iPhone, iTouch offer variety of applications

By HEATHER SKRIP

There are thousands of applications available for download at the App Store through Apple and iTunes.

Some are free, but others can cost a couple bucks. Now, I do not own an iPhone or an iTouch so the sheer magnitude of all these apps and what they can do mystifies me and makes me quite jealous. Because of this, I have decided to create a list of the top 10 apps that sound amusing from a non-Apple user’s point of view. I am not evaluating these apps so some might actually function horribly.

1) ColorSplash: The camera on the iPhone has amused me for a long time as the quality seems pretty good for a cell phone. This app apparently allows users to convert their pictures to black and white. After that, they can choose to leave certain parts of the image in color which creates a dramatic effect. The pictures on the app’s Web site look amazing, which was enough to intrigue me. (The cost is $1.99.)

2) Police Scanner: This sounds pretty useless, but for those of us who are interested in listening to the calls going on between local police and firefighters, this is a gift from the gods. It is unclear whether or not your specific area’s frequency can be heard, but hey, it’s worth a shot. ($1.99)

3) Dog Whistler: The fact that an app like this even exists is amusing in itself. Supposedly, users of this app can train their dogs using the whistle on the phone and can also change the frequency. I doubt that this is a fool-proof app, based off of the reviews on its site, but it still sounds pretty amusing. (Free)

4) BubbleWrap: For those of us who are still amused by endless popping of bubble wrap, this app is amazing. I have personally played this game on the iTouch, and I must say that it is very amusing. (Free)

5) BucksMe: It’s no secret that a lot of people depend on stopping by Starbucks every morning. This is a perfect way to find the nearest Starbucks in an unfamiliar place. Apparently, it also works in countries other than the United States. ($0.99)

6) Urbanspoon: After seeing the commercial for this app, I was instantly interested. The fact that this app provides details on the city, types of food and costs makes this an extremely handy app. (Free)

7) Drink Pro: Now you can search for over 20,000 drink recipes from your phone. If you’re unsure what you want, there is also a randomizer option. So, for anyone who wants to learn how to make their own drinks, this app seems to be made for you. ($0.99)

8) Life Decisions: Who would’ve thought that your phone would be able to help you make important life decisions? I’m not sure if I would trust the advice much, but it sounds like it would be a useful tool to add spontaneity to one’s life. Undoubtedly, some of the answers are sure to be amusing. ($0.99)

9) Fake Calls: The page for this app boasts that it offers a great excuse to get out of a conversation, or any other social event that can make you uncomfortable. The idea behind this is hilarious and should be a must-have for almost anyone that is familiar with awkward situations. ($0.99)

10) IPark: As a person who frequently loses their car in a parking lot, this app is essential. It includes a compass to lead you back to your car, shows a map much like those found on www.mapquest.com and allows you to enter the lot and space number where you park. Not to mention, it allows you to save a location so that it helps make your life easier. ($0.99)