*Collaborative post.

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with technology these days, particularly with smartphones. The technology in our phones is amazing, and it has completely revolutionized how we live our lives. We are more connected than ever and have constant access to information. 

However, with such rapid advancements in such technology, the prices of phones have skyrocketed. It’s quite common for your brand new £1,000 phone to become old news within a few months.

Luckily, if you’re not a tech junkie or obsessed with having the latest and greatest smartphone, there are plenty of accessories and apps out there that can take your current phone to the next level. What’s more, many of these upgrades are either cheap or completely free. 

Here are six cheap smartphone accessories and apps that will give your smartphone a well-needed boost.

Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels.

A battery case

Unfortunately, one of the most common issues that smartphones face is battery life. Depending on charging habits and overall use, the extent of this problem can vary. 

However, there is a practical and cool solution to this – a battery case. This smartphone case comes with a built-in battery, giving you extra juice if you run out of charge. 

If your budget allows it, you can opt for a wireless charger, but the wired cheaper versions can be just as good.

Translating app

Travelling to non-English speaking countries will never be the same once you download a translating app, like Google Translate. These apps use your camera to translate language in real-time.

Clip-on camera lens

If you fancy yourself as an amateur photographer but can’t afford the high spec camera smartphones, a clip-on camera lens could be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. 

These lenses provide a variety of options like a fisheye lens, a microlens, and a wide-angle lens, giving more depth and angles to your photos and videos. Other features may include extended zoom, colour filters, and additional lenses. 

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels.

Tracking app

A lot of smartphones come equipped with tracking software that allows you to locate your phone if it’s stolen or misplaced. Alternatively, a host of free tracking apps can help protect your phone and information from theft. 

Some allow your phone to be accessed remotely, preventing thieves from using it if it’s stolen. Others give location and information data for potential scam calls and texts. Be sure to check out the best option for you.

Waterproof case

If you haven’t got the latest and greatest smartphone on the market, your phone isn’t likely to be waterproof. To keep up with the latest trend, invest in a waterproof case. It gives added protection to your phone and allows you to take photos and videos underwater. 

These cases are surprisingly affordable and are available for many phone models.

Document scanner

If you’re a student or someone who works in an office, you will undoubtedly marvel at the handiness of a document scanner app. Eliminating the need for a printer and scanner, you can use your camera to create a scanned PDF file that can be swiftly attached to an e-mail.