By Kirsty Cameron Published: 11:27AM GMT 21 Dec 2009  For those still getting to grips with the world of "apps" these are simply applications that can be downloaded to an iPhone or iPod Touch, two of the most search for products this Christmas.  The iTunes store now has more than 90,000 of these applications, which offer games, city guides, travel planners, language dictionaries and music services. Some of these apps are free, and most cost less than £4.99.  And if you dop not own a iPhone, Nokia, Orange, Samsung and BlackBerry have all launched their own application stores – although the choice of products may be more limited.  Below are five of the best money-saving apps available.  Red Laser this costs £1.19 and will scan any bar code for you then search for cheaper online prices using the Google product search. This is particularly useful when buying larger items such as televisions and fridges, saving you money and the hassle of shopping around for better deals. It will also scan a book then check for reviews or scan groceries and add it to its shopping list, so next time you visit the supermarket, you have a list ready.  If you get fed up paying 35p per minute calling premium rate phone number, then download the free "0870" app. This converts 0870, 0845 and 0800 telephone numbers into normal rate landline number, eg those starting with 020, 0151, 0115 etc. These will either be including within your monthly call allowance or are substantially cheaper to call for those on pay as you go packages.  Mobile phone owners may also want to download Mobile Allowance, for 59p, this app gives you a comprehensive reading of your mobile allowance, showing phone owners how many free minutes and texts they have left. This is ideal for those who are prone to talking or texting too much, and going over their limit. Both talk time and texts are shows as a progress bar on your phone helping you keep track of your monthly usage.  For £4.99, PetrolPrice Pro automatically records your position and give you the cheapest fuel options within a 5, 10 15 or 20 mile radius. According to the financial website, Moneysavingexpert.com, this can cut petrol bills by 5pc. "For someone who puts £50 a week into their car this can mean saving of £100 a year."  Motorists may also want to download Car Claim, the free app from MORE TH>N. This won't save you money directly but could prove useful in an emergency. If you are involved in an accident the Car Claim tool provides a step-by-step guide of safety precautions at the roadside, and prompts users to record accident information. There is also an option to take photos on the phone, which may be useful when claiming on your insurance.  Meter Readings is the most popular paid-for financial application, as it helps users keep track of their energy and water usage. Once you've entered your meter readings, the app will show your usage in a graph, showing what you use and what it costs.  For 59p, this app can configure up to three separate tariffs per meter, useful for electricity where different rates are charged during the day and at night. It's hoped that this will encourage people to reduce the amount of energy they use, switch their habits (eg use the washing machine overnight) and so cut bills.  There's often a large discrepancy between estimated readings and actual readings, so this app also makes sure you are not over charged.  Using the iPhone's GPS signal, the Rightmove app registers your location and allows you to view properties for sale or to rent in the immediate area. You can explore the properties you're interested in a full screen slide show. The estate agent's number is available at a tap, or you can send them an email. It's also free.
You could save yourself a packet by using one of the many "apps"    that are designed to help you manage your money better.