AppDate: DIY guide in your pocket

In his latest AppDate, SEAN BACHER highlights iFixit, Opera Coast for iPhone, Voxeet 2.0 and Runtastic with streaming music.

iFixit

Need to replace a notebook battery? Or find out how to change your car’s engine oil? No problem, with the iFixit app. The app includes step-by-step instructions and pictures on how to perform most DIY tasks around the house and even includes some instructions on fixing things that should be sent to qualified technicians. The app is broken down into categories like computers, cellphones and cars, with major brands listed under each category. Once a user has found the instructions on the device that needs fixing, it is a matter of following the disassembly and assembly instruction. The app also offers tear-down manuals should a user want to completely strip a device.

Platform: iOS, Android and a browser version for computers.

Stockists: Visit ifixit.com

Expect to pay: A free download.

Opera Coast for iPhone

The recently launched Opera Coast Internet browser for the iPad has now been redesigned specifically for iPhone users. The browser takes full advantage of the touch screen by letting users navigate the Internet through gestures. The menu button allows for more advanced tasks like saving an image or sharing a URL on FaceBook or Twitter. The browser uses Opera’s data compression algorithm, which not only makes download times a lot faster, but uses less data than most other mobile browsers.

Platform: iPhones running iOS 6 and later.

Stockists: Visit www.operacoast.com

Expect to pay: A free download.

Voxeet 2.0 video conferencing

Voxeet 2.0 video conferencing software differentiates itself from other apps in allowing users to connect from a public switched network – i.e. using the old dial-up method. Users connecting to a Voxeet video conference don’t have to be using the same video conferencing app either, which is great where companies have strict policies on what programs can be installed on computers and mobile devices. The app offers 3DHD wideband audio, which minimizes call fatigue and eliminates conference callers from having to repeat themselves due to bits of audio being interrupted.

Platform: iOS, Android, Windows Phone, PC and Mac.

Stockists: Visit www.voxeet.com

Expect to pay: A free download.

Runtastic now with streaming music

The Runtastic app suite offers a range off apps that track and manage a user’s fitness data. It is also designed to keep users fit and healthy. The most recent Runtastic app update allows users to gym, run and walk while listening to the newest music. This is thanks to a new partnership with Universal Music, which allows Runtastic users to stream music while working out – at no cost.

Platform: iOS, Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry OS 10 or above.

Stockists: Visit www.runtastic.com

Expect to pay: A free download.

* Sean Bacher is editor of Gadget.co.za. Follow him on Twitter on @SeanBacher