In the News
The Seven Essential Apps for SXSW 2015
Attracting more than 80,000 attendees over the course of 10 days, SXSW is a myriad of parties, panels, events, and performances – and we can’t wait. Here are some of the apps that will help make you maximize your experience in Austin.
Uber & Lyft
You’re going to need to get from point A to B. The official conference schedule is spread out over multiple locations. Throw in unofficial parties, last minute meetups and reconnecting with your friends and colleagues, and there will be many occasions where you’ll need to jump in a car. Have both Uber and Lyft at your fingertips, but be ready for stiff competition at peak times.
Fitbit
In addition to Uber and Lyft, the pedicabs will be out in force. But, sometimes it’s better to just walk. And, walking through downtown Austin during SXSW is quite an experience. Use a fitness tracker to keep track of your steps. Trust us, when you know that you’ve walked 5 miles in a day, the guilt about barbeque and queso goes away.
Evernote
SXSW is one of the best networking opportunities of the year for techies. However, exchanging business cards is so 2003. Evernote, the note taking app, also lets you to exchange contact details and includes LinkedIn connections.
Eventbrite
You already RSVP’d for more parties than you can keep track of. And, you’ll no doubt get a last minute tip on something that you just have to check out. Keep Eventbrite open for quick registration and transfer those RSVPs over to passbook, they’ll be checking at the door to make sure you are really on the list at the door.
Eventbrite for Android and iOS
Firechat
The off-the-grid messaging system that is popular at crowded events has released a special “SXSW edition” that will feature live interactive news at the conference. Please do note that Firechat is not a privacy app, it’s not advisable to share sensitive information via this service.
VyprVPN
Public Wi-Fi is everywhere, but with it come the data snoops and hackers. If you don’t encrypt your Internet connection, you risk exposing your passwords, emails, photos and other personal information. To protect yourself, download VyprVPN (Golden Frog has launched a trial version for SXSW attendees), and PLEASE use the app when you connect to public Wi-Fi at the convention center, your hotel or any coffee shop. As a bonus, the VyprVPN has a server location in Austin, so you will get the fastest possible encrypted connection.
AustinFoodCarts
Food trailers are iconic in Austin. You can find just about any type of cuisine. AustinFoodCarts allows you to sort by cart (truck), cuisine, or by what’s nearby.
AustinFoodCarts for iOS