App news round-up 02 September

September always seems to bring with it a back to school feel, no matter how grown up you might be! With that said, we reckon some of you may now be settling back down to work in earnest as summer slowly winds down and autumn appears on the horizon. If you’re eager to get stuck into a new project, such as finally getting your business app design developed, we’re here this week with some inspiration for you. We’ve rounded up all of the latest developments in the app industry to give you some ideas for your own app design.

Airline founder outlines plans for innovative new app

Showing that it’s important to always think big and be prepared to pivot in these uncertain times, the founder of AirAsia has this week outlined plans for an innovative new app as the travel industry continues to struggle as a result of the pandemic.

Tony Fernandes has been looking at new ways to generate revenue with planes grounded and has hit upon a new app idea. He says the travel slump has allowed time to focus on the digital aspects of his business and he now wants to create an expansive new app which brings together travel, food delivery, digital payments, entertainment and shopping in one place.

FitBit unveils new ECG app

Fitness has been on everyone’s minds of late, making FitBit’s new launch very timely. The wearable tech has created a new watch which includes an electrocardiogram (ECG) app which wearers can use to measure their heart’s rhythm. The app is activated when the user places their fingers on the steel ring of the smartwatch and remains still for 30 seconds. Data from the app can then be downloaded to share with the individual’s doctor or other healthcare professionals.

Top paid and free apps

The top paid and free Apple App Store apps for the last week in August have just been unveiled. Topping the list of paid apps is Minecraft, despite the game having first been released over a decade ago in 2009. Number two on the paid list is also a game, Heads Up from Warner Bros. which was first created on the Ellen DeGeneres show.

On the free apps list, there are few surprises with the video conferencing app Zoom still the top download. YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Messenger and Snapchat are also within the top 10.