Image by jetalone via FlickrSince opening my own law offices a couple of years ago, the great equalizer has been technology. Each year my list of Resolutions is loaded with tech-centric proposed changes. In 2010, I've converted to an iPad for hearings, and now have an Android phone to replace the iPhone. For those who read this blog, you know that I am a fan of free tech. So, here is my list of tech apps for droid and the iPad I am especially happy to use for fun and for work:
1.Avast: Avast is a free anti-virus program for computer users to protect their systems for adware, spyware and viruses floating around. Find it here: avast
2.Pandora: I'm an (aging/creaky) athlete, and I run. A lot. This is the best thing since the iPod. A company that almost went under until the iPhone arrived (and the app for it), that is now doing well. http://www.pandora.com/
3.Dropbox: Dropbox is a Web-based file hosting service operated by Dropbox, Inc. which uses cloud computing to enable users to store and share files and folders. http://www.dropbox.com/
4.isynchr: I have more than 10,000 songs in itunes, but when I bought my android HTC phone, figured that 'd have to carry two devices. Wrong. Isyncr is an add that syncs the Android phone with iTunes. The lite version is free, the full on is about two bucks.
5.Open Office: If you are starting your own office, or have simply had enough of the big boys' word/spreadsheet suites, this is for you. A multiplatform and multilingual office suite and an open-source project. Compatible with all other major office suites, free to download, and use.
6.Phones for the iPad: Skype, Line2, Whistlestop. Whistle brings free continental US calling to iPad over WiFi or 3G. Whistle works out of the box with the 4th Gen iPod Touch. Whistle provides free inbound calling to your Whistle number, notifying you of calls through Push notifications.
7.Simplenote: Simplenotehelps me keep notes, lists, ideas and more. The notes automatically synchronize with a computer and devices. It's extremely easy to use. Free. http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/simplenote/id289429962?mt=8
8.Firefox: I'm thankful that Windows Explorer is not a part of my work or personal websurfing life. Free. If you don't know how to find and use this, you'd better.
9.Launchy: Launchy is a free open source application launcher for Windows and (as of version 2.1.1) Linux. It indexes shortcuts in the start menu, and files in specific folders w/o opening the start menu. http://www.launchy.net/
10.Goodreader: A superb PDF reader, it was one of the first file management apps for the iPad, and connects to a huge range of different servers and devices. From their site: Quick summary: super-robust PDF reader with advanced reading, annotating, markup and highlighting capabilities, excellent file manager, TXT file reader and editor, audio/video player, Safari-like viewer for MS Office and iWorks files. http://www.goodiware.com/goodreader.html
