General
Apps to make everyday life easier
Owning a smartphone or tablet puts millions of apps right at your fingertips – but the challenge is knowing which ones are actually worth your time.
While your device comes with the essential built-in apps like Contacts, Camera, Messages, and Phone, it’s the apps you download that can really turn it into a powerful tool.
In this guide we’ve selected a handful of useful apps designed to make life easier – from keeping track of your medication to helping you get around and even saving money.
In this article:
- How to download an app
- Safety tips to keep in mind
- Medication reminders
- Getting around
- Save money on groceries and dining out
How to download an app
Start by visiting your device’s official app store; iPhones use the App Store while Android devices such as Samsung or Google Pixel phones use the Google Play Store.
Here’s how to download an app:
- Open the App Store or Google Play Store app
- Type the app’s name into the search bar
- Tap Get (for App Store) or Install (for Google Play Store)
- Once it’s downloaded, look for the new app on your home screen.
Safety tips to keep in mind
- Only download apps from your device’s official store. Avoid downloading apps from links in texts or emails.
- When you first open a new app, it might ask for access to things like your contacts, camera, photos, or location. Only give permission when it makes sense for the app to function, and only when you're using it. For example, a maps app may need access to your location, but a games app doesn’t need access to your photos to work. You can always change these permissions later in your settings if you need to.
- Check the app’s privacy information. It outlines what type of data it collects and if it's shared with third parties - you’ll find this on the app store page.
- Delete apps you’re no longer using to free up storage space on your device.
Learn more about apps, how to find new apps and install them on your device.
Medication reminders
If you’ve ever forgotten to take your medication or found yourself wondering, “Did I actually take it this morning?” - you’re not alone. The good news is there are apps designed to remind you, track doses, and help you stay on top of your health.
MedAdvisor
(Android and Apple)MedAdvisor is a popular medication management app that does more than remind you to take your medicine. It connects you with a network of pharmacies across Australia, allowing you to order and pay for your medication directly from the app using your eScript or a photo of your paper prescription, with the option of having your medication delivered to your door. The app also offers a range of other features, including tracking your prescriptions and sending you refill alerts before you run out, and managing medications for family members. MedAdvisor is free to use.
Health App
(Apple)
If you use an iPhone, the built-in Health app includes features that let you record your medicines, set schedules, receive reminders, and add images of each medication for easy reference. Open the Health app and search (bottom right) for ‘Medications’ to get started. Find out more about monitoring your health on an Apple iPhone.
Google Fit, the health suite app for Androids doesn’t currently have a medication reminder but it does include other helpful features. Learn more about monitoring your health on an Android phone.
Simple voice or calendar reminders
If you prefer something quick and fuss free, you can ask Google Assistant or Siri to set daily reminders by voice - just say, “Remind me to take my tablets at 8am every day.” You can also use repeat alerts in Google Calendar or Apple Calendar. These tools aren’t just for medication—they can help you stay on top of all kinds of daily tasks. Learn more about Google Assistant and Siri in our short course Using voice assistants.
Getting around
Getting around town is easier with apps that help you plan your route or book a ride in just a few taps. These popular options can get you to where you need to go, whether you’re navigating on foot or arranging transport.
Google Maps
(Android and Apple)Google Maps does more than get you from point A to B; it saves your parking location for those times when you need help remembering where you parked, it shows real time traffic conditions, and public transport options to your destination. The app comes pre-installed on most Android phones, but iPhone users can download it from the App Store.
Watch our short video to learn how to use Google Maps.
Uber
(Android and Apple)The Uber app connects you with nearby drivers and is a handy alternative to taxis. You can create your own account to start using the app or ask a family member to add you to theirs as a Senior account. This gives you access to a simplified version of the Uber app to make it easier to book your own rides.
Find out more about rideshare and taxi apps.
Save money on groceries and dining out
If you love a good bargain, you’ll love these apps. Stretch your dollar further by dining out at a discount or picking up affordable groceries while also helping reduce food waste.
Too Good To Go
(Android and Apple)The Too Good To Go app connects you with cafes, bakeries and even grocery stores offering discounted “surprise bags” of leftover food that would otherwise go to waste. It’s a great way to save money and reduce food waste.
Half Price
(Android and Apple)The Half Price app lists all the 50% off specials at Australian supermarkets, Woolworths and Coles, updated every Wednesday. You’ll find everyday essentials like pantry staples, cleaning products, pet food, and more.
First Table
(Android and Apple)First Table gives you 50% off the food bill for groups of two to four people when you book the earliest seating for breakfast, lunch or dinner at participating restaurants across Australia. That way, restaurants fill seats during their quieter times and you save on dining out.