Action Movie (Free for iOS with in-app purchases for additional effects)
What it is: a way to add special effects in 5- to 10-second videos shot in-app. Free effects include “Star Trek” phasers, photon torpedoes fired from Star Trek Enterprise and “Call of Duty” effects. Other effects include a car smashup and an avalanche. Additional effects cost 99 cents each.
How it works: After launching the app from Bad Robot Interactive, you choose the special effect you want, then shoot a short video that is at least 5 seconds long. After shooting video, you can adjust the timing of the effects to create a scene with maximum mayhem.
Why it’s great: This app entertains me when I’m stuck in airport lines whether I’m checking a bag, clearing security or boarding a flight. It’s also fun to use on a plane when seated by a window to shoot some footage outside the window. I have used it in museums, parks and other spots at a destination. I recommend saving three to five clips to your photo library, then assembling them into a one-minute iMovie to share with friends.
Why you may hesitate: You can’t import videos shot outside the app to add special effects.
iHeartRadio (Free for iOS, Amazon Fire phone, Android, BlackBerry 10, Kindle Fire, Windows phone)
What it is: iHeartRadio created this so you can listen to live radio stations or create your own commercial-free playlist based on favorite songs or artists. In January, iHeartMedia reported that this app has been downloaded more than 500 million times.
How it works: The app is easy to set up with your email, Google+ or Facebook info. It requires a data connection, so it isn’t useful in flight, but it can entertain you in line almost anywhere. After your account is created, you choose your station or create a custom music feed.
Why it’s great: If you like to listen to tunes, but the music library on your device is limited, you will fall for this app. Although I occasionally see or hear an ad, it is less intrusive than Pandora’s advertising. And the simple interface makes it easy to create custom stations whether you dig Sam Smith, Maroon 5, Pink Floyd or Frank Sinatra. The sleep timer helps me go to sleep while listening to music. I hope a future update adds a radio alarm clock.
SPG Starwood Preferred Guest app (Free for iOS, BlackBerry and Android)
What it is: a way to find Starwood Hotels & Resorts properties in more than 100 countries via the Starwood Preferred Guest (“SPG”) reward program. Those hotels include Aloft, Element, Four Points, the Luxury Collection, Meridien, Sheraton, St. Regis, Westin and W Hotels. The app also offers keyless entry into a growing number of hotels.
How it works: The app requires an Internet connection to function, and you initially must enter your SPG account number so it can manage your Starpoints rewards account and alert you to special deals and member benefits.
Why it‘s great: The app gives you easy access to the nine Starwood brands. You can book a stay in-app day or night. But the coolest feature is being able to open hotel room doors with your phone via SPG keyless entry. In just a few weeks, keyless entry will be available in almost 50 Aloft hotels. Hotels already offering SPG keyless entry include Aloft Harlem, Aloft Cupertino, Aloft Beijing, Aloft Cancun, W New York-Downtown, W Hollywood, W Singapore, W Hong Kong, W Doha and Element Times Square. The app also will remember your hotel room number so you don’t have to trudge back to the front desk when you forget.
