In today's digital age, we're all used to carrying around one device that has multiple functions and features. Smartphones, with their host of built-in features and available apps, offer you the ability to do pretty much anything you can dream up. In fact, it's probably easier to list what a mobile phone can't do than what it can! But that wouldn't make for as interesting or educational reading, so here are some of my favorite surprising uses for your smartphone:
1. PC/Mac Webcam You can use your phone in conjunction with messaging applications (Skype, Google+, Yahoo, Windows Live Messenger, AIM, etc.) and Wi-Fi for video chatting. Applications to download: Mobiola WebCamera by Shape (free) is available for the iPad and iPhone, Blackberry, Windows Mobile or Symbian smartphones.
2. Scanner Whether you want to scan a receipt for tax purposes, a business card for work, a barcode for a price check, or a check to be deposited, there are a host of scanning apps that will let you get rid of your bulky faxing/scanning combo from the late '90s. It's best to figure out what you'll be scanning and then and download a function-specific app. If you don't want to download an app, you can snap a photo and store it on your phone or computer to use later (for example, take a snapshot of a recipe card). Applications to download: TurboScan ($1.99) lets you scan and send multi-page documents and WorldCard Mobile or CardScan (both $6.99) let you scan and sync business cards
