If you’ve already managed to get your hands on a Samsung Galaxy S5 – congratulations, you’re the proud owner of one of the finest Android devices available right now. But now you have your top of the range phone, just what should you do with it? Here is our list of ten apps you just shouldn’t be without.
BBC iPlayer
The BBC has really embraced the mobile space, and recently redesigned its iPlayer app in order to better accommodate viewers using mobile and tablet devices. Offering a clear and vibrant design and interface, the app is nicely responsive, letting you search through the day’s schedules in order to find any programs you might have missed, which are now available to watch or download for up to 30 days after airing.
Viber
At the end of the day, the S5 is still primarily a phone, and hopefully you will at some point make some calls or send some text messages on it. But rather than impose on your network’s limits, Viber allows you to make free HD calls as well as send photos, videos and voice messages. You can set up group chats with up to 100 participants, meaning sharing is quick and easy.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Although many of us use our mobile devices for working when on the go, this is often limited to email services. Chrome Remote Desktop however, allows much more – letting you securely access your computer from your phone. Your desktop view is then displayed on screen, meaning you can access documents, photos and everything else from your home PC when on the move.
AVG AntiVirus
You’ll also need proper protection when using your device, and luckily, antivirus experts AVG have developed a tweaked version of their popular software especially for mobile. The free service offers real-time app and download scanning, lost device tracking using Google Maps, and Safe Web Surfing, which will redirect you to a ‘Safe Page’ if an insecure website is accessed.
SwiftKey
If you’re new to the Galaxy family of devices, you might be taken aback by the sheer size of the screen. At 5.1inch across, typing might be a challenge, especially if you have smaller hands – which is where SwiftKey comes in. Aiming to make touchscreen typing a smarter experience, SwiftKey learns from your habits to predict upcoming words, along with an extremely accurate autocorrect function which should mean the end of embarrassingly misconstrued texts.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
That 5.1inch HD screen is also useful for play as well as work, however, and what better way to do it than with this mobile version of Rockstar’s 80s-themed classic. Featuring updated graphics and intuitive controls, causing mayhem with your phone has never been so fun.
TuneIn Radio
Probably one of the most comprehensive radio apps available, TuneIn offers over 100,000 real radio stations and more than four million podcasts from all over the world, all for free. Recently updated with a whole new look, the app also now provides the option to now follow specific shows and podcasts, meaning you’ll never miss an episode of your favourites again.
Tinder
A new phone should look to improve your quality of life, and this can also apply to your personal life. One in three couples now meet online, if you believe certain marketing slogans, and Tinder has taken the world by storm. Whatever your feelings on it, however, it is certainly making the world a much closer place.
Sky Sports News
One for all sports fans – Sky Sports’ mobile app is a comprehensive source for all areas of sports news. Featuring rolling news, interviews, and highlights (subject to subscription), the app covers a wide variety of sports, meaning you should never be behind on the latest headlines.
Football Manager 2014
Another game, but a choice that you will never regret. Football Manager is the most comprehensive football simulation around, and can easily eat up hours of your life if you aren’t careful. But its also a perfect companion for the S5, whose powerful processor and large screen give you a more intuitive experience than ever before.
