Makros

Summary

In things related to automation and synchronization for Android phones, Tasker is the only app that usually comes to mind. But it always scared me a bit with its wide spectrum of settings and virtually endless set of possibilities. Makros takes a different path: with a relatively simple UI and virtually no need of any outside knowledge, this compact tool tries to get the same kind job done. Find out how works...or if it works at all in today's test.

Makros is a tool for setting up automated tasks when certain events occur or what's also known as complete Android automation. The basic idea behind these type of productivity apps is the following: let's say that you always turn on Bluetooth when you're in your car to connect with your headset. And it just so happens that you also use a car app for your vehicle. Makros can take note of this and open the car app every time you connect to Bluetooth. Now this is only an example, but it gives you a taste of how Makros works.

Besides being the name of the app, Makros is also the term used for a set of rules that are used for automatic processes (whether on the PC or smartphone). A Makros is made up of a cause and effect relationship: when something provokes one half of the macros, the other half responds accordingly. And that's the biggest problem with Makros: it only allows you to create one causal relationship. So any given situation can only have one potential response – something that is a huge drawback for multitasking smartphone users.

The following events can trigger a macro:

• Starting up the device
• Incoming call
• Phone location
• Battery reaches a certain level
• WiFi/Bluetooth is turned on/off, connected or not connected to a network
• Phone charging/fully charged
• Screen locked/activated/turned on
• Specific time
• Time since last boot
• Another macro

The macro can be used to do the following:

• Change the phone profile
• Adjust the volume
• Switch WiFi, Flight mode, Bluetooth on/off
• Send a text message
• Call a number
• Vibrate
• Display a text

Once you've created a “makro” it is now always on by default. If you stop needing on the macros, you can deactivate at any time.

Bottom Line: That's basic all there's is to say about this app, folks. Makro may appear to offer little at first glance, but you'll see that you can put this tool to good use. It does take some effort and thinking from the user, but Makro does a good job once everything is set up just perfectly. It would be even better if it could be possible to add macros with multiple causality – but that's probably too much too handle for the average user anyhow. And the developer is already working on a fix as we speak.

The controls couldn't any more straightforward: all your macros are displayed in one list on the main menu. At the top of the display you'll see a Create Makro button which explains how to make one.

Makros' design is a bit on the lame side, but it's won't to look away from in disgust.

 Makros has got amazing speed and is totally reliable. No worries or concern here. 

Makros costs $2.90 from the AndroidPIT App Center. It's a bit steep, but there is also a free demo version with limited capabilities available as well.