Top 5 Smartphone AppsSure, there is an app for everything these days but is there an app that finds out intuitively what apps you will like or need? I am convinced that someone, somewhere is working on that but meanwhile I thought I’d share my list of top 5 that I found either cool, fun or useful. I have not added my favorites like Write-which de-clutters my writing experience, Spotify which I recently started using, and, well, Grisly Manor (Google it if you are curious). The list here is a general interest list.

Evernote: iPhone, Android, free

This is a cool app for note taking and archiving. You can store voice notes, typed notes and also store clippings of webpages. The free online service has monthly usage limitations (currently 60 MB/month). A great way to stay organized.

Jamie Oliver’s twenty minute meals: iPhone, Android, $7.70

Sometimes, lunches and dinners are just jobs that should get done. If you like your meals homemade, then this is a good app to invest in. The star of ABC’s Food Revolution has some pretty good suggestions. This app is a bit pricey but recipes are quick and easy and pictures are tempting. He also offers some cool tips on techniques (knife skills, perfect pasta). There is also handy shopping list feature.

Pain free back: iPhone, $4.99

Approximately 80% of Americans will be affected by back pain at some point. According to the creator Neil Chasan, noted physical therapist and founder of Smart Health Software, most of back pain issues can be addressed by proper diagnosis and simple exercises. Once you download the app, you answer a series of questions about the intensity of pain and location. There are also a few movement tests to assess mobility. You then have a customized plan for exercises to relieve the pain. The app keeps your safety in mind and will ask you to stop if the symptoms seem severe.

I included this app simply because it is a glimpse of possibilities. In recent weeks, I had a chance to meet with several budding entrepreneurs who are doing great work in healthcare in mobile space. I am looking forward to covering this space in the forthcoming posts.

Sullivan’s list: iPhone, Price $2.99

The story behind Sullivan’s list is that of a park ranger who suffered through a series of unfortunate events and decided to have a list of all the places he wanted to see and things he wanted to do. This app is a travel dream realized on iPhone. It is part travel guide part online community. The descriptions are unbiased and pictures, superb. The creators have covered the globe including the less traveled areas. There is also an online component which will let you create lists, check on events and connect with locals. Even if you are not planning on packing right away, this app will help in keeping dreams alive.

News Republic: iPhone, Android, free

For newshounds like me, News Republic is a go-to app in the morning. I organize news of my interest and get notified for breaking news. It is a great way to get all the news in one place.