INBOX
A new, simpler approach for your Gmail
Google isn’t giving up on Gmail, but it has a few ideas about how it could be better. And to test those out, the tech giant has launched Inbox — an e-mail app that works with existing Gmail accounts. The app, which is still an invite-only service, takes cues from several smaller e-mail apps and has added features such as the ability to make a reminder from an e-mail or tell your account to resend an e-mail at a later time. E-mails are organized automatically into categories such as “Promos,” so you spend less time wading through list messages. Users can adjust what goes where if the algorithm errs.
The app also pulls in some of Google’s search expertise. Reminders to make dinner reservations come with info on phone numbers and hours.
Using Inbox rather than Gmail simplifies your e-mail. But for those who don’t like having their messages automatically sorted, it’s best to stick with standard e-mail apps. Free, but requires invitation; request by e-mailing inbox@google.com For iOS and Android devices
disney movies anywhere
Now playing on Android
If you’re a fan of Disney on the really small screen, then you’ll be happy to hear that the company has added support for its online movie service, Disney Movies Anywhere, to allow you to watch films on your Android devices. (Previously, the Disney app had given only iOS users the option to stream or download movies from its 450-title collection.)
The added support means that not only can users watch movies on nearly every mobile phone and tablet, but they can also buy a movie just once and watch it on any device they own. (As long, that is, as they download the app.) If you’ve linked your iTunes and Google Play to the Disney app, any new movie you buy via either service will show up on all your devices.
The app doesn’t have a comprehensive rundown of all Disney films, but it includes such classic animated fare as “Cinderella” or “The Little Mermaid,” in addition to live-action movies from the Marvel universe or the Muppets.
The service requires a free registration, which asks for your e-mail address and age. Payment is handled by the iTunes store or Google Play. For iOS and Android devices
