Last-minute quirky gadget gifts
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2007-12-19
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| We're getting down to the wire as far as Christmas gifts are concerned, but here are some last-minute options if you'd like to spoil a tech head.
First up is the Editors' Choice award-winning EeePC from Asus. This ultra-cheap, itty-bitty white laptop is targeted at kids to use in an educational environment, but the fact that it runs Linux means that tinkerers can tweak it to their heart's content.
An option for serial snappers is Sony's DSC-T70 digicam. The slim profile makes it easily pocketable, and the touchscreen adds a bit of iPhone-esque cachet. Its most notable feature, however, is the Smile Shutter function. When deployed, the camera will refuse to take a photo unless the subject bears their pearlies for the lens.
Taking touchscreens several steps further is HP's TouchSmart PC. Designed to act as the hub for a busy family, this all-in-one computer is controlled by finger movements on the monitor.
Bedroom rock stars will be well-served by the third installment in the Guitar Hero console game series, which features such classic tunes as Black Sabbath's Paranoid and the Sex Pistols' Anarchy in the UK.
If the object of your gifting generosity is a phone fiend, you could shell out for Nokia's newly released N95 8GB. With 8GB of internal storage, a 5-megapixel camera, GPS, multimedia player and HSDPA Web browsing, it's not like they'll run out of features to play with. For young text-heads there is Telstra's HipTop Slide, which will look familiar to anyone who follows the travails of Paris Hilton -- it's the Australian version of the phone she had hacked.
Finally, if you're cashed up and looking to buy something stunning, Philips' Aurea LCD TV is a prime contender for your coinage. This gorgeous telly features Ambilight Spectra, in which the colours on-screen extend onto the frame and the wall behind, turning the TV into a chameleonic kaleidoscope of colour. Turn out the lights, gaze at the soft, multi-coloured glow and feel the magic of Christmas.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 8.6
ASUS EeePC 701
The EeePC isn't for everyone -- in fact within about two seconds from picking it up you'll know if it's for you or not. For those it does appeal to, it's a brilliant little thing that fills a much lamented gap.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 7.2
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T70
The Sony Cyber-shot T70 is a classy compact with a 3-inch touch screen, extremely fast shutter response and decent image quality.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 8.5
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock
Despite a few small flaws, Guitar Hero III is an excellent addition to the Guitar Hero franchise and shouldn't be missed.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 6.8
Motorola Hiptop Slide
The Hiptop Slide is social networking heaven paired with average standard phone features. This is one for the kids.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 7.9
HP TouchSmart IQ770 PC
The HP TouchSmart IQ770 PC is an innovative device which will fit well into most homes, but is just short of an Editor's Choice award.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 8.9
Philips Aurea 42PFL9900D
The Philips Aurea 42PFL9900D may be very expensive, but its picture performance nothing short of stunning, and the Ambilight Spectra system stands out from the crowd.
EditorsĄŻ rating: 8.8
Nokia N95 8GB
An upgrade to the crowd-pleasing, GPS-toting N95, this music-focused version adds a larger screen and 8GB of internal memory to its predecessor.
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