We all know the popular Apple slogan “there’s an app for that,” and probably acknowledge that this is true, considering the thousands of new apps appearing all the time. But, no one wants or needs every program they come up with, but there are a few essential programs that will astound you with how much they improve your quality of life. More than just something that lets you incorporate bizarre emoticons into your text conversations or replicates the obnoxious sound of the World Cup’s vuvuzelas, these are apps that you can use every day to save you time and hassle.Available for a low cost with almost every smart phone, the Zagat to Go app incorporates a GPS system to locate wherever you are and then help you find whatever it is your looking for. If you’re trying to find something to do you can look up nearby restaurants or hotels as well as cost and ratings of each one. In more pressing situations, such as if you’re lost, you can download maps and directions for wherever you need to go. With this app you have access to many of the features of a traditional GPS system but it’s portable and only a fraction of the cost.Everyone needs a rainy day app and WeatherBug fits that role like a glove. This free app will give you live local weather reports, weekly and hourly forecasts and extreme weather alerts. If you’re heading out of town, check the weather so you know how to pack. Looks like rain? Pull up your WeatherBug app and see if you’re really going to need that umbrella.Besides the fact that it’s extremely dangerous, recent laws are declaring texting while driving to be illegal. With Vlingo, you can dictate your texts or emails without ever having to punch a key. You can even have received messages read aloud to you. And this convenient, safety-focused app doesn’t cost you a penny.