8 Free Open Source Android Apps: Hidden Gems for a Better Phone
Watch this video on YouTube. 1. Mindful: A Holistic Journaling App
Mindful is a versatile journaling app designed to support your mental well-being. It allows you to document your thoughts through text, voice, or photos, making it a comprehensive tool for self-reflection. Key features include: Gratitude journaling with customizable daily, weekly, or monthly summaries.
Guided meditations, affirmations, and breathing exercises to promote relaxation.
Mood tracking to help you identify emotional patterns over time.
To ensure your privacy, Mindful incorporates pin or pattern locks, safeguarding your personal entries. This app is ideal for anyone seeking a secure and enriching journaling experience. 2. YTDL: A Versatile Media Downloader
YTDL is a powerful tool for downloading videos and audio from over 1,000 websites. Whether you're saving a single file or an entire playlist, YTDL simplifies the process with its advanced features: Batch downloads and customizable file naming templates for efficiency.
Metadata embedding and sponsor segment skipping for a seamless experience.
Privacy-focused options, including incognito mode and backup/restore functionality.
Its user-friendly interface and extensive capabilities make it a favorite among tech-savvy users who value convenience and control. 3. ML Manager: Simplify APK Management
ML Manager is an essential app for managing APK files, offering a straightforward way to extract, back up, and share apps. Its standout features include: Batch extraction to save time when handling multiple APKs.
Integration with APK Mirror for easy sharing and downloading.
Advanced options for rooted users, such as uninstalling system apps and clearing cache.
This app is perfect for users who want greater control over their app library, whether for personal use or troubleshooting. 4. Loop Habit Tracker: Build Better Habits
Loop Habit Tracker is a minimalist yet powerful app designed to help you develop and maintain positive habits. It offers: A forgiving habit score system to keep you motivated even after occasional lapses.
Detailed progress graphs and flexible scheduling options for tracking your habits.
Offline functionality and an ad-free experience for uninterrupted use.
With its focus on privacy and simplicity, Loop Habit Tracker is a reliable companion for anyone striving for personal growth and consistency. 5. Shop Sync: Collaborative Task Management
Shop Sync is a practical app for managing shopping lists and to-do tasks, making it easier to stay organized. Its features include: Cloud syncing for real-time updates across multiple devices.
Offline access to ensure productivity even without an internet connection.
CSV export and a recycle bin for recovering deleted items.
Whether you're planning meals, tracking expenses, or managing errands, Shop Sync streamlines your workflow with its intuitive design. 6. Snapsafe: Privacy-Focused Photography
Snapsafe is a camera app that prioritizes privacy while offering advanced photography features. It includes: Metadata removal and automatic face blurring to enhance anonymity.
A 'poison pill' feature that creates decoy photos for added security.
Customizable location tagging to give you control over geotagging.
This app is ideal for users who value their privacy while capturing and storing memories securely. 7. Booming Music: A Feature-Rich Offline Music Player
Booming Music is a sleek and functional music player designed for offline use. It provides: Gapless playback, lyrics syncing, and advanced playlist management.
Equalizer presets and replay gain for consistent audio quality.
Android Auto compatibility and Bluetooth controls for seamless integration.
With its offline capabilities, Booming Music ensures an uninterrupted listening experience, making it a must-have for music enthusiasts. 8. Image Craft: A Comprehensive Image Toolkit
Image Craft is a versatile app for editing and managing images, offering tools for both casual users and professionals. Its features include: Compressing, resizing, and converting images with ease.
Batch operations and PDF-to-image conversion for efficiency.
Creating password-protected archives to secure your files.
Whether you're organizing your photo library, creating GIFs, or editing images, Image Craft provides a comprehensive toolkit to meet your needs. Explore the Benefits of Open source Apps
These eight free and open source Android apps demonstrate the advantages of combining functionality with privacy and transparency. From enhancing mental wellness to managing tasks and improving your media experience, these tools cater to a wide range of needs. By choosing open source software, you not only gain access to innovative features but also support a community-driven approach to technology. Discover these apps today to take control of your Android experience while safeguarding your data.
Below are more guides on Privacy features from our extensive range of articles.
