Futuristic gifts for on the move
Over the last few years, by far the largest gains in computing have been in mobility — both in terms of smartphones and wearable computers, but also when it comes to electric vehicles, self-driving cars, and other weird personal mobility devices like the Honda Uni-Cub. Here are the best and most high-tech devices and gadgets from the world of mobility and mobile computing.
Tesla Model S – $70,000 and up. Yes, I know, it’s stupid to include the Model S on a Holiday Gift Guide, but… well, if I had really rich kids, I’d love to receive a Tesla for Christmas. Almost everyone agrees: The Model S is amazing to drive, and it has technology that is essentially unmatched by anything other than the latest Mercedes S-Class (which costs even more). The latest version of the Model S has some impressive self-driving features, too. Really, if you’re wondering what to buy the tech nerd who has everything, the Model S would probably hit the spot.
Aftermarket car head-up display – $100. For about $100, the Garmin HUD+ will project your speed, turn-by-turn GPS directions, and the current speed limit onto your car’s windshield. It’s not quite as functional as the integrated HUDs that some modern BMWs have, but it’s still pretty good — and safer than glancing at your smartphone, which requires you to refocus your eyes and/or look away from the road.
Siva Cycle Atom – $130. For the cyclists out there, the Siva Cycle Atom is essentially a modern bicycle dynamo that can recharge your USB devices while you cycle to work. TheCopenhagen wheel, which turns a conventional bicycle into a hybrid electric bike, is even cooler — but sadly it’s only available to pre-order at the moment.
The Cruise RP-1 self-driving car kit, on an Audi A4
Self-driving car kit – $1000. The Cruise RP-1 is an aftermarket self-driving car kit that is mounted on the roof of your car, and then integrates into your car’s computer to provide semi-autonomous driving (basically adaptive cruise control plus lane keep assist). There are two caveats, though: a) It only works with the Audi A4/S4 for now, and b) it won’t be commercially available until sometime in 2015.
Android Wear smartwatch – $200. While it’s still fairly early days for smartwatches, the first round of Android Wear devices are surprisingly useful — as long as you don’t mind recharging them every night. The Samsung Gear Live ($200) is probably the best of the first round of Wear devices — or if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the LG G Watch R ($300) is probably a better choice. Obviously, come next year there’ll also be the Apple Watch to contend with — but the jury is certainly out on whether it’ll be worth the exorbitant price tag (plus, it will probably require an iPhone nearby to be useful).
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