Image credits: Bryce Durbin/TechCrunch
As 2023 comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite apps that have made our lives a little easier this year. While flashy new AI apps and rival social networks grab the headlines, sometimes the most useful innovations fly under the radar. The apps on our best list may not be around in 2023, but they’ve become everyday necessities that make our work easier or bring us a little joy. Read about the top apps we turn to time and time again when we need to get things done, connect with others, or just have more fun.
mime stream
detail: Mac app for Gmail (Mac)
Who chose: Ivan Mehta
Why we like it: I’ve used and reviewed many email clients over the years. I still regret the fact that Inbox by Google has been discontinued. Mimestream is a simple yet excellent Gmail client created by former Apple engineer Neil Jhaveri. The app has a split view so you can quickly see what’s in your emails. Additionally, you can use swipe gestures to quickly archive or delete emails to your inbox queue.
There are also additional features such as multiple account support, an additional menu bar, Gmail aliases, and quick labeling (which I found useful for categorizing emails).
Bonus mention: Audioopen (web app for transcription), Obscura (iOS camera app for professional photography)
tiny view
detail: A comic app that supports creators (iOS, Android, Web)
Who chose: Anna Heim
Why we like it: To be honest, I started using Tinyview because it allows me to read some of my favorite webcomics (Itchy Feet, Fowl Language, They Can Talk) in a convenient format that is easy to navigate. But over time, the authors will also become happier because, as one of the authors pointed out on Thanksgiving, they can earn a “real living wage” that’s much more than Patreon or book sales. I understand.
The app is free, but paid users can access bonus panels and more. However, besides additional content, paying for the app is also a way to support creators. If you particularly like one manga, you can also share your love one by one by sending cookies, coffee, art supplies, or pizza depending on your tip level. .
macro factor
detail: Macro tracking app with minimal clues (iOS, Android)
Who chose: Natasha Lomas
Why we like it: This is actually the first (dedicated) macro tracking app I’ve ever used, and I learned about it through a beta recommendation from mountaineering guru Mr. Hooper. So I can’t speak to how it compares to other markets. But I appreciate its zen-like minimalism. If you’re looking for a practical tool that can help you better understand the nutritional trends of what you’re eating without being bombarded with annoying notifications, MacroFactor is the way to go.
Be careful, it’s not free (there is a short free trial), so you have to pay for a subscription. But as the saying goes, honest work deserves honest rewards. Also, rest assured that your data will not be sold to Mark Zuckerberg. Setup is easy. All you have to do is answer a few basic questions about Body Comp, your training plan, and set your weight loss goals (if you’re actually aiming to lose weight, I’d like to help you understand your macronutrient intake) I was interested in doing so). Generate custom calorie and macro goals that adapt from week to week as you measure your weight. The food log interface is also nice, with cute icons that add a Pokemon-esque “gotta catch them all” touch to remind you what to change. I’m eating. A balanced diet, FTW!
MMDC (Meet My Dog Challenge)
detail: Social app for dog parents (iOS, Android)
Who chose: Lauren Forristal
Why we like it: As a new puppy mother, it can be difficult to find other dogs with the same temperament as my rambunctious dachshund. Many of the dogs in my neighborhood are large senior dogs, and little speed machines with short legs don’t want to jump around and play. With MMDC, you can set up playdates with other small dogs, find group meetups near you, and share a photo of your dog in a new raincoat (she absolutely hates that! Masu).
My favorite feature is the availability schedule so everyone can see what days are available. While this new canine respiratory illness has put many of our in-person plans on hold, MMDC is also great for chatting with others online via our adorable doxies.
Libby
detail: Borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your library on your mobile phone (iOS, Android, Web).
Who chose: amanda silverling
Why we like it: Every time I meet someone new and find out they like to read, I ask them if they have a Libby. I’ve read at least 50 books each year since the pandemic began, and I couldn’t do it (and probably can’t afford to) without Libby. This app allows you to plug in your library card (yes, cards, plural. Don’t ask me about my ethical crisis about owning multiple library cards) and borrow books as ebooks or audiobooks. You can search for. If you want to borrow an e-book, you can log into your Amazon account and send the book directly to your Kindle. It’s easygoing, refreshing, and beautiful, Libby. Additional recommendation: Share your Libby account with a friend and rate each other on all the weird shit you’re both reading.
PS Play
detail: Third-party client for PlayStation Remote Play (Android)
Who chose: Kyle Wiggers
Why we like it: So I very I’m late to the party, but my partner and I have just started using the PlayStation 5’s remote play feature. It’s a godsend on days when a bed sounds far more appealing than a couch. My PS5 is in the living room and I don’t want to move it. In preparation for our holiday trip, I’ve been researching ways to utilize remote play beyond the range of my boyfriend’s Wi-Fi in our apartment. The process seems a bit…complicated, to say the least.
PSPlay makes it easy. As advertised, remote play is possible on the go. Plus, it offers features not found in Sony’s official Remote Play app, including third-party controller support, picture-in-picture mode, and screen capture, making it well worth the $5.99 price tag. .