Five time-saving apps and digital tools that Canadians can't live without

Gone are the days of having to wait in winding lines on your lunch break every time you want to make a deposit, and Canadians are happy about this shift.

According to March, 2019 findings from the Canadian Bankers Association (CBA), 91% of Canadians believe that new technologies have made banking a lot more convenientOpens a new window in your browser.. And the Simplii survey supports this: Canadians ranked banking as the top area of their lives that is most positively impacted by technology.

Mobile banking tools are especially effective time savers. Customers can deposit cheques remotely via a mobile app, transfer money instantly and pay for goods and services with the tap of a finger, all without ever reaching for a card or cash. Tools go beyond daily banking functions, too: you can budget and track your money with easy-to-use websites or apps that sort your purchases into categories and even set savings aside for you.

Even investing has never been easier. Digital wealth advisors can create portfolios customized to your goals, risk level and budget, and you can track it all with a few swipes or clicks.

Many of us would literally be lost without our phones. GPS has become an indispensable part of Canadians' lives. We’re using it for everything from day-to-day directions to staying in shape. So, it's no surprise that survey participants identified GPS as the second most useful digital tool.

Whether you're plotting a route on a road trip or searching for the closest coffee shop, GPS apps like the ones that come pre-programmed on smartphones have made it easier than ever to travel from point A to point B. These apps can also combat the drag of sitting in traffic. Check out a popular GPS navigation app that uses real-time information, WazeOpens a new window in your browser.. It draws on data and tips from its users to help determine the fastest route based on traffic jams, accidents, weather conditions and more.

Unrelated to the daily commute, GPS apps can also encourage better fitness. Runners and cyclists love apps that can track routes, give feedback on performance and allow users to compete with friends, like StravaOpens a new window in your browser.. High-tech GPS watches also include features like built-in visual maps and can sync up with your phone. Many can even help you design a customized training plan for a race and will measure whether you're staying on track.

It's never been easier to skip a trip to the store. That's a convenience for many and a necessity for those in more remote destinations. Today, nearly every major brand has its own app, digital boutiques highlight indie designers and you can buy your groceries online and have them delivered within a matter of hours.

That goes for selling, too. According to the Simplii digital trends report, 49% of Canadians have used a shopping resale platform like eBay or Kijiji. For newer resale shopping apps with a newsfeed-like stream of clothes, accessories and more, try DepopOpens a new window in your browser. and letgoOpens a new window in your browser.. If you need to save on closet space, you can rent designer dresses or stylist-curated outfits on Toronto-based Rent frock RepeatOpens a new window in your browser. and The FitzroyOpens a new window in your browser.. 

Other shopping tools include time- and money-saving web extensions. While online shopping, use an extension that automatically searches for coupon codes at checkout like HoneyOpens a new window in your browser.. Or, track prices on Amazon with KeepaOpens a new window in your browser..

The fourth most popular digital tool among survey respondents is all about entertainment. And while services like Spotify, Apple Music, Netflix and YouTube dominate the stream-based music and entertainment sector, there are plenty of niche or more curated options that enable Canadians to stream to their heart's content.

Individual networks have joined the game with their own streaming services, from CBC Gem to CBS All Access and Hayu, NBCUniversal's reality show platform. There's also Crave from Bell Media, which contains everything from classics like “Frasier” to the latest episodes of HBO shows.

Film lovers can dig into the archives of Criterion Collection with the recently released Criterion ChannelOpens a new window in your browser.. It offers the works of major directors like Agnès Varda and Ingmar Bergman, plus curated selections for when you're feeling decision fatigue. You can also find an extensive database of arthouse movies and documentaries on FandorOpens a new window in your browser.. The National Film Board of Canada highlights documentaries, features and animation by Canadian filmmakers on its always-free Screening RoomOpens a new window in your browser..

Canadians also told Simplii about how they use their free time to stay connected with friends, family and communities via social media platforms.

“More than half (58%) of Canadians say they use digital tools to save time, but end up spending the time they save on more technology,” says the digital trends report. What's more, 29% use that freed-up time to catch up on social media.

The advantages are obvious. Canadians like to post puppy photos on Instagram, find communities for hobbies and passions through Facebook groups or Reddit and catch the latest viral video on TikTok.

However, the study found that spending too much time on social media can also stir up anxiety and insecurity. You can block websites or set up timers to restrict the possible distractions of social media sites with tools like SelfControl for MacOpens a new window in your browser. and Freedom for Mac, Windows and mobileOpens a new window in your browser.. The Screen Time function for iOS 12 lets iPhone users monitor the time spent on different apps and create limits and allowances.

But as with all technology, it's a matter of seeking balance and moderation, and making it work for you. Whether that means banking on the go or screening a new film, finding the right tools can help you maintain a healthy, happy and uncomplicated digital life.