Workflow - App Review

We all do repetitive tasks... we (nearly) all waste an enormous amount of time on them.

Workflow is described as your personal automation tool... it could save you countless hours.

Now for the ACIDS test:

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The developer states (and I can confirm) that 'Workflow includes over 100 actions, including those for Contacts, Calendar, Maps, Music, Photos, Camera, Reminders, Safari, AirDrop, Twitter, Facebook, Dropbox, Evernote, and iCloud Documents, to name a few'. Combine theses with actions and rules, and you have access to almost unlimited efficiency.

The simplest way to explain the power and ease of use of Workflow is to create a task from scratch (even if it is one that already exists).

We are going to add an icon to the home screen that will call a particular person.

As in all good (or indeed not so good) cookery programs, we'll use one that I baked earlier (well, actually it is available as a free download).

At the top of the screen, tap on Gallery and then pick Speed Dial, then tap on 'Get Workflow'. The process will have been added to your Workflow (when you create one from scratch, you move the actions from the left of the screen onto your instruction zone). Add the number that you want to use and then tap the settings wheel at the top right of the screen. This will allow you to add an icon and colour, and then tap on 'Add to Home Screen'. This will guide you through the last simple steps. Et voilà ... you can tap the icon and dial the person without opening the phone App, or picking the contact.

When you create your own Workflows from scratch, you can share them with the community.

Cost
The App costs $3.

Indispensability
There are two wasteful parts to repetitive tasks: the amount of time you spend doing the same thing time and time again, and the enormous amount of time one wastes in figuring out how to do something one has already done in the past. This App minimises both those drains on your precious time.

Dependability
You need to be logical in setting up your workflows... which is hardly surprising.

Security
You obviously need to grant access to any other Apps or services that you intend to use in conjunction with the App.

ACIDS Test Rating:

Unlimited efficiency; automation for the masses.

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get Workflow here and support for the App here.

Often Type - App Review

Do you repeatedly type the same thing?

This could reduce the tedium.

Now for the ACIDS test:

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It's great to see an App that starts you off by getting straight to the subject matter.

Hit the + to add your first key.

There are a number of icons that cover: e-mail, contacts, address, telephone, message, signature, company, and security. Pick any of these to continue. Enter your often used information and you're almost set.

All that remains is to add the Often Type keyboard which is done by going to Settings /General/Keyboard/Keyboards/Add New Keyboard. Then choose Often Type and use Allow Full Access.

You're done. In any App, when using the keyboard just hit the globe and get your shortcuts.

Cost
The cost is a nominal $1.

Indispensability
You are limited to 8 shortcuts and although the name is customisable, the icon is not; in some ways this is a benefit, in others a restriction.

Dependability
Often Type is an iPhone App which works in 1x and 2x modes on an iPad. It is extremely simple to use and reliable.

Security
To check on the privacy used by the developer, check out here.

ACIDS Test Rating:

Saves you time

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get Often Type here and support for the App here.

AirPlay Intercom - App Review

Do you need to broadcast (your voice) from your iOS device?

If you do, this is an App for you.

Now for the ACIDS test:

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There is a very simple and clear screen.

It looks somewhat like a handheld microphone, with an easily adjustable level control at the top of the screen.

There is a large AirPlay button (an idea that other developers could well learn from) where you can select which device you want to broadcast to (for example Apple TV or a sound system).

All you then need to do is press and hold the Talk and use your device as a microphone; it will be broadcast to the device you chose through AirPlay.

Cost
The App costs $4.

Indispensability
If you can think of a use for the App then, it may well become indispensable.

Dependability
The App works as expected although, obviously, your 'speaker' needs to be turned on.

Security
Make sure you don't allow a mischievous person access to this App, unbeknown to you... it could prove embarrassing.

ACIDS Test Rating:

Find a use and use it.

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get AirPlay Intercom here and support for the App here.

Satellite Safari - App Review

Are you interested in knowing about all those satellites orbiting our planet (assuming you are on earth reading this)?

That is exactly what this App offers.

Now for the ACIDS test:

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The first thing that is likely to amaze you is the number of satellites up there; more than you could shake a stick at.

The App has Sky, Orbit, Satellite, Ground, Search, Info, Center, Settings, Time, Night, and Help (essential for an App as comprehensive as this one).

The sophistication and sheer volume of information in this App means that for this overview, it is best to simply go to search and pick a satellite (these a neatly arranged into sections). This will then give you masses of information on your given choice; press center and you now see where the orbit is. Just play with it and be truly amazed.

Cost
The App cost $3. On the basis of the sheer amount of detailed information, let alone the graphics, this makes the App excellent value.

Indispensability
If you're a satellite buff, you probably already have the App; if not, this could well get you hooked.

Dependability
I honestly cannot attest to the information actually being correct but, people much more knowledgeable than I are confident of the accuracy.

Security
Apart from needing your current location (optional), no issues.

ACIDS Test Rating:

Truly amazing information.

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get Satellite Safari here and support for the App here.

Calendoodle - App Review

This could be the calendar App for those who do not want to type.

Now for the ACIDS test:

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There's a calendar that fits the whole screen (basically a good month at a time).

Touch any date and a clean page opens. You have the choice of 8 colours, and 4 pen thicknesses, as well as an eraser.

Use your finger or touch screen pen to write, draw, doodle, whatever you want, and press Back when you have finished. You will now be back to the monthly view with a thumbnail of the information you just entered.

Cost
The App costs a modest $2.

Indispensability
A calendar App (even if it's the one delivered with iOS) is an absolute 'must have'. This App makes data entry very simple and fun.

Dependability
This is one of those simple Apps that does exactly what one would expect.

Security
This is a standalone App, which is great for security but, the inability to share your calendar across devices is a drawback (if you are using more than one device).

ACIDS Test Rating:

More like a real diary than any other calendar App.

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get Calendoodle here and support for the App here.