2018 is almost here, and we're expecting a bunch of cool new gadgets and products, from earbuds to DIY urban farming.
New year, new gadgets! On top of new smartphones, headphones and assorted tech from Christmas, start your year fresh with some of these coveted gadgets that can make your life easier, save electricity, and even reduce your carbon footprint.
Nintendo Switch: go-everywhere gaming
For anyone who loves Nintendo games, this fully portable device (pictured top) with a 6.2-inch screen and detachable controllers that support motion controls will pack quite a punch. It functions just as good as a full-fledged TV game console and you can bring your beloved Mario and Zelda everywhere you go!
Where to get it: Electronic and game shops around Singapore or Lazada
Google Pixel Buds: your instant translator
The Pixel Buds are the wireless accompaniment to the Google Pixel 2 and sure is a compelling set of Bluetooth headphones, boasting the ability to translate a conversation in different languages in real time. Say what? Programmed to understand over 40 languages spoken around the world (including Singlish!) in instant translation situations, we see a lot of party tricks in its future. However, this can easily be done using Google Assistant, sans the Pixel Buds. Still, this is one sleek looking wireless headphones with great battery performance and decent sound. Also, we don’t mind having Google Assistant reading out the headlines and giving us the weather report via the Pixel Buds on our commute with just one tap.
Where to get it: Singtel
Philips Hue: the clapper got an upgrade
Start building up your smart home now, starting with your light fixtures. The Philips Hue system offers colour and brightness control and it can all be managed via Siri, Google Assistant and similar apps. Now you never have to leave your couch again to switch off your lights.
Where to get it: Select stores online and in-store
Alexa Echo: just don’t fall in love with her
Alexa (named after the ancient library of Alexandria) is Amazon’s voice-control system which lets you speak to a smart speaker to trigger simple tasks like playing music, dimming the lights, searching the Web for answers and get instant weather reports.
Where to get it: Amazon, of course
TrackR Pixel: so you never lose your keys again
Not to be confused with the Google Pixel, TrackR Pixel is the perfect gadget for forgetful types. The gadget is a new upgraded version of previous iterations and promises to have a louder ring, a longer range, an LED light for lowlight situations and also, it’s cheaper. The pixel allows users to attach the small device (a size of a fifty cent coin) to precious belongings and items that might get easily lost on a day-to-day basis, like keys, wallets, bags, or even pets. Once it is synced to the app, users can ping and track their lost items.
Where to get it: Axtro Smart
Click and Grow: for time-crunched indoor gardeners
Urban gardening and sustainable living finally getting to you? Try your hand with some indoor planting with the Click and Grow. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, Click and Grow is incredibly forgiving and catered for someone with a busy work schedule. Like its name, this self-illuminated, hydroponic, indoor herb garden doesn’t require much work on your end. Just slot in your pods, click on the light and let it grow.
Where to get it: Tangs or online
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