So you’ve found the perfect phone, and all is right with the world, but now it’s time to see what it can really do. As our phones become more and more integrated into our day to day life, the right gadgets and accessories can make all the difference. Listening to music, watching TV, and even just playing with toys can now be made smarter, better, and more fun with an invisible Bluetooth tether. For your own life, or the tech-savvy loved one this holiday season, here’s what’s hot in the world of Android-compatible gadgets.
VSonic GR07 MK2 Pro
Sure, for the fashion-conscious who merely wants “good” headphones, you could settle for a pair of Beats by Dre in whatever color seems appropriate, but the serious audiophile on your list wants something more. VSonic’s GR07 in-ear headphones aren’t the most expensive money can buy, but they’re some of the best, especially in the sub-$200 range. Known for their wide sound stage, deep, penetrating bass, and superior clarity, they’re perfect for those who really like to listen to every instrument. While the $180 price tag is nothing to sneeze at, they sound like ‘phones that cost twice as much.
Looking to pick up a pair? You can reduce the pain of that price tag above by clicking on the picture above, or the link below:
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VSonic GR07 MK2 Pro Dynamic Noise Isolation Earphones Earbuds IEM new model with multiple ear tips and Innovic Shell Case
Aliph Jawbone Era
The Jawbone Era happens to be a very solid headset, with good call quality, and solid sound in general, but what makes it unique is its dedicated TI processor and built-in accelerometer that allows it to do things above and beyond the normal scope of a Bluetooth headset. It can be used as a pedometer, or even a head-tracking device. There isn’t a whole lot out there to exploit this just yet, but with an open API, it’ll be interesting to see what developers come up with in the future.
Looking to purchase the Aliph? You can can buy one today at cost, by clicking on the picture above, or the link below:
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Jawbone ERA Bluetooth Headset – Shadowbox – Retail Packaging
Motorola Elite Silver
This is one of the more distinctive headsets on the market. With its stylish and discreet behind-the-ear design, and soft-tipped in-ear speaker, it’s so shockingly lightweight, it’s easy to forget it’s there. It’s pricier than most headsets, but the comfort and superior call quality go a long way to justifying the cost.
Looking to get yourself an Elite Silver? Amazon’s selling then with bulk packaging at almost half price. To check it out, click on the image above above or link below:
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Motorola ELITE SLIVER Bluetooth Headset – 89503N {bulk packaging}
JBL Flip
The days of docks are all but done, with some truly impressive portable Bluetooth speakers rendering them all but obsolete. The JBL flip is particularly attractive because it packs the small, convenient size of lower-end units, but still manages to deliver sharp, clear sound that rivals many of the larger, more expensive units. With a unique, attractive design that works on its side or vertically, it’s a surprisingly versatile little unit, and the modest price tag of just under $100 makes it hard to resist.
You can pick up a JBL Flip today at Amazon by clicking on the image above above or link below:
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JBL Flip Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Black)
Libratone Zipp
The Zipp is an unassuming little device. Wrapped in a colorful wool sweater, it looks like a stocking stuffer, but in fact, it’s one of the best-sounding portable speakers around. The upright design allows for room-filling omnidirectional sound, making it ideal for sharing music with friends, or listening while you’re moving around the house. Loud, balanced sound and good battery life help to justify the high price tag.
If you’re interested in purchasing the Libratone Zipp, you can get them on sale by clicking on the picture above, or the link below:
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Libratone Zipp Funky WiFi Wireless Speaker – 3 Changeable Color Panels
Plair 2
The original Plair was ultimately overshadowed by Google’s own Chromecast, but Plair has responded in kind with a device that answers on many of the promises not delivered by either. Unlike the Chromecast, Plair 2 can actually run just about any Android app right on your screen, and allow you to control them with your phone using a companion app. It’s a clever implementation that makes the tiny dongle a much more versatile device, capable of competing with not only the Chromecast but also set-top boxes like Roku as well. At only $49, it’s a great stocking stuffer.
Looking to get yourself an Plair 2? Amazon’s selling then at cost. To check them out, click on the image above or the link below:
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Libratone Zipp Funky WiFi Wireless Speaker – 3 Changeable Color Panels
Samsung Galaxy Gear
Smartwaches have been hotly discussed for a couple years now, but they’ve yet to materialize in any mature state. Samsung’s first crack at the coveted wearable computing market is far from perfect, but it’s arguably the first fully realized execution of the smartwatch concept. When paired with a compatible phone, the Gear can make and receive calls, take pictures and video, control your music player, and receive notifications. Unlike the earlier Pebble smartwatch, it features a proper touch screen, full color display, and considerable beefier specs, inviting many more possibilities. Unfortunately, much of that potential remains unrealized for now, with a fairly limited selection of apps, but for those who like to stay on the cutting edge, this smartwatch runs circles around the competition.
If you’re in the market for a computer wristwatch or Samsung Galaxy Gear, you can buy one on Amazon by clicking the pic above or link below:
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Samsung Galaxy Gear Smartwatch- Retail Packaging – Jet Black
MOGA Pro
There are plenty of controllers available for Android, and even solutions to use PC and console controllers, but MOGA is quickly emerging as the leader in this new market. The MOGA Pro isn’t as compact and portable as their basic model, but it feels more like a traditional console pad, with a solid joy pad and two full-sized analog sticks. The built-in adjustable bracket makes it a good fit for just about any phone, and the wide compatibility ensures it’ll get some use. Best of all, the MOGA Pro turns an Android phone into the best portable emulation platform ever.
If you’re looking to purchase a Moga Pro, you can buy one that comes with retail packaging for around twenty dollars on Amazon by clicking the image above or link below:
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POWER A MOGA Pro Mobile Gaming System for Android Smartphones – Retail Packaging – Black
Sphero 2.0
There are all kinds of useful accessories for your phones, but sometimes it’s enough to just be fun. Sphero is a baseball-sized robotic orb that communicates with your phone. Gyroscopes move it around with impressive speed, and it can light up in three different colors with internal LEDs. Your phone doesn’t merely communicate with Sphero like a remote control, it also supports a host of apps, and even augmented reality games, making it the perfect toy for tech-minded kids both young and old.
If you’re interested at all in the ole Sphero 2.0 you can get one for less than 70 bucks (half price) by way of a bunch being sold with retail packaging at Amazon by clicking on the picture above or the link below:
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Sphero iOS and Android App Controlled Robotic Ball – Retail Packaging – White
iCade
Many mobile gadgets are designed for portability, but the iCade is sheer novelty. It turns your 10” tablet into a tiny upgright arcade machine that will bring back giddy memories of both ‘80s arcade games and their tabletop imitators. Novelty factor aside, it’s a damn good little controller to boot, although it’s limited somewhat by its vertical alignment. Although ostensibly designed for iPads, it’s such a perfect fit for MAME that you’ll want to give it a try with that Nexus 10.
Interested in an Icade? You can pick one up for about $30 by clicking on the picture or link:
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Ion iCade Core Arcade Game Controller for iPad and iPad2 (ICG05)
