I've had my HTC Hero Android phone for about 8 months now and it's by far the best smartphone I've used. This, of course, is all down to the apps I use, so here are my 5 top recommendations - oh, and they're all free:
1. Evernote
Evernote allows you to create notes and audio-files and upload files to your account on evernote.com. Saved files can be accessed from any Android, Windows Mobile, Palm or Blackberry phone as well as the iPhone and iPad. Desktop versions include Windows & Mac OSX.
Find out more about the Evernote Android App here
2. Seesmic
Seesmic is the best Twitter client I've found for Android and until Tweetdeck roll one out it's the Twitter client for me!
Find out more about the Seesmic Twitter client for Android here
3. Advanced Task Killer
Android is Linux-based and therefore doesn't suffer as badly as Windows when there are many apps left open however Advanced Task Killer does make it very easy to close any apps that you don't need open.
Find out more about Advanced Task Killer for Android here
4. London Tube Status
Let's be honest - anything that keeps you up to date with delays on the London Tube network is a blessing. This app is brilliant and tells you at exactly what time, and from what platform, a train is scheduled to leave with a refresh of a minute so it's always up to date.
Find out more about the London Tube Status app for Android
5. RAC Traffic
As the name suggests this is an app from the RAC providing the latest (updated every 5 minutes) traffic information for the UK road network. Priceless for the road warrior.
Find out more about the RAC Traffic app for Android here
and just for fun here's a couple of extras,
6. DailyStrip
I love comic strips but hate buying the newspaper; Solution: All your favourite strips on your Android phone. Don't miss out on Dilbert - always on the money!
Find out more about the DailyStrip app for Android here
7. Sportacular Live Scores
Hey, the World Cup is on and if you're sat at work with no idea what the latest score is then this app is for you. Provides up-to-the-minute scores and commentary for a whole range of sports including the ongoing World Cup matches.
Find out more about the Sportacular sports app for Android here