Chances are there’s at least one or two people on your gift list who can’t live without their smartphone or the new tablet computer they scooped up this year.
The good news is you can buy a holiday present that adds functionality, fashion and longevity to any favorite portable gadget.
Bluetooth headsets and speakerphones are obvious. But there are other gift ideas to consider, divided into various categories, and ranging in price from $15 to $350.
And, no, we won’t think you’re more naughty than nice if you decide to keep these for yourself.
Cases, Bags and Skins
The OtterBox Defender line of cases ($49.95; otterbox.com) safeguards your smartphone in three ways: a clear membrane that covers the screen, a hard polycarbonate skeleton that surrounds the smartphone and a wrap-around silicone skin that absorbs bumps and shocks. Awarded a Gear of the Year nod by National Geographic Adventure, the Defender series is available in multiple colors, supports different kinds of phones and includes a swivel belt clip.
If you’d rather rock out than go rugged, the iMainGo X ($69.95; imaingo.com) is a protective case and ultra-portable speaker system rolled into one. Designed primarily for iPhone (but it should fit most other smartphones and MP3 players), this product lets you control and view your device without having to take it out of the case. A 3.5-mm jack connects to the rechargeable speaker (AC plug included), which lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge.
Tablet owners might prefer a stylish bag, such as those by STM Bags. Available in olive or ochre, the Scout ($50; stmbags.com), for example, is an over-the-shoulder canvas bag with multiple pockets. A Velcro and buckle closure over the tablet area offers added protection. The water-resistant bag weighs 1.2 pounds.
For iPad owners who do a lot of typing, there’s the new Bluetooth keyboard…