In this week’s edition of our Apps of the Week roundup, we have an AI-driven photo editor, a new news and entertainment app from Microsoft, and an app that lets you take 3D scans of almost anything. And as always, we’ve selected two great new games for you to check out.
Lensa Photo Editor
I know what you’re thinking: oh no, not another photo editor! But Lensa is different. It uses artificial intelligence to automatically filter and improve your selfie photos. It removes blemishes, clearing the skin and smoothing the tone while saving the natural look and texture. It can add accent to your eyes and brows. It can even blur the background. If you’ve been looking to take your selfie game to the next level, Lensa is worth checking out.
Hummingbird
Hummingbird is Microsoft’s latest attempt to use AI and search technology to help users easily locate stories and videos on topics they care about. The app can be set up with just a few taps, and the more you use it, the better it gets at finding stories from across the web that will interest you, and avoiding ones that won’t. Get results back on anything from current events to the latest news on fashion, food, DIY—you can even check out the latest viral videos.
Capture: 3D Scan Anything
Just as the name suggests, Capture allows you to perform a 3D scan on just about anything using the app and your iPhone (X or later). Scanning a static object is as easy as taking a panoramic photo and then you can preview your image in augmented reality. From there you can share the model via iMessage, WhatsApp and more. This is one of those apps you just have to try to understand its usefulness— you may never want to shoot in 2D again.
Gone Home
You arrive home after a year abroad. You expect your family to greet you, but the house is empty. Something’s not right. Where is everyone? And what’s happened here? Unravel the mystery for yourself in Gone Home, a story exploration game from The Fullbright Company. There are no puzzles or combat, allowing you to play at your own pace without being attacked, and the game has a wonderful 1990’s vibe with soundtrack, voiceover work and more.
Gold Mahjong FRVR
Are you new to Mahjong, or looking for a new version of the old classic? Check out Gold Mahjong FRVR. As usual, players in this game are tasked with matching Chinese tiles to clear the board, but there’s a twist: increase the pace and choose right every time to increase your bonus. The ultimate prize is achieved when you free the gold and watch your score climb. Calendar mode offers new challenges every day, and there’s no Internet connection needed.