Every year the staff of iMore and Mobile Nations have shared our favorite devices, apps, and accessories of the year for the holiday season. This holiday season we are expanding this list even more, no longer only focusing only on the tech which is related to Apple but all those special bits of tech which have enriched and made the year even sweeter. So please endulge us as we share all the things which we would have a hard time living without. We are more than our Apple tech and if you are looking for a special gift idea or special treat for yourself we have some tech for you. Here are a few of my favorite things that I have been using in 2013.
Computers
11-inch MacBook Air
If there is one piece of technology that I cannot live without, it is my 11-inch MacBook Air. It is the perfect combination of ultralight portability and full computer capabilities. I take my MacBook Air with me to work every day and bring it back home every night, though I probably have enough computers in my home that it is not necessary. It’s just as easy to move around with on the couch as it is on the commute. It is also really fast and has a light up keyboard which makes working in the dark a dream. If you are looking for a lightweight computer you simply can’t go wrong with the new MacBook Air.
$999 – Buy now iPad Air
The iPad Air is the perfect combination of the full-sized iPad and the iPad mini. Thin, sleek, and lightweight, it’s the most effortless iPad I’ve ever used. If the mini is too small, and the iPad 2/3/4 was too heavy to carry around for long periods of time, the iPad Air is just right. It totally lives up to its name, and is now my iPad of choice when traveling, and at home.
$499 and up – Buy now Computer accessories
ECBC Poseidon Messenger bag
The ECBC Poseidon is a small messenger bag that’s lightweight but also has a padded shoulder strap that makes carrying it a dream. There’s an easy to close velcro latch as well, which makes it secure enough that I need two hands to open it. You can fit up to a 13-inch MacBook Air inside, and it also has lots of compartments so your gear doesn’t get mixed up. It’s even go padding for extra protection. This is what I use when I want to travel light.
$69.99 – Buy now Pebble smartwatch
The Pebble is the first gadget that brings me close to my Mission Impossible dreams. I wanted it the moment I saw it on Kickstarter, and then I waited, and waited, and waited for it a ship. A year and some change later, and it was mine. The e-ink display works perfectly, even in bright sunlight, and the flick-to-backlight works just as well at night. Thanks to the recent iOS 7 update, it even handles notifications now – like a champ!
$199.00 – Buy now Flote iPad stand
I’ve been using my Flote iPad stand every day. It keeps my iPad Air securely positioned just exactly where I want it, but folds away easily when I want it out of the way. Yes, it’s expensive, but if you have the space and want something that really works, you want the Flote.
$299.99 – Buy now Vaja Cases
Who doesn’t love a little luxury? Vaja uses only the best italian leathers and most beautiful finishes to make iPhone and iPad cases that really have to be seen to be believed. More than just looking good, however, Vaja provides excellent protection from bumps and bashes that might otherwise mar your precious device.
Various – Buy now Home tech
Nexia Home Intelligence system
What’s better than not having to search for keys when you get home? Nothing! That’s what! With Nexia I no longer need house keys and, with the lighting system, Nexia even welcomes me with a well lit home when I arrive. The Nexia Home Intelligence system isn’t just a smart way to manage your home security but it’s literally the future of home automation, in your house, today. It lets you control your locks, your lights, your security cameras, from wherever you are, right from your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad or the web, from anywhere you have an internet connection.
$184.39 – Buy now Y-Cam Home Monitor
If all you want to do is watch your home while you’re away, the Y-Cam Home Monitor is an easy way to do it. You don’t have to have a subscription and it will let you view your home from your computer, iPad or iPhone. Even when you’re home, with motion detector and infrared night vision, if the Terminators are coming to get you, at least you will see them first.
$199.99 – Buy now Jumbl Bidet
We are exceptionally behind the times when it comes to toilets in North America. In other countries, going to the washroom such a effortless, enjoyable, and relaxing experience. With the Jumbl Bidet, however, you can bring you bathroom out of the stone ages and into the modern world. It fits onto whatever toilet you already have and then, with a few minor connections, makes it so that you never have to reach for the paper roll again. You can choose your water temperature and pressure plus it is self cleaning. It will change your world.
$44.95 – Buy now Withings scale
I have been using the Withings scale for almost two years now and not only does it still look great, it still works perfectly. Withings does all that heavy weight lifting for you (no pun intended – seriously!). You set it up, step on it, it records everything you need, and sends it to your iPhone or iPad for easy tracking at any time. It’s a must have for fitness.
$257.99 – Buy now Ring Clock
I have a strong affinity for technology and I love jewelry so, when I saw the ring clock, I knew that I had to have it. The stunning stainless steel band with a minimalist LED display maximizes both form and function. It is still in the pre- order stage but I cant wait to see if it lives up to the hype.
$235.00 – Buy now Your favorites?
That’s some of my favorite tech – and tech-supporting – stuff from the last year. I’d love to know what you love, however, so let me know!