Have we started taking technology for granted? Certainly 2020 was the year technological gadgets came into their own, proving how valuable they were as means of communication, entertainment, shopping, or all kinds of means to get us from A to B and deal smoothly with the stuff in between. But just as we’re getting complacent, here are the ten best tech gadgets to show you that through this year and beyond, there are devices to genuinely surprise and delight at the press of a button.
The latest Apple iPad has – as you’d expect - all the latest features and is extremely well put together. Slim, strong, and (importantly) well priced, the latest incarnation is available in three colours, with 32 or 128 GB of storage. Compared to previous models, the latest device also has a larger 10.2-inch display, and can be linked to optional smart keyboard cover, making it a true alternative to a conventional laptop. A great selection of apps and multi-tasking capability in the palm of your hand.
Tile Pro Tracker with Replaceable Battery
These useful little devices by Tile will help you find pretty much any electronic device within Bluetooth range of just over 120 meters. You’ll also receive notification if another Tile user is in range of your item. In black or white colour schemes, get the mobile app, set up an account and you’re good to go. The replaceable battery should last up to a year.
The Peak Design Tech Pouch is a cool and very well made accessory that's a must-have for all travellers. It has ample pockets and compartments for small gadgets, cables, plugs, memory cards, and any other accessories.
Peak Design has made the exterior using recycled nylon. Weatherproof and in two colours: black and sage green. For the 21st century, it’s the second bag you never knew you absolutely needed.
TaoTronics SoundLiberty 79 Wireless Earbuds
SoundLiberty 79 wireless earbuds by TaoTronics sound a heck of a lot better than their low-range price tag. That’s always been the USP with audio – kit that sounds better than it should – and with Bluetooth 5, these black earpieces will keep you mobile and in tune during songs or calls. With noise cancelling, waterproofing and an ergonomic design, and with up to eight hours of battery life, they’re a brand that will be music to your ears.
Philips Somneo Sleep and Wake-Up Light
The Philips Somneo is more than just a light. Its powers have been scientifically proven to improve sleep and to help you wake up from that sleep better too. It features a number of different tunes (ambient, nature sounds, your favourite radio station) and simulates a natural sunrise and sunset, whilst also charging your smartphone via a built in USB port. It can even act as a reading light before you do drift off. With this light by your side, you can sleep easy.
Fossil Collider HR Hybrid Smartwatch
Fossil make some really smart looking watches for the price, which is refreshing in a market where it’s often easy to spot the difference between marquee brands and retail variants. What you won’t initially spot is that this is a hybrid watch, with ‘always-on’ display, a heart rate monitor, control of your emails and texts and BlueTooth connectivity. Customizable via alternate strap options, the Collider looks best (in our humble opinion) in super cool silicone black. Of all the cool gadgets 2020 has brought, this one looks the coolest.
Bose has always been the first call and last word in audio tech for high street customers seeking pro-level kit, and this portable home speaker takes what you expect from home entertainment, to days out at the beach or park. Compatible with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assist, as well as Apple’s AirPlay 2 streaming platform; sleek in black or white, waterproof, with a lovely bucket-like handle, you can stick to flipping hot dogs whilst the songs keep coming.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
Bowers and Wilkins have been leading the field in headphone tech for some time now, and these noise cancelling versions are no exception. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth gives uninterrupted play with a fifteen-minute battery boost option for an additional 5 hours. Cool features include lifting one earpiece to pause the music (and replacing to restart). A What Hi Fi 5-star product, expect clarity of sound, a deep controlled bass and a real sense of space regardless of the genre of music you’re listening to.
One of the best gadgets of 2020 must be Apple’s famous watch. Not just the most envied timepiece at the gym, the latest Apple watch has retina display (so you can see its face regardless of your wrist’s angle), a heart rate monitor, fitness metrics to burn, customization, activity runs to track your progress, a compass, access to the app store, and phone connectivity. The list goes on and on. You’re right, it’s not just a watch.
So good you might actually prefer one to a house sitter. This device tracks your doorstep’s every move so that you’ll receive a call when someone rings. It has a 180-degree field of vision (even in the dark) and can sound an alarm and contact emergency services. This Alexa-compatible device also features two-way audio so that, even when you’re out, you could just as well be sitting on the couch. In terms of gadgets 2020, this is the one keeping you the safest.
