Things 3 is an award-winning task manager developed by Cultured Code, a small software company based in Stuttgart, Germany. Its core feature is a beautifully designed, intuitive interface that implements the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology, making it easy to capture, organize, and complete tasks across projects and areas of responsibility. The app is primarily built for individuals within the Apple ecosystem (macOS, iOS, watchOS) who value thoughtful design, fluid user experience, and a robust system for managing complex personal and professional lives. Users typically open Things 3 to quickly capture new ideas or tasks, plan their day using the "Today" view, or review ongoing projects. It integrates with Apple Calendar and Reminders, allowing users to import tasks and view their schedule seamlessly.
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Why It’s Useful
Things 3 significantly improves upon basic task apps like Apple Reminders or Google Tasks by offering a structured yet flexible GTD framework, combined with an unparalleled user experience. For the creative professional who needs to manage multiple client projects and personal goals, its "Areas" and "Projects" features provide a clear hierarchy to keep everything organized and actionable. For the meticulous individual who enjoys planning every detail, its checklist items within tasks and recurring task options ensure no step is missed. Things 3 is a premium, one-time purchase for each platform (Mac, iPhone, iPad), with no subscription required. A lesser-known feature is its "Magic Plus Button" which intelligently anticipates where you might want to add a new task based on your current view, greatly speeding up task capture. Its primary limitation in popularity outside the Apple community is its exclusivity to Apple platforms and its premium price point, which deters those looking for free or cross-platform solutions. Cultured Code provides regular updates, ensuring compatibility with the latest Apple OS versions and introducing thoughtful refinements, backed by a dedicated support team.
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