Free Apps

Facebook has begun rolling out its free voice call service to U.S. iPhone users. The free voice calling feature was originally tested in Canada, but now iPhone users in the U.S. with the Facebook Messenger app can also use the service.

To make a free voice call from the Facebook Messenger app, just tap the "i" icon in the top right hand corner while viewing a chat with the person you want to call. You will be taken to the "Contact Info" screen that now features the "Free Call" option. The calls can only be made over a Wi-Fi connection, so don't expect to use it while on the road.

The National Rifle Association has released an app for iOS devices called "NRA: Practice Range". The app description reads: "Meet NRA: Practice Range – the NRA’s new mobile nerve center, delivering one-touch access to the NRA network of news, laws, facts, knowledge, safety tips, educational materials and online resources." However, the included 3D shooting game and age rating of 4 and above has ruffled some feathers during a time when gun control is being heavily debated in the U.S.

The Target Practice game promises: "A 3D shooting game that instills safe and responsible ownership through fun challenges and realistic simulations. It strikes the right balance of gaming and safety education, allowing you to enjoy the most authentic experience possible."

It offers 9 firearms, 3 immersive shooting ranges, 3 distinct difficult levels and Game Center support.

Google has launched a new app for the iPhone that aims to make sharing videos on YouTube easier and faster. Once installed, users can set preferences for automatic color correction, video stabilization and location services. You can then use the app to record videos and automatically upload them to YouTube, Google+, Facebook and Twitter . The app also allows you to set privacy settings, edit your video and add free background music.

Two of my favorite features are the ability to upload videos while the app is minimized, and that the app forces users to hold their phone in a horizontal position, in an effort to eliminate the annoying Vertical Video Syndrome.

I don't enjoy games that require I wait 15-minutes to an hour to watch a plant grow, or to build a building. Thankfully there are no long periods of twiddling your thumbs in Double Fine Productions' Middle Manager of Justice building/strategy game. Actions only take a few seconds or minutes, and there is plenty to do to keep you busy.

Middle Manager puts you in charge of Justice Corp., a kind of superhero temp agency that has seen better days. You must recruit and train employees while rebuilding your headquarters and saving various cities. The goal of the game is to make well-rounded (Tip: Don't ignore training intelligence, it does come in handy) superheroes while supplying them with the best tools and work space to get the job done. The fun story lines, goofy characters and the ability to complete many actions quickly helps Middle Manager avoid being another snoozefest simulation-type game.

Striiv has launched a new wearable Play Smart Pedometer which works with the free Striiv iPhone fitness app. The Striiv Play Pedometer uses Bluetooth 4.0 to connect to your iDevice to help you easily keep track of your fitness activities wirelessly. Its built-in rechargeable Lithium ION battery allows for up to one week of usage on a single charge, and its nickel-plated clip fastens to any workout gear or clothes.

The Striiv Play plus app allows users to measure their activities like walking and running, play games and share their achievements with friends via Facebook and Twitter.