My Top iPhone Apps 2025: Mid-Year Edition
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The year is flying by and it’s time to take stock and review the apps that are currently in use.
Some things have changed, but on the whole, I’ve been remarkably consistent with my workflow and systems.
It’s funny, but as I worked through my apps, I feel I’ve really matured into the use of some of them.
So, here goes the list of apps that I am using on my iPhone 16.
Browser
I’ve was an Arc user for a few years but since they no longer support it, in favour of another browser, I have switched to two different browsers.
- Vivaldi, which I use on my MacBook
- Quiche Browser on my mobile and iPad. I really enjoy this. It's lightweight and simple. No bells and whistles. It's worth taking a look at.
Once a fan of Spark Mail, I’ve been relatively happy with Apple Mail.
It’s quite basic, but it does what I need.
The new Apple Intelligence features haven’t swept me off my feet, but it’s early days. I’m not sure about the auto-categorisation of emails. I can see what they’re trying to achieve, but it annoys me when there’s a small dot over one of the categories but I can’t find an unread email!
It’s the little things!
Messaging
I use both WhatsApp and iMessage, depending on who or what it’s for.
I have a number of WhatsApp groups to support the Scout group, but for personal messages it’s iMessage.
Calendar
Once a huge supporter of Fantastical, I don’t need that level of features and functionality, so now I use Apple Calendar.
It does what it says and with the inclusion of Apple Reminders (if you so desire) it’s a much rounded product.
Note-taking
I tried Apple Notes but decided this didn’t do it for me.
To be honest, it was the folder structure that did it. I found it too restrictive… even though I could create Smart Folders with tags, this seemed like too much effort.
I now use Bear… it’s delightful. The design is well thought out, it’s easy to use and the tag organisation structure is right up my street. I love it.
Reminders
I let my subscription to Todoist lapse and I’ve tried TickTick.
However, I don’t need all the features in either of them, and Apple Reminders is perfect for me.
I love the Smart Lists and Templates, which I use all the time. It’s just simple.
One thing though; I don’t like the font used. It feels quite immature!
Podcasts
I love Pocket Casts. I’ve been a user for years and it’s perfect for my needs.
It’s packed with unique features like bookmarks, folders, and more that you won’t find anywhere else.
Try it with a two-month guest pass
Day One
Journaling never felt so good.
I did look at Apple’s Journal when it first came out, but it wasn’t that robust. I admit, I should probably look again, but in the meantime, my thoughts all live in Day One.
Password Manager
I also looked at Apple Passwords, but that is so basic as to not be worth it.
Maybe if they include the ability to have secure notes, with attachments/photos, then it might be worth another look.
In the meantime, I’m with 1Password. It’s been a solid app, I’ve not experienced any issues, so that’s where I’ll stay.
Photos
When iOS18 first went into beta there was a small uproar about the changes Apple had made to photos. You have to credit them – they listened and reverted back again.
Weather
Once a user of CARROT^, in a drive to reduce subscriptions, I started to use Apple’s on Weather app. It seems to do the trick!
I mean, it’s the weather!
Music
Again, not wishing to increase subscription costs with Spotify, and since I have an Apple One subscription for the family, it makes sense to use their Music app.
It’s good. Does what it says on the tin and that’s fine with me.
GoToSocial / Mastodon (Ivory)
I am not a big user of social media, having left X many years ago, I don’t use Facebook and rarely look at Instagram. I do have an account on TikTok and Snapchat; but I tend to leave those to the kids!
I do enjoy Mastodon and whilst I’m not a prolific poster, it’s a very solid experience.
I set up my own instance of GoToSocial, which is highly compatible with Mastodon, so I get everything I need.
I did look at Bluesky, but that interest didn't last too long. I’ll keep my eyes on it, and see how it goes.
YouTube
Is this social media? I do visit this daily, either for the shorts, which I find quite amusing, but also for other videos too.
It’s an escape. Nothing more.
Kindle
I own a Kindle and use it daily, but at times when I don’t have the actual device I use the app on my phone. Everything is kept in sync, for the next time I pick up the device and it means I can read whenever I want.
There you go… what do you think? Similar thoughts?
Are there any apps I’ve missed, or should take a look at?
Updated from a story originally published on Medium