iPhone Applications

Google announced today it would be closing Bump and Flock on January 31, 2014. The search engine giant acquired both apps in 2012 and has decided to pull them from the App Store and Google Play. Bump CEO and co-founder David Lieb made the announcement via the official Bump blog on Wednesday.

Current Bump and Flock users have until January 31st to export their data from both apps.

"At any point in the next 30 days, simply open either app and and follow the instructions for exporting your data. You’ll then receive an email with a link containing all of your data (photos, videos, contacts, etc) from Bump or Flock."

Wireless telecommunications trade group CTIA - The Wireless Association has launched KnowMyApp.org, a website dedicated to measuring the data usage of mobile apps for both the iOS and Android operating systems. Their objective is to inform consumers and developers about various apps' data usage and efficiency before they are purchased and downloaded.

CTIA has partnered with Intertek Testing Services North America to provide this information, and currently offers data usage estimates on about 50 of the top paid and free apps in both the Apple and Google stores. Estimates are derived from information gathered by AT&T's Application Resource Optimizer (ARO) diagnostic

With Black Friday shopping right around the corner, Target has released a new version of their app optimized for iOS 7. The free Target app now features a clean new interface, including the iOS 7 swipe to go back gesture. While the shopping companion requires iOS 7 or later, the app can be installed on compatible iPhone, iPad or iPod touch units.

Build shopping lists, check for sales, and swipe to check off items once purchased. Opening the app in a Target store makes it possible to see current deals and trending products at that location. Cartwheel discounts can also be viewed, for those participating in the Target loyalty program. Target for iOS 7 will even add offers to your Cartwheel app.

Yelp users have already become accustomed to making reservations through OpenTable right on their iOS devices. The latest update expands this ability by adding SeatMe to the mix. Now restaurants, bars and lounges using this service are reservable directly from the Yelp application.

Version 7.3.1 of the Yelp app is free on iTunes and provides instant access to reviews and information about local businesses in your vicinity. Yelp acquired OpenTable competitor SeatMe in July, which is billed as a low-cost option targeted at establishments that still use paper reservation books. The addition of SeatMe will make Yelp even more convenient for those looking to grab a table in the app.

Apple has finally brought Find My Friends into the iOS 7 fold with a complete redesign. Say goodbye to the skeuomorphism that once adorned the free location sharing app with stitched leather and colored textures. In its place is a flat, simplified look that matches the rest of the clean iOS 7 interface.

Version 3.0 is compatible with iOS devices running iOS 7 and later. This means if your device is running an earlier version of iOS, the redesign will not apply. Other improvements are not listed under Find My Friends on iTunes, so it's possible the update is entirely cosmetic.