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December 19, 2007
Stocking Stuffers 2007
For the past several years, I have created a stocking stuffer suggestion list, and here are my suggestions for 2007:
- Stowaway portable Bluetooth Keyboard from www.igo.com for $129. While you are there, check out the new slimline model for $149.00 and some of their adapters, cables, and chargers. Note: I am distressed to report that since iGo took over Stowaway keyboard products, there is no longer a universal Windows Mobile driver, only drivers specific to individual machines. There is no driver whatsoever for WM6 devices and no apparent plan for the development of one. So, before you buy, be certain that there is a driver for your particular unit. Curiously, you cannot find drivers on the igo.com site, you must go to www.mobilityelectronics.com.
- Keychain GPS receiver from www.proporta.com for $129.00--this little beauty is so powerful that it will work through your purse, pocket, or backpack, and it fits on your keychain.
- Proporta is a great place to shop for extra styli, cases for just about any handheld device, screen protectors, cables, and other accessories.
- I don’t know what I’d do without my universal Proporta recharger. It has saved my bacon on many an occasion and would be welcome in any stocking, for it will recharge just about anything.
- An XM or Sirius portable satellite radio is a wonderful gift. Consider one that works in the car, home/office, or while you’re walking that also records and stores your tunes. Or, you can download a free Sirius interface application from GeeksToolBox.com, but you must be have a Sirius account in order for it to work.
- If you are looking to buy a new phone, please do yourself the favor of purchasing a Windows Mobile device--why settle for a make-do model? I recommend almost anything in the HTC line (www.htc.com), but take a serious look at the new TouchCruise model. Also consider the new i-mate Ultimate 8150. Palm has just come out with a new Treo 750 WM6 version that’s nice too but lacks Wi-Fi.
- An MP3 player is always a welcome gift. Consider the new Sansa View starting at $149 that features MP3, micro SD card for infinite storage, FM radio, audio books, recorder, and video player at www.sandisk.com or Walmart.
- A nice Bluetooth headset makes a wonderful gift. My favorite is from Jabra (JX10) because I believe it is the smallest available and the sleekest design for $69 from (www.jabra.com).
- If your phone doesn’t have Bluetooth, get a Bluetooth enabler from Jabra for $59.99 from Radio Shack.
- Turn your phone, PDA, MP3 or even iPod into a concert hall listening experience with a Bluetooth Headphone BT620s set from Jabra for $125 that comes with a Bluetooth dongle for use with any device.
- Share your music with others using the terrific, new flat panel technology speaker system from www.logitech.com for $69.
- If you want GPS software, I recommend Co-Pilot Live v7 from www.copilotgps.com from $99 and OCN6 from www.buygpsnow.com from $99—both are plug and go.
- My pick for a standalone GPS is the Mio DigiWalker C520 because of its sleek design and superior functionality. You can also use it for viewing photos, videos, listening, and audiobooks. It will even answer your phone for handsfree driving and talking. It’s only $299 from www.buygpsnow.com.
- Speaking of handsfree driving, it’s a good idea to have a car speaker kit, especially in states where you’ll get a ticket for talking on your phone. if your GPS doesn’t have this feature, you can get a standalone car kit from www.motorola.com for around $39. Another good place to look is www.buygpsnow.com.
Posted by conradb212 at December 19, 2007 08:41 PM