Source & Image Credit: Enoch Boateng Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Geeky Gadgets
5 minutes ago
- Geeky Gadgets
5 iPhone Shutter Shortcuts for Better Photos
Capturing high-quality photos or videos with your iPhone requires more than just pointing and shooting. It involves understanding the various tools and features available to you. The video below from iPhone Photography School explores five practical methods to release the iPhone shutter, helping you take full advantage of your device's capabilities. Whether you're photographing fast-moving subjects or setting up a carefully composed shot, these techniques provide greater precision, flexibility, and control. Watch this video on YouTube. 1. On-Screen Shutter Button The on-screen shutter button is the most familiar and straightforward way to take photos or videos. Located within the Camera app, this button is easy to use but requires a steady hand to minimize camera shake. To reduce motion blur, tap the button gently, especially when holding the phone without support. For video recording, press and hold the button to seamlessly switch from photo to video mode. Additionally, you can activate Burst mode by dragging the shutter button to the left or right. This feature captures a rapid sequence of images, making it ideal for fast-paced scenarios such as sports, wildlife, or action shots. Mastering this method ensures you can quickly adapt to dynamic scenes without missing critical moments. 2. Volume Buttons Your iPhone's physical volume buttons offer a tactile alternative to the on-screen shutter. Press either the volume up or down button to snap a photo, mimicking the feel of a traditional camera. This method is particularly useful when you need to stabilize your grip or when touchscreen use is inconvenient, such as in cold weather when wearing gloves. For added functionality, hold the volume up button to activate Burst mode (if enabled in your settings) or hold the volume down button to record a video. This approach is especially practical for one-handed photography or when you need to maintain a steady frame while capturing the shot. 3. Wired Headphones with Volume Controls If you have wired headphones with volume buttons, they can double as a remote shutter release. Simply connect the headphones to your iPhone and press the volume controls to take a photo. This method is particularly effective for reducing camera shake, as it allows you to trigger the shutter without physically touching the device. While this technique does not support Burst mode or video recording, it is ideal for scenarios requiring stability, such as long-exposure shots or carefully composed images. Pairing this method with a tripod can significantly enhance your results, making sure sharp and professional-quality photos. 4. Self-Timer The self-timer function is a versatile tool for hands-free photography. Accessible within the Camera app, it allows you to set a timer for 3 or 10 seconds before the shutter is released. This feature is perfect for group photos, solo portraits, or any situation where you want to avoid physically pressing the shutter button. When combined with a tripod, the self-timer ensures stability and precision, making it an excellent choice for low-light photography or creative compositions. It also gives you the flexibility to adjust your position or refine the scene before the photo is captured, resulting in more polished and intentional images. 5. Bluetooth Shutter Release For maximum convenience and flexibility, consider using a Bluetooth shutter release. By pairing a Bluetooth remote with your iPhone, you can trigger the shutter from a distance, making it ideal for tripod setups, group shots, or candid photography. This method allows you to take multiple photos without returning to the camera, making sure you capture the perfect moment. Bluetooth remotes are particularly useful for scenarios requiring precise timing, such as wildlife photography, dynamic events, or creative self-portraits. They also eliminate the risk of camera shake, allowing you to achieve sharp and professional results. Additional Tools and Techniques To further enhance your iPhone photography, explore these additional tools and techniques: Apple Watch Integration: Use the Apple Watch camera app to remotely trigger the iPhone shutter and preview your frame. This is especially useful for group photos or creative compositions where you need to position yourself away from the camera. Use the Apple Watch camera app to remotely trigger the iPhone shutter and preview your frame. This is especially useful for group photos or creative compositions where you need to position yourself away from the camera. Lens Options: Experiment with your iPhone's ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto lenses to capture diverse perspectives. Ultra-wide lenses are ideal for landscapes and architecture, while telephoto lenses excel in portraits and distant subjects. Experiment with your iPhone's ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto lenses to capture diverse perspectives. Ultra-wide lenses are ideal for landscapes and architecture, while telephoto lenses excel in portraits and distant subjects. Aspect Ratio Adjustments: Switch between aspect ratios like 4:3, 16:9, or square to suit your