If you are using an Android phone, then you'll notice a plethora of Google's native apps, which many just ignore. However, most of its apps are actually well designed and work smoothly with Android. In fact, it is not unusual to ignore some of its best apps.

Google Search: Interestingly, it seems that most users still use Chrome to do a of their searching. The search app (AKA Google Now) is so much more than a search function. It pulls data (meetings, flights, package deliveries) from your Gmail, and even provides updates on topics based on websites you've visits or your location. Unfortunately, Google Now does not work too well for users outside the US. To get it to work, clear the data on your Google Play Services and uninstall all updates. Then clear data on the Search app. Finally, open Google Search and it should initialise Google Now.

Google Maps: Probably the handiest tool around. If you didn't like travelling with your parents when you were small, the chances that much of Colombo (and the rest of the country) remain a mystery to you, making you easy prey to tuk-tuk drivers everywhere. After Google Maps, however, the ability to go around anywhere in the city has improve immensely. Even in Colombo, the roads and transportation networks are well updates and while it may not feature traffic updates or public transportation features, Google Maps has revolutionised the way we travel.

Google Play Newsstand: Perhaps the most under-rated news app in all of Android. It is often ignored or avoided all together. Yet, it features some amazing content including the Verge, BBC, Reuters, and even the Colombo Telegraph. Great selection of news and inter-active content (videos work well too). Beware; however, this intuitive app can help you procrastinate in ways you couldn't imagine.

Google Keep: This simple app is great for taking pictures, notes or voice recording on the fly. It integrates well with Google Now and is easy access via Chrome (desktop/laptop). I love the widget too, which is easy to customise and navigate. By far, one of the more simpler and intuitive note taking apps on Android.

Chrome: This is a no-brainer. Chrome is best browser on Android as it is on desktops and laptops everywhere. The latest material design updates and the great data-compression features, provide an intuitive and trouble-free browsing experience.

By Navam Niles