With Starbucks seasonal drinks on the menu and Mariah Carey completely thawed, it’s officially the holiday season, which means it’s time to start making our lists and double-checking them. And since the techies in our lives tend to always be one step ahead, we’re naturally inspired to buy them as soon as possible.
Below we’ve rounded up 10 of some of this season’s hottest gadgets – whether you’re shopping for an extreme note taker, interior design aficionado, or the kids, we’ve got you covered. Even better, some of these brands are offering early Black Friday deals, so you can Really stay ahead of the shopping curve this season.
To hear better with
From Meghan Markle to the hosts of the Grio Black Podcast Network, it seems like just about everyone has a podcast these days. For the person in your life who never misses an episode, Raycon headphones, founded by the one and only Ray J, come highly rated and in a variety of colours.
Raycon Sport Headphones ($119.99)
For the Detailed Note Taker
Experts have long declared that writing by hand is the best way to remember almost anything. Meanwhile, technology has made it easy to write notes on the go. Cult Favorite Magazine Company moleskine has married both worlds with its Smart Writing Set, a smart notebook and pen that digitally transcribes as you jot down your ideas. Perfect for the writers, designers, artists, and avid note takers in your life.
Moleskine Smart Writing Set ($279)
There are so many moments in life that are worth capturing; a fact that the social media experts in our lives demonstrate every chance they get. Make sure they never miss a moment with the new Ray-Ban Stories from heritage sunglasses brand Ray-Ban, the latest in wearable technology. Sold as eyeglasses and sunglasses in three different styles, these frames include a discreetly integrated camera that allows the wearer to capture photos and videos, answer calls and even update their social networks in the blink of an eye.
Ray-Ban Stories ($329–$379)
For the adventurer who lives in a virtual reality
VR technology is both entertaining and problem-solving; By simply slipping on a pair of space-age goggles, you can transport yourself to a high-impact workout class, stroll through the cities you’ve longed to visit, or level up mentally in a game. For the person who feels more at home in the metaverse than the physical world, the Meta Quest 2 VR headset might be at the top of your list.
Meta Quest 2 VR Glasses ($399)
For the lover of fine arts
We’ve come a long way from the massive cabinet styles of our elders’ era, but while TVs have gotten slimmer, they haven’t necessarily gotten sleeker. Enter Samsung’s Frame TV, a sleek and stylish TV that can blend seamlessly with any interior décor and double down on fine art. With a variety of prices, sizes and styles, this TV is perfect for the art and style conscious TV fan in your life.
Samsung Frame TV (approximately $549.99 to $3,299.99)
For those who like to indulge
Just as you can now make coffee at the push of a button, you can also make the perfect cocktail. Whether you know a holiday host with the most or the house bartender who aspires to master the art of cocktails, an electric cocktail shaker is a gift that keeps the buzz going for the people in your life who love to indulge. We recommend the Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine.
Bartesian Premium Margarita and Cocktail Machine ($366)
For the workout junkie, or novice
Is there someone in your life who never misses a workout or has expressed an interest in adopting a regimen? Get them pumped up this holiday season with a major home gym upgrade that allows them to virtually summon world-renowned trainers on demand from the comfort of their own home. The Serena Williams-approved Tonal Home Mirror is designed for the gym rat, beginner, and everyone in between.
Tonal (Financing starts at $73/mo.)
To keep them hydrated
Reusable water bottles are better for the environment, they can keep your liquids cool or hot for hours, they come in a variety of patterns and sizes, and now, thanks to smart technology, some even remind you to take a sip. Help a loved one track their health goals or just maintain your daily H2O intake with a Hydrate Spark Pro Smart Water Bottle. These customizable Bluetooth-enabled smart bottles come in five different colors, they shine bright when you need a drink. sip and connect with a convenient app.
Hydrate Spark Pro ($49 to $69)
For the budding artist
The imagination of a young mind is often best expressed through art. Amaze the budding artist in his life with the ability to bring his best creations to life with a 3D pen. The 3Doodler Start Pen is a great gateway to 3D art, STEM, and creativity for any young doodler. 3Doodler also offers pens for more advanced doodlers, including teens and adults.
3Doodler Starter Pen ($49.99)
For the entire family
Bundle up for a winter evening walk doesn’t have to mean giving up safety or style. Thanks to Headlightz, practicality, safety and style come together in a rechargeable LED winter hat. Created by a black woman, the hat comes in a variety of colors and patterns, perfect for everyone in the family.
Lighthouse ($24.99)
Kay Wicker is a lifestyle writer for theGrio covering health, wellness, travel, beauty, fashion, and the myriad ways Black people live and enjoy their lives. She has previously created content for magazines, newspapers, and digital brands.
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