It must be difficult for Microsoft. They have had to get used to playing second and even third fiddle in this thing called the Mobile Operating System competition. Back in the tech boom 90’s, everything was ‘Wintel this’ and ‘Wintel that’. People were worried that Microsoft would be the evil monopolistic empire that they probably still aspire to be. Now it’s Apple that personifies that 1984 scenario so succinctly portrayed in their signature Super Bowl commercial. But Windows Phone 8 still has a thing or two to teach to those young whippersnappers over at Apple and Google. Case in point, these four handy apps for your Windows Phone (also check out these other lists of useful Windows Phone apps and must-download Windows Phone apps).
Podcasts!
Podcasts! With Podcasts! You can add a podcast with an RSS address. Which as ‘Wooram’, a user reviewer over at the Windows Phone Store pointed out, is somewhat difficult with the included music app in Windows Phone. So this app is just a good overall utility to have if you enjoy listening or viewing podcasts on a regular basis on your win phone device. Podcasts works on 3G systems and with WiFi also to enable you to search, download and stream or save your favorite content from around the web.
DotDot
DotDot gives you the exclusive Windows Phone access to App.net, an up-and-coming social network. It’s not quite like any of those other run of the mill social networks either. App.net is so good that they are able to command a monthly fee for the privilege of being a member. Let Facebook try that! DotDot supports pic transfers with Skydrive or with Imgur file storage services. Haven’t you often wished that you could just scroll past some of those longwinded profiles? One of the many useful features that DotDot provides is unlimited scrolling on profiles. Saved!
Blueprints
Blueprints is the perfect way to stay in touch with your favorite blogs over at Tumblr while on the fly with your Windows Phone Mobile device. It interfaces with your Twitter account and allows you to pin blogs right to your start screen. Blueprints includes support for a variety of audio and video formats. So you can be assured that you won’t miss any important presentations or songs. For music it works with the Zune Marketplace. Blueprints is a versatile app for bloggers and their readers to help them stay afloat in the blogosphere.
Audible – AudioBooks
Audible – Audiobooks brings the world of literature to your Windows Phone mobile device. From the classics to the latest novels, this mobile version of the site offers thousands upon thousands of titles to choose from. Replace that shoebox full of books on tape with its contemporary digital counterpart. The app connects up with social media sites to let all of your online friends know your erudite listening habits. Instead of listening to Rumors for the umpteenth time you can actually learn new thoughts and ideas right from the comfort of your smart phone.
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