CNET también está disponible en español.

Ir a español

Don't show this again


Use Clipless to get deals based on your current location


There are a lot of apps out there claiming to be the best at helping you save money by finding deals. Unfortunately, the app can't control the fact that humans forget things. So even though you printed that $5-off coupon, it doesn't mean you will remember to use it.

Clipless is one of those apps that really makes your smartphone feel "smart." Whenever you are at a place that offers a deal or coupon, the app will alert you. You don't have to worry about remembering what you had a coupon for, Clipless knows and will tell you about it when appropriate. It's a similar concept to Foursquare's "dreaming princess" idea -- anticipating the user's needs.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Fortunately, Clipless has also spent some time making sure that battery life wouldn't suffer too greatly when using their app. In fact, you can even set your update frequency between one minute and 12 hours. 

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

To adjust settings, simply tap on the Clipless settings cog in the notification shade of your device. If there's no icon, just open it manually from the app drawer. Once you pick a refresh interval you may want to adjust the distance range you want to look within, from a few feet to 30 miles, too.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

One really useful option in the Settings area is the ability to set a search query. Right now, Clipless doesn't let you pick from a list of categories that align with your interests. However, the developer did say that the option to pick multiple categories is coming.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

As for alerts, you will only see them if the app is running in the notification shade. This should probably be an option, but you can tap the power icon on the notification to disable the app at any time. Clipless is working with 2,000 deal providers to help you find the best deals every day. The deals can be viewed in the list on the main screen, or on the map tab. When you're ready to look at or purchase a deal, just tap on it and then the app will direct you to the correct hosting service in the mobile Web browser.

Do you think Clipless has what it takes to compete with other popular coupon apps? If not, share your favorite deal app in the comments.