Verizon's Droid X: 12 Apps to Get You Started

So you've got the new Droid X from Verizon -- now what? Here are 12 top-notch apps to help you start your Android journey.

Ladies and gentlemen, the newest Droid has officially landed.

Verizon's Motorola Droid X launched across America on Thursday. The Droid X is among the most powerful Android phones to date, with a 4.3-inch display, 1GHz processor, and 720p high-resolution video recording. Plus, it's expected to receive Google's Android 2.2 upgrade within a matter of weeks, making it one of the first handsets to run the long-awaited Froyo operating system.

Thanks to Android's open ecosystem, the Droid X has countless options for customization -- a night and day change from a certain other popular smartphone platform. Much of the muscle comes from the ever-expanding Android Market, which features an uncensored and ever-expanding array of programs that let you make the most of your Android experience.

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Ladies and gentlemen, the newest Droid has officially landed.

Verizon's Motorola Droid X launched across America on Thursday. The Droid X is among the most powerful Android phones to date, with a 4.3-inch display, 1GHz processor, and 720p high-resolution video recording. Plus, it's expected to receive Google's Android 2.2 upgrade within a matter of weeks, making it one of the first handsets to run the long-awaited Froyo operating system.

Thanks to Android's open ecosystem, the Droid X has countless options for customization -- a night and day change from a certain other popular smartphone platform. Much of the muscle comes from the ever-expanding Android Market, which features an uncensored and ever-expanding array of programs that let you make the most of your Android experience.

Here are 12 top-notch Droid X apps to help you get started. If this is your first Android phone, you may also want to check out my beginner's guide to getting around Android. And once you're ready to explore even further, this list of 40 Android tips and tricks should come in handy, too.

All right -- ready to begin?

Droid X App #1: Google Goggles

One of the most innovative apps available for the Droid X is Google's own Google Goggles. Google Goggles, a free download in the Android Market, lets you get information about objects simply by pointing your phone at them. It can recognize landmarks, logos, artwork, businesses, and all sorts of different products.

Once you snap an image, Goggles scans and identifies it. Seconds later, it brings you detailed information about the object along with pages of relevant Web results.

When you're using the Goggles Android app to learn about a business, the program combines GPS and compass data to deliver live augmented-reality-style results. That means you can just point your phone at a building, and your phone will display the name of the business along with links to contact information and customer reviews.

Pretty cool, eh?

Droid X App #2: ShopSavvy

For on-the-fly product comparisons, the ShopSavvy Android app is tough to beat.

With ShopSavvy, available for free in the Android Market, you can quickly scan any barcode and see how much other stores -- both online and in your area -- are charging for the item. You can also check out user reviews, making this app a must-have for any tech-oriented shopping trip.

(In case you're wondering: Yes, you do get funny looks from other customers. And yes, it's definitely worth it.)

Droid X App #3: WaveSecure

While you're loading up your new Droid X with apps, music, and data, why not take a moment to protect yourself in case the phone's ever lost or stolen?

WaveSecure may be one of the most important Android apps you'll ever install. If your Droid X is missing, WaveSecure's Web site lets you remotely activate the phone's GPS system and pinpoint its exact location. If it turns out the phone's fallen into the wrong hands, one more click will remotely wipe all of your personal data from the device. And if the thief tries to swap out the SIM card, WaveSecure will automatically lock the phone down.