Top 10 Android app updates this week: Google Search, Nest, Groupon, PushBullet

 

 

Welcome back to our weekly Top 10 Android App Updates column, where we take a look at the most upgraded apps for the week. I’ve found that one of the best ways to discover useful apps is to look at what people are actually updating, not focus on which apps have the most installs. As in the past, we’re going to filter out minor updates for the super popular apps that have over 10 million installs, but I’m going to make an exception for apps that had significant updates. I hope you enjoy this weekly feature and discover some apps that you might find useful.

Adobe Reader – Version 11.1

What is the app? This is a great app to open .pdf documents.
What’s new in this version:

• Buy Adobe PDF Pack and Adobe ExportPDF services from within Adobe Reader.
• Convert documents and images to PDF using Adobe PDF Pack.
• Export PDF files to Word or Excel using Adobe ExportPDF.
• New and improved Text Search using snippet views.
• Online help to learn more about Adobe Reader.
• New, modern File Browser UI experience.

PushBullet – Version 12.1

What is the app? PushBullet lets you send push notifications to yourself and friends.
What’s new in this version:

• Can now select or unselect all apps from the notification mirroring settings.
• Pushbullet can now show you all of your phone’s notifications right on your computer, the second they show up!
• This means you’ll know instantly why your phone just buzzed without having to go grab it or take it out of your pocket.

Google Search – Version 3.1.8.9

What is the app? The name gives it away.
What’s new in this version:

• New hotword: “Ok Google” (US only).
• More beautiful search results (rolling out gradually).
• Tell Google to keep you updated about notable people when you search for them.

 MapQuest: Maps, GPS & Traffic – Version 2

What is the app? Mapquest is another navigation app for your device.
What’s new in this version:

• Beautifully re-designed for Android.
• Traffic conditions on route – Your route turns red (heavy) or yellow (some brake lights) to keep you informed of live traffic conditions.
• Exquisite, eye-catching map styling.
• Custom home/work bookmarking.
• Road alerts.
• Location sharing.

Viber – Version 4.0.0.1707

What is the app? Viber is a proprietary cross-platform instant messaging VOIP  app.
What’s new in this version:

• TABLET support!
• Over 1000 new stickers from the Sticker Market.
• Hold & Talk – instant voice messages. Your friend will hear you as you speak!
• Select conversation backgrounds from the background gallery.
• Up to 100 participants in group conversations.

Facebook Messenger – Version 3.1.1

What is the app? This app allows you to chat with your friends on Facebook.
What’s new in this version:

• A completely new design and custom sounds. Not just for Facebook friends: Now you can message people in your phone book. And it’s easy to add new contacts—just enter a phone number.

Nest – Version 4.0.0.248

What is the app? The companion app for the Next Learning Thermostat
What’s new in this version:

• Redesigned from the ground up including full landscape-portrait modes and beautiful, animated weather.
• Nest Protect support and setup.
• Results of Nest Protect manual and self tests.
• Messages and push notifications for important events, like Emergency Alarm, and low battery levels.
• Directly contact emergency services in the case of a smoke and carbon monoxide event.
• “What to Do” instructions during a smoke and carbon monoxide event.

Chrome Browser – Google - Version 31.0

What is the app? Only the best browser out there!
What’s new in this version:

• Print from Chrome on Android KitKat devices.
• Stability and security updates.

UE Boom – Version 2.0.40

What is the app?  The companion app for the 360 degrees wireless speaker.
What’s new in this version:

• Alarm feature.
• Expanded EQ settings.
• Updated design.

Groupon – Daily Deals, Coupons - Version 2.9.3106

What is the app? Groupon provides daily deals for discounted goods and services with many local and national companies
What’s new in this version:

• Support for Gift Shop and Gift Finder International so you can find and buy your favorite Groupons for your loved ones.
• Automatically refresh deals based on your current location.
• Notifications for Japanese users.
• Various performance improvements and enhancements.