4 min Read

Tech Review: AppAdvice and App Wish List

Product: AppsAdvice

AppStore Name: Apps Gone Free & Daily Tips

Producer: AppsAdvice.com

Compatibility: iOS

Cost: Free

Product summary:

AppAdvice and App Wish List both function as price tracking apps, though in not in the same way. AppAdvice releases a daily addition of suggested apps, with reviews, that are free or significantly reduced in cost for 24 hours only. This app is not targeted to any specific demographic but often features apps which could be useful for individuals with developmental disabilities and those who support them. In contrast, App Wish List is user initiated. The user is able to send apps to their Wish List directly from the AppStore. App Wish List then tracks the app, or apps, listed and notifies the user when there has been a change in price. Both of these apps work well as complimentary tools for those using Autism Apps.

 

Ratings:

Ease of Use: Grab and Go ★★★★★

  • Simple, easy to navigate design with direct links to app store downloads.

Adaptability: Limited Settings Option ★★☆☆☆

  • AppAdvice is styled as a daily newsletter – though it is possible to suggest apps for review, users are limited to only those apps chosen to be feature within each issue;

Accessibility: Broad Range of Users Served ★★★★☆

  • Offers a wide-range of apps available without categorical limitations, though each issue features only 4-5 apps each day;
  • It is possible to view pervious issues and read reviews, but these are not searchable and generally after 24 hours any price discounts expire;

Cost vs. Value: Free ★★★★★

  • AppAdvice functions well as both a complementary tool and as a standalone app; this app is highly recommended as part of any basic app library.

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


Product: Apps Wish List

AppStore Name: App Wish List & Price Tracker

Producer: Eric Brown

Compatibility: iOS

Cost: Free

Product summary:

AppAdvice and App Wish List both function as price tracking apps, though in not in the same way. AppAdvice releases a daily addition of suggested apps, with reviews, that are free or significantly reduced in cost for 24 hours only. This app is not targeted to any specific demographic but often features apps which could be useful for individuals with developmental disabilities and those who support them. In contrast, App Wish List is user initiated. The user is able to send apps to their Wish List directly from the AppStore. App Wish List then tracks the app, or apps, listed and notifies the user when there has been a change in price. Both of these apps work well as complimentary tools for those using Autism Apps.

 

 

Ratings:

Ease of Use: Simple Instructions Helpful ★★★☆☆

  • After installation this app is accessed for viewing through its icon, though apps can only be added using the share feature within the app store, making it somewhat difficult to navigate at first;

Adaptability: Complete User Control ★★★★★

  • Entirely user initiated – you will only receive notifications from apps you choose to follow;
  • Options to follow price changes, app updates, or both;

Accessibility: Broad Range of Users Served ★★★★☆

  • Though the user experience is almost entirely personalized, the disconnect between adding and viewing apps significantly increases the complexity of skills required for use and may not be suitable for those new to iPad technology or unfamiliar with iOS navigation;

Cost vs. Value: Free ★★★★★

  • The clean and simple design makes this app appealing for tracking, with only minimal notifications;
  • This may not be best app for some users, but it is a worthwhile download to try out if you are looking for an app tracking tool.

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


Final word:

Both AppAdvice and App Wish List work well as companion tools for those seeking apps that may be cost prohibitive.

AppAdvice often will feature normally free apps that are offering limited-time free, or price reduced, in-app purchases which can be a significant expensive and may greatly increase the options available within the app. In-app purchase discounts are rarely advertised on their own, and sometimes are easy to miss even if you are a regular user of that particular app. The broad range of app categories featured allows for cost-free exploration of new apps and, as apps remain in your library after download, you are able to download and store apps that may be helpful in the future.

App Wish List is one option of many app tracking tools available, though the app store integration and ad-free experience makes it a standout in its category. As App Wish List tracks only what is input by the user, this is an ideal option for those looking for a specific app; however, this also means that as a standalone tracking tool App Wish List is only as good as the user’s own app knowledge. This app works best when paired with an app catalogue, such as Autism Apps, where the user can search, view suggestions, and read reviews of apps currently on the market.

Overall, AppAdvice and App Wish List are well-suited as companion apps – both decreasing app purchasing costs and expanding the scope of any individual’s app library. Together these 2 apps are high value with zero cost and come highly recommended.