Top 9 iPhone Apps Everyone Should Install First

When setting up a new iPhone, it helps to start with a solid foundation of great apps. These include security, productivity, and travel; all are designed to make your phone more useful right from the start.

9. Bitwarden

If you only install one app on this list, make it Bitwarden. Passwords are the keys to your digital life, and reusing the same passwords—and/or writing them down—is practically an open invitation to online crime.

Bitwarden is a free, open-source password manager that stores all your login information in an encrypted vault. It also generates strong, unique passwords for each account, so you only need to remember your master password.

8. Twilio Authy

Now that your passwords are secure, add another layer of protection: Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) . Instead of SMS 2FA, you should use an authenticator app. That's where Authy comes in.

When you log in to services like Gmail , Facebook , or your bank, 2FA requires a second code (usually from your phone) to prove it's really you. Authy generates these time-sensitive codes and stores them all in one place.

7. Google Photos

Apple’s native Photos app does a great job of organizing your snaps, but it quickly runs into problems, especially when it comes to storage. You only get 5GB of free iCloud storage, which includes not only photos but also backups, documents, and app data. Before long, iCloud Storage Full warnings will start popping up.

That’s where Google Photos comes in. It gives you 15GB of free cloud storage right out of the box, three times what Apple offers. And unlike iCloud, it’s great on non-Apple devices too, so you can access your photos from any phone or computer using a browser.

6. Waze

For getting from point A to point B, Apple Maps and Google Maps both work great. But if you want detailed, real-time traffic data—the kind that can help you avoid speed traps, road closures, and traffic jams—then Waze is the app for you.

Waze's interface is clean and fun, and it allows you to customize your voice and share ETAs with friends. If you want to improve your navigation, Waze is a must-have app.

5. Structured

If your to-do list is making your day chaotic, Structured offers another way to organize things. Instead of just listing tasks, it helps you plan your time by turning your day into a simple timeline.

Structured works well whether you're juggling classes, meetings, chores, or just trying to get through your day with more focus. It's simple, easy on the eyes, and surprisingly relaxing.

4. Libby

If you love reading but don't want to keep buying books, Libby is one of the best apps you can install. The app connects you to your local library and gives you access to thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines—all for free.

Libby is perfect for quiet evenings, long commutes, or whenever you have a few minutes to spare. It saves money, reduces clutter, and makes it easy to enjoy books on a schedule.

3. Overcast

If podcasts are part of your daily routine, Overcast is a must-have app. It improves on Apple's default app with standout features like Smart Speed ​​(which eliminates annoying silences) and advanced playback speed controls without distortion.

The free version provides most of what you need, with a small optional subscription to remove the annoying ads.

2. Flighty

Air travel is unpredictable, but Flighty helps bring order to the chaos. This smart flight tracker is an indispensable travel app that keeps you updated throughout your entire journey, from booking to landing.

Flighty's standout feature is its fast and detailed updates. You'll often get notifications about gate changes, delays, or cancellations even before the airline sends a message. The app also tracks planes arriving for your flight, giving you useful information if your schedule is delayed.

1. Widgetsmith

Once you've installed the apps, Widgetsmith lets you personalize your iPhone. The app gives you control over the look and behavior of your home screen by letting you create custom widgets for the time, weather, calendar events, reminders, and more.

Instead of being stuck with Apple’s default layout, Widgetsmith lets you choose the size, style, font, and color of each widget. Want a minimalist calendar? A pastel-colored weather forecast? A rotating photo album? It’s all possible. You can even set widgets to change throughout the day, so your screen looks different in the morning than it does at night.