I have had an iPad since they first came out. The device works well for so many tasks. With the version 2 refresh this spring, Apple added two cameras that makes the iPad 2 even more appealing. But you can do only so much with hardware alone. To make a device truly great you need powerful software. Here are three programs I use everyday that have revolutionized my workflow.
1. Flipboard: This powerful display program will take your everyday tweets, Facebook notes, and blog posts and turn them into display magic. All of a sudden your friends messages are turned into beautiful quotations, your Facebook pictures are arranged into photo albums, and those blogs that you follow are displayed in a compelling news format. This program arranges all the items you would currently read into one beautiful interface.
2. Hootsuite: If you are a Twitter user, you need Hootsuite for the iPad. This wonderful program arranges all your Twitter feeds into one fast interface. The screen is instantly updated and you can arrange columns the way you want them. This is my favorite way to work with Twitter now. I can quickly compose, re-tweet, and direct message in just seconds with the touch based interface. The program has built-in features that let you auto shorten links, add pictures, and update multiple accounts. Hootsuite is actually MUCH faster on the iPad than on the PC.
3. Blogsy: I’ve written about Blogsy before, but the developer just keeps making it better. I love composing posts with the iPad’s auto correcting keyboard, and the easy to use tools allow me to quickly add photos, videos, and hyperlinks with just a touch of a screen button. Blogsy works well for most tasks, and it allows me to compose a post almost anywhere. When I’m out on the road, I can stop in a Starbucks, get a cup of coffee, and compose a post with ease. With the wireless interface, I can post to WordPress with just one click.
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If you have an iPad, be sure to give these three programs a try. They work well and can really increase your enjoyment and productivity. The good news, Flipboard and Hootsuite are free and Blogsy is only $4.99.
