get out there, and let your Android phone help you!

Download the Appolicious Android app

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These Android apps help you get in shape

It wouldnt be entirely good if you were just to sit around and play games on your Android phone all day. You need to get out and stretch those leg muscles every once in a while, and since there are hundreds of apps designed to enhance your workouts, you might as well take your Android phone with you! Todays post covers some of the neat apps out there to help you get or stay fit.

Runkeeper GPS Track Run Walk (Free)

Runkeeper is a fitness app that uses your GPS to track your activity. When you first turn on the app, you will be prompted to make sure your phones GPS is turned on and then prompted to set up an account with Runkeeper. If there are problems getting a strong GPS signal, the app will let you know about it. In general, the setup is very simple. You can set the units, primary display, get audio cues for different items, set up Facebook and Twitter, and of course your personal profile.

The layout of the app is also very simple, as there are four main items in the menu. The Start tab is is where you select the type of physical activity such as running, hiking, skiing, swimming and the type of workout. There are some pre-made workouts, but you can set up your own. The next tab is Goals, where you can set long term workout goals. The Activity tab will have a log of what you have done, and finally there here is the Settings tab. The app will sync your completed activity information with their website, where you can view your stats online and even share them with friends.

Runtastic (Free)

When you first start Runtastic, you will need to set up an account via email or Facebook. There is a basic, free version of the app and a Pro version, and the latter sports extras such as voi ce feedback, live tracking, heart rate sensors, auto-pause, and geo-tracking.

You can access Runtastics four screens by swiping back and forth. There is the History screen, which has your past activities, the Map screen, the Go Pro screen (in free version) which gives you all of the extras, and finally the Main screen. On the Main screen, you can select the type of workout: Basic, Workout Goal, Manual, Routes, with each having their own options. After setting your workout, you can select the activity from a long list. When done, hit the Start Workout button and begin. The app will track your pace, speed, and so much more. As a bonus, you can can sync Runtastic with MyFitnessPal.

Sports Tracker (Free)

This is the official app for Sports-tracker.com. As with the other services, you create an account and link it to the website. On their website and within the app, you can access a map of the local area and see what other users ar e up to. In my area alone, there are currently over 12 users who have uploaded their results. You can add other users to your friends list through the app or via Facebook, and sharing and connecting is strongly encouraged.

The main homepage of the app provides a quick summary of all of your workouts, time spent and energy used. When ready, simply click the Start New Workout button. Next select the activity and the auto-pause feature. The main activity screen will appear and shows your time, distance, speed, and a map of where you are. There is a button to allow you to listen to your favorite mp3s and to take photos as you work out. When done, the app will upload your info to your online account and put it in your diary. There are a number of options you can set in the app, such as your heart rate belt, altitude offset and GPS filtering.

Active.com (Free)

Active.com is a thriving online community for folks that are looking for activities in which to participate. While this app does not track your progress or monitor your heart rate, it will help you find things to do to help you get more fit.

The app is broken down into four sections. There is Read Articles, where you can read articles on a variety of topics. The Favorites section is where your bookmarked articles and activities will be listed for quick reference. The View Your Events section is where you can see what you have done. The main section is Activities. Here you can see what is going on around you. The app allows you to set the location, search radius, sort of date, and search specific types of activities. After you put in your criteria, a list will appear. Click on an item and a new window will open with the specifics. You can favorite the event, see i t on the map, get more details, and many times register for it. The app makes it very easy to find stuff to do!

Being active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It is too easy these days, with all of our technology to just sit around. So get out there, and let your Android phone help you!

Download the Appolicious Android app

Via: These Android apps help you get in shape

Read more »

Creepy Android apps for a spooktacular Halloween

October is one of the greatest transitional months of the year, shifting to truly colder weather, bringing on beer festivals, hoards of candy and delicious apple cider. Its also an exciting kickoff month for the end-of-the-year holiday season, starting with Halloween. Who wouldve thought that the Android phone could become such an important part of our Halloween rituals, carving digital pumpkins and even keeping tabs on our kids as they navigate the neighborhood in search of tricks and treats? Heres some great Android apps that keep things fun and safe for Octobers favorite holiday.

Creepy Tales (Free)

Everyone loves a good ghost story, and theyre never more poignant than on Halloween night. Whether youre hosting a Halloween party or you just want to cozy-up with a scary story, Creepy Tales is full of short tales that will raise the hairs on your arm. The app itself is pretty basic, with a home screen listing seven categories of creepy takes. Th eres about 100 stories spread across these categories which span ghosts, demons, crimes and the paranormal, to name a few.

