BlackBerry App Roundup for April 3, 2015

Howdy CrackBerry nation! Hope you all are ready for the weekend. This week we not only saw pre-sales start for the BlackBerry Leap in select countries, which I'm sure you're all excited about, but the BBM Shop celebrated it's one year anniversary and BlackBerry shared some statistics on its usage over the last twelve months. Last, but certainly not least, what better way to enjoy the holiday weekend but with a ShopCrackBerry Easter Sale whereby all you have to do is enter in the coupon code and get 20% off your entire cart.

Now it's time to bring you this week's picks for all your passionate BlackBerry addicts out there. You can find each app and game I've rustled up for you by clicking through the gallery below. If your favorite did not make the cut this week, remember you can help by offering your suggestions at the end.

Noon by Fallen Tree Games

Going through the Amazon Appstore, I came across an interesting and quite frustrating game. It comes with a simple concept but slowly morphs into a test of nerves and reflexes. All you have to do is tap on the clock as it strikes noon. That is the entire game in a nutshell. However, one may think this is easy but when more clocks (and limited lives) appear on the screen it becomes quite challenging. This game is free to download for your device, however, BlackBerry Passport owners should note that they should adjust the screen size to the rectangular setting for the game to work properly.

How to install Noon from the Amazon Appstore

Text2Voice by FNBG

This native application takes a text-based string and converts it into speech in the form of an mp3. It supports several languages including Arabic, English, French, German, Indonesian, Norwegian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese. The conversion process is quite simple. All you have to do is type in the text on the appropriate line tap on the convert button and it is instantaneous. To listen, just tap on the play button. What you need to know, though, is that an internet connection (WiFi or mobile network) is required as conversions are made over the internet using Google translate and there is a limitation on the number of characters that can be entered in the field. However, if you are trying to learn a new language and need help with pronunciation I can see how this application will help. Text2Voice is free to download for BlackBerry 10, though not for those running OS 10.2.1.

Learn More / Download Text2Voice

Birdie Up by EntwicklerX

Commuting on the train to and from work there are times I just want to sit back and relax with a simple game to keep me occupied for the entire trip. The latest by EntwicklerX is one where you have to help a little birdie make his first flight attempt. All you have to do is tap to flap which means the faster you do the faster, and higher, he climbs. However, that doesn't mean there won't be obstacles in your way. You have to make sure that you don't bump into them on your way up. This game is free to download, though has ads, for all touch devices only. Please note that my device is currently running OS 10.3.1.

Learn More / Download Text2Voice

Sworkit Lite by Sworkit

Now that the weather is finally warming up it is time to finally dust off the running shoes and get back to the gym. Going through the Amazon Appstore I came across Sworkit, a personal training application that offers workouts to fit in with your schedule. It guides you through video exercises demonstrated by personal trainers, tracks your progress, allows you to target specific areas of your body or create random circuit training workouts, and lets you set your own time frame. If you're looking for some workouts to do at home and like having videos that show you how to do them, you can download this for free. There is also a Pro version available for $2.99 that removes the ads and includes additional preferences.

How to install Sworkit Lite or Sworkit Pro from the Amazon Appstore

My Piper by Next Web Generation

Going through the forums I came across this cute little game called My Piper. It is a virtual pet and construction game whereby you have to not only take care of the main character but rebuild his town as well. This includes feeding, washing, buying clothes, visiting friends, and earning coins to build various structures including homes and restaurants. My favorite part has to be the mini-games section with eight games based on a few popular ones (i.e. 2048) to entertain the little guy and yourself. The graphics are attractive and gameplay is smooth. While only available for non-Qwerty devices, you can download this treat for FREE.

Learn More / Download My Piper

What You Might Have Missed

A handful of QtHelex apps go on sale for Easter

Looking to pick up a few productivity apps? QtHelex, the developer behind such useful applications as ClipMan Clipboard Manager, Turbo Reader, and BlackBullet has put several of his offerings on sale for the Easter Holiday. Normally priced at $1.99, the selected applications are on sale until April 19th for $0.99. All you have to do is go to this link and click on the name of the application you wish to purchase.

Check out all applications by QtHelex in BlackBerry World

Until next week...

That's it for this week folks. For more apps and games, be sure to head on over to the CrackBerry Forums where you will find even more hidden gems to choose from whether it be for BlackBerry 10, BBOS or the BlackBerry PlayBook. Of course, you can always find the latest and greatest top editor's picks in the CrackBerry App Gallery. Are there any apps or games you would like to see? Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments.