Launcher
Launcher is the king of widget apps. I use a launcher widget on my lock screen for ready access to my most used apps. I use multiple launcher widgets on my home screen to increase the number of apps above what iOS offers. Not only does Launcher open applications, it also allows you to create actions for specific messages, emails and social media entries. Launcher on the iOS App Store
![My home screen with launcher widgets](assets/{:filename=>"512x512bb.png",%20:new_path=>"images/512x512bb.png",%20:content_type=>"image/png",%20:byte_size=>61539,%20:checksum=>"0gcO3owh/GjTpcbtvPtBbg==",%20:type=>"image"})
App of the Day: Due, A Hybrid Reminders Alarm Clock App
Due is a hybrid of a reminders app and an alarm clock. You can set one time or persistent reminders for things like moving the trash to the curb, clocking in or out at work, changing the filter in your Britta, the time you need to make a phone call or visit someone’s office. You can’t ignore Due. It’s alarms repeat every minute on the minute until you turn them off, up to five times by default and configurable up to ten times. It also has reusable precise countdown timers for things you repeat constantly like brewing tea. It has natural language input capabilities. It’s a snap to set up a reminder on the fly. It cost $7.99 for all the features it has right now and has an IAP to insure your rights to upgrades. There is even a Mac app that syncs via iCloud. I’ve had Due on my homescreen since iOS 4. You should add it to yours.
Rond Life Mapper
![Rond Life Mapper](assets/{:filename=>"rond.PNG",%20:new_path=>"images/rond.PNG",%20:content_type=>"image/png",%20:byte_size=>163899,%20:checksum=>"TjuwYFJW+CjKJ+tJ727N7w==",%20:type=>"image"})
This one is on my wish list. I haven’t downloaded it yet. I hate relying on Google location for tracking because, well, Google. A problem with these types of apps is some of them are not that accurate and they can be real battery hogs. Based on the reviews (4,9 average on the App Store) this app has neither problem. The developer describes the app as “your companion for effortlessly tracking your daily adventures and transforming them into a captivating timeline of memories. Gain invaluable insights into how you spend your time with detailed time reports and dynamic charts that reveal highlights and trends with ease.” App Store Link
A primary concern for apps of this type is what they do with your data. The privacy policy states “Rond values your privacy and believes that your data belongs to you and you alone. Rond uses Core Data, which is supported by iOS, as its database to store your information. This means that all your data is stored only on your device. Even if you enable iCloud sync, your data will still be stored securely and encrypted on Apple’s servers, just like other native apps.” Developer’s Web Site