The only kind of branded utility I can think of that I actually use, and I'm not sure if it is a branded utility at all, are video game console dashboards. Now, the features I use most often that might fall into this category, are the online stores for both PS3 and Xbox360. Since I'm not sure if these qualify (due to not being something I need, but actively use for entertainment in my home) but I think that the Twitter and Facebook apps on Xbox360 might. The problem is that they are somewhat hobbled and I think that they missed the mark a little. With the Facebook app you cannot sent and receive messages, and I believe that the majority of the application is focused on uploading photos and more passively viewing updates on Facebook. Had they included the ability to send messages I might use it more often.
Some brands could use utilities to help them remain somewhat relevant would be retailers that are being edged out by online competitors. Take for example, video stores, they could have an app that would allow you to view the inventory of your local store, pick a title to reserve and then you could simply pick it up. Though, by the same token, that is essentially what you can do online, except cutting out physically having to go to the store. Oh well, I guess video stores are doomed to be novelties, and then become obsolete eventually.
On that same line of thinking though, if it hasn't already happened, a mobile app for your local grocery store would be good. You could see what's on sale and what's available and then make a list for shopping later. If they even got ambitious with it they could group everything by what section or aisle it would be in. I suppose I would have to see something like this in practice before I could say it would be a more efficient way of shopping, but therein lies the difficulty for businesses: trying to make themselves relevant and market effectively in the digital age.
I guess that kind of covers local utilities as well, as I don't think I can think of any actual instances off-hand.
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