Computer Advice: Favorite Apps And Software Programs

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• Top 10 Websites, Apps People Should Be Using Right Now

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  Computers and phones play a large role in the daily lives of the vast majority of people these days. They help pay bills, provide directions, share photos, stay in touch with people around the globe and monitor the latest news. They help save time and waste it, too.

  But it can be a tough task to keep up with all the new gadgets, programs and apps that are available. Just as people get familiar with one program, it seems a new one is invented.

  For instance, there are now more than 1.2 million apps on iTunes — with hundreds more created every day. With such a huge selection to chose from, which ones are worth the space on our devices?

  Computer consultant Peter Greene helps users answer that very question. He regularly posts lists of the best new websites, programs and apps on his website, InfoStar.com. There, people can find an archive of his favorite new programs, as well as a list of programs everyone should be using on a regular basis.

  Here’s what’s catching his eye this week:

  1. TopClassActions.com: A source of class-action lawsuit news in the world. The website now only publishes breaking news in the field, but it also connects consumers to class-action settlements, and aims to help them find, submit claims for, and receive compensation for every class action settlement they qualify to participate in.
  2. Humin.com: An app for smartphones that, to quote the New York Times, serves as an “intelligent replacement for your iPhone’s dialer and contacts program. The app sorts user’s contact list according to a variety of factors, including how frequently they connect with people, how well they know them and your location.”
  3. TheTileApp.com: A phone app for the forgetful. When a user attaches a “Tile” to an item — say, one’s keys — the app tracks where it is as long as it’s within a 100-foot radius. Put a tile on keys, wallet or luggage.
  4. FiftyThree.com: A beautiful app for iPads that essentially creates a virtual sketchbook. It won a design award app of the year in 2012 from Apple.
  5. GarageJournal.com: A website with useful articles about garages and related items. The lively discussion forums allow users to talk shop and tools.
  6. EverydayHealth.com: A health and medical resource that’s easy to navigate. The website describe symptoms, find appropriate medications, count one’s calorie intake and create a meal plan with the recipe generator.
  7. WhatifSports.com: A sports simulation site featuring online simulation games and predictions for MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, NCAA sports and more. With this website, people can have the 1957 World Series champions Milwaukee Braves play against the 2014 Milwaukee Brewers.
  8. RouterIPaddress.com: A searchable database of router IP details and that allows people to search by brand or model.
  9. GoFundMe.com: An alternative to Kickstarter, this website allows for online fundraising for individuals, businesses and organizations.
  10. iphoneFAQ.org: A website dedicated to providing information about the Apple iPhone. It delivers the latest news, offers tips and tutorials, and provides technical specifications.