Imagine the predicament: you’re stuck in an unfamiliar city, fancy a spot of vinyl shopping, but have no idea where to find the nearest independent record store. Well, now there’s an app for that.

Available absolutely free on iPhone and Android, The Vinyl District app uses a GPS-based locator to track down nearby record stores and direct you to the door of your chosen shop.

Since it launched in the USA in December, the app has expanded to include record stores in other countries. As well as Canada and Australia – and with Belgium, Germany and Denmark in the pipeline – it now includes details of over 300 stores across the UK. The concept is a simple one: next time you want to go record shopping, just fire up the app, take your pick from the list of stores and get directions to wherever you choose – whether you’re travelling by car, public transport or foot.

Once you’re there, you can use the app to check in. And once you’ve rifled through the vinyl and have some great finds to show off, you can share them on Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare. An in-built social network also allows you to discuss you buys with other users.

Although hundreds of stores are already listed on the app, if your favourite isn’t featured, email its name, address and website to info@thevinyldistrict.com to see it added. Find out more and download the app here.

If you're interested in the growing role of technology and phone apps in music and elsewhere, Charles Ubaghs' very smooth piece offers more food for thought.