COLUMN: Skeptical of iPhone

I had my Samsung first generation Black Jack for over four years; it was such a great phone that I hated to part with. However, it finally started to whither and die. I was forced to lay it to rest. I then looked for a replacement.

Now that I have had my iPhone since February, I must say that I have succumbed to the awe and power of this little device. Not only does it have the same features of a standard cell phone, it has a very user-friendly interface and web browser.

Many people have heard of the iPhone and some of its slick features. Apple has just released the iPhone 4g, and they will be releasing software updates for the iPhone 3gS this June. I’m looking forward to this software update, and when it is released I will write a full review. However, let’s discuss some of the apps you can download to the iPhone.

In my wildest dreams, I never thought you could have a flashlight on your phone or even a dictionary. As you browse the Apple App Store which is part of the iTunes Store, you will discover there is virtually an app for everything.

I explored some of the most bizarre apps I could find, and I have found them most enjoyable when you need something to keep you busy.

Do you have anger management issues? If so, I have the perfect app for you! It’s called Anger Coach and it is quite interesting. By entering biological information and answering questions about your stress levels, it shows you the areas that affect you most and how to reduce your anger. No matter what age or anger/stress level, this app is perfect everyone.

Who likes the Saw movies? Now who has tried to imitate Jigsaw’s voice? Well now you can! The app called Saw VI records your voice, and with a touch of editing transforms it to sound like Jigsaw! It’s fun for everyone, even the ones like me who aren’t fans of the movies. Have fun at parties saying random phrases. Can you imagine Jigsaw imitating Spongebob? Simply record Spongebob from TV and transform him into Jigsaw in this app. The possibilities are endless!

Ever wondered what laws other states have? Well, there is an app for that too. Weird Laws, a free app, lists all 50 states to choose from. Just scroll through and click on the flag to start reading some of the most bizarre laws you will ever hear! Did you know in South Dakota it is illegal to fall asleep in a cheese factory? In Tennessee, it’s illegal to use a lasso to catch a fish, and in Alabama you can not chain your alligator to a fire hydrant. This app doesn’t explain how these laws originated; we can guess some one did something stupid and pressed a law suit. But all that doesn’t matter. If you’re sitting in a waiting room, just whip this app out and let the laughs begin!

Are you afraid that there are werewolves in your area? The Werewolf Locator is a free app that you can use to scan your area for werewolves. It only works on the night of the full moon. You don’t get much use out of it, except one, maybe two nights a month, but it will certainly save your life. I once found four werewolves in my area! Time to start stocking up in the silver bullets, Winder, because werewolves are among us.

Have a hard time keeping up with a mood ring? You’re in luck! You can download Mood Sense, which scans your finger print and tells you your mood. Who knew you could have a virtual mood ring? It uses cute cartoon animals to tell you how you are feeling as well as bright colors. To me, it seems like a great app for kids. It’s appropriate content and use of graphics make it desirable for any age. Children will have fun pressing their finger to the screen and seeing it be scanned. Anyone who has little ones and an iPhone, this app is a wonderful entertainer.

These apps not strange enough for you? I found an app to top the charts. I’ll admit, I love zombies and zombie movies…anything zombie really. I went to the app store and did a search for “zombie,” and one of the apps that came up just blew me away. Zombie Pickup Lines, an app that, well, the title says it all. If you were a zombie and wanted to pick up a zombie mate, this app would be your guide. “Well, here’s my tasty body and my succulent brain. What was your other wish?” “Did it hurt when you fell from heaven or was it when I ate your brains?” “You know that Cranberries song is about me.” Those are just some of the many pickup lines a zombie can use. Warning: some content is graphic and not appropriate for children. I would not suggest this app to anyone under the age of 16.

There are many more apps that I could discuss. Some are more practical and for everyday use. Others are just for entertainment purposes. However, these are some of the more bizarre ones I have stumbled upon. I guess the commercials are right. When it comes to anything and everything, “There’s an app for that!”

Jessica Brown is the photographer for the Barrow Journal. You can reach her at jessica@picsbyjessica.com.