Were you one of the last people you knew to get a smartphone? Do you sometimes overhear your kids talking about Snapchat and Vine and wonder when they became so much cooler than you? There’s nothing wrong with being a late adopter or being a little behind on what’s cool (check out this cheatsheet on what’s in right now)! But if you’re starting to get frustrated that the latest app fad is already played out by the time you hear about it – then this chart is for you!
Snapchat
A messaging service that deletes messages and photos after they’re viewed. Known for funny filters that give you bug eyes or makes rainbows come out of your mouth.
Periscope
A video app that allows you to send live messages and broadcast events. Use it to watch cool video and live news feeds from around the world.
Facebook Live
It’s like Periscope in that it broadcasts live events, only it’s on Facebook and brought us Chewbacca Mom.
Spotify
Throw out your CDs, MP3 players, and iPods! Apps like Spotify give you access to thousands of songs for one low monthly price.
Mobile Banking
Cameras aren’t just for selfies. Use yours to deposit cheques with your banking app. You can also do lots of other things – including splitting cheques with friends through text or e-mail money transfers.
Boomerang
Are you sick of posting ordinary photos on Instagram? It’s time to start posting videos that move and loop! Boomerang lets you easily create fun and silly videos and integrates with Instagram.
Kik
If you like Whatsapp, you should know that the cool kids are now using Kik. Kik is a messaging app that lets you connect with friends and groups around the world.
Mint
Are you still tracking your finances using spreadsheets? Stop wasting your time! Mint automates your budget by downloading your credit card and debit data and categorizing your spending according to the budget you set up. You’ll always know if you have any more cash to spend on lattes or if you’ve blown your caffeine fund for the month!
Face Swap
Have you ever wondered what you would look like with your dog’s face? This app switches faces between two people (or animals) in the same picture or video.
Dubsmash
This app takes lip syncing to the next level. Choose a song or sound and then record yourself saying or singing it and share it with your Dubsmash friends. Cue hilarity!
Prisma
Ever wanted real life to be more like a painting? This app makes your pictures look like modern art.
This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
