10 Must Have Apps for the Next Lockdown | Stay Ready Digitally

As COVID-19 cases rise again in India, health officials are closely monitoring the situation. In May 2025, Mumbai alone reported 95 new cases, a sharp jump from earlier months. With talk of new variants and possible restrictions, many are wondering how to prepare for another lockdown.

One important lesson from past lockdowns is the role digital tools play in helping us manage daily life. The right apps can support communication, work, education, mental health, and essential needs.

Why Digital Tools Matter During Lockdown

During lockdown, people face several challenges: working from home, staying entertained, learning online, and accessing daily needs like food and medicine. The right apps help overcome these problems by making things easier from home.

Being familiar with useful apps in advance means you’re ready if restrictions return. Here are 10 important apps you should install and understand before the next lockdown.

Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Lockdown

1. Zoom

Used for video calls and virtual meetings, Zoom helps with remote work, online classes, and family chats. It supports large group calls and is simple to use.

2. WhatsApp

This app is a key tool for staying in touch. Use it for messages, voice notes, and video calls. It’s also great for quick updates and family group chats.

3. Netflix

To manage stress and pass the time, many turn to streaming. Netflix offers a wide range of shows and movies, making it ideal for all age groups.

4. Zomato/Swiggy

Food delivery apps help you enjoy meals from your favourite restaurants without leaving home. They also offer contactless delivery for safety.

5. YouTube

From fitness classes and recipes to learning tutorials, YouTube offers free content for almost every need. It’s a great tool to stay engaged and informed.

6. Duolingo

This language learning app turns extra time into a chance to gain new skills. Easy lessons help you learn a new language while staying at home.

7. Headspace/Calm

Lockdowns can increase stress. These apps offer guided meditation and breathing exercises to support mental well-being and better sleep.

8. Microsoft Teams

For office work and team communication, Teams offers chat, meetings, and file sharing. It’s widely used by companies and schools alike.

9. BigBasket/Blinkit

Grocery delivery apps help reduce the need to go outside. They offer home delivery for essentials, helping people stay safe during lockdown.

10. Google Classroom/Khan Academy

These platforms help students continue learning at home. They provide lessons, assignments, and tests for school-level education.

How These Apps Help During Lockdown

These apps cover key areas of life:

• Work: Zoom and Microsoft Teams support remote jobs.

• Education: Google Classroom and Khan Academy help kids stay in school.

• Essentials: BigBasket and Blinkit deliver food and groceries.

• Mental Health: Headspace and Calm support relaxation and sleep.

• Communication & Entertainment: WhatsApp, Netflix, and YouTube keep people connected and occupied.

Be Prepared for the Next Wave

Installing these apps now helps avoid panic later. Knowing how to use them means you’ll be ready if restrictions return. These digital tools give you more control, help reduce stress, and allow you to stay connected.

Conclusion

With the rise in COVID-19 cases, another lockdown is possible. By using the experience from past years and installing the right apps, you can be better prepared. These 10 apps support daily needs, work, learning, and mental health. Being ready with your digital tools is just as important as having medical supplies.

FAQs

Q1. Why do I need these apps during a lockdown?
They help with communication, remote work, learning, grocery shopping, and managing mental health from home.

Q2. Are these apps free to use?
Most of them are free or have basic free versions. Some offer premium features at extra cost.

Q3. Which app is best for video calling?
Zoom is a top choice for large calls and meetings. WhatsApp is good for quick video chats.

Q4. Can I get groceries without stepping out?
Yes, apps like BigBasket and Blinkit deliver groceries to your doorstep safely.

Q5. What’s the best app for kids to learn from home?
Google Classroom and Khan Academy are reliable platforms for school-level learning and extra study help.