Forget the lame neck ties and ratchet sets.There’s a whole world of gadgets and gizmos out there sure to put a smile on your old man’s face. Whether he’s a technophile, handyman or multimedia wiz--here’s 10 gadgets dad will be sure to cheer for.
Upgrade dad’s basic ear buds with the Klipsch Image S4i headset. Developed in conjunction with Apple, this in-ear headset features a three-button control to skip tracks, adjust volume and answer calls. The headset works with the Shuffle’s voice-over feature and is compatible with most later Apple products.
RetailPrice: $99.99
Dad’s already got the souped up camera, video editing software, and high-end hardware, so what can you get the multi-media magnate? Check out the D-Link Media Lounge system that lets you view hi-def pictures, movies and listen to music from your PC on any TV in the house.
Retails between $199 and $254.00
End dad’s frustration of settling down on the couch to watch TV and not being able to find the remote. The L5 app and hardware turn the iPhone, iPod Touch or even iPad into a fully programmable universal remote control. The gadget also puts an end to dead remote batteries.
Retail price: $49.95
For the gadgeteer on the go, this jacket brags 19 pockets and enough space for every device in Dad’s arsenal. There’s even a PadPocket designed to carry the iPad and internal catches to route and hold wires and headphones in place.
Retail Price: $120.00.
Make up for the time you dropped the screws while Dad worked under the hood. The Magnogrip magnetic wristband holds screws, nails, drill bits and even small tools in place. Think of it like a third hand to help dad hold onto his parts and patience.
Retail Price: $15.99
Bring new meaning to “on the rocks” and stop Dad from diluting the flavor of his favorite whiskey with melting ice cubes. Whiskey Stones are made of soapstone and when put in the freezer for a few hours, will suitably chill a spirit (not intended for larger beverages) without watering it down.
Retail Price: $20 for a set of 9.
Arriving on June 9, just in time for Father’s Day, the Garminfone combines an Android-based smart phone with a full-featured Garmin GPS. The device is integrated with Google Voice search and can offer directions visually on its 3.5 inch screen and verbally. It also includes a 3 MP camera.
The device will be available on T-Mobile and will retail for $199.99 after rebate.
Keep dad on target while out on the green with this high-tech putting aid. The laser snaps onto the putter shaft and projects one beam along the target line and another squarely perpendicular giving instant visual feedback on the swing.
Retail Price: $59.95
Savvy travelers know the secret of rolling your clothes to avoid wrinkles when packing. The SkyRoll takes this tip further, offering a garment bag that rolls up and snaps around a hollow duffle that has room for shoes and a ditty bag. With the threat of more carry-on fees, this product almost pays for itself and keeps Dad looking good.
Retail Price: $149.99
With all the touch screens and tiny keyboards around, it’s easy to forget that sometimes you just have to write it on paper. The Digital Scribe captures and stores everything you write on regular paper and can be uploaded to a computer. Export to .JPG images or use the character recognition software to digitize the text in 12 languages.
Retail Price: $99.95