Sometimes, discovering a free app is like finding gold; other times, it’s more like finding a rock covered in gold paint. Case in point: While we really dig the free version of HoursTracker HD for iPad, the freebie of the iPhone version is severely hobbled — and not nearly as useful.
The app is a real boon for anyone who needs to count every minute worked in order to make a living. It has a simple, easy-to-use interface, a ton of flexibility and features like tags and filters to make our life easier. There’s even a location-aware feature that starts/stops jobs when you reach/exit a certain area — though that’ll cost you an extra buck. And while syncing up with the iPad’s HD version (unfortunately not on sale) is included, auto-backup is subscription only. If you don’t want to pay for that last one, don’t worry — you probably won’t miss it.
UPDATE: As the app’s developer, Carlos Ribas, correctly points out, syncing is actually not included — though he says it’s coming soon. Manual backup is included standard. There are also added benefits to the cloud subscription: web reporting, charting and data export.
When he was eight, Eli Milchman came home from frolicking in the Veld one day and was given an Atari 400. Since then, his fascination with technology has made him an intrepid early adopter of whatever charming new contraption crosses his path. He calls San Francisco home, where he works as a journalist and photographer. Eli has contributed to the pages of Wired.com and BIKE Magazine, among others. Hang with him on Twitter.
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