iPad Air 2020
Apple’s new 10.9-inch iPad Air is like a portable PC for work and play. It is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which is more powerful than most PCs and weighs 460g. It shoots in 4K, has a 7MP HD selfie-camera, stereo speakers and USB-C port. The power button doubles as a fingerprint sensor. Available in a range of pastel shades, it has Apple Pencil support. Price: R12,499.
Sony PlayStation 5
Sony’s next-generation gaming console comes in two variants: digital only and Blu-ray optical drive. The PS5 supports 4K gaming, haptic feedback, 3D audio and an ultra-high-speed 825GB SSD for storing games. Accessories include a charging station for two controllers, wireless headset and media remote with dedicated Netflix, YouTube and Spotify buttons. Price: R9,999 (digital) and R11,999 (Blu-ray).
Logitech MX Anywhere 3
Logitech’s new mouse retains an ergonomic design, but now with scrolling speeds of up to 1,000 lines per second. It also tracks on any surface, including glass. It lasts 70 days on a single charge, connects to three devices and has a drag-and-drop feature between desktops and operating systems — that is, Windows and Mac. Suitable for creators and developers. Price: R1,899.
DJI OM4
DJI’s newest hand-held gimbal, the rebranded OM4 is a content creator’s dream. A new magnetic grip aligns easily for stable smartphone footage and quick toggle modes for orientation or switching cameras. It features built-in presets for video editing — you simply insert footage into a theme, making a beginner look pro. It has features such as clone me, gesture control and active track. It’s compact and comes with a tripod and nifty carry case. Price: R2,699.
Instax SQ1
Fujifilm’s new instant camera is an analogue device that shoots in square format. This retro gadget is simple to operate: use the optical viewfinder to focus, click the shutter button and, 90 seconds later, your print is ready. It has a selfie mirror on the front, wrist strap and two batteries. This dinky holiday gadget is available in white, blue and orange. Price: R1,999.
UV steriliser with wireless charging
It is widely acknowledged that phones are dirtier than loo seats, so why not routinely sanitise them too? Samsung has a UV steriliser with built-in wireless charging that disinfects in 10 minutes and kills up to 99% of harmful bacteria. It works with any phone, wireless earphones, keys, sunglasses and more, and switches off immediately when opened. A brilliant 2020 gadget amid the pandemic. Price: R995.
Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop
Xiaomi’s compact robot vacuum-mop is the perfect addition to any smart home. It works with an app and maps out the rooms in your house, which can be saved onto the app. It weighs 3.6kg with a 2600mAh battery that lasts 150 minutes from a 250-minute charge. Ahead of cleaning, small removable objects should be packed away. This autonomous cleaner has a 600ml tank, 200ml water tank and 166º laser distance sensor. Price: R5,299.
Click & Grow: Smart Garden 3
Click & Grow’s Smart Garden 3 lets you grow herbs all year round using its energy-efficient LED grow lights. It can be used indoors, so is ideal for flats with no garden space. There are more than 50 seed plant pods available, including herbs, small fruit such as strawberries, and vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers. Simply plant the pods, plug in the power and fill the water reservoir. Price: R1,999.
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