When you think of Google apps, chances are you immediately think of Gmail, Chrome, Maps, or YouTube. But Google’s vast ecosystem of apps goes far beyond the obvious. Tucked away in the Play Store are several underrated yet powerful tools that can quietly transform the way you work, stay organized, and boost productivity. These aren’t just apps I occasionally use — they’ve earned a permanent spot on my home screen. Here’s why.
1. Google Keep – The Minimalist Note-Taking Marvel
Why it’s underrated:
Overshadowed by flashier note-taking apps like Evernote or Notion, Google Keep stands out for its simplicity and speed. It’s ideal for those who want to jot down ideas, shopping lists, or reminders without a learning curve.
Why it stays on my home screen:
The sticky-note style layout makes it feel like a digital bulletin board. You can color-code notes, pin important tasks, and even set location-based reminders — perfect for remembering to buy groceries when you’re near the store.
2. Google Lens – Your Everyday Problem Solver
Why it’s underrated:
Most people know Lens for scanning QR codes, but it does so much more — translating text in real-time, identifying plants and animals, extracting contact info from business cards, and even solving math problems.
Why it stays on my home screen:
Lens turns your phone camera into a powerful AI tool. Whether I’m traveling abroad or trying to find the name of a dish in a restaurant, Google Lens is my go-to assistant.
3. Google Podcasts – A Simple, Distraction-Free Podcast Player
Why it’s underrated:
In a world full of podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts is clean, lightweight, and doesn’t push ads or extra subscriptions.
Why it stays on my home screen:
It offers exactly what I want — a place to subscribe to, download, and listen to my favorite podcasts with zero fluff. Plus, it syncs seamlessly across devices, which is great when switching between phone and tablet.
4. Google Tasks – To-Do Lists Made Effortless
Why it’s underrated:
It’s easy to overlook this little app in favor of more robust options like Todoist or Microsoft To Do. But Google Tasks wins with its simplicity and deep integration with Gmail and Google Calendar.
Why it stays on my home screen:
It’s not overloaded with features, which makes it fast and efficient. I can create, organize, and complete tasks with just a few taps — and see them show up in my calendar automatically.
5. Google Arts & Culture – A Gateway to the World’s Wonders
Why it’s underrated:
This app is a treasure trove of content — virtual tours of museums, high-resolution art pieces, historical timelines, and quirky features like “Art Selfie,” which matches your photo with a painting.
Why it stays on my home screen:
I use it for a dose of daily inspiration. Whether I’m admiring Van Gogh’s brushwork or learning about ancient Indian architecture, the app turns downtime into learning time.
6. Google One – The Unsung Hero of Cloud Management
Why it’s underrated:
Many users don’t even realize they have access to Google One if they’re subscribed to extra Google Drive storage. But the app itself offers a suite of useful tools beyond just storage management.
Why it stays on my home screen:
It helps me manage backups, free up device space, and even access VPN for extra security. Plus, it offers one-tap support and extra benefits like cashback and hotel deals, which make it surprisingly versatile.
Final Thoughts
These six underrated Google apps might not get the headlines, but they bring immense value to my daily routine. Their lightweight design, powerful integrations, and sheer usefulness are why they’ve earned a spot on my home screen — and why they’re likely to stay there.
If you haven’t explored these hidden gems yet, give them a try. You might just find they become essentials in your digital life, too.
