May brought several new apps to the Android Market, with many brands noting the continued growth of Google’s mobile platform. Given the worsening image of Apple due to its sometimes-touchy relationship with developers, the steady gains of Android continue to lure independent and large-brand developers.
Some heavy-hitters this week were Twitter and Mint, as well as Dropbox Anywhere. With major brands moving into the Android Market, many apps that offered third-party access to their services are getting a new type of competition.
Utilities
Mint’s long-awaited Android app finally made its debut this week, more than a year after releasing its iPhone app. The personal finance app gives mobile access to bank, credit card and investment accounts. Free, Mint comes with multiple home screen widgets, as well as transaction search from anywhere on your phone, making good of Android-specific functions.
Dropbox Anywhere had a widespread launch this week, with apps on multiple smart phones and an API as well. Sync files between your computer and mobile phone, with sharing options, search, and even document-viewing optimization. Considering Google’s acquisition of similar service BumpTap, the time is ripe for Dropbox to venture further into mobile waters.
Still an Android exclusive, Google Goggles has updated its photo-recognition and search app to support translations. Take a photo of a piece of text, and the free app will call on the help of Google Translate to convert the text for you. An added perk to this app is that it’s clear that Google is applying its known “leverage” tactics to its mobile apps as well.
State Farm has followed Progressive’s lead with a new Android app, incorporating some useful features for customers. Free, Pocket Agent moves beyond the basics to help you with more than just claims. You can search for a nearby repair center, hotel or gas station, rent a car and access a mobile version of your insurance card.
Social and entertainment
Twitter continues its mobile takeover with an official Android app, though it’s limited support to Android OS version 2.1 or higher. With the free app, you can do all the basics, with quick links to DMs, @mentions and your profile. Share media directly through the app and access lists. A home screen widget option keeps the tweets coming, without even opening the app.
Bringing the PC experience even closer to Android phones, a Skyfire update to its recently launched app adds Flash support to its mobile browser. Free, Skyfire’s Flash workaround makes for an improved mobile Web experience, particularly for multimedia Web pages that haven’t been optimized for phones.
World War has broadened its horizons with an Android version of its popular iPhone game. The MMORPG has quickly become a top game in the Android Market, widening the gaming options for Android users. Free, the game takes you through a combative journey during a futuristic nuclear war, where you pick your sides, as well as your enemies.
