Christmas may be over, but there is still plenty of shopping to be had—especially for those of us who received the gadgets we’ve been dreaming of all year long. From iPhones to digital cameras, the array of available (and oh-so-crave-worthy) gadget accessories are as numerous and varied as the snowflakes accumulating on our windowsills.
We must admit that, even after all of our holiday shopping, we’re longing for a few presents for ourselves. And we couldn’t think of a better place to start such self-rewarding behavior than with the gadgets we received as gifts. We think our new iPods, laptops and various other Santa-delivered devices could use a little accessorizing.
So, we’ve compiled a list of a few fun extras, not because we need them, but because we want them. And because we think you just may begin to pine for these tech accessories as well.
1. Solar Charger: Whether Santa brought you an iPhone or a Droid, you’ll find this solar charger so useful. If you are traveling or are nowhere near an electrical outlet, you can juice up this compact device’s full-size lithium ion charging battery with a little sunlight (or simply plug in to your computer’s USB port). This charger is also compatible with most cell phones, PDAs and USB devices, so your significant other can partake in a few solar seshes as well. GIF-S4-BOX Mono Emergency Hybrid Solar Charger, Solio.
2. Party Photographer: Attention party animals who received Sony Cyber-Shot TX1 or WX1/B digital cameras for Christmas, we’d like to introduce yourself to your newest party guest—the Party-Shot Photographer. This device automatically snaps party pics using face detection and smile shutter technologies. It even uses motion detection for perfect timing and the rule of thirds to compose perfect shots. You’ll capture candid moments while you’re actually a part of them. Brilliant! IPT-DS1 Party-Shot Automatic Photographer, Sony.
3. Double-Duty iPhone Case: Got an iPhone for Christmas? Worried about scratching that pristine surface? We recommend the sleek, red Juice Pack Air, which acts as both a hard-case shell and a charger that’s rumored to give your iPhone 3G twice the standard battery life. We love two-fors. Juice Pack Air for iPhone 3G/3GS in Red, Mophie.
4. Designer Laptop Sleeve and Gadget Pouch: Yes, you could opt for the standard, run-of-the-mill carrying cases for your new gadgets. But why not protect them in style? With their hand-tanned Italian lambskin leather and embroidered quilting, Gwen Stefani’s line of L.A.M.B. Ultraviolet pouches and cases are as stylish as the singer herself. 15-inch Ultraviolet Leather Sleeve and Gadget Pouch, L.A.M.B.
5. Portable PA System: Now that you’ve got a new iPod, why settle for mediocre party sound? If you’re going to spend so much time on your playlists, you might as well blast them with this PA system on wheels, which boasts sound that carries more than 150 feet with enhanced bass output. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you about the noise complaints. Block Rocker Portable PA System with iPod Docking Station, Ion.
6. Virtual Trainer: Workout junkies who found an iPod touch (2nd generation) or iPhone 3GS under the Christmas tree will love the Nike+ wireless sensor. Once slipped into the built-in pocket beneath the insole of a Nike+ shoe, this gizmo becomes your new workout coach. As you walk or run, the sensor sends info to your iPod or iPhone to track distance, calories burned and more. (It can even give you real-time, spoken feedback!) Once you’re back at home, you can sync your iPod or iPhone with your computer to track your progress. Nike+ iPod Wireless Sensor, Apple.
