It’s that time of year again when we celebrate the holidays with friends and family and also get a chance to fill out our holiday wish lists. As usual in today’s technology-driven world, smart gadgets are typically well represented under tree on Christmas morning.
The number of smart devices in homes and offices grows every year. In 2018, there were 23.14 billion IoT devices worldwide, and in 2020, it’s projected to increase nearly 33% to 30.73 billion.
From smart home security cameras to a new smart oven that talks to Alexa, there’s no lack of helpful new gadgets to add to your holiday wish list this season. Here’s a run down of some of the most popular that will be popping up in homes and offices right after the holidays.
Popular Smart Gadgets for High Tech Gifts
The following technology gift ideas have something for everyone on your list (including yourself!) From lamps that change colors and talk to smart plugs that can sense temperature and air quality, you’ll find a gift that everyone can appreciate.
Awair Glow C
If you have any co-workers that are particularly allergen or temperature sensitive, the Awair Glow C is a smart plug that can automatically turn off and on “non-smart” gadgets. It has air quality, temperature and humidity sensors, so if you have a desk fan plugged in, it can turn it on automatically when it’s getting too warm or when the room needs a bit of fresh air.
Echo Glow
While the Echo Glow is marketed for kids, there will be plenty of grownups that want this colorful lamp as well. It’s a multi-colored smart lamp that can be connected to an Alexa voice assistant and do things like set a wakeup light alarm and a rainbow timer.
Wireless Earbuds
Have you ever been on a video conference, saw someone with those cool earbud headphones and thought, “I’ve gotta get some of those!”? Now’s your chance with the holidays coming up, and you have a few different options. Popular earbuds on the market currently are:
- Apple Airpods
- Echo Buds
- Bose SoundSport Free
Amazon Smart Oven
Bring your kitchen into the 21st century with the new Amazon Smart Oven. It’s a 4-in-1 device that is a microwave, convection oven, food warmer, and air fryer. It can alert you when dinner’s ready or start a pre-heat based upon your request through an Alexa device in another room. It also has over 30 presets to make meals easier.
Sonos Move
The Move is a portable Wi-Fi and voice assistant-enabled speaker that can give you quality sound anywhere. Whether you’re at a trade show or barbecuing in the backyard the battery-power means no cords to deal with and you can also connect it to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for hands-free control.
Home Security Cameras
One technology that’s become easier to use and to afford in the past few years are smart home security systems. From doorbell cameras to in room systems that have two-way voice communication, these systems give people peace of mind and help them stay connected when away from home. Some of the popular brands on the market are:
- Ring
- SimpliSafe
- Honeywell
- ADT Pulse
Echo Loop
If you have someone on your list that’s really into tech and typically hard to buy for, this wearable ring that’s connected to Alexa is bound to impress. Amazon is currently selling Day 1 Editions by invitation only. The ring allows you to access Alexa and make quick calls, set reminders, and control smart home devices while on the go.
Smart Displays
Smart displays allow you to make a video call, check the weather, or have a rotating list of photos on your desk. While they may remind you of the Jetsons, they’re now everywhere and are a great way to connect. Some of the popular ones include:
- Portal by Facebook
- Echo Show
- Google Nest Hub Max
Password Manager Subscription
One technology item that may not have crossed your mind but can keep loved ones from getting their identities stolen is a subscription to a password manager. These apps keep all your passwords securely in a vault that can be opened by just a single password. They also suggest strong passwords and can be paired with two-factor authentication for even more security. Look for gift subscriptions for well-known apps like:
- 1Password
- LastPass
- Dashlane
Wireless Charging Pad
To keep your phone and smartwatch charged without the wires, a wireless charging pad makes a great tech gift. Just be aware of the type of devices (Apple, Android) the recipient has. Some charging pads are for one or the other, while others, like the Insignia 10W QI can handle both types of smartphones.
Need Getting a New Smart Device Set Up?
Cris’s Tech Repair specializes in setting up smart home security systems as well as business and classroom technology. Reduce your holiday stress by calling us to set up all your new smart devices this season.
Schedule your install today by calling 561-985-4961 or reaching out online.