I spend most of my day on my iPhone, and I have screen time reports to prove it. You ask what do I do during all these hours? I’m trying out new apps, of course.
Some of the apps I use once and forget. Others become an essential part of my day, whether they are working, recovering, or controlling my smart home. I don’t know if I can describe TikTok as an “essential”, but scrolling through my For You page is always fun and educational at times.
My favorite iPhone apps tend to change with the seasons, although there are some that I know I can’t live without. You may be familiar with some of what I have mentioned below; If not, consider this as my official recommendation to check it out. (Maybe on your new iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro Max?) Just note that many of them are hardware bundled – you’ll see what I mean.
1. headspace
Headspace is one of the newer apps on my iPhone, although it quickly became an important part of my day. Finding time to be alert hasn’t been easy for me, yet the busier I am, the more attention I need to take care of my mental health. As one of the best relaxation and best sleep apps, Headspace makes meditation accessible and painless. I found it very welcoming for those with no prior experience in meditation.
When I signed up for Headspace, I set certain goals and since then we’ve been provided with guided meditation sessions, as well as short daily sessions. I feel like my profile is really dedicated to my progression. Although there are free meditation apps, Headspace requires a membership ($69.99/year) to use all the features. Fortunately, there is a trial period to see how you like it first.
Download Headspace: iOS (Opens in a new tab)And the Android (Opens in a new tab)
2. Apple Fitness Plus
My favorite workout app right now is Apple Fitness Plus, which is built into the Fitness app on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. I’ve used Apple’s $9.99 per month (or $79.99 per year) fitness platform in and out since its launch in 2020, but I’ve found myself using it now more than ever. The class catalog has grown to include Rowing, Pilates, and Voice exercises, as well as exercise sets with custom intent.
I’m using my Apple Watch Series 8 to lock up my Apple Watch’s Fitness Plus loops, but the service was recently opened to allow those without an Apple Watch to sweat. This is great if I want to do yoga quickly while charging my Apple Watch.
Fitness Download: iOS (Opens in a new tab)
3. Ora
Speaking of wearables, my favorite iPhone wellness app is Oura. The Oura app is paired with the Oura Ring Generation 3, a smart ring that tracks my sleep, activity and recovery. The Oura Ring’s skin temperature sensor, SpO2 reader, and heart rate monitor are used to inform a wide range of health metrics.
Oura app gives me nudges to get moving and get ready for bed, too. And unlike a traditional fitness tracker, the Oura Ring is discreet, but still allows me to stay in tune with my body when I’m not wearing a smartwatch or activity band. Oura Ring costs $299 while the full-featured app trial costs $5.99 per month.
Download Oura: iOS (Opens in a new tab)And the Android (Opens in a new tab)
4. Tik Tok
Perhaps the number one reason for my screen time is TikTok. The hugely addictive social media app has become popular during the pandemic, but I’ve remained a dedicated user. From cute animal videos and DIY projects to inspiration recipes and travel hacks, TikTok has managed to keep me entertained and sometimes teach me something new.
That’s when I mention that I record and upload videos to TikTok on a daily basis. You can find me breaking down the latest tech announcements on Tom’s Guide TikTok account, and digging deeper into products like the Apple Watch on my profile.
Download TikTok: iOS (Opens in a new tab)And the Android (Opens in a new tab)
5. Amazon Alexa
When I’m not testing apps, I’m testing the best smart home devices. The way I keep all these connected products organized is by pairing them with Amazon’s Alexa smart home platform. The Alexa app allows me to create routines for my devices, control individual devices, and even use the best Alexa skills right from my iPhone.
The Alexa app is also useful for managing multiple residences, allowing me to monitor my Alexa Smart Thermostat and all other Alexa-compatible devices in my home.
Download Amazon Alexa: iOS (Opens in a new tab)And the Android (Opens in a new tab)
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