Mishaal Rahman, a notable figure in the Android community, has shared insights into her favorite Android apps from 2025, highlighting a selection that has significantly impacted her smartphone experience. These applications, while some may not have launched this year, have left a lasting impression, transforming how users interact with their devices.
Octopi Launcher
The most promising foldable phone launcher on Android.
Octopi emerges as the standout launcher for Android devices, particularly in the realm of foldable smartphones. It allows users to design tailored layouts for various screen orientations, accommodating the unique demands of multi-screen devices. While it may not yet rival traditional launchers in polish, its innovative approach marks a significant step forward in mobile customization.
Nobook
Facebook is back and lighter than ever.
For those seeking a simplified social media experience, Nobook offers a refreshing alternative to the official Facebook app. By stripping away ads and extraneous features, it provides a streamlined interface that retains essential functionalities, making it an ideal choice for users who wish to stay connected without the clutter.
Banana Browser
Ditch dedicated video apps and use this browser instead.
Banana Browser stands out not only as a capable alternative to Chrome but also for its exceptional video handling capabilities. Its built-in player allows seamless media control across platforms like TikTok and YouTube, complemented by ad-blocking features that enhance the viewing experience.
NotebookLM
The most impactful Google product I’ve used in years.
Initially met with skepticism, NotebookLM has evolved into a vital tool for users. Serving as a digital manual and note-taking app, it facilitates easy access to information and allows users to document specific issues for future reference, proving invaluable for those who prioritize organization.
OSS Document Scanner
An excellent open-source PDF scanner for Android.
As a reliable replacement for retired PDF scanner apps, OSS Document Scanner combines functionality with a user-friendly interface. Its features, including automatic capture and OCR support, make it a practical choice for mobile scanning needs, ensuring high-quality results without compromising on ease of use.
whoBIRD
The easiest way to discover birdlife in real-time.
For nature enthusiasts, whoBIRD offers a unique way to identify birds by their calls, utilizing real-time audio sampling to compare with a comprehensive database. While it may not always be precise, it serves as an engaging tool for both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers.
Tomato
A cornerstone of my daily productivity workflow.
Tomato has proven to be an essential part of many users’ productivity routines. Its minimalist design, inspired by Material 3, emphasizes focus and rest periods, making it an effective Pomodoro timer that seamlessly integrates into daily workflows.
Stellarium
My favorite app discovery of 2025 (thanks, readers!).
Recommended by a community member, Stellarium has captivated users with its stunning interface for exploring celestial bodies. It provides detailed information about stars and planets, making it an educational tool for both novice stargazers and astronomy aficionados.
Google Journal
A simple, on-device journal that encourages content creation.
Google Journal, initially exclusive to Pixel devices, has garnered attention for its straightforward approach to journaling. By storing entries locally and allowing multimedia integration, it serves as an excellent travel log and personal diary for users seeking to document their experiences.
Next Player
My favorite straightforward video player, with no frills and no fuss.
Next Player excels as a no-nonsense video player, supporting various formats and offering a clean interface. Its organizational features make it an ideal choice for users who prefer a simple yet effective way to manage their media library.
Weather Master
The best new Android weather app I’ve used in 2025.
Weather Master impresses with its user-friendly design and customizable data sources. It provides concise weather summaries, allowing users to quickly grasp essential information without sifting through excessive details.
Perplexity Comet
Finally, an AI browser that fits into my workflow.
Perplexity Comet has emerged as a valuable tool for accessing news and information. By integrating AI capabilities into a browser format, it enhances the user experience, making it easier to stay informed about local and global events.
LocalSend
A quick, private way to share files across devices on your network.
LocalSend simplifies file sharing between devices on the same network, providing a secure and efficient method for transferring data. Its compatibility with various platforms enhances its utility in diverse digital environments.
Super Display
The best way to turn any Android screen into a second laptop display.
Super Display transforms any Android device into a secondary monitor, enhancing productivity for users with multiple screens. Its seamless connectivity makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to expand their workspace.
URLCheck
The Android link safeguard and manager I can’t live without.
URLCheck serves as a crucial intermediary for managing links on Android devices. By scanning for security threats and allowing users to choose their preferred apps for opening links, it provides a layer of control and safety in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.
Samsung Food
My favorite Android food app of 2025.
Samsung Food stands out as a comprehensive resource for recipe management. Its intuitive features enable users to curate their digital cookbooks, making meal planning and execution a creative and enjoyable experience.
DeepSeek
An alternative AI chatbot that offers incredible versatility.
DeepSeek has emerged as a formidable competitor in the AI chatbot space, offering free access to powerful models. Its offline capabilities and user-friendly design make it an appealing option for those seeking versatile AI solutions.
Androidify
Turn yourself into an Android.
Relaunched with a fresh design, Androidify allows users to create personalized avatars, adding a playful touch to the Android experience. This app not only fosters creativity but also enables users to customize their devices with unique wallpapers and watch faces.
This collection of apps reflects the dynamic landscape of Android in 2025, showcasing innovations that cater to diverse user needs and preferences. As the community continues to evolve, these applications stand as testaments to the creativity and functionality that define the Android ecosystem.
