The Apps That Helped Me Escape The Void, Vol. 1
Congratulations! We made it through another trash year (at least in the States). Last year, we trudged through days filled with mindless tasks, meaningless media, and uninspired social media interactions. Like many others in 2024, I called on the strength of little treats, stupid memes, and shiny, pretty objects to distract me from the lengthy Black Mirror episode we called our collective reality. But unlike Black Mirror, Boomery in its technophobia, my 2024 was filled with programs and applications that brought simplicity, joy, and a sense of discovery to my every day. Here are a few apps that helped me to avoid the void last year (and that I recommend for this year).
DS Files (Android, IOS, Windows, MacOS)
As I edge closer to 40, the siren call of hobbies grows louder. While others dove into craft beer or vinyl collecting, I leaned more into my inner tech wolf last year. Enter my Synology NAS—a network storage device, which along with its proprietary file management app, DS Files, has profoundly changed how I manage my digital life.
The DS Files app has been my trusty sidekick, enabling seamless access to my music, films, and files from anywhere. Whether I’m revisiting old playlists, sharing folders across devices, or watching a movie before an after-school kid pick-up, this app makes it effortless.
Synology Photos (Android, IOS, Windows, MacOS)
The loss of microSD storage on most smartphones still stings. Our capitalist overlords nudged us toward overpriced cloud subscriptions long ago. But I, ever the curmudgeon, refuse to play their game. Instead, I’ve harnessed the power of my NAS again and made Synology Photos my go-to photo management app.
Synology Photos acts as my personal mobile cloud storage, allowing me to funnel all of my photos, videos, and media into one centralized place. The cross-platform functionality is a game-changer, as it allows me to de-prioritize the onboard storage of my mobile devices: my iPhone and Samsung coexist peacefully, accessing, editing, and sharing each other’s photos and vids whenever. No monthly fees, no storage caps—only freedom.
MakeMKV (Windows, MacOS, Linux)
Look, I get it—streaming is our default entertainment option, and convenience reigns supreme. But physical media collectors know the joy of owning and accessing their favorite films and shows anytime. How can we combine the joys of ownership and convenience? That’s where MakeMKV comes in.
This freemium software is a lifesaver for anyone wanting to back up their Blu-rays, 4K discs, or DVDs. With a compatible Blu-ray drive, MakeMKV converts discs into MKV files, preserving multiple audio and subtitle tracks. It’s straightforward, safe, and perfect for archiving gems like The Emperor’s New Groove in all its nostalgic DVD glory.
Plexamp (Android, IOS, Windows, MacOS)
If you’re an audiophile or a digital hoarder with a sprawling music library, Plexamp is kind of a godsend. The app turns your music collection into a personalized streaming service, offering an intuitive, Spotify-like experience.
Plexamp requires a Plex media server, so you’ll need one set up before diving in (a quick YouTube tutorial can help). Once your server is ready, combine it with CD-ripping software, and boom—you can listen to Jock Jams Vol. 2 from anywhere.
Parsec (Android, IOS, Windows, MacOS)
Parsec is the remote desktop app TeamViewer wishes it could be. I could stop after that devastating burn, but that would be lazy.......and speaking of laziness, Parsec is the best gift to lazy tech hobbyists. If you're like me, you probably want access to the many computers you have scattered throughout the house without needing to walk to them. Just install Parsec on each of those devices and utilize this remote client as your portal to all of your PCs. Once you do that, you're basically Neo, without the bothersome handsomeness of bald Keanu. Enjoy Godhood.
Honorable Mention: Jellyfin
Shoutout to Jellyfin, the open-source media server that has a dedicated user base. It’s a free alternative to Plex that offers a lot of options and customization. The downside is that it often feels like my JellyFin media library goes down for any reason: an IP address change, a file change, the wind blowing the wrong way, etc. All of these problems could be user errors (probably are), but I rarely had these problems as a Plex user. That said, I still love this program, and I think it’s a great media library option for us cheapskates.
These apps started off as silly distractions, then over the year, became things I leaned on. In a year dominated by challenges and noise, they reminded me that technology can bring joy and creativity when used intentionally. Here’s hoping I stumble onto more digital gems in 2025.
What apps changed your 2024?
