Basically we could survive without these “must-have” gadgets, but how much of our day is spent using/with devices that tell us where to go and what to do, when and how, the entertain and inform us, track our health and manage our minutes and duties, it seems impossible to think of life without them and wouldn’t be the same, for sure.
GOOGLE CHROMECAST
Cast your favorite entertainment from your phone or tablet straight to the TV. Chromecast is a thumb-sized media streaming device that plugs into the HDMI port on your TV. Simply use an Android phone, tablet, iPhone, iPad, Mac or Windows laptop, or Chromebook to cast your favorite entertainment and apps right to the big screen. Chromecast works with a growing number of apps, including Netflix, HBO GO, YouTube, Watch ESPN & Pandora. Did we mention it only costs $35?
APPLE IPHONE 6
Bigger than bigger. iPhone 6 isn’t simply bigger — it’s better in every way. Larger, yet dramatically thinner. More powerful, but remarkably power efficient. With a smooth metal surface that seamlessly meets the new Retina HD display. It’s one continuous form where hardware and software function in perfect unison, creating a new generation of iPhone that’s better by any measure. Built on 64-bit desktop-class architecture, the new A8 chip delivers more power, even while driving a larger display. The M8 motion coprocessor efficiently gathers data from advanced sensors and a new barometer. And with increased battery life, iPhone 6 lets you do more, for longer than ever.
GOOGLE NEXUS 9
Fit for your hand, With a soft grip back and subtle curves, the Nexus 9 tablet strikes a slim profile that’s light and comfortable for work or play. Built with a thin bezel, brushed metal sides, clean lines and unique colors, the Nexus 9 tablet is sleek and sturdy. The 8.9″ screen is big enough to work and watch on, but small enough to carry around in one hand. Sound is more immersive, layered and distortion-free with front-facing HTC BoomSound™ speakers. With the 64-bit processor, easily move between tabs to check email, watch videos, and tweak docs — all at once.
PANASONIC SC-NA10
The aptX Bluetooth 2.0 Portable Channel Speaker from Panasonic easily streams content directly from your tablet or smartphone to enjoy rich, full sound. It’s simple to sync your smartphone or tablet with the SC-NA10 using built-in NFC. Just tap the phone once on the speaker to connect. It’s that easy. Easily control all your music streaming from your smartphone or tablet with the Panasonic Music Streaming App. You can also sync your smartphone to use the SC-N10 as a speakerphone.
ANKER ASTRO E7
Portable power pushed to the limits. Detects your device. Delivers the fastest charge Exclusive to Anker, PowerIQ amp-adjustment technology intelligently identifies your device to deliver its fastest possible charge. Power to keep you going, and going…and going. Add up to ten charges to a smartphone, two charges to a tablet or multiple charges to pretty much anything else.
OCULUS RIFT
The Oculus Rift is a new virtual reality headset that lets players step inside their favorite games and virtual worlds. The Rift uses custom tracking technology to provide ultra-low latency 360° head tracking, allowing you to seamlessly look around the virtual world just as you would in real life. Every subtle movement of your head is tracked in real time creating a natural and intuitive experience. The Oculus Rift delivers a high-end virtual reality experience at an affordable price. The Rift is also designed to be as comfortable and lightweight as possible for long play sessions.
SKULLCANDY PLYR 2 GAMING HEADSET
Stylish and comfy, PLYR 2 has adjustable wireless sound quality for Xbox 360 and PS3. PLYR™ 2 produces attacking, powerful bass; warm, natural vocals; and precision highs. Wireless technology delivers crystal clear audio without tying you down. The high sensitivity mic keeps in-game communications crystal clear.
WITHINGS PULSE
A “wear it your way” tracker to monitor your activity and sleep, read vital signs and improve your overall health. Whatever your fitness level or style, the Withings Pulse O2can help you be more active and improve your health. During the day it captures steps, distance walked, elevation climbed and calories burned. At night, it monitors your sleeping cycles. And when asked, it measures your heart rate and blood oxygen level. The Pulse O2 offers an empowering experience, as you are able to better yourself by making informed choices.
NEST LEARNING THERMOSTAT
Turns itself down when you’re away. Most people leave the house at one temperature and forget to change it. So the Nest Learning Thermostat learns your schedule, programs itself and can be controlled from your phone. Teach it well and the Nest Thermostat can lower your heating and cooling bills up to 20%.
PEBBLE SMARTWATCH
The competition is coming, but for now Kickstarter darling the Pebble Smartwatch is still the best watch of its kind. It has a simple, understated design, works with Android and iOS, and does its job: using your wrist to notify you of things when your phone is tucked away.” To “It has a simple, understated design; works with Android and iOS; and does its job of using your wrist to notify you of things when your phone is tucked away.
LOOXCIE HD EXPLORE
The Looxcie HD Explore Pack lets you record razor-sharp images with full high-definition video. Because the Looxcie HD camera connects wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet*, you don’t have to go back to your computer to share your videos. Add a 64 GB microSD card (not included) to store up to 10 hours of HD video. Stream Live on Facebook or Mobile-to-Mobile. Whether you’re kayaking, rock climbing, or just enjoying the scenery, your friends will feel like they are right there with you. The free Looxcie mobile app lets you broadcast live video in 480p resolution on Facebook for anyone to watch or create a private stream for select friends. If they’re unable to watch the live broadcast, no problem. Your streams are automatically saved so you can relive and share your adventures later on the Looxcie mobile site.
PHILIPS HUE CONNECTED BULB
The Philips Hue connected bulb might seem a one-trick gadget once you’ve shown your friends its different colors. But with the tools Philips provides (and extra recipes you can cook up using If This, Then That), your bulb can become an extension for everything. You can control it using a smartphone, tablet, or PC. It’ll turn off when you leave home by detecting your phone’s location. It’ll wake you in the morning. It’ll flash warnings when important emails or packages arrive. The Hue can even warn you if it’s raining—so you don’t have to waste all that energy looking out the window.