3 Apps to Expand Your Mobile Storage

The limited storage capacity on iPhone and iPad need not hold you back from having all the documents, PDFs, images and videos available on your device.

Here are 3 of my favorite free options to access those items without jamming up your memory. Take your pick!


1. Google Drive
Developer: Google, Inc.

Get this app if you are looking to work with documents.

If you are already using Google in your life as much as I am, it makes sense to go with this option. You can store docs, pics, videos and google docs that were created online from this app. It syncs with your Google account. There's a desktop program for easy syncing and you start off with 5GB free.

Click here to get the app

2. Dropbox
Developer: Dropbox

Get this app of you are want easy photo uploading along with storage for documents.

When you sign up, you get 2GB of storage. You can increase this storage by purchasing more or referring friends to sign up. Also, if you allow automatic camera roll uploads, you get additional free storage.

This free app syncs with Dropbox.com. There is also a desktop application to keep you synced on that end. You can upload or download pics, videos, docs, etc from any of those access points.

Click here to get the app

3. Skydrive
Developer: Microsoft Corporation

Get this app if you simply want a lot of free storage.

Microsoft and Windows Live fans may appreciate this app more. It syncs with your Windows live account on skydrive.com. You can save and access pics, videos, and docs.

Big bonus for this app is the most free storage capacity at 7GB to start.

Click here to get the app

*Tip: How to upload*

For all 3 of these apps, there are 2 methods to upload from your iphone or camera.

1) From within the app:
Find the upload option and select items from the camera roll (only pics or vids)

2) From within another application such as email, Pages, etc:
Find the item and select "open with" option... from there you can choose the app you want the file to save to such as Google Drive or Dropbox.

3 Must-have Free Flight Apps & More

If you're taking any flights in the near future, which you might be for the holiday season, put these on your phone!

1. Flysmart
Developer: Sapient

This app will give you all of the information you need about the airport you are in or need to get to such as nearby restaurants, transportation information, weather, and a map of the airport.

Click here to get the app


2. Tripcase
Developer: Sabre Inc.

With an easy set-up and the input of your ticket information beforehand, you will always have the updated info for you flight in the palm of your hand, including those pesky last minute gate-changes and flight delays.

Click here to get the app


3. Kayak
Developer: kayak.com

Most people know about this website to search for the cheapest possible flight. Don't forget they have an app and it can also be used for hotels. Of course, double check for your flight on the particular airline website itself where special deals may apply.

Click here to get the app

Last off, all major airlines have an app nowadays that can be used to check in, request a change in flight etc. so stock your phone or tablet with that too.

Don't forget to check the post on games you can play while in flight (don't need Internet) here and some more classics here.

4 Free (+1 Cheap) Games for Young Kids

These apps are good for a parent looking to keeping a young child entertained. If you happen to like them yourself, all the better.

1. Tic Tac Toe Free
Developer: Optime Software, LLC

One or two player options here. This game just seems to make the time fly by fast.

Click here to get the app

2. Smack That Gugl- .99 cents
Developer: Tayasui.com

Interesting game here with bright cheery graphics. Children will like the Nickelodeon feel of this app. The object of the game is to prevent the little creatures from exploding into a gooey mess but kids might do the opposite!

Click here to get the app

3. Sky Burger- Free
Developer: Nimblebit, LLC

A balancing game where you try you stack your burger as high as possible. Warning: Don't let your kid play this when he's hungry.

Click here to get the app

4. Scoops- Free
Developer: Nimblebit Circus, LLC

A balancing game where you try to stack your ice cream come as high as possible. Warning: Again, this app may cause your child to ask for ice cream.

Click here to get the app

5. Frog Toss- Free
Developer: Game Circus, LLC

This is a carnival like game with a little direction to make it easier for young kids. You don't really have to aim, but you do have to time the launches to end up with frogs on the Lilly pads.

Click here to get the app

12 Free 90s Childhood Games

Give yourself some nostalgia with these classics from your childhood (if you fall into the 20 or 30 something range). These games are a blast from the past and are sure to give you a break from the new millennium.

1. Minesweeper Classic Free
Developer: Liberty For One

Who can resist the gratuitous anxiety caused by this the thrilling computer game Minesweeper. When I first played this, I thought a smiley face has never looked so sinister.

Click here to get the app

2. Pac-man Lite
Developer: Namco Networks, America Inc. Games

Despite the inherent problems of making a joystick game, 3D, you can still get a satisfying PacMan experience from this game. Full version is $2.99 if you don't tire of the game after 2 levels. You can also do some hunting around for the Mrs. Pac-Man game in the App Store if she rocks your socks a little bit better.

Click here to get the app

3. Memory Block
Developer: Category 5 Games

This game is similar to Simon, the classic game that required you to memorize a pattern of colors and touch the buttons in the same order as it was played.

Click here to get the app

4. 20Q Mind Reader Free
Developer: Digital Chocolate, Inc.

