Be Faster

Gadgets

Smart Phone – iPhone, Nexus

The mainstay of anyone’s gadget arsenal. Our suggestion is to stay on the right side of the technology curve by either picking up the latest iPhone or an Android Device with the latest version of Android.

Tablet – iPad, Nexus 7/10, Ultrabook Convertibles

The reign of the laptop seems to be coming to an end, replaced by a new generation of powerful, versatile tablets and laptop/tablet hybrids. For your geek pack we are making a recommendation quite similar to last time, pick up a device running the latest versions of iOS or Android. Alternatively, take a look at the Ultrabook Convertibles (Tablet/Laptop Hybrids) running Windows 8.

Sensor – Fitbit, Sensordrone, Node

Sensors are becoming smaller, cheaper and more useful. As it stands we like two classes of sensors, the enhanced pedometers that allow you to track your steps, sleep, calories and any number of other fitness datapoints and the “everyday” sensors that take temperature, humidity, light and a wide variety of other sensors and put them in the palm of your hand. As these devices become more prevalent we hope to see innovative applications designed to take advantage of this new information.

Smart Watch – Pebble Smart Watch, My Basis

These are not your daddy’s calculator watches, Smart Watches are the latest and greatest in wearable technology that allow you to do everything from tracking your health to checking your email and SMS messages. Many of these devices work with iOS and Android phones through bluetooth and with new applications being rapidly developed it’s hard to tell just how powerful these devices may become.

Cloud – Dropbox, Google Drive

Combining offsite backup, with universal access, cloud storage is changing the where and how of working in a major way. Many of these services also have applications which make it easier for you to store offline copies of your important documents and keep them sync’d across all of your devices. If you do nothing else today, we suggest you sign up for one (or both) of these.

Extra Power – ZAGGSparq

We really want to give you a good solar powered charging solution, but as it stands there isn’t one that seems convenient enough to recommend when compared to its standard powered alternative. Stay tuned as we keep looking, but until then this is a fantastic way to keep all of your whizz bang gizmos fully charged.

Mifi/Tether – T-Mobile Mobile Broadband, Datajack

In order to take full advantage of your devices you need high quality internet access. While many of these devices come with built in 3G/4G modems there are times when you’ll find yourself without web access and that’s where Tethering or Mifi come into play. If your service provider offers tethering services for your smart phone (all of the major ones do) we highly suggest looking into it, especially if you find yourself away from WiFi on a regular basis. If not, a contract-free Mifi plan is a fantastic alternative.

Home – Smartthings (Home Automation), The UBI (Sensor), Twine (Sensor), Ninja Blocks (Sensor), Lockitron (Automated Locks), Nest (Smart Thermostat), The Modlet (Smart Plugs)

It is becoming increasingly cheap and easy to automate your home, apartment, or other living area. You can do everything from know when people walk in the door, to monitoring your power consumption to reduce your electricity costs. As these devices become even less expensive, the smart home of the future will begin to become a reality.

Transportation – Montague Bikes, Dahon Bikes, iZip

We have not reached a clear consensus on the right Infotainment package for your car, and since most of them are inseparable from the brand of car you purchase, our only recommendation is to pick up the technology package where possible. On the more eco-friendly side of the coin, we are really excited about the major improvements we’re seeing in fold-able and electric assist bicycles.