Carve a Pumpkin! ($1.49)

Like jack-o-lanterns but hate their slimy guts? Try carving a digital pumpkin right on your Android phone. This cute app gives you a blank canvas every time, with three main tools for customizing your orange gourd. Carve a Pumpkin (Lite) has a free-form knife for tracing out your own design, and a menu of faces to choose from. Theres some shaped stamps you can add for effect, with flying bats, words and other items to create the full effect. Unlike the Lite version, the full app has tons more effects and faces for your pumpkin, along with sharing options to spread your Halloween wishes across your favorite social media sites.

The Mask (Free)

What good is an Android phone if you cant use it to create silly faces? With The Mask app you can get into the Halloween spirit by choosing from a series of pre-selected faces, or create your own from a mask pack. Theres googly eyes, rotten teeth, monster mouths and more, all of which are interactive when you touch the screen. Make eyes open and close, knock a few teeth out and make your mask roar with horrific laughter.

House of Horrors - Movies ($0.99)

When I first started thinking of apps for this list, I jotted down TCM. The classic film channel is known for its comprehensive horror programs during the entire month of October. But I was glad to find an even more specific app for horror films, one that lets you view full-length movies directly from your Android phone. House of Horrors has about 100 classic movies befitting of Halloween season, with easy search options for browsing by genre, keyword, actor, titl e or director. Get details on each film, contextualizing its history and relevance in the film industry. Watch films on-demand or add them to your queue.

GhostCam: Spirit Photography (Free)

It seems a staple of most horror films is the modern cameras ability to pick up on elusive spirits. If youre having trouble tracking down real ghosts, you can create the effect with this GhostCam Android app. Add a ghost to a photo, choosing your own spirit visitor. Resize it to make the photo even more realistic, shifting its opacity, direction and effect. You can even save ghosts to a library for later use, and use the app to take live photos with a ghostly presence. Prank a friend, share the photo, and make Halloween that much more interactive.

GPS Tracker (Free)

H alloween is a thrilling night for kids of all ages, but its also an evening that invites potential danger. Track your family or friends in real-time while youre out trick-or-treating, making sure everyone is safe all all times. Using GPS technology, the GPS Tracking app will pinpoint the exact location of your crew, sending alerts when there is danger and letting you keep in touch as needed. This free Android app can also be used to check-in if the tracking thing is too much, helping you reach a safe compromise with kids and fellow trick-or-treaters.

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Keep up with your to-do list with these Android apps

Recently, I have found myself falling behind on my work. With lots of different jobs for different people, I needed some help staying organized. I needed to keep track of all I had to do and when things were due. Since I carry my Android phone everywhere, it seemed logical to find a task management app.

You will find a huge selection of task management or to-do list apps for Android. Many will have similar features and prices so my recommendation is to give them a try and find the one that meets your needs and preferences. I have tried a few different ones and have listed some of them here.

Taskos To Do List Task List (Free)

Setting up tasks or a list of tasks in Taskos To Do List is relatively straightforward. When you start the app, you are immediately pre sented with your current list of tasks. The apps are listed in order of priority but you can easily sort them by date or category. When creating a new task, you will be given the option to add priority, category, date due, if you want to share it with contacts, and an alert or alarm for the task. Voice input is also available.

Taskos To Do List will sync with your Google Tasks. To remove a completed task you simply swipe across the screen and then shake your phone. The app comes with a couple of widget options for your home screen. The user interface is bright and not very cluttered. There are plans to have the app sync with services such as Remember the Milk, Producteev, and more in the future.

Any.DO To Do List Task List (Free)

Creating a task or list of tasks in Any.DO To Do List is very quick. When you type your task items, the app has word prediction built in to help you out. There is also voice input. When you first sta rt the app, you will be given a list of current tasks based on date. When adding a new task, you can assign the priority, folder (or category), reminder (alert), notes or extra details, and finally the ability to share it with your contacts.

The user interface for Any.DO To Do List is nicely done. The font style and size are very easy to read, and you can choose between a light or dark theme. When sharing tasks with others, you will get a notification when the task is updated. The app syncs with Google Tasks and has four different widget sizes. Future updates planned will allow the app to sync with gTasks, RTM, Producteev, Springpad, and others. Maybe the most useful feature planned is a web interface.

Producteev (Free)

Producteev is a web-based task management service that has been out for some time, but they only recently launched this Android app. Since its initial release, it has undergone a number of updates and works well with its website. Producteev is appropriate for individual or team use. Within Producteev, you can setup workspaces and then within those workspaces organize tasks by labels. For each task you can assign a priority, due date, and share with team members.

Producteev is probably one of the more detailed or complex task management services, since it is coming from a web based service. The app will allow you to filter your tasks by seven different components. The app only has two different widget sizes for the home screen. The app works offline and syncs in the background with Producteev. If you want/need a web interface for your task or to do lists, Producteev is an excellent option.

