It’s December again and time to be thinking about buying gifts for those “tech-savvy” people in your life. Here are some cool ideas to get started.
For the traveler: 360-Degree cameras that take photospheres are starting to find their place in the market. Early cycles of these products and phone apps have provide some of this capability but now you can get high definition videos in the round. Another idea is Nokia’s “Treasure Tags” that team up with your blue tooth phone to set off an alarm if something important is about to get left behind, like luggage or a laptop bag. The tags can also be used to locate a lost item. Always appreciated by a well-traveled person is a way to charge devices whether through back-up batteries or one of the many newly developed travel chargers.
For the car: Dash cams have many different uses but with the advancements in quality and stability levels, they can capture your drive through scenic areas of the country. How about an app to remote lock, start or pop a trunk lid from a cell phone. Or add an iPhone display to the dashboard for easy operation and eventual hands-free use with Siri.
For the dog: Keep connected while you’re away with a Pet Cube that allows you to interact with your pooch and even play games with a remote controlled laser. There are also two-way devices to mount at your dog’s eye level for video conferencing.
For the fashion minded: Tech wearables no longer have to look like they just stepped out of a datacenter. Style can be found in a high-tech watch, fitness device or even a tech ring that sends you notifications while on your finger. Don’t forget a bracelet that doubles as a charger and specially designed e-touch gloves to keep hands warm while operating a device in a cold climate.
For the kids: There are plenty of “build your own” gifts including personal robots and cars. Learn how microprocessors work with a circuit board maze game. Or attach a handheld microscope to a PC for a close of view of just about anything someone might be curious.
Finally, for everyone on your list, 3-D experience glasses are coming of age with new apps being developed for gaming, movie watching and other virtual experiences.
