The two app stores from Google and Apple, the Play Store and the App Store, contain an almost endless number of applications. Some of these apps are free, while others require payment. But what many users don’t know: Many paid apps are also temporarily available for free if they are part of a special offer. We have compiled some of the most exciting free apps currently available for you.

Free Pro apps (Android)

• Minesweeper Pro ($1.59) – If you wanted to play games on your Windows PC many years ago, there were only a few games available as standard. The cult game Minesweeper was launched particularly frequently back then. However, many had no idea of the actual rules of the game. Smartphone owners can now close this educational gap for free. Caution: the app could soon cost money again. In this case, the only option is to use the ad-supported free version or an alternative application. (4.8 stars, 19,800 ratings)
• RFS – Real Flight Simulator ($0.99) – Flight simulators are still extremely popular not only on the computer, but also as a mobile version. At least that’s what the reviews and the number of downloads of the following application suggest. The RFS simulator is currently available free of charge. However, the range of functions includes additional content for a fee (4.2 stars, 197,000 ratings)
• Who Uses My WiFi Pro ($0.59) – This application helps you to take a close look at your own home network and detect uninvited WiFi parasites. Has your neighbor possibly cheated his way into the network? This can significantly affect your surfing speed. Regardless of the app, our WiFi guide shows you what steps to take in such a situation(4.4 stars, 6,700 ratings).

Free premium apps (iOS)

• Flowing ~ Meditation & Nature ($2.99) – Too little or restless sleep can significantly affect both your physical condition and your mood. This application relies on spatial nature sounds for headphones to make it easier to fall asleep and promote a restful night’s sleep. Particularly interesting: You can customize the soundscape and design it entirely according to your own preferences (4.7 stars, 217 ratings)
• Pixel Thoughts: Reduce Stress ($0.99) – This app helps users find calm by taking a meditative approach: First, you focus your attention on something that is causing you worry. And then the app opens up a new perspective on it. Of course, this is accompanied by atmospheric, appropriate sounds. (4.6 stars, 19 ratings)
• Paintiles ($1.99) – At first, this colorful puzzle game seems quite simple. Three colors are used to redecorate the tiles. But you soon unlock new game mechanics: a crumbling floor, rainbow tiles, and even bombs. Each of these new features changes the dynamics of the game and requires the player to adapt their strategy and look for new approaches. (4.3 stars, 8 ratings)

Free apps and their pitfalls

All the apps we present here were available for free at the time the article was published. Unfortunately, developers often do not specify how long these offers last. So if you like an app, you shouldn’t wait too long and download it quickly.

However, before you download a free app, you should always check the app page in the store. Sometimes, there are hidden stumbling blocks you should be aware of.

In-app purchases

Most free apps either contain advertising or offer in-app purchases. However, this is also true of some paid apps. Especially when it comes to a game intended for children, it is essential to pay close attention to such aspects.

Permissions

Numerous apps collect user data and often sell it. So, if you want to be on the safe side, make sure you only grant the permissions the app really needs. An alarm clock, for example, does not require access to your cameras or contacts, and a flashlight should not be interested in your location data either.