Tasks N To-Do's - ToDo List (Free)

Tasks N To-Do's - ToDo List has two versions , one free (ad supported) and one paid version. The paid version has no ads and a number of other features, such as ability to add photos and backup/restore lists, and even add it to a map. When you first open the app, you are presented with a summary screen of your task lists. To see the specific tasks for each list, you simply swipe your finger across the screen. The user interface is very easy to use and figure out. For each task you can assign a due date, reminders and priority.

Tasks N To-Do's - ToDo List uses color coding to help organize and highlight tasks. If a task is set as urgent, the background is shaded red. A tasks priority is set by different colored stars. You can easily add details to every task and even indent your notes. The app allows you to select the sync mode and will connect to your Google account. The app has been optimized to work on Android phones and Honeycomb tablets.

ToDo List Task Manager -Lite, Free

ToDo List Task Manager also comes in two versions, one free (ad supported) and one paid version. The paid version has no ads and a number of other features, such as exporting your lists and the Toodledo.com Sync add-on. Toodledo.com is a web-based task management service. When you first open the app, you are given a list of all your tasks. To get more specifics of that task, just click on it and a new window will open, showing all the details. When adding a new task, you can edit and adjust its status, due date, priority level, category, alarm and if it repeats.

ToDo List Task Manager has the option to view all tasks on a full screen calendar. There is a small manual online for those who need it. The app does offer a lot of options. You can adjust font size, colors, calendar colors, default valu es for numerous items, and even the priority system. You can choose the priority system, such as numeric, Covey, MoSCoW, Eisenhower, ABCDE, and so on. There are also eight different sized widgets you can use on your home screen.

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Creepy Android apps for a spooktacular Halloween

October is one of the greatest transitional months of the year, shifting to truly colder weather, bringing on beer festivals, hoards of candy and delicious apple cider. Its also an exciting kickoff month for the end-of-the-year holiday season, starting with Halloween. Who wouldve thought that the Android phone could become such an important part of our Halloween rituals, carving digital pumpkins and even keeping tabs on our kids as they navigate the neighborhood in search of tricks and treats? Heres some great Android apps that keep things fun and safe for Octobers favorite holiday.

Creepy Tales (Free)

Everyone loves a good ghost story, and theyre never more poignant than on Halloween night. Whether youre hosting a Halloween party or you just want to cozy-up with a scary story, Creepy Tales is full of short tales that will raise the hairs on your arm. The app itself is pretty basic, with a home sc reen listing seven categories of creepy takes. Theres about 100 stories spread across these categories which span ghosts, demons, crimes and the paranormal, to name a few.

Carve a Pumpkin! ($1.49)

Like jack-o-lanterns but hate their slimy guts? Try carving a digital pumpkin right on your Android phone. This cute app gives you a blank canvas every time, with three main tools for customizing your orange gourd. Carve a Pumpkin (Lite) has a free-form knife for tracing out your own design, and a menu of faces to choose from. Theres some shaped stamps you can add for effect, with flying bats, words and other items to create the full effect. Unlike the Lite version, the full app has tons more effects and faces for your pumpkin, along with sharing options to spread your Halloween wishes across your favorite social media sites.

The Mask (Free)

What good is an Android phone if you cant use it to create silly faces? With The Mask app you can get into the Halloween spirit by choosing from a series of pre-selected faces, or create your own from a mask pack. Theres googly eyes, rotten teeth, monster mouths and more, all of which are interactive when you touch the screen. Make eyes open and close, knock a few teeth out and make your mask roar with horrific laughter.

House of Horrors - Movies ($0.99)

When I first started thinking of apps for this list, I jotted down TCM. The classic film channel is known for its compreh ensive horror programs during the entire month of October. But I was glad to find an even more specific app for horror films, one that lets you view full-length movies directly from your Android phone. House of Horrors has about 100 classic movies befitting of Halloween season, with easy search options for browsing by genre, keyword, actor, title or director. Get details on each film, contextualizing its history and relevance in the film industry. Watch films on-demand or add them to your queue.

GhostCam: Spirit Photography (Free)

It seems a staple of most horror films is the modern cameras ability to pick up on elusive spirits. If yo ure having trouble tracking down real ghosts, you can create the effect with this GhostCam Android app. Add a ghost to a photo, choosing your own spirit visitor. Resize it to make the photo even more realistic, shifting its opacity, direction and effect. You can even save ghosts to a library for later use, and use the app to take live photos with a ghostly presence. Prank a friend, share the photo, and make Halloween that much more interactive.

GPS Tracker (Free)

Halloween is a thrilling night for kids of all ages, but its also an evening that invites potential danger. Track your family or friends in real-time while youre out trick-or-treating, making sure everyone is safe all all times. Using GPS technology, the GPS Tracking app will pinpoint the exact location of your crew, sending alerts when there is danger and letting you keep in touch as needed. This free Android app can also be use d to check-in if the tracking thing is too much, helping you reach a safe compromise with kids and fellow trick-or-treaters.

