10 free Android apps for staying in the know

Howcast

Learn how to do just about anything with Howcast's short, fun video instructions. Topics range from how to name a business to how to poach a salmon, each with an approximately two-minute streaming video explaining what to do. If you're in a situation where watching a video would be awkward, tap the menu to get a text transcription.

You can search for particular topics or view all the available lessons by category. Or, if you're just in a learning mood, shake your phone and Howcast will serve up a random video on how to separate an egg, how to tie a noose knot, how to jump-start your car, how to bleach your hair, how to photograph landscapes, how to use a drill, how to throw a princess party, how to clean a furnace filter, how to take dogs camping, how to hit a baseball to the opposite field...