Is that a perfectly wrapped, rectangular box with your name on it under the tree? Are you getting a snazzy new tablet for Christmas? You are not alone. But, to make the most of this shiny piece of kit, you need to be abreast of the best apps available for it. Here, we round up 10 of the coolest downloads of the year.

PRINTED
Calling all artists and snappers: transform your photographs into vintage printed art with this mind-blowing app.

LINEA
Drawing is good for the soul even if you do it on a device, so check out this simple but sophisticated sketching app for your iPad.

LITTLE DIGITS
You won’t mind your kids having yet more screen time if it really is teaching them to count – as this app will, in whichever language you wish!

THE BRAINSTORMER
Get your creative juices flowing – and that novel written – with this tactile tool that inspires random plot, character and style combinations.

LIVING EARTH
Offering a completely new perspective on time and weather, this app presents a live 3D simulation of the planet with forecasts and a clock for several cities around the world.

PAPER BY FIFTY THREE
The digital version of a Moleksine notebook, this stylish app lets you jot down all your notes, thoughts and sketches in one place.

DJAY PRO
Be the most creative DJ you can be with this recently updated app that links with your Spotify account and media library and offers countless tools for mega mixing.

FLOWING
With its guided meditations, flowing water scenes in 3D and musical masterpieces, this app will improve your sleep, stress levels and productivity no end.

METAMORPHABET
The winner of an Apple Design Award, this is a mad, playful, interactive alphabet app that will have as many adults hooked as children.

SKY GUIDE
This easy-to-use app provides beautiful, stargazing fun for all ages and levels. Just hold your tablet to the sky and let it automatically find constellations, planets, satellites and more.

December 2017