Group test: what's the best phone software?

5. IMDb app for Android

• Reviewed on: 17 January 11
• RRP: Free
• Rating:

All in all, the IMDb app for Android is an excellent freebie, offering useful information on more than 1.5 million films on your smartphone.

4. Bootstrap MediaWidget

• Reviewed on: 6 December 10
• RRP: £19.99 inc VAT
• Rating:

If you have MediaWidget on your PC, your iPod or iPhone becomes as much of a backup for your PC's media files as the PC is a backup for your gadget. It may be limited, but it's dead easy to use and works well. That must be worth £19 of most iPod users' cash.

3. MyBackUp Pro for Android

• Reviewed on: 21 January 11
• RRP: $4.99 (about £3)
• Rating:

MyBackup Pro for Android is a great app that performs an important function that is unfortunately absent in the core Android OS. The only feature we would add would be remote backup and wipe capability so you could secure your device in case of loss or theft. Other than that, MyBackup Pro is just about perfect. If you want to try it out before you purchase it, a 30-day free trial version is also available.

2. Android News 1.1

• Reviewed on: 10 February 11
• RRP: Free
• Rating:

Android News' display is sparse and leaves a little to be desired. If that doesn't bother you, and you're seeking a straightforward, utilitarian app that provides information on Android features, Android News is worth checking out.

1. Ignition

• Reviewed on: 12 July 10
• RRP: £17 inc VAT
• Rating:

As apps go it's not cheap, but we're smitten with LogMeIn Ignition. Easy to install and use, cool and practical. On the iPhone or a Google Android smartphone it makes remote access of your desktop PC simple, and useful. And on the iPad or an Android tablet, it makes Apple's uber gizmo as useful as a high-end laptop.