Top iPhone apps that you cannot live without

Apple unveiled details of its operating system (OS) 4 software upgrade for iPhone in California on April 8. According to the Guardian, the upgrade will enable iPhone users to run multiple programmes on the handset much more easily, while its user interface will also be significantly improved. It may feature a higher resolution display at 960 x 640 pixels for a better viewing experience, and a global inbox that integrates emails from various accounts.

The launch of a new OS for iPhone is expected to prompt more applications development and draw more followers.

"A lot of people are crying out to be able to run more than one app at once," said Tom Dunmore of Stuff magazine. "However, Apple have to be very clever in the way they do it, so battery life isn't affected."

The range of iPhone applications being sold is becoming increasingly diverse and creative, including a vast array of online games, music, fashion, travel and lifestyle experience. Examples include:

• Park-up.com: as reported by The Telegraph . Park-Up.com has now launched an iPhone application that will help users find out the costs and availability of parking space in London (to be expanded to other major cities in the UK, such as Brighton, Bristol, Sheffield, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Birmingham later this year);
• MedAnywhere: Mobiletor.com reveals the latest medical application for iPhone users, designed to connect patients and doctors worldwide to facilitate more immediate diagnosis and treatment. Developed by Healthcare Solutions Inc., the application is expected to be rolled out for sale soon;
• Nikon's Learn and Explore : this is a new application that offers users a masterclass on the go with video lectures, audio commentaries and useful tips on how to capture better images with your digital camera. This is a handy tool for those who simply want some advice when taking everyday pictures or travel photos, or for those who would like to check that they have got the right settings and menu options to capture a special occasion.
• EyeTV: the updated applio enjoy and record their favourite TV programmes regardless of where they are, giving them the option to record scheduled programmes, and even offers streaming of live TV programmes. No configuration is needed on a local Wi-Fi network, and Wi-Fi users connected to a remote Mac can make use of My Eye TV locator utility, which can be downloaded for free.
• My Fitness Instructor: a real-time fitness and health application by British Military Fitness, this application offers workout sessions under the guidance of a virtual coach. Some people are keen to do some exercises but cannot afford a gym membership or are intimidated by the idea of one-to-one coaching sessions, and this application featuring 5 million workout combinations can customise fitness training to suit your specific needs. The portability of the iPhone means that these workouts can be done anytime and anywhere as you please. Moreover, you can also track your progress and heart rate over a period of time.
• KamAlert 1.01: according to PR Web, this new application converts the handset into a mobile surveillance camera to promote personal safety. If an intruder is detected, the mobile detector in the device will take photos of the intruder, which can be used as evidence to hunt down the intruder. Moreover, it can also be used to locate users via the GPS and to send help signals during emergencies.
• eBay: the application re-engineered to suit iPad and iPhone users will allow shoppers to view and buy merchandise as shown on the website. The list of goods will be displayed in a scroll-along layout, to minimise the steps needed to navigate the application. Moreover, the shopping cart will be shown as a pop-up window so that it will not affect the overall view-and-buy process. There is also a horizontal bar menu to allow the user to define and narrow down the prices when searching for goods. Altogether, it will offer a highly accessible platform for e-commerce.
• Financier: the application can help you track your spending and manage your bank accounts, so that you will never overspend again. This is especially helpful for freelance professionals or business users who need to manage several bank accounts and frequent money transactions.

Noting iPhone's strong portability and highly personalised contents, it will be a great pity if the user were to lose his or her handset. Moreover, it is highly unlikely for an iPhone user to switch to a non-iPhone handset after the sophisticated data and multimedia experience. Therefore, iPhone insurance can be quite useful in safeguarding the device. Protectyourbubble offers a worldwide iPhone insurance policy at just £7.99 a month, with guaranteed replacement of the gadget within 48 hours, making the iPhone experience more seamless and reliable than ever.

As with most insurance policies, exclusions and limitations apply. Please refer to the full terms and conditions to understand what is and what is not covered under the iPhone protection policy  from Protectyourbubble.