Smart phones, such as iPhones and Android devices, are becoming indispensible business tools. Applications, or "APPS" which either come with your device or are downloaded later, make these devices even more valuable for the business person. Some apps are free, others have a cost associated with either purchase or monthly fees.

Most of us have probably downloaded those games so we have something to do while waiting for so many things, but here are a few kinds of apps you might want to consider for more business efficiency. We are not recommending any of these, and are not listing them by name;  and we insist that you do your own research to see what will suit you and your device. Have some fun searching through the business possibilities.

• Bar Code and Document Scanners:  Using your camera function, these apps can identify from the bar code of a product which product it is, compare prices and tell you where to find it. Some have document scanners allowing you to take a picture of a page and convert to a .pdf or other format
• Stock index trackers: these may include the ability to enter your own portfolio and track changes during the day.
• Quotes:  Get some inspiration
• Printing:  Using wi-fi adapted printers, you may be able to print directly from your phone or device.
• News sources:  Most of the big newspapers, news cable shows, and other sources of information have a feed for mobile use.
• GPS:  Traveling in a different city or area? GPS services help you get around. Many of these find restaurants, gas stations and other places you are looking for, and may link you to their websites so you can order your meal or make a reservation on the go.
• Browsers: Search for the information you want right away, you do not have to be in your office.
• Video phone and conferencing: Two major services allow you to keep in touch visually. Some require camera's on both sides of the phone.
• Music:  For business?, Well you might need something soothing after a particulary contentious meeting. Nature sounds, rain, oceans, all of these are available.
• Education:  Want to learn something while you are waiting in line or in the airport? Languages, math, taxes, some college courses are available on apps.
• Flight informaiton: almost all of the airlines have special apps designed to track their flights so you know when to be there, or when to plan to pick someone up.
• Utilities: Save power on your battery, write your texts and emails with the swoop of your finger, talk your messages into the device
• Office products: Spreadsheets, worksheets, letters, photo and video presentations can all be prepared using apps.

And for those rare moments you have for enjoyment, there are the social networking apps, the games, the educational games you will play with your children and grandchildren and a whole world of new things to discover. Don't be left out of experiences you will enjoy just because you think it will be a little harder to learn.

Apps can be purchased from various sources, and these markets are usually built right into the devices. Read the reviews, see if it is what you are looking for and have some fun.