Prepare to be amazed! Think of an object... Any kid-friendly object and the amazing 20Q app will read your mind with the help of 20 questions or less. It is pretty impressive.

Click here to get the app

5. Mancala FS5
Developer: FlipSide5, Inc.

I remember playing with this board game back in elementary school. Of course it's better with shiny gems but this is still a fun game.

Click here to get the app

6. Four in a Row Free
Developer: Optime Software LLC

This is similar to Connect 4. Be the first to get 4 in a row and win! You can choose to play against the computer or a friend.

Click here to get the app

7. Action Bowling Free
Developer: Kronos Games

Here we have a traditional game of bowling without the need for the shoe rental. Maybe I can finally get a triple digit score with enough practice here.

Click here to get the app

8. Ping Pong- Insanely Addictive
Developer: Miniclip.com

If you prefer a more action-oriented game, this is one that might get you moving. Try to bounce the ping pong ball on your paddle. It is harder than it looks.

Click here to get the app

9. Solitaire
Developer: MobilityWare

If you spent hours playing Minesweeper, then you probably had your fair share of computer solitaire, too. After all of these years, it has not lost its appeal.

Click here to get the app

10. Touch Hockey: FS5
Developer: FlipSide5, Inc.

Go in for the kill shot in this classically designed table hockey game, down to the scores on the side. Do a cool enough shot and you can revel in the instant replay.

Click here to get the app

11. Glow Hockey 2 Free
Developer: Natenai Ariyatrakool

Because everything was cooler when it glowed in the 90s, I have included glow hockey, as the funkier counterpart to the traditional version. It also includes a 2-player option and nifty sound effects.

Click here to get the app

12. Wooden Labyrinth 3D Free
Developer: Elias Pietil

The most frustrating game for a child makes a digital comeback. See if you can manage a little better now that you are older and wiser. Get the ever elusive tiny metal ball from start to finish if you can!

Click here to get the app

10 Fun Free Games (No Internet Needed)

Before your next flight or other web-less situation, be sure to stock up on some games to keep you entertained. Here are some of my favorites.

1. Jelly Car 2

Developer: Disney

Navigate your jelly car through a whimsical papery world. Bright colors and silly animations are amusing. It is pretty funny when your car gets mashed up in a cog-wheel. 

Click here to get the app

2. Mega Jump

Developer: Get Set Games

Easy to learn and easily addicting! Try and reach uncharted heights with your creature, eating coins to stay in the air. You are rewarded for playing in game coins, which can be used to buy extra power-ups. This is a nice feature when many games try to make you pay REAL DOLLARS for game add-ons.

Click here to get the app

3. Mega Run

Developer: Get Set Games

Although the name sounds similar, this game feels unique from Mega Jump. It reminds me of old-school Mario video games. Your creature runs through a fun world, avoiding obstacles and collecting coins and extras for points.

Click here to get the app

4. Tap Defense

Developer: TapJoy

A strategic game in a medieval setting. Protect your castle from evil invaders with an artillery of purchasable weapons. It starts out very easy but soon becomes challenging. The more you play, the more riches you will obtain.

Click here to get the app

5. Traffic Rush

Developer: Donut Games

My sister first introduced this game to me. I quickly became a fan after playing a couple of rounds. It is harder than it seems to direct traffic and prevent accidents from happening between cars, semi-trucks and motorcycles. Give it a try!

Click here to get the app

6. Flight Control

Developer: Firemint Pty Ltd

Similar concept to Traffic Rush but it is even better for a plane ride. You are the pilot bringing planes to land safely on the runway. Be careful not to let multiple planes collide.

*correction: this game cost 99 cents (so check out #11 for the 10th freebie)

Click here to get the app

7. Temple Run

Developer: Imangi Studios, LLC

Indiana-Jonesesque adventure guy makes his way through the a maze careful not to let the pack of wild animals behind him catch up. This is a simple game to learn and easy way to pass the time.

Click here to get the app

8. Subway Surf
Developer: Kiloo

Similar to Temple Run in the whole running through an obstacle course thing, but in this game you are a young boy running through a train station, you can also use a skateboard. And the animal behind you is an angry security guard.

Click here to get the app

9. Amateur Surgeon Lite
Developer: [adult swim]

I had to include this game because it is SO entertaining. You are the crazy surgeon operating on very interesting characters. The gameplay is consuming. Warning: you will probably want to get the full version like I did and its worth it!

Click here to get the app

10. NYTimes Crosswords
Developer: Magmic, Inc.

Keeping with the plane theme, crosswords are where it is at! Give your brain a break from the mindless games and try out some crosswords made by NYtimes.

Click here to get the app

11. A Quest of Knights On Rush
Developer: Chillingo LTD

You are the pint-sized knight fighting evil wizards and other medieval attacks with your mighty sword. See how far you can get before your life force drops to zero.

