GetJar, the world’s most popular destination for downloading mobile applications, has announced the third annual GetJar Mobile Awards: Google Maps, Opera Mini, scanR, Twitter and Strands Social Player are this year’s stars.
Browsing the Web, getting directions, connecting with friends, and even copying and faxing — all this can now be accomplished on a basic mobile phone. GetJar offers 10,000 unique applications for hundreds of handsets, and sees visitors from 140 countries, making these awards an interesting snapshot of how consumers are extending the functionality of their mobile phones. This year’s winners highlight the growing trend of mobile phone applications becoming an integral part of consumers’ daily lives.
The five winners of the 2008 GetJar Mobile Awards:
1. Product of the Year — Google Maps for Mobile
http://www.getjar.com/products/15897/GoogleMapsformobile
Google Maps for mobile is a free, downloadable application that puts maps, driving directions, business listings, and much more in your pocket. And with the My Location feature, find your location with or without GPS. Available for BlackBerry, Java (J2ME), Pocket PC, Symbian.
2. Best Consumer App: Opera Mini
http://www.getjar.com/products/18205/OperaMini
Opera Mini is a fast Web browser that allows you to access the full Internet on your phone. It lets you take all your favorite Web sites with you, and download images and MP3s when you’re on the go. Available for BlackBerry, Java (J2ME), Palm, Pocket PC and nearly every other mobile platform.
3. Best Enterprise App: scanR
http://www.getjar.com/products/6744/scanRScanCopyandFax
scanR turns your camera phone into a scanner, copier and fax. In the office, on the road, or at home—wherever you are—you can make digital copies using your mobile phone’s camera. Available for: BlackBerry, Java (J2ME), Palm, Symbian.
4. Best Mobile Web Application: Twitter
http://www.getjar.com/products/16670/Twitter
This category recognizes a special class of application – one that runs on the web and is access from the phone. Twitter, the free social messaging utility, is now also on your mobile, so you can follow your friends’ Tweets and tweet back at them. Available for BlackBerry, Java (J2ME), Pocket PC, Symbian.
5. “Up and Coming” App of the Year: Strands Social Player
http://www.getjar.com/products/14884/StrandsSocialPlayer
Strands Social Player is a music player that works with MyStrands so you can discover new music, connect with people, and share your tastes with friends. The latest version supports scrobbling to Last.fm. Available for Java (J2ME) and Symbian.
For me personally it’s Google Maps all the way – a great fun AND productivity App rolled in to one – with Google doing what Google do best!
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