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Android zombie games for a thrilling Halloween

Zombies are all the rage, and its only heightened by the celebration of Halloween. Whether youre a zombie lover or youre out to destroy them all, theres a growing number of zombie games on the Android Market to help you survive the apocalypse. From tower-defense style games to benign farming-style ones, theres a zombie title out there for every gamer.

Plants vs. Zombies ($2.99)

The most popular zombie-inspired game for Android is Plants vs. Zombies, by PopCap and Electronic Arts. Boasting 50 levels in Adventure mode, the goal is to protect your house from the undead from trudging through your backyard. And how do you stop all these goofy zombies? With plants and flowers, of course! You start off with Peashooter plants and Sunflowers (collecting sunlight enables you to plant more), but eventually you can upgrade to Cabbage-pults, Cactuses, and Cattails, my personal favorite for the Pool levels. Plants vs. Zombies appeals to every gamer, because it's a strategy title with a universal sense of humor.

GRave Defense HD ($2.45)

GRave Defense HD is a popular tower defense game that youll continue to play long after Halloween has passed. With an involved storyline, GRave Defense has some extra features you wont find in other tower defense games. Help the Fellowship of Surviva ls battle mutant zombies and boss monsters alike. After a destructive nuclear war, theres hoards of zombies out to get you. Kill them all across 20 levels, using fire, electricity, lasers and more. Theres a slew of unique battlefields, each one offering new challenges and opportunities to help save humanity.

Contract Killer: Zombies (Free)

For a slasher-style game, Contract Killer: Zombies is full of contaminated blood and gore. In this Halloween special, Contract Killer plops you in a world where youre killing zombies instead of criminals. Help the survivors by going on missions, infiltrating zombie-infested cities to get supplies and even save stranded civilians. Youre mowing down zombies at every turn, earning bonuses for head shots and killing multiple zombies at one time. For the full blood and gore experience, try Contract Killer: Zombies (NR) instead!

Stupid Zombies 2 (Free)

Stupid Zombies is a long-standing favorite, sending you across more than 500 levels of shooting, grenades and other crafty zombie-killing tactics. The sequel adds 300 brand new levels and a laser was added to your character's gun to track the course of your bullets. This is more of a puzzle game than a first-person shooter, so theres a different type of strategy required. Use your smarts to take down zombies on multiple platforms, sending barrels down ramps, opening gates and overcoming obstacles of all kinds. Its a cute game for players of most ages, and is a bit of a brain teaser as well.

Zombie Runaway (Free)

Want to be the zombie instead of killing it? Zombie Runaway gives you a new perspective on the walking dead... or running dead, in this case. Save a single zombie from his untimely return to the grave, dodging tombstones and spiked barriers as you try to escape the cemetery. Collect as many power-up coins as you can, because the more you get and the longer you stay alive, the higher your score soars. Youll be surprised by how challenging this game can get, sucking you in for repeat runs and time-wasting fun.

Zombie Farm (Free)

Theres FarmVille, and then theres Zombie Farm. Its a friendly world with vegetables of a different kind the kind that need watering and tilling to grow. Who knew corpses could be so fruitful? Plant the type s of crops and zombies you want, customizing your farm with barns, ponds and more. Cross-breed zombies and track your crop mutations, seeing what type of creatures you can come up with. These zombies will still need plenty of nurturing, but theyll return the love, even winning over the local residents.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Read more »

Android zombie games for a thrilling Halloween

Zombies are all the rage, and its only heightened by the celebration of Halloween. Whether youre a zombie lover or youre out to destroy them all, theres a growing number of zombie games on the Android Market to help you survive the apocalypse. From tower-defense style games to benign farming-style ones, theres a zombie title out there for every gamer.

Plants vs. Zombies ($2.99)

The most popular zombie-inspired game for Android is Plants vs. Zombies, by PopCap and Electronic Arts. Boasting 50 levels in Adventure mode, the goal is to protect your house from the undead from trudging through your backyard. And how do you stop all these goofy zombies? With plants and flowers, of course! You start off with Peashooter plants and Sunflowers (collecting sunlight enables you to plant more ), but eventually you can upgrade to Cabbage-pults, Cactuses, and Cattails, my personal favorite for the Pool levels. Plants vs. Zombies appeals to every gamer, because it's a strategy title with a universal sense of humor.

GRave Defense HD ($2.45)

GRave Defense HD is a popular tower defense game that youll continue to play long after Halloween has passed. With an involved storyline, GRave Defense has some extra features you wont find in other tower defense games. Help the Fellowship of Survivals battle mutant zombies and boss monsters alike. After a destructive nuclear war, theres hoards of zombies out to get you. Kill them all across 20 levels, using fire, electricity, lasers and more. Theres a slew of unique battlefields, each one offering new challenges and opportunities to hel p save humanity.

