Mobile applications have gone from strength to strength this year, becoming a pervasive part of many people's lives.

Whether you've got the top-of-the-range handset or an entry-level Android handset, there was something for everyone this year.

We covered plenty of programs, apps and games in 2012, so join us as we pick our favourite apps of the year!

We kick off our top apps of 2012 with the multi-platform apps, and there were loads to be had.

Temple Run

One of the most downloaded games of 2012, Temple Run is a simple endless-running game, with players having to escape from some ape-like creatures.

However, it's the intuitive, responsive controls that elevate the game from being a generic title to something truly special.

Temple Run is available on iOS and Android for free.

Draw Something

Fledgling studio OMGPOP's Pictionary-like title was a smash hit upon its release, becoming a global phenomenon thanks to its innovative premise.

Challenging friends to guess each other's drawings, Draw Something is played by millions of people around the world.

Draw Something is available on Android and iOS ($2.99) as well as Nokia Windows Phones.

Machinarium

One of the more visually arresting games to be released this year, Machinarium is one of the best adventure titles you'll play on any platform in 2012.

Featuring the aforementioned beautiful graphics and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, Machinarium is one game you'll need to play pronto.

Machinarium costs $4.99 on Android and iOS, so check it out.

Xbox SmartGlass

Microsoft's application allows gamers to control their console using their smartphone or tablet, but there's more to it than that. 

SmartGlass also has second-screen functionality for quite a few games, providing a real-time map on your mobile device's display.

SmartGlass is available free of charge for Windows Phone, iOS and Android.

µTorrent Remote

µTorrent has become the most popular way to snag files, with the µTorrent Remote app being one of the more practical downloads this year.

Letting you add new torrents, monitor downloads and more, the app is well worth a look if you're a power downloader.

µTorrent Remote is available free of charge for Android and Windows Phone.

Waze

One of the more innovative navigation solutions, Waze makes use of crowd-sourced information for your daily commute, allowing you to avoid accidents and the like.

There are plenty of Waze users in South Africa's major cities too, so you don't have to worry about getting information.

Waze is available as a free download for iOS, BlackBerry and Android.

Rayman Jungle Run

Voted Apple's App of the year for 2012, Rayman Jungle Run is another endless running platform game, possessing the same charming visuals seen in Rayman Origins.

The game is pretty easy to get into, with players running from left to right, avoiding obstacles and dispatching enemies along the way. 

Rayman Jungle Run is available on iOS and Android for $2.99.

McPixel

One of our favourite indie titles this year, McPixel has been appearing everywhere, being available on PC and Mac too.

The premise is simple, with players being given 20 seconds to get rid of a bomb, hidden in various stages. The game encourages experimentation too, often with hilarious (and deadly) results.

McPixel is available on Android and iOS for $2.99.

Chrome

Google's all-conquering web browser has made its way to both iOS and Android, possessing plenty of features.

For one, there's the ability to sync your browsing data with your desktop, bringing your bookmarks, cookies and more across to the mobile.

Although Chrome for iOS uses the Safari engine, it's still worth a look if you're using the desktop browser. Chrome on Android makes use of the desktop engine, giving you the best compatibility, it seems.

Chrome is available as a free download for iOS and Android.

Zombies, Run!

One of the more creative zombie games we've seen, Zombies, Run! stands out in the sea of generic undead action titles.

The game tasks players with literally running to escape the horde, collecting items and the like as well.

Zombies, Run! is available on iOS, Android and Windows Phone for $7.99.

Page two: Ten more apps!