Understanding Symbian signed, knowing the difference between signed and unsigned applications, and signing your own software each time you change a device can be a huge headache, we understand that. But in case you’re sitting, wondering whether or not you should go through some hoops to get your own certificate and go the signing, I thought about writing a recap of some of the best free and unsigned applications out there, it should help you set your mind straight.
1. Free iSMS
This has quickly become a requirement on any device I own or use for more than a day. Free iSMS by Junni Kokuki is a threaded SMS application that shows you your messages as a chat conversation, with the sent SMS and replies below each other. It also has SMS scheduling features, as well as Flash SMS sending. With a clean UI and seemless integration with the built-in Messaging app, Free i-SMS beats the hell out of the competition, and remains free. Download it here. [Screenshot courtesy of NokiaAddict]
2. vHome
The excellent homescreen overhauling application vHome has received lots of raves and love ever since we introduced it to you. It lets you personalize your homescreen from scratch with fonts, double application shortcut rows, weather, RSS feeds, gives you all the freedom you want in the settings, and adds a few usability improvements to S60 here and there. Download it here.
3. AutoSisInstaller
A must have on any device I plan on using for a while, AutoSisInstaller is just a godsend application that simply installs all my software in one click. I only copy all my installation files to the ThinkChange folder, and it takes care of the rest, without any annoying pop-up and without me having to sit down and click Yes, Agree, Next. Download it here.
4. Escarpod
I mentioned Escarpod in my guide on getting Podcasts and Internet Radio back on the E52, E55 and E72. Basically, it’s an alternative to the built-in podcasting, with episode details and podcast album art. It works nicely as long as you figure your way around it. Still in alpha mode though, Escarpod is very promising as it was one of the most praised applications back on Symbian UIQ. Download it here.
5. FontRouter
FontRouter LT and FontRouter Man are two utilities that work hand in hand to help you change the font on your device. It’s not crucial by any means, but it does help make your device a bit more personal. Download FontRouter LT (needs to be signed) and FontRouter Man (already signed).
If any of these tickle your fancy, head over to our homebaked Symbian-Guru guide for a detailed step by step guide on how to get a certificate and sign all these applications that you’ve just downloaded.
