Seasons Greetings! I write about gadgets year round, but only a few of them really grab my attention because they combine both style and function in a way other gadgets don't. So today I bring you a list of these gadgets hoping it will help you with your Christmas shopping. Most of these gadgets are either on my personal Christmas list, or I already own them, so I'm confident in including all of them on my top holiday picks list, guaranteed to bring your and your loved ones plenty of fun this holiday season and beyond.
iPhone –The iPhone is at the top of everyone's Christmas wishlist, and with good reason: the price has dropped, and the small device combines music, Internet, and phone all in one device. I really like my iPhone despite it's shortcomings (no video camera, slow network, tricky keyboard), because now I don't have to carry all the other gadgets I own. Thanks to the multi-touch display, I can quickly access my email, show off pictures of my last vacation or browse through my album collection by flicking the screen; and reading my favorite blogs is as easy as zooming in and out of a page's section. Truly effortless! This phone has too many features to list here, but if you're looking for an incredible all-in-one device that will give you complete access to your life online, this is the one to consider.
Evolve Wireless Speakers for iPod – I've been reviewing the Evolve Wireless Sound System for the last two weeks, and now I want my own system. There are many iPod speakers in the market, but what makes this particular system so different from the rest are its wireless capabilities. The unit consists of a charging station, a remote control, and two detachable speakers that work up to 150 feet away from the base. It's made specifically for the iPod, so it includes 11 dock adapters to fit your particular iPod player. Once the speakers are charged, you can place them in adjoining rooms to stream music throughout the house. The best part is you can add more speakers to stream music to more rooms. The speaker's lithium ion batteries last about ten hours once charged, and can be recharged by placing them back on the base. Evolve Wireless Speakers look and sound great, so let them take care of the music while you tend to your guests this holiday season. This is the perfect gift for any iPod lover.
Rock Band Video Game – Are you ready to rock? Rock Band is the must-have video game this Christmas. If you think I'm kidding, check out eBay, where they're already fetching a pretty penny because stores can't keep them in stock. What makes this game so popular? Well if you've always wanted to have your own band, this is the as close as some of us are going to get. The video game bundle includes the game, guitar, a drum set and a microphone, so all you have to do is invite your buddies to come over and rock out to classics from Metallica, Rush, Black Sabbath, and Nirvana. Overall, the game includes over 58 tracks, most from the original artists, and additional tracks can be purchased online so you don't get tired of singing Nirvana's "In Bloom" over and over again. This is a party game, so buy it only if you aspire to be part of a virtual band that's gonna rock virtual fans all night long.
Jawbone Headset – Headsets are hardly sexy, but the Aliph's Jawbone headset is so deliciously sexy, I'd give one to everyone on my list if I had enough money. Designed by Yves Behar, who also designed the XO Laptop for the One Laptop Per Child organization, the Jawbone combines both style and function in a way that makes a gadget an instant hit among the chic geeks. Even Apple sells it next to its iPods and iPhones, which should speak volumes. This particular headset is more than just a pretty face, as it combines noise canceling technology that measures ambient noise to adjust your call's volume. This means you don't have to scream during your calls, or strain to listen to the person on the other side of the call. It may look cold and metallic, but the earpiece is actually made of medical grade material that feels warm against your face. The earloop is removable, so it won't get in your way if you wear eyeglasses. It's available in silver, black, and red, so you decide how flashy you want to be. If you don't want to look like cyborg in public, this is the headset for you.
Asus Eee Ultra Portable Laptop – A recent survey by the Consumers Electronics Association revealed that most adults want a computer under the Christmas tree this holiday season--that or a flat screen television. You might think buying an ultra-portable laptop for your sister or college-bound son/daughter isn't possible after all that holiday spending, but the Asus Eee 4G is one of the most affordable laptops already available in stores. For $399, you get a two-pound laptop with a seven-inch screen, that runs Linux, a full productivity suite, video player, and photo manager on a 4GB solid-state drive. It's definitely not your heavy duty, top-of-the-line machine, but if you're looking for a basic system for someone who doesn't own one at all, this is a one to add to your list. It's also a perfect second computer for those who travel frequently or just like to be connected while enjoying a nice cup of coffee at the local coffee shop. You'll currently find this machine in black or white, but starting next year Asus will begin selling its Eee in green, pink, and blue.
There are so many gadgets to choose from this holiday season, so I hope this mini-guide helps you find even more great gear for the geek in your life. Just remember to compare prices and specifications online before making your final decision, and if you're shopping online, make sure you use a credit card instead of a debit card. If you need more help finding the perfect gift for the gadget lover in your life, check out www.TechieDiva.com for more holiday gift ideas.