The 25 Best Android Apps - PC Magazine

When Google's mobile operating system, Android, first debuted, cheers erupted from those who defend open-source software and reject the cult of Apple. They finally had alternative options for touch-screen smartphones that could rival the iPhone. As the Android Market (and other sites where you can download Android programs) expanded, it became clear that Android would have some unique apps, in part due to Android's deregulated (compared to Apple's strict oversight of iTunes and the app store) and open-source nature.

And so it makes sense that the best apps for Android users and their devices, whether it's a Motorola Droid Bionic or an HTC Sensation, are an eclectic batch. For example, one app every smartphone user needs is a strong Web browser—but the fastest, most reliable, and efficient one on Android isn't the same as what's best on other mobile operating systems. Additionally, some of the very best apps for Android are exclusive to the operating system. For some people, app selection is what drives their decision-making about which phone to purchase in the first place. If you're thinking about becoming an Android user, this list of the best 25 apps should definitely tip you off to the kinds of utilities, entertainment programs, social networking services, and other apps you can expect to find in the Android Market and other places where you can buy apps or download them for free.

The 25 apps that made the cut for this list are the ones that have shown outstanding performance, have been almost universally liked by users young and old, or have had a solid history of being among the first apps we'd recommend new users download. Most of them are free, a few cost a buck or two, although the priciest one on this list will set you back a cool $25. Left out are any apps specifically designed for people who have "rooted" their phones, or given themselves more permission than is intended for consumers, which can void the phone's warranty.

If you're a long-time Android user, some of these apps will look familiar, although in a few cases, we noticed that the best apps in a certain class aren't necessarily the ones that have been most popular for a stretch of time. Newcomers are supplanting some tried-and-true favorites. Finally, if you have more recommendations, post your suggestions in the comments—they may make it into a future update of this article.—Next: Best Apps 1-5: Reference and Utility >