In Season 5, Episode 2 of TV series The Big Bang Theory, Howard is trying to show Leonard something that will help his long distance relationship. Raj volunteers for a trial with Howard to use the kissing machine described as ‘Internet kissing’.

This is TV so may be a little over dramatic, but in reality there are several tools that people can use to make their long distance partner seem closer.

1. Between

An app for long distance relationships, it offers a private space where you can share each moment with that special someone only. Long distance relationships usually involve time differences but when you use Between these problems can be solved. You can create, share, and remember all your moments with each other. It works fast with a Wi-Fi connection and you can have secure one-to-one chat using stickers to express your love. What’s more, it has an easy-to-use calendar for important dates and anniversaries.

2. LINE

LINE is a popular app used in Asia. Similar to Between, LINE is also an instant messaging app. The basic function: free messaging whenever, wherever on all smartphone devices over 3G/4G or Wi-Fi. Voice and video calls are also free with LINE so you don’t need to wait to hear your loved ones’ sweet voices or see their smiling faces. LINE lets you share your photos and videos and send voice messages, as well as contacts and location information easily with your lover. When you wake up in the morning, your partners’ movements will be shown on your screen. Also, the latest news update on LINE will give you more to talk about when you communicate and special coupons for popular artists and brands will give your more choices for your next date. LINE stickers such as ‘You can be my bunny and I can be your brownie’ are popular, fun and expressive.

3. FaceTime

This was the first free video call app. It is a universally-known, fabulous app in high definition. Now FaceTime for Mac supports video calls up to 720p. FaceTime is an essential Apple communicator that is widely used between Apple devices and enables people to talk, smile and laugh from any part of the world. Whenever your lover tries to reach you, the call rings through on your Mac even if FaceTime isn’t running.

4. Apple watch

A new product is coming soon. It will be a perfect symbol and elegant gift for a couple. In Apple’s words, “You will express yourself in new, fun and more personal ways. With Apple Watch, every exchange is less about reading words on a screen and more about making a genuine connection.” You may feel your lover’s heart beat with this magic watch. When you press two fingers on the screen, the built-in heart rate sensor records and sends your heartbeat. It’s a simple and intimate way to tell someone how you feel.

In this internet age, when we don’t necessarily have time to attend language courses, how can we become multilingual?

All you need is your smartphone, that’s what the app’s creators claim; whether you’re learning a language for the first time or just want to brush up. The language knowledge from apps you can fit into your break times, commutes or moments spent waiting in queues.  So why not give it a whirl?

These are the language learning apps that we think are the absolute best.

Duolingo

Duolingo turns learning a language into a game. You pick a daily goal, earn points and level up. By tracking your progress, getting daily reminders and duelling against your friends, you stay motivated to practice every day. These bite-sized lessons are fun, totally free and teach you to read, listen and speak.

Languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish. Portuguese, Irish, Dutch, Danish, Swedish.

Price: FREE

Available: Apple and Android

The 50 language

Why just learn one language when you can pick up 50 at the same time? The 50 languages app takes you through a basic vocabulary so you will learn to get by in various situations abroad in no time. With many language options, from Albanian to Spanish or Chinese, you will never get bored. This app is easy to use and practical but includes only 30 free lessons.

Languages: 50+

Price: FREE

Available: Apple and Android

Busuu

Busuu connects learners with native speakers. It offers both free and paid plans. Along with a system of games and flashcard exercises, the app includes conversational practice with speakers of your language of choice. After you set a goal, there is a very clear path for your course. So You have no excuse not to keep up.

Languages: Spanish, French, Italian, German, Japanese, Polish, Russian, Portuguese, Turkish, Chinese, English

Price: FREE

Available: Apple and Android

HelloTalk

HelloTalk is more than just an instant messenger; it connects people all over the world. You learn a language through text and voice message exchange. You can also share photos about your life and home country culture. The app is fun and social, so ideal for short bursts of learning when you have a moment.  So say Hello and talk to your language partner today.

Languages: English, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Cantonese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Italian, Russian, Arabi

Price: £0.66 – £6.49

Available: Apple and Android