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We've been an all-Mac family since 1985. It only makes sense that we are also an iPhone and iPad family. My iPhone has become my micro-computer to keep my important data with me wherever I go, and the iPad, in turn, my mini-computer. I always have one or both with me and I have (according to Sam) a mind-boggling number of apps downloaded to each.<a
Given my primary function as family chauffeur, however, they aren't always accessible. Driving and texting (or driving and surfing, or driving and reading) don't mix. But there's a new iPhone app available that may be helpful.
Evie is a voice-enabled app that can help you keep up with phone-related things, hands free. You can call someone in your contact list by saying, “Call Sam on his cell phone.” You can play something on your playlist by saying, “Play ‘100 Years.'” You can even listen to your FaceBook feeds—as if you really need to spend your travel time stalking your friends!
Perhaps the best feature of all is the “point of interest” finder. If you're driving around and need to get somewhere, just tell your iPhone. Just calle out, “Find Sweet Tomatoes in Salt Lake City,” and you can either call them (hands free, of course) or get directions there. Tank running low? Ask for the nearest gas station. I can't tell you how many times I've pulled over to pull up the maps app to find a location.
Does this sound like something you could use? Download it free and give it a try next time you're on the road…or in the hot tub.
What are your favorite free mobile apps?
Alison Moore Smith is a 61-year-old entrepreneur who graduated from BYU in 1987. She has been (very happily) married to Samuel M. Smith for 40 years. They are parents of six incredible children and grandparents to two astounding grandsons. She is the author of The 7 Success Habits of Homeschoolers.
I could really use that when I’m driving the kids everywhere every day. Thanks for the info.
This app does sound exciting but what about the difference in voices? I mean it’s impossible to record all possible words and phrases that I may need. Does this app recognize all words and commands? If it does, I have already fallen in love with it!
I haven’t tested Evie out yet (I tried, but had an iTunes password issue), but generally speaking voice recognition is a trained behavior. For example, you might put it into “learn” or “record” mode, then select the desired action, then record the corresponding voice command. Basically you train your own phone that when you say X it will do Y.
I’ve had voice activation before (first time was over a decade ago) and it would work with me, but not my husband (on my phone). Some of my daughters who have similar voices could get it to work though.
I don’t know how I didn’t hear about this app! Sounds great and easier since my fingers never seem to hit the right buttons. Do you know if the app is still free?