creative vision. For example, 16:9 is great for cinematic shots, while 4:3 offers a more traditional photographic format. Switch between aspect ratios like 4:3, 16:9, or square to suit your creative vision. For example, 16:9 is great for cinematic shots, while 4:3 offers a more traditional photographic format. Tripod Support: Stabilize your iPhone with a tripod for long exposures, low-light photography, or time-lapse videos. Pair it with a remote shutter release or the self-timer for optimal results. Stabilize your iPhone with a tripod for long exposures, low-light photography, or time-lapse videos. Pair it with a remote shutter release or the self-timer for optimal results. Lighting Accessories: Consider using external lighting tools, such as ring lights or portable LED panels, to improve your photos in challenging lighting conditions. Mastering iPhone Photography To elevate your photography skills, focus on mastering the fundamentals of composition, lighting, and timing. For example, when capturing a sunset, observe how the light interacts with the environment and experiment with different angles and lenses to highlight the scene's unique beauty. Use tools like a tripod for stability and Burst mode to capture fleeting moments. By combining these five shutter release methods with additional tools and techniques, you can unlock the full potential of your iPhone camera. Whether you're a casual photographer or an experienced enthusiast, these strategies provide the control and versatility needed to create stunning images in any situation. Unlock more potential in iPhone camera shutter release by reading previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: iPhone Photography School Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Independent
6 minutes ago
- The Independent
How to get kids back on a sleep schedule for the school year
After a summer of vacations and late nights, it's time to set those back-to-school alarms. A good night's sleep helps students stay focused and attentive in class. Experts say it's worth easing kids back into a routine with the start of a new school year. 'We don't say ' get good sleep ' just because,' said pediatrician Dr. Gabrina Dixon with Children's National Hospital. 'It really helps kids learn and it helps them function throughout the day.' The amount of sleep kids need changes as they age. Preschoolers should get up to 13 hours of sleep. Tweens need between nine and 12 hours. Teenagers do best with eight to 10 hours of shut-eye. Set an earlier bedtime Early bedtimes can slip through the cracks over the summer as kids stay up for sleepovers, movie marathons and long plane flights. To get back on track, experts recommend setting earlier bedtimes a week or two before the first day of school or gradually going to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier each night. Don't eat a heavy meal before bed and avoid TV or screen time two hours before sleep. Instead, work in relaxing activities to slow down like showering and reading a story. 'You're trying to take the cognitive load off your mind,' said Dr. Nitun Verma, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. 'It would be like if you're driving, you're slowly letting go of the gas pedal.' Parents can adjust their back-to-school plans based on what works best for their child. Nikkya Hargrove moves her twin daughters' bedtimes up by 30 minutes the week before school starts. Sometimes, her 10-year-olds will negotiate for a few extra minutes to stay up and read. Hargrove said those conversations are important as her children get older and advocate for themselves. If they stay up too late and don't have the best morning, Hargrove said that can be a learning experience too. 'If they're groggy and they don't like how they feel, then they know, 'OK, I have to go to bed earlier,'' said Hargrove, an author and independent bookstore owner from Connecticut. In the morning, soaking in some daylight by sitting at a window or going outside can help train the brain to power up, Verma said. Squash back-to-school sleep anxiety Sleep quality matters just as much as duration. First-day jitters can make it hard to fall asleep no matter how early the bedtime. Dixon says parents can talk to their kids to find out what is making them anxious. Is it the first day at a new school? Is it a fear of making new friends? Then they might try a test run of stressful activities before school starts to make those tasks feel less scary — for example, by visiting the school or meeting classmates at an open house. The weeks leading up can be jam-packed and it's not always possible to prep a routine in advance. But kids will adjust eventually so sleep experts say parents should do what they can. After all, their kids aren't the only ones adjusting to a new routine. 'I always say, 'Take a deep breath, it'll be OK,'" Dixon said. 'And just start that schedule.' ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Daily Mail
7 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
Weekend habit enjoyed by millions linked to disorder and risk of deadliest cancer, new study reveals
