OpenRoad Driver Volume 11 Issue 1 | Page 86

86 » OpenRoad Driver » TECH Top 5 Driving Apps by Mikie Basi Today’s technology has enabled us to integrate our smartphones with our driving machines. What’s more is that many apps are being introduced every day to help drivers stay better informed for a stress-free drive. With nearly a million apps available on both the Apple and Android app stores, we’ve compiled a list of our top 5 and favourite driving companion apps to enhance your experience on the road. Please remember to drive safely: apps are meant to be used hands-free or before you start your vehicle. CARCAMAPP CarCamApp turns your iPhone into an advanced in-dash camera. With a simple design and easy-to-use interface, the app offers a wide range of features that turns video recording into a seamless process. CarCamApp gives you the ability to control your camera via voice commands, meaning you can simply say the word “Record” or “Take Picture” to activate video recording or capture a photo while hands-free. Videos can be embedded with a timestamp, date and your GPS location. A time-lapse video option is available for users who have limited storage space in their phones or simply don’t feel the need to record every second on the road. This option allows you to only record a set duration of time on loop. If an accident occurs, you can stop the recording, and the app saves only the minutes recorded prior to the incident. Although the app is free, users are required to invest in a durable phone mount. We recommend a sturdy and versatile mount that offers landscape rotation and, most importantly, does not block the camera. We had great success with the Satechi CR-3600, which costs less than $30 on Amazon and fits nearly any smartphone. COST: Free CarCamApp.com