With an interface that lets you browse headlines quickly, customize your channels and read the news offline, SmartNews is an excellent free alternative to other popular news apps.

See at Waze

Waze Social GPS Maps & Traffic

For anyone looking for more reliable traffic data than Apple's and Google's stock maps applications, Waze is definitely worth a download.

See at Voxer

Voxer Walkie-Talkie

Voxer Walkie-Talkie is an excellent communications app with all the tools you need to get in touch quickly.

See at WhatsApp

WhatsApp Messenger

Though you only get a few extra useful features, WhatsApp Messenger is an excellent choice for sending free texts across platforms, even internationally.

See at Pocket

Pocket Android

Better than Instapaper and other competitors, Pocket is the app to beat when it comes to bookmarking and managing links.

See at EverNote Corp.

Evernote iOS

If you're looking for a note-taking app that syncs across all platforms -- or just an easy way to keep track of your digital odds and ends -- Evernote is a worthwhile download.