It may have been the iPhone that introduced mobile

It may have been the iPhone that introduced mobile users to the concept of ''apps'', but other companies are fast following in Apple''s footsteps with their own well stocked app stores. Blackberry''s ''App World'' has a great range of applications for download ? and here are some of the brightest and best.

 1. Google Maps: Whether you''re keen to use your mobile as a sat nav device, find street views or simply get directions, Google Maps is the app for you. Free for download to Blackberry phones, it features a wealth of satellite images and points of interest, as well as a function which allows users to identify traffic delays and receive sat nav-style directions.

 2. XPlayer: Your Blackberry doesn''t have to be used just for business ? with XPlayer, it can become a fantastic media player as well. This free app plays music, shows videos, and has a good codec base ? a perfect package for anybody who loves their media.

 3. Opera Mini: Even if you''re content with Blackberry''s inbuilt web browser, it''s worth checking out the superior capabilities of Opera Mini. Supporting an easy and enjoyable browsing experience, this is one app that no Blackberry user should be without.

 4. BBWeather: Check weather forecasts from around the world at the touch of a button with the BBWeather application. It allows users to configure personalised weather forecasts as well as viewing 2-10 day climate predictions.

 5. Google Mobile Search: A must-have app for all Google fans, the Google Mobile Search for Blackberry has almost all the functions of the full version. It lets you find people, places, images and news with no hassle at all ? and best of all, it''s free to download.

 6. Open Office for Blackberry: If you''re in the habit of using your Blackberry as a mini laptop, it could be worth investing in the Open Office application. This handy app will let you edit all Microsoft Office documents direct from your Blackberry while saving and retaining the original format. For a little extra, you can also create and work on new documents from your phone.

 Blackberry is a relative newcomer to the world of apps, but the company is fast making its presence felt. If you''re a Blackberry user, then watch this space ? a whole new range of great applications for Blackberry phones should come on the market in 2010.