Click here to get the app

C

3 Free Apps for a Healthier You!

You want to get a head start on New Year's fitness goals and don't have personal trainer money. Here are some apps that can make a difference in your health without hurting your wallet.

1. LoseIt!
Developer: FitNow

If you're looking to shed a few pounds, maintain your physique or want some guidance toward a healthier lifestyle, this app is the answer. Since the key to losing weight is burning more calories than you take in, there's no way to fail if you stick to the plan. The app allows you to set a goal date, ideal weight and track daily meals and activities to keep you on target. Most activities are listed in the database with estimated calories burned with each one. Available on iPhone and iPad.

Click here to get the app

2. Heart Rate Monitor
Developer: Azumia, Inc.

If you're interested in tracking your heart rate for medical reasons or just wondering what your normal levels are, this is the app for you. During cardiovascular exercise, you want to keep your heart rate above a certain level so it's also great for that. Simply place your finger on the camera lens for a reading in a few seconds. The paid version adds the feature of tracking your levels over time but the free version is still useful.
Side note: You must have an iPhone 4 or later for this app as it requires a flash.

Click here to get the app

3. Yoga Free
Developer: Arawella Corporation

Yoga is an amazing exercise option for nearly everyone. Get into practice. With this free app that allows you to customize a routine and track the days you have completed yoga exercise. There are poses for the beginner to the guru. Audio and visual guidance makes starting out a breeze. Get moving! Available on iPhone and iPad.

Click here to get the app

10 Favorite Free Apps You May Not Have

From falling asleep faster, to effortless music listening, to saving money, there's the perfect app for all of your needs.

1) IM+
Developer: Shape Gmbh

Google Talk, Facebook, and other less well-known chatting tools can be accessed here. Fun features of changing the background and message tones make this app even better. You can designate a certain length of time to stay connected to the service, see when friends are typing in your chat and sync settings between all apple devices using iCloud. 

Click here to get the app

2) Gasbuddy
Developer: Gasbuddy Organization, Inc.

Perhaps you have heard of the website, but did you know there was an app? The simple interface makes finding the cheapest gas to fill up on the fly a simple task!

Click here to get the app

3) Accuweather
Developer: Accuweather, Inc.

Also, website-derived.... the clean app brings more detail and illustration to weather forecasting than the pre-installed weather app. You can view maps and video for those who would like that sort of information. My favorite detail is the humidity percentage and real-feel, which truly make a difference when it comes to choosing appropriate clothing and hair-styles. 

Click here to get the app

4) NPR
Developer: NPR

Even if you can't stand to sit through hours of news every day, there's an app to keep you generally informed of issues and events all around the globe. With the hourly newscast, you'll get to hear the highlights in right around 5 minutes. when you find an extra minute, there are stories available to listen to or read right at your finger-tips. You can make a playlist of stories to listen to at work or on a long drive or tune into your local NPR station with ease. 

Click here to get the app

5) Mint
Developer: Mint.com

This is an app that could change your life! It makes budgeting fun. If you use plastic more than cash, it is such a breeze to see exactly where your money is going, by tracking all transactions and categorizing them. You can set budgets, make goals and view your progress. You can add all credit cards, loan and bank accounts to get a clear view of your debts and assets. This app is a companion for mint.com which is awesome. By syncing between iPad, iPhone and website, you can always account for every cent!

Click here to get the app

6) Vocabology

Developer: Thatwith.me, LLC

Everyone can use a little self-improvement. In the days of texting, emoticons, acronyms and broken-qdown language, let us all remember the wide world of words that still exist. You'll get a new word each day from the dictionary you choose. This is helpful for expanding vocabulary in a new language, too!

Click here to get the app

7) Songza

Developer: Songza Media, Inc.

You want to listen to music but not sure what you want to hear? This "music concierge" could be a great fix! Just open up the app for suggestions based on the time, day, and activity. With a sleep timer, clock view, and optional facebook sharing, you will wonder how this app is still free!

Click to get the app

8) Urbanspoon
Developer: Urbanspoon

Ok, so maybe you do have this already...  but it has to be on the list because it is great. No matter if you are in your home-town or a brand new city, you can find eats to fit your taste and budget. There is a random selection tool if you are in the mood to experiment. Included are reviews, prices, and hours that the restaurant is open, and a menu if you're lucky.

Click here to get the app

9) iDream
Developer: George Talusan

Looking for a gadget that will help you sleep better but don't feel like paying for a new fancy machine? You can simply put this free app on your iPhone or iPad for a quick fix. There are different themes included such as white noise, pink noise, ocean, rain, etc. It has done the trick for me more than once for me and just might do the same for you.

Click to get the app

10) Crackle
Developer: Crackle, Inc.

Free movies and shows that are updated every month or so. The selection ranges from classics to relatively new in all genres. As always, you can't beat free.

Click to get the app