iOS App of the Day: AroundMe
Apps these days often get caught up in overwhelming graphics and confusing user interfaces, which distract from the app’s core features. Sometimes you just need to get in, find what you need, and get out. This can be especially frustrating when trying to find a specific business location while you’re on the go. That’s why I love the AroundMe app for iOS. This app offers a straightforward and user intuitive interface taking the stress out of finding what you need when you need it the most.
Pros:
- Quick app download
- No account necessary
- Easy to use UI
- App quickly identifies your position and allows you to choose the nearest Bank, Bar, Gas Station, Hospital, Hotel, Movie Theatre, Restaurant, Supermarket, Theatre and Taxi
- Displays a complete list of all the businesses in the category you’ve selected
- Displays how far away you are from that business with a map view and option for directions
- View user reviews and tips
- View listing photos
- Accurate and updated listing information
- No lag time
Cons:
- App prompts you to upgrade to paid version frequently
- Misses some locations
- User reviews are limited to FourSquare Tips
How it works:
- Download the app
- Turn on your location settings to “ON”
- Check that app has your correct location (displayed at the bottom of the app’s dashboard)
- Scroll down to select a correct category
- Categories include Apple Retail Stores, Banks/ATM, Bars, Coffee Shops, Favorites, Gas Stations, Hospitals, Hotels, Movie Theaters, Movies, Nearby, Parking, Pharmacies, Pubs, Restaurants, Supermarkets, Taxis, Theaters, Weather,
- Scroll down to select a business listing
- Tap on business listing to view map, route directions, add to favorites, share, see a menu, visit business website call, see FourSquare Tips and photos
Conclusion:
Sure there are plenty of location-based apps out there aimed at helping you find business locations, but AroundMe is built to quickly provide you with accurate information without the fuss of a complicated UI. The app’s response time is lightening fast and for the most part all of the listings I have used have been up to date and accurate. I really appreciate that the business categories are simple and well-organized, which takes the stress away from spending too much time in the app instead of finding what you need. If you travel frequently, or just find yourself in a new city and need help getting around, the AroundMe app for iOS is a worthy app that deserves a permanent home on your iPhone.
AroundMe is available for free in the iTunes Store. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.Requires iOS 4.2 or later. iTunes Link
This is part of our iOS App of the Day series. We take our favorite app for iOS for each day and post it here for you to check out. Feel free to check out all of our App of the Day posts here.
