It might sound sad but one of my guilty pleasures is browning the app store for new widgets and apps to try out. Over the years I have cycled through hundreds of different apps. Everything from productivity apps designed to streamline my life, to the fun little games that help me beat my boredom. And I thought I would share with you the six apps I’ve been most pleased with this year.

I have endeavored to include a good mix of app types in this list. Some are designed to help improve your life. Others are just a good way to kill some time while also flexing your creative muscles.

1.Strong

I have become quite the gym rat over the last year. And I have worked my way through a number of different workout focused apps. I have found that the vast majority of them are overly complex or force endless ads down your throat. While others don’t offer enough freedom in regards to workout construction and data tracking.

Strong is the ultimate workout app as far as I am concerned. I have only ever used the free version and it does everything I need it to. It is filled with hundreds of different exercises, and it also allows you to create your own. You can track your workouts easily. Adding and removing sets as needed. It monitors all your records and can give you detailed graphs showing your progress. The app is also filled with guides on how to do every exercise. Making it an ideal choice for beginners.

2.Smoke Free

I struggled with smoking for a vast majority of my life. I tried to quit time and time again. And every time I would fail. Until I tried Smoke Free. This app is an absolute life changer. Not only does the app track how long you’ve gone without smoking but it also allows you to add motivators, complete daily missions, and chat with other members of the community.

All of this compiles together to offer you a robust support system that turns your quitting journey into something more active. And studies have shown that you are far more likely to quit if you can turn the process into a more tangible experience. Replacing your smoking habit with more positive ones. And this app offers you that chance.

3.LoveCore AI

AI is all the rage at the moment. So I thought I would try out some of these new AI girlfriend apps that are popping up everywhere. And LoveCore AI is the best one I’ve found so far. The main advantage is that you can get an AI gf without signup. And not having to give over my data to an app is always a big plus in my book.

The app offers you more than just an AI chatbot. It can generate pictures of your AI gf to create a more realistic experience. This is a great way to kill some time but it could also be a fantastic way to sharpen your flirting skills. Especially if you find yourself struggling with dating apps.

4.Conquerer Virtual Challenges

Part of my fitness journey has been getting into running. And the Conquerer Virtual Challenges app has turned it into a truly fun experience. You can sign up for a number of unique running challenges, such as running or walking the map of Middle Earth. And once you complete the challenge they will send you a lovely themed medal. You do have to pay for the medals. But you can also just join one of the challenges as a fun way of tracking your progress.

5.NYT Games

The NYT games app is an absolute must have for anyone who finds themselves with a bit of spare time every day. Home to the popular Wordle game, the app also features a daily mini crossword and a daily connections puzzle. Along with a number of more complicated puzzles that are sure to test your mental abilities.

6.Smart Audiobook Player

If you’re an audiobook lover then this is the app for you. It is without a doubt the best audiobook player out there. It has a slew of features, such as automatic audio adjustment and sleep timers, that are ideal for avid listeners. The app claims you need a subscription after 30 days but that is only to access the premium features. You can use it indefinitely for free.