Contract Killer: Zombies (Free)

For a slasher-style game, Contract Killer: Zombies is full of contaminated blood and gore. In this Halloween special, Contract Killer plops you in a world where youre killing zombies instead of criminals. Help the survivors by going on missions, infiltrating zombie-infested cities to get supplies and even save stranded civilians. Youre mowing down zombies at every turn, earning bonuses for head shots and killing multiple zombies at one time. For the full blood and gore experience, try Contract Killer: Zombies (NR) instead!

Stupid Zombies 2 (Free)

Stupid Zombies is a long-standing favorite, sending you across more than 500 levels of shooting, grenades and other crafty zombie-killing tactics. The sequel adds 300 brand new levels and a laser was added to your character's gun to track the course of your bullets. This is more of a puzzle game than a first-person shooter, so th eres a different type of strategy required. Use your smarts to take down zombies on multiple platforms, sending barrels down ramps, opening gates and overcoming obstacles of all kinds. Its a cute game for players of most ages, and is a bit of a brain teaser as well.

Zombie Runaway (Free)

Want to be the zombie instead of killing it? Zombie Runaway gives you a new perspective on the walking dead... or running dead, in this case. Save a single zombie from his untimely return to the grave, dodging tombstones and spiked barriers as you try to escape the cemetery. Collect as many power-up coins as you can, because the more you get and the longer you stay alive, the higher your score soars. Youll be surprised by how challenging this game can get, sucking you in for repeat runs and time-wa sting fun.

Zombie Farm (Free)

Theres FarmVille, and then theres Zombie Farm. Its a friendly world with vegetables of a different kind the kind that need watering and tilling to grow. Who knew corpses could be so fruitful? Plant the types of crops and zombies you want, customizing your farm with barns, ponds and more. Cross-breed zombies and track your crop mutations, seeing what type of creatures you can come up with. These zombies will still need plenty of nurturing, but theyll return the love, even winning over the local residents.

Download the Appolicious Android app

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Android App Video Review: ZombieSmash

ZombieSmash is an excellent and creative kind of castle defense game from Zynga. It's a throwback to an older kind of castle defense that you just dont see around anymore. It makes use of great art along with hilarious and inventive game mechanics to keep things appealing. There are plenty of extra modes to enjoy, fun side features to play with, and upgrades to purchase. This is definitely one of the better Zynga titles around.

So its up to you to defend a single survivor of the zombie apocalypse from the ravenous undead hordes. You do this as something of a god, reaching down and physically stopping the zombies. You do this by simply touching them, and you can toss them about or smash them repeatedly into the ground, just like everyones favorite scene from Marvels The Avengers. As youre doing this, youll collect various defensive weapons and stars. Stars are used to upgrade these defensive weapons, which include wrecking balls, grenades, giant boulders, deadly windmills, liquid nitrogen, mines and much more. The game is very random, creative, and totally over the top the like that.

Each level takes place on a different day of the month. As the days go by, more deadly and clever zombies will enter the fray, changing the dynamics quite a bit. There are only two different areas which you defend for a month, one being a farm in the middle of nowhere, and the other being a prison in the middle of a city. Both maps look great, but offer mostly visual differences and not much else. At the end of each night, you can take a snapshot of your final kill in slow motion and share it to Facebook or Twitter. It wouldnt be a Zynga game without some kind of social media support.

As I said, the visuals, music and sound are all top notch. If you get bored of the main levels, you can play in the sandbox mode or endless mode for some variety. You dont really see these kinds of castle defense games anymore. I remember them being very popular on the Flash game scene, with you using your mouse to endlessly thrown armies away from your castle. Its a refreshing game experience, and its a lot of fun. Best of all, ZombieSmash is available for only one dollar. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking to brutally and violently kill some time.

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Android App Video Review: ZombieSmash

ZombieSmash is an excellent and creative kind of castle defense game from Zynga. It's a throwback to an older kind of castle defense that you just dont see around anymore. It makes use of great art along with hilarious and inventive game mechanics to keep things appealing. There are plenty of extra modes to enjoy, fun side features to play with, and upgrades to purchase. This is definitely one of the better Zynga titles around.

So its up to you to defend a single survivor of the zombie apoca lypse from the ravenous undead hordes. You do this as something of a god, reaching down and physically stopping the zombies. You do this by simply touching them, and you can toss them about or smash them repeatedly into the ground, just like everyones favorite scene from Marvels The Avengers. As youre doing this, youll collect various defensive weapons and stars. Stars are used to upgrade these defensive weapons, which include wrecking balls, grenades, giant boulders, deadly windmills, liquid nitrogen, mines and much more. The game is very random, creative, and totally over the top the like that.

