7 Unique & Creative Uses for Your iPhone

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E-Reader Applications for iPhone

Several excellent applications are available to transform your iPhone into a portable e-reader device.

The Kindle app from Amazon provides access to a vast collection of books, encompassing both complimentary and purchasable titles, directly through their platform.

Alternative E-Reader Options

Apps such as Stanza offer greater flexibility regarding book acquisition and download sources.

A key benefit of Stanza is its comprehensive catalog of free e-book resources, notably including the extensive Project Gutenberg library.

The entire process of searching for and downloading books is streamlined within the application itself, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Customization and Features

Stanza is highly customizable, allowing users to select preferred background colors – either black or white – and adjust font styles and sizes.

Furthermore, the app facilitates in-text searching, rapid navigation between chapters, and integrated dictionary lookups for unfamiliar words.

Apple’s built-in iBooks application is also a noteworthy option, becoming available on the iPhone with the OS 4.0 update.

These applications provide a convenient and feature-rich reading experience on your iPhone.

Utilizing a Baby Monitor or Security Camera System

For a rapid deployment of a security or baby monitoring solution, leveraging a webcam alongside an iPhone can establish a functional system in a matter of minutes.

Begin by downloading Air Cam Live Video Lite [iTunes link] onto your iPhone device. Subsequently, install the corresponding Mac or Windows software on the computer connected to the desired webcam.

Software Setup and Network Requirements

The complimentary version of this software mandates that both your iPhone and the webcam reside on the same network. However, access to the live video feed from remote networks is enabled through the purchase of the premium application.

After installation of the software on your computer, initiating the program will immediately display the webcam's visual feed on your computer screen.

Security Considerations

It is crucial to implement a password protection measure for your webcam during the setup process. This safeguards against unauthorized access.

Connecting to the webcam feed via the iPhone application is streamlined; simply activate the app, select the connection option, and input the established password.

Personalized Learning with Your iPhone

The iPhone offers a vast potential for self-education, with no real boundaries to what can be achieved. Numerous complimentary language applications are available, providing 24/7 access to learning opportunities. These apps are particularly useful for acquiring foundational knowledge in languages like German, Italian, French, or Spanish [iTunes links].

These resources typically include collections of frequently used phrases, coupled with audio guides to ensure correct pronunciation. Progress can be assessed through interactive quizzes, flashcards, and engaging games.

Educational Apps for Children

A wealth of free applications are also designed to support children's learning. My First Words [iTunes link] is a valuable tool for introducing early reading skills.

Initially, the free version focuses on a single category – animals – but it serves as an excellent starting point. The app presents words, followed by corresponding images, and includes accompanying audio pronunciation.

A key advantage of this application is its customization options. Users can record their own audio, modify images, and even alter the words themselves. Furthermore, new entries can be added, allowing for a highly personalized learning experience for children.

Learning Sign Language

For those interested in learning sign language, FreeASL [iTunes link] provides a convenient and accessible resource. It allows users to quickly look up specific phrases and their corresponding signs.

Simply enter the desired phrase or expression, and the app will display a visual representation of the necessary hand gestures. This facilitates understanding and practice of American Sign Language.

Skipping Rope Alternatives

The iJump Rope application, available on the iTunes platform [iTunes link], presents a viable alternative to traditional rope jumping. Upon initiating the app, users are presented with the option to hold their smartphone at their side, selecting either the left or right hand for optimal comfort.

Following this, the integrated counter can be activated, coinciding with the commencement of the skipping exercise. The application diligently monitors and records the user’s advancement throughout the workout.

App Functionality

Users retain the flexibility to customize the training duration by setting a timer according to their individual needs and fitness goals. This allows for personalized workout sessions.

The app effectively functions as a digital skipping rope, providing a convenient and trackable exercise experience.

A visual representation of the app in use can be found here:

Nightstand Clock Applications for iPhone

For those seeking to maximize their iPhone’s functionality, several free applications can transform it into a comprehensive nightstand clock. Nightstand Weather Clock [iTunes Link] stands out as a particularly effective solution.

This application’s display presents essential information, including the current time, date, and localized weather conditions, selectable between Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.

Utilizing the iPhone’s location services, the app automatically retrieves the weather forecast for your specific city. A high degree of customization is offered, featuring twelve distinct wallpaper choices and support for both landscape and portrait orientations.

Furthermore, Nightstand Weather Clock functions as an alarm clock, providing a complete bedside solution. However, continuous operation requires the app to remain open throughout the night.

Alternative: TweetDesk for Twitter Integration

TweetDesk [iTunes link] presents another compelling nightstand application. It uniquely repurposes your iPhone as a Twitter-centric clock.

The display showcases the time, date, and a rotating slideshow of tweets. Users can choose to view tweets from a curated list of prominent Twitter accounts, such as the New York Times, E! Online, and Guardian Tech.

For a tailored experience, logging in with your personal Twitter account allows the app to display tweets from the individuals you follow. An integrated browser is also included, enabling direct access to links shared within the tweets, all from within the application.

Finding Your Vehicle with iPhone Assistance

Most individuals utilize their smartphones as reminders for scheduled appointments and necessary tasks. However, a less common application exists for those prone to forgetfulness – locating a parked vehicle. The "Take Me to My Car" application, available through [iTunes link], provides a straightforward solution.

After parking, simply open the app and tap the "Park Here" button. This action precisely records your vehicle’s location, including its geographical coordinates.

Retrieving Your Parked Car

When it’s time to return to your car, relaunch the application and select the "Get Directions" button. The iPhone’s built-in map application will then generate walking directions to guide you back to your vehicle’s exact location.

This feature offers a convenient way to avoid the frustration of searching for a misplaced car, particularly in large or unfamiliar parking areas.

The app streamlines the process of remembering parking spots.

Do you have other innovative ways to utilize your iPhone? Share your ideas with us in the comments section below.

Image credit: Simon Doggett