Spring break is arriving for college students all over the country. The mass exodus of young scholars to all places warm and wet has begun. Sun screen? Check! Hotel Reservations? Check (one room for 20 people!)! Gadgets? Hmmmm. Which one’s to take?…That question might be a little easier to answer with a sampling of the hottest digital must haves to bring along with you!
KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera
The new KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera is a rugged, durable and pocket HD video camera with an appetite for adventure. The KODAK PlaySport Video Camera is waterproof up to 10 feet and features built-in software and USB cable output so users can edit and easily share with family and friends through sites such as YouTube and Facebook.
$149.95 ; www.kodak.com
iHome Protective (Water/Sand resistant) Speaker Case for iPod
The iH13 is a portable trendy water-resistant sport case speaker fits into anyone’s lifestyle. Securely holds your iPod in a lightweight zippered case so taking it with you to the beach, picnic or party is a breeze. Also charges the iPod (with optional AC charger) and incorporates a full function built-in remote control, so you can use your iPod while it’s fully protected in your sports case.
$49.99 ; www.ihomeaudio.com
TomTom app for iPhone/iPod Touch
This new turn-by-turn navigation app offers the following features and benefits:
Navigation software including fast route planning and clear voice instructions
Automatic re-routing if a turn is missed
Route demo or map of route when trip planning
Alternative route options if avoiding roadblocks, toll ways or looking for high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes along route
Access to the latest Tele Atlas maps of the US, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand (6 million Points of Interest included).
Complete iPhone/iPod Touch Map Integration
Multi-touch gestures such as tap, swipe, pinch and zoom allow the user to operate the app and zoom in and out of the map.
User can navigate to contacts in address book.
The TomTom IQ Routes feature will give you the most efficient route – saving you time, fuel and money. IQ Routes uses the driving experiences of millions of drivers to work out your route based on actual road speed data. Advanced Lane Guidance lets you know exactly when to exit on the correct road when approaching multi-exit zones. A recent upgrade to the app software replicates the services found in TomTom’s premium GO Live models. Users can now receive traffic reports along with access to local Google searches.
$99.99 (an optional windshield mount is available) ; www.tomtom.com
FLO TV Handheld Television
If your life keeps you constantly on the move, the FLO TV Handheld Television will help you to stay up-to-date with your favorite TV programs. FLO TV uses a unique tuner to operate off a dedicated, nationwide, live mobile TV network, so you can enjoy 24/7 access to live sports, breaking news and even great kids’ programming. The 3.5″ touch LCD screen makes changing channels as simple as a swipe of your finger. Plus, it comes with a 6-month FLO TV programming subscription, so you can start viewing your favorite shows on the go right away!
$199.95; www.flotv.com
Nokia 5230 Nuron
Nokia and T-Mobile USA have paired to offer the new Nokia 5230 Nuron. Billed as one of the most affordable touch screen smartphone for the masses. This phone is packed with applications, maps with turn-by-turn directions, and more.
Operating on T-Mobile’s 3G network, the Nokia Nuron offers web browsing and rich on a 3.2” touch screen. The device is also the first T-Mobile device pre-loaded with Ovi Maps, a free turn-by-turn navigation solution from Nokia, and the first to have the Ovi Store pre-loaded, giving consumers access to thousands of compelling applications and games.
$69.99 (with a two-year service agreement and $50 mail-in rebate); www.T-Mobile.com
FINIS: XtreaMP3
A waterproof MP3 player with armband for extreme sports.
Perfect for surfers, kiteboarders and triathletes
Provides 1GB of music (up to 240 songs)
Features high-quality waterproof sound for depths up to 15’
Attaches to comfortable neoprene arm strap
$149.99; www.finisinc.com
Tunebug: Shake
When mounted on a helmet, the Shake creates a surround sound experience
Enables bikers, skateboarders and skiers to enjoy their favorite music while still being aware of their surroundings
Can be connected to iPods, MP3 players & mobile phones wirelessly via Bluetooth technology
Has a LiPoly battery with about 5 hours of playtime and charges via the included USB cord.
Price: $119.95 ; www.tunebug.com
Scosche: solBAT II
Works with almost any handheld USB powered device
Simple two light design – red means charging, green means it’s powering a handheld device
Charges handhelds at the same rate as a wall charger
Two suction cups make it easy to attach to a window or windshield
When fully powered it will charge a cell phone twice.
$29.99; www.scosche.com