The great thing about modern devices such as Apple iPads and ultrabooks from Lenovo is that they’re compatible with a wide range of applications. There seems to be no limit to the amount of technology enhanced fun you can have these days, so here are ten of the best apps for 2014.

Pulse

If you want to keep up with all the latest news 2014 has to bring, Pulse is the app for you. Compatible with Android and iOS devices it pulls all your favourite feeds into an attractive grid and saves you from trawling the web. Perfect.

Snapchat

Don’t have it already? Then download Snapchat onto your iPhone for hours of light-hearted fun. With this app, you can make the most of random or funny moments by taking a picture, adding a caption and sending it onto your friend.

Evernote

Available across multiple platforms including the Windows phone, Evernote allows you to take notes as you go and edit them at a later date on any device including iPads and laptops. Good ideas often pop into your brain when you least expect them and now you can remember them all!

Violet Storm

If you enjoy killing time with a decent game, get your hands on Violet Storm, one of the best Windows 8 apps around. With several versions available including a free Lite version and a Pro edition, you can blast your way through a funky solar system destroying enemies along the way.

4oD

Also compatible with Windows 8, 4oD is ideal for anyone who wants to catch up on all the latest TV shows from Channel 4. Content is uploaded very promptly and despite having to endure a few adverts you can enjoy all your favourite programs via the handy full-screen mode.

Quickoffice Pro

You might prefer using Microsoft Office on your laptop to write essays, produce spreadsheets or create a presentation but what if you want to edit your work on the go? Well, with Quickoffice Pro, you can make numerous changes via your Android or iOS device, which is, of course, super convenient.

Netflix

Whether you love to settle down with a good film or enjoy nothing better than a box set, Netflix is the app for you. Compatible with Android and iOS devices as well as the Windows phone, it’s one of the most popular streaming services on the Internet and gives you access to an extensive library of movies and TV shows including comedies and documentaries.

Spotify

Sometimes a good tune can lift your mood and make your day, which is where Spotify comes in. Thanks to an impressive library of songs, you can find your favourite hits in no time and create your very own playlists on your smart device – ideal for that boring bus journey home or a dance around your living room.

Bing Translator

With the ability to translate over 40 languages including Spanish, French and German, Windows 8’s Bing Translator is an ideal communication tool. Not only will it allow you to talk to others more fluently but it can also help you out if you come across a foreign sign or a document you can’t understand.

TheTrainLine

If you travel by train on a regular basis, this handy Android app could be right up your street. It allows you to see exactly when and where trains leave from and will pop up all the different stops along the way – pretty handy if you’re running late or are heading somewhere new. 

So there you have it, ten must-have apps for the year ahead. What are you waiting for?