Each level takes place on a different day of the month. As the days go by, more deadly and clever zombies will enter the fray, changing the dynamics quite a bit. There are only two different areas which you defend for a month, one being a farm in the middle of nowhere, and the other being a prison in the middle of a city. Both maps look great, but offer mostly visua l differences and not much else. At the end of each night, you can take a snapshot of your final kill in slow motion and share it to Facebook or Twitter. It wouldnt be a Zynga game without some kind of social media support.

As I said, the visuals, music and sound are all top notch. If you get bored of the main levels, you can play in the sandbox mode or endless mode for some variety. You dont really see these kinds of castle defense games anymore. I remember them being very popular on the Flash game scene, with you using your mouse to endlessly thrown armies away from your castle. Its a refreshing game experience, and its a lot of fun. Best of all, ZombieSmash is available for only one dollar. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking to brutally and violently kill some time.

Discover more Android games here

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New Android apps worth downloading: Google Search update, Flip Launcher, Chrono Trigger

Google Search's latest update gives the app new capabilities including the ability to help you book hotels, flights and restaurant reservations. Flip Launcher comes next, making it easier to launch your favorite apps without going and searching for them. Finally, role-playing classic Chrono Trigger finally makes the leap through time from 1995 to your Android device.

Google Search update (Free)

Whats it about? Googles proprietary search app is all about finding what you want on the web as quickly and easily as possible, with the app supporting text and voice, amongst other new features.

Whats cool? Google Searchs update packs in a mess of new things, mostly focused around travel searching. You c an now book hotels, flights and restaurant reservations using Google Search, and the app supports new voice functions for doing things like launching apps. Theres also additional Google Now support packed in, too.

Whos it for? Just about anyone who finds their Android device as useful tools for getting information on the fly should get Google Search. The new updates to the app make it useful for travel, which means youll need fewer apps in general to accomplish things like booking a flight.

Whats it like? Similar search capabilities can be found in Microsofts Bing. For travel stuff, try Travelocity or Expedia.

Flip Launcher (Free)

Whats it about? Make your Android device a little more convenient with Flip Launcher, which allows you to quickly launch a few certain apps without having to return to your Home screen.

Whats cool? Flip Launcher adds that little bit of convenience you didnt know you were missing. You can assign four different apps or shortcuts to the apps flippers, which are little spaces on the side of the screen that can then be used to quickly launch them.

Whos it for? Smartphone and tablet junkies who want to save precious seconds in launching your apps. Flip Launcher isnt essential, of course, but it does make getting to your most important apps a lot easier.

Whats it like? Some alternative launcher programs, with which you can adjust your Android devices app-launching capabilities a bit, include LauncherPro and ADW.Launcher.

Chrono Trigger ($9.99)

Whats it about? Square Enixs classic role-playing title from 1995 follows the course of several characters as they travel through time, trying to save the world. Menu-based gameplay not unlike the developers Final Fantasy series dominates, and Chrono Trigger is considered to be one of the best games of all time.

Whats cool? A phenomenal cast of characters, a great story and a redesigned classic menu-based battle system were the hallmarks o f Chrono Trigger when it was first released. The game is considered a classic today, with a huge campaign and lots of weapons and armor to find, character skills to increase, and epochs to visit.

Whos it for? If you like the Final Fantasy series, especially the earlier titles that appear on mobile platforms, you should give a look to Chrono Trigger. Its rooted in the same 16-bit role-playing game conventions, but with some of the best story and characters to grace games.

Whats it like? Lots of Square Enixs RPGs fall into a similar vein as Chrono Trigger. For starters, check out Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy III.

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New Android apps worth downloading: Google Search update, Flip Launcher, Chrono Trigger

Google Search's latest update gives the app new capabilities including the ability to help you book hotels, flights and restaurant reservations. Flip Launcher comes next, making it easier to launch your favorite apps without going and searching for them. Finally, role-playing classic Chrono Trigger finally makes the leap through time from 1995 to your Android device.

Google Search update (Free)

Whats it about? Googles proprietary search app is all about finding what you want on the web as quickly and easily as possible, with the app supporting text and voice, amongst other new features.

Whats cool? Google Searchs update packs in a mess of new things, mostly focused around travel searching. You can now book hotels, flights and restaurant reservations u sing Google Search, and the app supports new voice functions for doing things like launching apps. Theres also additional Google Now support packed in, too.

Whos it for? Just about anyone who finds their Android device as useful tools for getting information on the fly should get Google Search. The new updates to the app make it useful for travel, which means youll need fewer apps in general to accomplish things like booking a flight.

Whats it like? Similar search capabilities can be found in Microsofts Bing. For travel stuff, try Travelocity or Expedia.

Flip Launcher (Free)

Whats it about? Make your Android device a little more convenient with Flip Launcher, which allows you to quickly launch a few certain apps without having to return to your Home screen.

Whats cool? Flip Launcher adds that little bit of convenience you didnt know you were missing. You can assign four different apps or shortcuts to the apps flippers, which are little spaces on the side of the screen that can then be used to quickly launch them.

