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 It is that time of year once again so, as is traditional, I give you my advice on the best IT related presents to buy your loved ones (or even yourself if you have some money left over).
Tablet Computer
The iPad 2 continues to take the world by storm but I think I have found a tablet computer that is just that little bit better on almost every level. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is the wonderful device in question. It runs on the Android operating system so is well supported and has superb functionality and design. It is even slimmer and lighter than an iPad, has a 3MP camera on the back and a 2MP camera on the front and has built in GPS, so it’s as good as a Satnav when you’re on the move and trying to find your destination. It features a 4 way accelerometer which makes for super responsive gaming and video streaming is extremely smooth. You can scroll through any apps you have open (just like Windows) and, most impressively, you can get 9 hours continuous use out of the battery. There aren’t really enough good Apps available yet but that situation is improving all the time. Expect to pay £359 if you buy online.
Smartphone
The device that brought smartphones into the mainstream is still the best on the market; yes, I’m talking about the iPhone! The iPhone 4S doesn’t seem to be a dramatic improvement over the previous model so I’d go for the iPhone 4. This features a very good camera and flash, Satnav (though it’s 3G dependent when you’re on the move) and accelerometer technology for gaming. It is super slim and super stylish and incredibly intuitive to use. The number of Apps available to download is mind boggling and a lot of them are very good. The handset seems a lot less fragile than the original model and, of course, it still retains the cool status that is the Apple trademark. You can buy one outright for £325 but all the main mobile networks are offering excellent deals to contract customers.
Peripheral device
Printers have long been cheap to buy but unbelievably expensive when you replace the ink. They are also difficult to connect to a network, particularly if you run Windows 7, and the print quality varies hugely. The Kodak ESP C310 is the answer to all these problems. The cost of
replacement ink is a fraction of any other inkjet printer and it can print lab quality photos that dry instantly. It will connect to any PC or laptop either by USB cable or wirelessly and, unusually, setting up a wireless connection is something even the most IT illiterate person can manage. Did I mention that it also doubles up as a scanner and copier? All this can be yours for just £59 if you buy online.
Games console
I’ve long been a fan of the Wii Player because of the way the controller translates body movements into game actions. The Xbox 360 Kinect takes the player console interface to a whole new level – effectively, your whole body becomes the controller. Movements of your hands, feet and body are translated seamlessly into game play and there is even voice control for some games. There is also a stonking range of games available for the Xbox and you can play online. A complete Xbox 360 Kinect costs £225 from Amazon or you can upgrade your existing console to a Kinect for £100.
I’d like to wish all readers a Happy Christmas and I hope the IT Santa is especially kind to you all.
Graham Lek, IT Consultant
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