AppDate: Build an app without coding

In this week’s round-up of the latest apps, SEAN BACHER highlights AppMachine, WorldCard Link pro, an update for Silent Foto on BlackBerry, the TransUnion Car Value app and the Emergency Numbers SA App.

AppMachine

AppMachine is a web-based tool that allows users to build native iOS and Android apps for free. The tool doesn’t require any coding or programming on the user’s behalf, but instead uses a graphical user interface, allowing the developer to start off from a variety of templates. Once a template is selected, additional features and functions can be included into the app. To get started, register with a Facebook or Twitter account or via e-mail and start building.

Platform: Android and iOS.

Stockists: Visit www.appmachine.com

Expect to pay: Free registration, free to build, but payment is needed once the app gets published.

WorldCard Link pro

WorldCard Link pro is a contact management solution for a computer and iPhone. The package includes a cradle that docks with an iPhone and PC software that scans most business cards when they are slid in behind the phone. Once the card has been scanned, the contact details are automatically stored to the iPhone’s Contacts and are then synchronised with Outlook, Google and most other cloud-based e-mail clients. The software not only scans English cards, but is able to detect up to 21 other languages.

Platform: The software will only run on a PC and it only scans to iPhone 4 and 5 handsets.

Stockists: Visit www.worldcard.penpowerinc.com

Expect to pay: R750 for the cradle and software.

Silent Foto update

Since we last featured Silent Foto, S4BB Limited has released an update. The new version of Silent Foto has had a few minor bugs fixed and now lets users switch between the rear and front camera.

Platforms: BlackBerry OS 6, 7 and 10.

Stockists: BlackBerry World.

Expect to pay: Downloading the app is free and in-app purchases are available.

TransUnion Car Value app

The TransUnion Car Value app allows users to get up-to-date values on how much they would get when trading in or selling their vehicle, and how much they should offer when buying a new or second-hand car. The app also aids users when buying second-hand cars in that it shows if the car has been in any serious accidents, has had the odometer turned back or if the car has been reported stolen.

Platforms: Windows Phone 8, iOS, Android and Blackberry.

Stockists: Visit the store linked to your device

Expect to pay: A free download, but valuation reports cost R10 and verification reports start at R140.

Emergency Numbers SA App

The Emergency Numbers App gives users quick access to most emergency numbers in South Africa, including the police, fire department, ambulance, doctors and dentists in a specific area. There are over 500 South African towns and cities pre-programmed into the app. One-touch dialling is offered, meaning no fumbling around for numbers when time crucial. The app also offers the option of adding up to four personal numbers.

Platforms: Android and BlackBerry.

Stockists: Visit the store linked to your device.

Expect to pay: A free download with no adverts.

* Follow Sean on Twitter on @SeanBacher