With coronavirus forcing many to stay at home and distance themselves from each other, smartphones are now more important than ever. In times of crisis, this can also mean people are on the lookout for new apps and services that can help them get through the difficult period.
With the coronavirus wrecking havoc worldwide, everyone is spending more time inside. While self-isolating might seem like a good idea at first, and especially compared to the usual extended periods of sitting in traffic just to get to work, as time goes on, the days can seem harder to spend cramped indoors. However, your phone can help you with the transition.
Apps can do many things, and a good app might help you stay active, help busy an idle mind, or provide entertainment in-between Zoom meetings. Your mobile device can be one of your greatest assets in times like these, and can help you maintain your mental health. Not only can they help you to work out both mentally and physically, but also connect to the world outside, giving you additional ways to communicate with friends. Here are some of the best --and the safest-- apps to help you through the extended periods of self-isolation.
Apps To Help With Self-Isolation
Communication is key in times like this, and sometimes the most entertaining thing you have to offer is yourself. Twitch is a great outlet to go ahead, and express yourself through gaming by creating your own videos for a global community to see. Plus, there are millions of videos from other creators to explore on your mobile device, and it'll help you stay informed in more ways than one. Another great tool for communication is Houseparty. This is a very laid back video chat app with features that make it more of a fun option than Skype. There's everything from interactive games to interesting sharing capabilities, so you and your friends can stay in touch while the bars are closed.
There's many great free apps that only need a membership to your local public library (Libby, for access to eBooks and audiobooks, and Hoopla, for access to music). Kanopy offers a huge assortment of films to watch, with educational videos and programs as well. With so many subscription services, Kanopy is a more informative option, and although it has less mainstream films, there's always a good indie to watch. Alternatively, if you want to stay active while you're inside then Aaptiv is one of the best personal-training mobile apps money can buy. It's $15 a month (there's also a 7-day trial), and it's compatible with both Android and iOS. There's an abundance of audio-led workouts from hardcore strength-training to gentler treadmill sessions. Keep a diary too, and see how much you progress before the end of self-quarantine.
Sometimes, though, the best way to stay sane is just to play a game. If you still haven't gotten over Avengers: Endgame then Marvel Strike Force: Squad RPG is a strategy game where you can assemble your team by choosing from a huge roster of your favorite superheroes and super-villains, It's family-friendly and even offers an exclusive subscription to enhance the experience. No matter your interests or need, or whether you're struggling on your own, or struggling to be alone during the coronavirus outbreak, sometimes the answer is right at your fingertips.