Whos it for? Smartphone and tablet junkies who want to save precious seconds in launching your apps. Flip Launcher isnt essential, of course, but it does make getting to your most important apps a lot easier.

Whats it like? Some alternative launcher programs, with which you can adjust your Android devices app-launching capabilities a bit, include LauncherPro and ADW.Launcher.

Chrono Trigger ($9.99)

Whats it about? Square Enixs classic role-playing title from 1995 follows the course of several characters as they travel through time, trying to save the world. Menu-based gameplay not unlike the developers Final Fantasy series dominates, and Chrono Trigger is considered to be one of the best games of all time.

Whats cool? A phenomenal cast of characters, a great story and a redesigned classic menu-based battle system were the hallmarks of Chrono Trigger when it was first released. The game is considered a classic today, with a huge campaign and lots of weapons and armor to find, character skills to increase, and epochs to visit.

Whos it for? If you like the Final Fantasy series, especially the earlier titles that appear on mobile platforms, you should give a look to Chrono Trigger. Its rooted in the same 16-bit role-playing game conventions, but with some of the best story and chara cters to grace games.

Whats it like? Lots of Square Enixs RPGs fall into a similar vein as Chrono Trigger. For starters, check out Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy III.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Via: New Android apps worth downloading: Google Search update, Flip Launcher, Chrono Trigger

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Mobile gaming is, thankfully, a cheap hobby

Recently, Google Play hit 25 billion apps downloaded, and to celebrate they sold a bunch of apps and games for $0.25 each for five days. This was fun for me, and I picked up a bunch of new games that week. Among those games was Cut the Rope: Experiments. It was a bit strange that I didn't already have this game, since it was only $0.99 to begin with, but oh well. I have it now, and that's all that matters.

Experiments was updated at the beginning of October, and I think most of the folks who own the game were hoping for new levels. Alas, that was not to be. Instead, they added the ability to purchase a telekinesis power with real money. This is a nonessential feature, and while it may be disappointing that we got that instead of new levels, I kind of brushed it off as not really being that important. And then I read some user reviews in the wake of the update. Here are a couple negative reviews for you to enjoy:

Yay! New levels..., Oh no, sorry it's just a ploy to get some cash out of you. So, that's how you ruin a 5star game! --Northern Dragon

Booooooooo! You said new levels; this is BS! Two updates and no new levels, only shallow attempts to get more cash out of us! Five stars is now one! --Melissa

So money-grubbing! So annoying! Good game otherwise. 5 stars when new levels. --Alex

You can read more here.

The outrage here is quite shocking to me, because Experiments comes with plenty of content, and it only costs a dollar to own. We might hope for free new levels, but we should not feel jilted when they don't come. And just because there are now micro-transactions within the game does not mean you are being forced to spend more money. As I said before, the telekinesis power is strictly nonessential, and merely a neat little new feature you might want to try out if you're bored. That people would change their ratings of the game from five stars to one star is a bit offensive to me, considering the quality of the game has not changed one bit with this update.

Being a person who plays retail PC and console video games regularly, I am used to spending tons of cash on my entertainment. The biggest games this month, like Dishonored and Assassin's Creed III, will run you a cool sixty bucks each. I picked up XCOM: Enemy Unknown for the PC for $45 with $10 in bonus credit at the online retailer from which I purchased the game, and I thought that was a great deal.

Once I became invested in mobile gaming, I basically started spending money indiscriminately. I own a Galaxy Nexus, which comes with 32GB of internal storage, and I have so many games I can't even fit them all on there. That's a lot of games, man. And I've only been gaming on Android for half a year. I also own a massive collection of iOS games for my iPad.

And even with all the mobile games I buy, it's only a fraction of what I spend each year on AAA core home console and PC games, and I have far fewer of those than I do mobile games. I will die of old age before I manage to actually even play all the mobile games I own and will own in the future.

So whe n I see people complaining about a lack of free new content for a game they paid a dollar for, I get a little bit upset. There is so much stuff for you to play on your phone that is so ridiculously inexpensive that I feel some of us have become a kind of spoiled. We expect our cheap distractions to keep feeding us new levels at no additional charge, even though we blow tons of cash on other things we don't really need. You probably have an insane amount of condiments in your refrigerator, and you likely don't use them all before the expiration date. And if you don't, you're forced to buy more, because what would you do without condiments?

As mobile gamers, we have endless amounts of entertainment at our fingertips for stupidly low prices, and yet we sometimes still don't think we're getting our money's worth. Cut the Rope: Experiments is a very fun game, and we can get hours and hours of play time out of it, but a doll ar can only go so far. Eventually, we have to buy something new, just like we do with condiments.

