As the world awaits the release of the state-of-the-art Parrot AR.Drone iPhone app that was showcased at the Computer Electronics Show, you should find some time this weekend to pilot these new applications.
1. Facebook
The social networking mainstay released a new update this week that includes Push Notification support. With the always free Facebook 3.1, you can now get pinged via a pop up message or sound every time a contact interacts with your Facebook account. Another related app that could put a smile on your face is the $1.99 Emoti for Facebook. The app includes 70 faces and other emoticons that you can share with friends.
2. iSamJackson
The path of the righteous iPhone fan may be found with this $2.99 R-rated application, which contains more than 150 original quotations recorded by the actor Samuel L. Jackson. There is also a sanitized version of the iPhone app offered at the same price. Both apps are cool and the gang.
3. SamForGov
Another Sam who recently released an iPhone app is Kansas senator and one-time presidential aspirant Sam Brownback. The SamForGov iPhone app is part of Brownback’s campaign to win the statehouse and includes biographical and legislative information about the candidate. The free app also showcases campaign events to supporters and invites communication with Brownback via Facebook, Twitter and email. Expect more high-profile candidates to come out with their own apps as we cruise through this election year.
4. Rhythm Racer
A cross between Guitar Hero and F-Zero, this high-adrenaline 3D racing game features original music by Parry Gripp of Nerf Header and social leaderboards to race against friends around the globe. The free app also invites you to purchase more music tracks for future races.
5. Effin Genius
First their was the iTunes Genius. Now there is the $1.99 Effin Genius iPhone app. Part Pandora, part Slacker with a good mix of iTunes thrown in, Effin Genius makes musical selections for you based on songs already compiled in your individual playlists. Not always perfect and far from a game-changer, Effin Genius is still worth a look and listen for those in search of the perfect playlist.
6. EveryTrail 3
Talk about an app that is off the beaten path. This free application, funded by the California-based Band of Angels investment group, allows you to create interactive maps for hiking, skiing, sailing and other adventures. Share your travels on Facebook and Twitter, and tap into 200,000 trips submitted by other users to EveryTrail.com.
7. PeakLocation
Just in time for the peak of ski season, this $7.99 application surveys more than 1,100 resorts in 44 countries throughout the globe. The app includes interactive maps and photos, as well as important details like number of lists and closest airports to the mountain. Like traveling in high altitudes? Brag about higher elevation exploits to friends, and show proof with PeakLocation.
8. Pocket Heat
A bit of a gimmick, but for 99 cents probably worth the laugh and gee whiz moment. Pocket Heat is designed to actually heat up your iPhone and iPod touch in order to warm your hands while out in the elements. Warning, this app will consume battery power very quickly and should be kept away from Gilbert Arenas.
9. Chuck Me Out
The latest app to be based on a network television show, the free Chuck Me out app is designed for fans of the NBC show Chuck. The app invites you to super-impose images of yourself within Chuck storylines and then send around to friends via Facebook and Twitter.
10. Trenches
It’s not all quiet on the western front with this $1.99 game that asks you to lead a World War I platoon across 1914 Europe. A nicely-designed game with strong replay value, Trenches is poised to become one of the first major hits of 2010.
