Virtual Snow - 2 Stars

What is it?

This is an app that allows you to add snow fall to your camera image. I reviewed the free version so could not actually take any pictures. 

When you open the app you are presented with a screen full of instructions, the main one being that if you double tap the screen it adjusts the amount of snow fall. The instructions have been written in white bubble writing on a pale background so may be a little difficult for some people to read.  The instructions automatically disappear after a few seconds and the only way I could find to get them back was to close down and restart the app. 

When the app goes to the camera function snow is already falling and it looks good. When you double tap the screen the snow fall does increase, but the speed difference isn't that apparent. There are three types of snow fall: Light Fluffy; Snow Storm; and Blizzard. 

There is a menu option that can be accessed, but for some reason the text is horizontal when the phone is vertical and vice versa. The fonts used for the menu are difficult to read and the writing on the button images are too small.  After some playing with the app I figured out there is a snow flakes options of which there are three to choose from, upgrade option and more apps. 

The different snow flake options are basic, shaded and cartoon. My favourite is cartoon as its as basic and shaded are very similar dots. 

As I mentioned earlier the free version only allows you to view the snow fall through the camera options. You can take screen shots but they can be blurred and contain the advertising banner that is always present at the bottom of the screen.  You can upgrade the app to remove the adverts and take pictures to your camera roll for £0.69.

Now for some ratings.....

Ease of use - 3 

In the free version there isn't much to use as you can't take pictures. The fonts used for instructions and menus are difficult to read and seem to work against the direction of the phone.  
Price - 3

This is a free app, but has very limited functionality and the fact that you can't use the camera is a little disappointing.  The upgrade cost is low at £0.69 but it didn't make me want to buy it, but I can see the appeal for Christmas fanatics!

Adverts - 2

There are adverts in the app including pop ups and a constant banner at the bottom of the screen, all to encourage you to upgrade. 

Keep, jury is out or delete - Jury is out

This app has a nice concept and it is fun. The instructions and lack of camera functionality lessen the app for me but you can take screen shots and with the iOS7 you can crop the pictures, you just have to ask yourself if it is too much like hard work?

Where to find it:

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/pocket-snow-storm!-virtual/id485367333?mt=8

Android:  Not available.