Consume – App Review

ByMike Moffit

AT&T’s myWireless Mobile can be a useful app for monitoring and managing your wireless usage. However, its clunky interface and limited functionality has sent many users to the App Store looking for an alternative solution. Personally, I only kept myWireless Mobile installed so I could keep an eye on my diminutive texting plan, as to not incur the wrath of the mighty Ma Bell with overages. If you’re looking to replace precious Retina display real estate with a more useful app, consider giving Bjango’s ‘Consume’ a try.

Makers of the popular ‘iStat Menus’ for OS X and iOS, Bjango has an eye for design and a flair for functionality. ‘Consume’ carries over the smooth interface characteristic of the developer’s other apps while incorporating similar yet more robust functionality than AT&T’s app. Essentially a usage monitoring utility, the app offers global support for a wide variety of services. Ranging from wireless plans, broadband subscriptions, package tracking, rewards programs, and a host of online services, ‘Consume’ is a great way to stay up-to-date with your…well…consumption.

As the app carries global support, the list of supported services is too large to list. However, in the US, some of the more popular services include: AT&T, Comcast, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, DHL, FedEx, and UPS. By inputing account information, users gain quick access to as many accounts as they’d like–all easily navigable with a simple swipe. The app uses plain text configuration files the developer calls “recipes” to acquire account information. No personal information is stored on Bjango’s servers, and the app interfaces directly with the corresponding service.

With the holidays fast approaching, the package tracking element of the app will be especially useful. Though it’s no fun to input a 20+ character tracking number, once you do, you can easily track shipping updates. Though the app isn’t perfect, I’d had success registering my AT&T account and tracking shipments from UPS and USPS. I’d definitely recommend this great free app!

Download here

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