AppDate: Android apps come to BlackBerry

In this AppDate, SEAN BACHER highlights the Amazon AppStore service for BlackBerry, Adobe Photoshop Express for Windows Phone, the Revamped FNB Banking app and Instructables.

Amazon AppStore for BlackBerry

Many BlackBerry users have felt left behind when it comes to the range of apps they can use on their devices. However, that is all about to change with the Amazon AppStore service for BlackBerry. The service will be available on all phones running the BlackBerry 10.3 operating system, meaning most users will have to wait until the updated OS becomes available later this year. The service is already available on the recently announced BlackBerry Z3. The Amazon AppStore will give users the ability to download most of the apps developed for Android like Netflix, Pinterest, Candy Crush Saga and Minecraft.

Platform: BlackBerry devices running the 10.3 operating system.

Expect to pay: Free to use.

Stockists: The Amazon AppStore will come pre-installed on the OS 10.3 update.

Adobe Photoshop Express for Windows Phone

One of the most comprehensive photo editing applications is now available for Windows Phone devices. The app allows users to instantly make photo edits like removing red-eye, cropping or rotating images. The app also has built-in filters that sharpen an increase the brightness or contrast of an image. Users can make more detailed edits like removing unwanted specs or smudges from their images and are able to share them via Facebook and Twitter directly from the app.

Platform: Windows Phone 8 and above.

Expect to pay: A free download, but with in-app purchases.

Stockists: www.windowsphone.com

Revamped FNB Banking app

South Africa’s first baking app, the FNB Banking app, has recently undergone a facelift and includes new features. The facelift makes the app easier to use with a better menu structure and easier to navigate user interface. New features include the ability to accept inward SWIFT payments from abroad and users can now open cheque accounts, investment accounts and credit cards, all from the app. The app also offers users pre-approved loans, accounts and investment the minute they log into the app, without having to perform any searches.

Platform: iOS, Android, Windows Phone with a new version for BlackBerry arriving shortly.

Expect to pay: A free download.

Stockists: Visit the store linked to your device.

Instructables

Ever wanted to know how to make your own spice rack? Perhaps you are keen on creating a Lego gyroscope or just want to know how to preserve an animal’s skull for mounting on the wall. All of these DIY projects and thousands more are available in the Instructables app. Admittedly, most of them are utterly useless, but the app allows you to subscribe to other user’s channels who have similar interests – for example woodworking. You are then able to browse various woodworking projects from users around the world. Once signed up, you can upload your own projects, including instructions, images and YouTube videos.

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