We should not be distressed that we have to pay these tiny amounts of money for entertainment that doesn't last forever. We should be ecstatic that we can have so much fun for so little money, and then if the developers who are making these games because they have their own bills to pay, rather than just for the hell of it choose to give us free extras, we can be over the moon about it. But if they choose to not give you new free content, you should not be angry. You should instead thank them for providing you with hours of entertainment for a very low price, and then move on to another game that costs a dollar. That you can do that is the beauty of the world of mobile gaming right now.

But, of all things, do not try to discourage others from playing a game that you liked, simply because you are unfa irly bitter about a lack of free updates. We should, at all times, celebrate those things that bring us joy. We are very lucky to have this inexpensive entertainment. We should act like we know that.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Via: Mobile gaming is, thankfully, a cheap hobby

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Mobile gaming is, thankfully, a cheap hobby

Recently, Google Play hit 25 billion apps downloaded, and to celebrate they sold a bunch of apps and games for $0.25 each for five days. This was fun for me, and I picked up a bunch of new games that week. Among those games was Cut the Rope: Experiments. It was a bit strange that I didn't already have this game, since it was only $0.99 to begin with, but oh well. I have it now, and that's all that matters.

Experiments was updated at the beginning of October, and I think most of the folks who own the game were hoping for new levels. Alas, that was not to be. Instead, they added the ability to purchase a telekinesis power with real money. Thi s is a nonessential feature, and while it may be disappointing that we got that instead of new levels, I kind of brushed it off as not really being that important. And then I read some user reviews in the wake of the update. Here are a couple negative reviews for you to enjoy:

Yay! New levels..., Oh no, sorry it's just a ploy to get some cash out of you. So, that's how you ruin a 5star game! --Northern Dragon

Booooooooo! You said new levels; this is BS! Two updates and no new levels, only shallow attempts to get more cash out of us! Five stars is now one! --Melissa

So money-grubbing! So annoying! Good game otherwise. 5 stars when new levels. --Alex

You can read more here.

The outrage here is quite shocking to me, because Experiments comes with plenty of content, and it only costs a dollar to own. We might hope for free new levels, but we should not feel jilted when they don't come. And just because there are now micro-transactions within the game does not mean you are being forced to spend more money. As I said before, the telekinesis power is strictly nonessential, and merely a neat little new feature you might want to try out if you're bored. That people would change their ratings of the game from five stars to one star is a bit offensive to me, considering the quality of the game has not changed one bit with this update.

Being a person who plays retail PC and console video games regularly, I am used to spending tons of ca sh on my entertainment. The biggest games this month, like Dishonored and Assassin's Creed III, will run you a cool sixty bucks each. I picked up XCOM: Enemy Unknown for the PC for $45 with $10 in bonus credit at the online retailer from which I purchased the game, and I thought that was a great deal.

Once I became invested in mobile gaming, I basically started spending money indiscriminately. I own a Galaxy Nexus, which comes with 32GB of internal storage, and I have so many games I can't even fit them all on there. That's a lot of games, man. And I've only been gaming on Android for half a year. I also own a massive collection of iOS games for my iPad.

And even with all the mobile games I buy, it's only a fraction of what I spend each year on AAA core home console and PC games, and I have far fewer of those than I do mobile games. I wi ll die of old age before I manage to actually even play all the mobile games I own and will own in the future.

So when I see people complaining about a lack of free new content for a game they paid a dollar for, I get a little bit upset. There is so much stuff for you to play on your phone that is so ridiculously inexpensive that I feel some of us have become a kind of spoiled. We expect our cheap distractions to keep feeding us new levels at no additional charge, even though we blow tons of cash on other things we don't really need. You probably have an insane amount of condiments in your refrigerator, and you likely don't use them all before the expiration date. And if you don't, you're forced to buy more, because what would you do without condiments?

As mobile gamers, we have endless amounts of entertainment at our fingertips for stupidly low prices, and yet we sometimes s till don't think we're getting our money's worth. Cut the Rope: Experiments is a very fun game, and we can get hours and hours of play time out of it, but a dollar can only go so far. Eventually, we have to buy something new, just like we do with condiments.

We should not be distressed that we have to pay these tiny amounts of money for entertainment that doesn't last forever. We should be ecstatic that we can have so much fun for so little money, and then if the developers who are making these games because they have their own bills to pay, rather than just for the hell of it choose to give us free extras, we can be over the moon about it. But if they choose to not give you new free content, you should not be angry. You should instead thank them for providing you with hours of entertainment for a very low price, and then move on to another game that costs a dollar. That you can do that is the beauty of the world of mobile gaming right now.

But, of all things, do not try to discourage others from playing a game that you liked, simply because you are unfairly bitter about a lack of free updates. We should, at all times, celebrate those things that bring us joy. We are very lucky to have this inexpensive entertainment. We should act like we know that.

Download the Appolicious Android app

Read more »