Ever since its long-overdue debut two years ago, the iPhone has continually surprised users all around. The functionality and ease of use stay true to Apple products, known for being less complicated than Microsoft, while the revolutionary aspects — and there are many — have allowed it to succeed in the oversaturated cell-phone market. It isn’t just a pocket-sized computer, but a library, gaming system, GPS and translator as well. The features are so plentiful, we forget it’s a phone too.
What really distinguishes the iPhone from the competition, however, is its expansive list of applications. You’ve probably seen a commercial or two featuring some sort of game or other interesting program. One of the most memorable was an ad for the Shazam! application, which answers the age-old question, “What is this song called again?” After several usages in a crowded bar, I can give Shazam a confident thumbs-up.
But the most popular programs are the mere tip of the iceberg when it comes to the myriad things one can pick up in the App Store (www.apple.com/iphone/appstore). As the commercials state, you truly can get an application for just about anything. And despite the apparent frivolousness of some of them, there have been several times I’ve been glad to have the entire volume of Shakespeare or landmark Supreme Court cases readily accessible.
Some applications are fun. There are games galore in every genre imaginable. You can access and update Twitter or Facebook with one click. Instant messaging with friends is simple. Zooming in on your friends with Google Earth is scary. And you can even dip your fingers in a real live fishpond and experience some of the most realistic sounds and visuals of any program.
Even applications designed to be educational are fun. The last time a friend ordered from McDonald’s, I looked up the exact number of calories in his meal, much to his chagrin. I can access any Bible passage; very functional for refuting religious fanatics who only know one line of Leviticus. And if it’s teenagers you want to calm down, just play the pitch that only they (and dogs) can hear. They’ll settle down in no time.
Of course there are plenty of LGBT applications as well, most of which fall into three categories: travel, personals and entertainment.
Anybody who has traveled has used a guidebook at some point. Unfortunately, most come with so much information, they often weigh down the fun of sightseeing, literally. Fitting an entire guide onto the iPhone is a great perk. Along with regular travel guides, applications like GayCities help you locate the hottest spots once the sun goes down.
Finding a travel buddy is even easier than finding where to go. There are many different personals applications designed for the iPhone. Most use the same picture and profile format as normal Web sites. The Dating DNA application adds a little extra profile matching, similar to eHarmony but gay-friendly. Simply insert your preferences and let the program do the rest.
Lastly, there are a few fun applications like horoscopes, pride flags and the Guy Wall — which, if so inclined, you can check out for yourself. I’m sure you can figure out what it is.
Whether it’s for business or pleasure, the App Store is a fascinating place for anybody with an iPhone or iPod Touch. Enjoy!
Contact Jason with feedback at [email protected].