Weekend lie-ins, late nights and drinking could be making a dangerous sleep disorder worse, scientists have discovered. Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep and extreme snoring—affecting between eight and ten million people in the UK, and up to 30 million Americans. However researchers have coined the term 'social apnoea' to describe a weekend spike in severity of the problem, linked to lifestyle changes such as alcohol use, smoking and irregular sleep patterns. The phenomenon was identified by an international team led by Flinders University in Australia, who analysed sleep data from more than 70,000 people worldwide. Using a clinically validated under-mattress sleep monitor, they found participants were 18 per cent more likely to have moderate to severe apnoea on Saturdays than on Wednesdays. The condition occurs when the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, leading to breathing pauses, drops in blood oxygen, disrupted rest and daytime sleepiness. Untreated, it raises the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, dementia and accidents, due to poor sleep and subsequent tiredness. Research presented this year at the American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago also found it significantly increases the risk of deadly lung cancer. 'Sleep apnoea is already a major public health issue, but our findings suggest its true impact may be underestimated,' said lead author Dr Lucia Pinilla, from the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health at Flinders. 'Most clinical testing is done on a weeknight, missing the weekend effect we're now calling social apnoea.' The weekend risk was particularly high in men (21 per cent increase versus nine per cent in women) and in under-60s (24 per cent versus seven per cent in over-60s). Sleeping in for 45 minutes or more on weekends increased the odds of worse apnoea by 47 per cent, and shifting the sleep schedule by more than an hour—dubbed social jetlag—raised it by 38 per cent. Professor Danny Eckert, Director of FHMRI Sleep Health and senior author, said: 'We don't yet know exactly why, but alcohol use, lighter sleep and less consistent use of OSA therapies likely play a role.' He recommends maintaining a regular sleep routine, using any prescribed therapy every night—even at weekends—and aiming for the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep. The weekend effect emerged alongside evidence from a second, related study showing severity also varies by season. Published in Communications Medicine, the research—led by Dr Bastien Lechat of Flinders—used the same dataset to track changes over 3.5 years across 23 countries. It found the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI)—the measure of breathing interruptions per hour—was up to 19 per cent higher in summer and winter than in spring and autumn in the northern hemisphere, and 10 to 15 per cent higher in summer versus spring in the southern hemisphere. Higher temperatures were linked to worse apnoea, with nights at 18°C on average producing a 6.4 per cent higher AHI than cooler nights at 6°C. The researchers believe several factors could be driving these peaks. Hot weather can reduce sleep duration and quality, leading to more light sleep, which is associated with more frequent apnoea events. In winter, people tend to sleep longer—particularly in the early morning—increasing time in REM sleep, a stage that occurs before and after deep sleep, when apnoea is typically worse. Sleeping longer than usual by over two hours was linked to a 5.8 per cent increase in AHI, while even shorter sleep than average caused a small rise. Behavioural changes may also play a part as other research has shown alcohol consumption, weight gain, lower physical activity, and respiratory illnesses all vary seasonally. The findings from both studies raise questions about how the condition is diagnosed and treated. Most patients have their condition assessed via a single-night sleep study, often during the week. This, the researchers warn, risks missing important variability—and underestimating severity in some patients. 'A seasonal effect that accounts for around 20 per cent of the variation in AHI is meaningful,' Dr Lechat concluded in his paper. 'Some trials [of OSA treatments] only show modest reductions in severity of 10 to 20 per cent.' If diagnosis or assessment happens in a low-severity period, he suggests, it could influence treatment decisions. The studies also suggest the long-standing practice of allowing patients to skip continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on weekends may need re-evaluation. The treatment involves wearing a mask connected to a small machine that delivers a steady stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep—and skipping it could make symptoms worse at the weekend. For those worried they might have sleep apnoea, common warning signs include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, unrefreshing rest, and excessive daytime fatigue. Doctors can refer patients for diagnostic testing, which may involve in-lab polysomnography or home-based monitoring. While the observed fluctuations may not be dramatic for an individual, the authors stress that at a population level, they could have significant implications for health and safety. Even small increases in severity can raise the risk of cardiovascular events, mental health problems and accidents, especially for people who drive or operate machinery.
