4 Free Google apps you need on your device

Posted on Wednesday July 10, 2019

Did you know that Google offers more than just Gmail, Maps, and YouTube? A quick browse through Google Play will introduce you to a host of apps that can make your life easier. Window shopping at the Google store, however, means an inundation of productivity-destroying entertainment apps, and you probably have no time to sift through them all. But we do, so make room on your device for these four extremely useful Google tools.

Chrome Remote Desktop This cross-platform app gives users a highly reliable level of support. If you need remote assistance, you can grant someone temporary access to your desktop through this app, and revoke it once the issue has been resolved. The app also lets you access your own desktop from any of your mobile devices (smartphone, tablet, Chromebook) so you can work on your files or use programs. Simply install the Google Chrome extension, assign a pin for remote access, and start sharing.

Trusted Contacts It's a dangerous world out there, which is why location-sharing apps such as Trusted Contacts are heaven-sent. With Trusted Contacts, you can request location information from, or share yours with, a contact who's also using the app. Location sharing has long been part of most apps with a GPS functionality, but what sets Trusted Contacts apart is its ability to send a person's location even when offline. In instances when a person's location is requested and there's no answer within five minutes, the app automatically sends the contact's last known location.

Google Handwriting Input Typing on smartphones isn't easy for everyone, and that's why enhancements such as Swype are a welcome feature to touchscreen keyboards. Google Handwriting Input works like Swype, but is more flexible and doesn't require precise strokes. You can handwrite your IMs and text messages, perform searches, and even create emojis using your finger or a stylus. This app may not seem like much, but it can be quite useful for those who communicate in languages with special characters.

Google Trips Organizing business or leisurely travel is taxing and having to use multiple apps just adds to the chaos. Google Trips reduces the hassle by putting all data - such as itinerary, hotel location, available transportation, and other trip-related information - into one app and letting you access it online or offline. It also provides recommendations on popular attractions, day trips, and things to do based on the itineraries and other travel-related information you've stored in your Gmail.

The answer to some of your business's most pressing needs may be hidden in plain sight in the App Store. We're constantly on the lookout for process-enhancing apps and tools, so we know which solutions are best for you. Contact us today for advice.