A lot of new apps appear in the App Store, but also important are the updates that make old apps improve. These are the best app updates of 2018.
Best App Updates of 2018
At the end of the year, it makes sense to look back at the best new apps. As the editorial team, we do this this year by all choosing one app.
But app updates are just as important. In this way, the apps we already use become a lot more convenient, safer or even get a complete makeover, making them feel like new. That is why we list the apps that have improved the most in 2018.
1. Pocket Casts
One of the coolest podcast apps for iOS has been completely redesigned. Not only does this make the app look nice and fresh again, but you also get a ton of new functions. The most important improvement is that you can now listen to episodes of podcasts without a subscription. In addition, the search function can now be used to search for individual episodes. The new bar at the bottom of the screen also allows you to easily navigate through the app. And it’s also easier to archive or queue podcasts with a swipe.
2. Telegram
Telegram received a major upgrade in 2018. In fact, the app has been completely rebuilt in Apple’s programming language Swift. That happened with the 5.0 update, making the app faster and more economical with the battery. This has also addressed the notifications, because you will receive notifications from other conversations when you are already chatting. You can even respond within this notification, without leaving your other conversation.
3. Google Chrome
Google Chrome existed ten years in 2018, so it was time for a new design. This means, among other things, a completely new look, with more curves, new icons and brighter colors. That makes Chrome a lot more organized. The browser has also become faster and it now includes a built-in password manager. All in all, a major upgrade for this fine iOS browser.
4. WhatsApp
The app that receives most interesting updates every year is undoubtedly WhatsApp. That was no different in 2018. You can now view media from your notifications and make group calls with video and audio. Work is also being done on safety. For example, WhatsApp now recognizes suspicious links and the new forwarding function should combat fake news and spam.
5. Pokémon GO
We had to wait a long time for it, but it is finally possible to challenge other players in Pokémon GO. Multiplayer has been one of the most sought-after features since the game came out, and you’ll finally take your Pokémon into battle with other trainers.
6. Google Maps
Google’s map service has also improved this year. Traveling by car is more enjoyable, because the app takes traffic jams better into account, among other things. Buses are also shown on the map in various Dutch cities and there is integration with Apple Music. In addition, Google Maps now supports CarPlay and there is a new ‘For you’ tab, including new cafes and bars in your hometown.
7. Flitsmeister
The Dutch app Flitsmeister has been thoroughly overhauled this year. For example, the app has been given a new design, with more space for the map. It is also possible to navigate via spoken instructions.
8. Instagram
Of course, Instagram has also received a ton of updates in 2018. The main improvement is that there has been more emphasis on new posts in your feed, after all the criticism of the non-chronological timeline. It is now also clearer whether you have seen each new message. In addition, the emphasis this year was on safety. Among other things, by the option to add two-step authentication via an authentication app. Instagram will also verify more accounts.
9. Kindle
Kindle is a great app for reading ebooks, but then you have to shop in Amazon’s digital store. You do that? Then since this year you can read books in a much nicer way. Instead of page after page, it is possible to scroll vertically through books until the book is ready. That turns out to be a very nice way to read books.
10. NS
The NS app got a handy new function this year. It is possible to use the app to see where there is still space on the train. Sometimes one side is completely full, while there is still enough space on the other side. By measuring the weight of the trains, the app indicates on certain routes whether a train section is full, busy or whether there are still enough places.
The best of 2018
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