[Our Apps] CGolia: “Cream of the Crop”

Good evening fellow “Androidians!”

It appears that the time has come to share my “must have” apps for a new device, and I do so gladly. We have already had some good ones shared by my fellow authors, so I will make every attempt not to duplicate, but no promises.  I will be going about this a little differently than those that preceded me.  The list I will be sharing will be with the understanding that I have already installed the Google apps suite (e.g. Gmail, Google +, You Tube, etc.). In my opinion, every Android device should have most if not all of those installed, so I excluded them from my favorites list.  So enough already, let’s get on with it.

Titanium Backup

First and foremost is Titanium Backup.  It’s well-known to all rooted users and a must have. It does just about everything you can ask from a utility app, from freezing/removing bloatware, to batch app backup and restores, to  syncing  to your Dropbox, Box, or Drive accounts.  Restoring apps is a breeze after flashing a new ROM or purchasing a new device.  The list of features is more than I can cover in this short synopsis, so head over to the Play store and check it out for yourself.

ROM Manager

ROM Manager (Premium) is my next app of choice. Another must have for any rooted user.  App functions include options to create and/or restore ROM backups, install and flash new ROMs from SD card or over the air, boot into recovery option, and ROM update notifications.  This is one of my favorites and I have been loyal to it since its inception.  Have a look for yourself.

ES File Explorer

If you are looking for a solid file management app, then look no further.  ES File Explorer is as good as it gets.   ES File Explorer is a free, featured all-in-one file & application manager, cloud storage (Dropbox, Drive, and Skydrive) , and ftp client all in one app. It allows users anywhere in the world to manage their resources for free and makes it easy to manage, and stay connected using your 3G or WiFi.  There are a ton of file management options available, but do yourself a favor and give ES File Explorer a look.

Netflix

This is a no brainer, simply because my kid uses this app as much as I do.  If I didn’t include this one I would be remiss.  I already use Netflix on both my TVs and PS3, so it only makes sense to make sure I have it when I leave the house as well.  There’s not much to “sell” here, other than if you don’t have it get it. It’s great for both adults and your phone stealing kids.

Nova Launcher

Whether running stock (not often) or a new ROM, I always look for a home replacement option. Lately, Nova Launcher has filled that role.  Nova offers the user a scrollable dock (a feature I love), a customizable app draw, different scroll effects, choice of folder options/styles, and much more.  I have used both Nova and Apex in the past, but settled on Nova as it seemed smoother with less redraw.  Apex has made improvements over the last several months, so I don’t think you can lose with either, but for me it remains Nova.  Nova launcher is free, but a premium version exists that will unlock extra features, such as drawer groups, gestures, and the ability to hide apps.  To date, I still use the free version and haven’t seen a need to upgrade.

Taptu

Taptu is my news source of choice. It is a social news feed reader that puts all your interests into one app. In addition, Taptu lets you add Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the content from your favorite web sites and blogs (via RSS or Twitter) and transforms them into visual streams.   I absolutely love the user interface and the ease of adding and merging streams. Taptu has recently launched a website that has similar functionality, however users also have the option of creating an account and syncing their streams between their PC and Android devices. So what are you waiting for, go get it!

TweetCaster

As far as the social apps are concerned, my app of choice outside of Google + is TweetCaster. The UI is clean and colorful and the app itself boasts a bunch of options lacking in the original Twitter app (e.g. Search Party, Smart Lists & Filters, Zip It, Speak Tweets, and many more).  If you are a Twitter addict, make sure you give TweetCaster a try.  I think you will enjoy the experience and not look back.  The app is offered by ‘One Louder’ who are also the creators of FriendCaster (a better Facebook alternative).  Have fun with this one and let me know if you agree.

Well, that does it folks.  There is my “Cream of the Crop” apps for a new device.  So what do you think?  Have you used some of these in the past, have I coerced you into giving one a try?  Either way, give me a shout and let me know your thoughts.  I ‘d love to hear from you.

Sleep tight!