Did you make the switch to Windows Phone 8? Here are some “must have” apps

Microsoft has a steep hill to climb with its new operating system just to grab a noticeable portion of the market share. While the Windows Phone Store is brimming with applications, we can agree that apps are lacking in some areas, yet also excelling in others.

As with any smartphone, there are simply some good quality, free or low cost applications that many would regard as a “must have” on their device. Windows Phone is not lacking so terribly in many popular applications. Some of you may not know these applications are even available for Windows Phone.

By all means, this is not a complete list, but it is a great way to start, and with the other integrated features of Windows Phone these will give you time to find a worthwhile collection of decent apps from a fairly impressive catalog to choose from.  Many of the apps ad-supported and thus free of charge.  Of those, quite a few offer upgrades to ad-free versions.  Costs for apps start typically at $0.99 and go up from there.  You can check all these apps and more at the Windows Phone web-site.

Some "must have" apps for your new Windows Phone

1. SkyDrive

Part of the Windows Phone experience is taking advantage of 7GB of free cloud storage in SkyDrive.  While the MS Office and OneNote apps on the device offer access to your SkyDrive content, and the photo-hub does the same for your pictures, this app streamlines access in an even better and intuitive way.  Version 3.0 was just released and allows you to fully manage files (move, delete, rename, create).  This should be the first app you download.

2. Microsoft PDF Reader

This robust application quickly opens PDF files and offers integrated search for text functionality.  The app provides alternate views and will save the spot where you were reading should you have to leave the app.

3. GroupMe

GroupMe just underwent a big update for iOS (version 4.0).  And a similar update is underway for Windows Phone.  Expect this app to gain a lot more traction within the ecosystem since it is owned by Skype (who is now part of Microsoft).

4. WhatsApp

So, maybe you finally left BlackBerry and the stellar BBM behind, or you tore yourself away from iOS and want another way other than texting to stay in touch with friends.  Or, you were using it and want to keep on using it.  Well, you can.

5. Slacker Radio

Even in its free mode, despite the advertisements, the mix of music and selection is pretty good.  It also plays in the background so you can do other stuff on your Windows Phone while listening to music.

6. Evernote

With OneNote baked in, and SkyDrive access, one might ask why this is a must-have.  It is so popular across so many platforms with its own cloud back-up that it only makes sense to let you know that you can use the app on Windows Phone too.  It features the familiar social integration and you can pin templates as tiles to your home screen.

7. Netflix

Even if you don't have an account, you can try it for a month for free.  The app was just updated and supports closed-captioning.

8. Angry Birds Star Wars

The newest installment of Angry Birds is a hit and the game play is engaging.  You'll want something to distract you for a little while, here's your ticket.

9. Skype

It is not yet available, but when it is, you will want to jump on it fast.  It fully integrates into Windows Phone 8 and does not need to be running in order to receive calls or messages.  While you are on a call, you will be able to read and respond to messages within the app.