The holiday season is approaching quickly, so technology companies are busy releasing their latest products. The most popular high tech products this year will certainly include electronic entertainment, especially music and video. Apple is always a leader in this arena, but other lesser-known companies like AfterShokz, United Ears and LG will also be offering technology gifts for the holidays.
1. Apple TV 4K
Apple TV is a digital media player that receives digital video from a variety of sources and streams it to a television. The new Apple TV 4K starts at $170 and supports 4k Ultra HD as well as HDR content. The Apple A10X Fusion chip also turns this TV into a gaming machine. Apple has also improved the Siri remote for the Apple TV 4K.
2. AfterShokz Trekz Air Wireless Headphones
Wireless headphones will be very popular for the 2017 season, making the best choice difficult to determine. The current trend in headphones is towards Siri integration and earbuds, but the AfterShokz Trekz Air wireless headphones go in a different direction. They use bone conduction, a technology originally developed for the military. These headphones are placed on your cheekbones rather than in your ears, allowing them to transmit sound waves through bone to your inner ear.
3. LG Signature OLED 4K TV
The LG OLED65W7P is an excellent 4K TV for 2017, especially when you use it with the Apple TV 4K. This flatscreen TV has a diagonal measurement of 65 inches, which is large even for a home theater system. The LG OLED65W7P also has the latest audio and video features, including an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel that produces vibrant colors. Dolby Atmos audio and Dolby Vision HDR further enhance the quality of the 4K video.
4. UE MegaBoom
Ultimate Ears (UE) has gained a reputation for making some the best portable, wireless speakers available since it released the original UE Boom in 2013. The UE Megaboom has two 2-inch drivers and two 4-inch radiators that provide 360-degree audio. Additional features include voice support for Google Now and Siri. The Megaboom retails for about $300.
5. Apple HomePod
Apple has also become known for its audio electronics over the last few years, primarily as a result of Apple Music’s growing popularity and Apple’s acquisition of Beats Electronics in 2014. Apple will release the HomePod in December 2017 for a retail price of about $350. This smart speaker has seven tweeters and a woofer that provide 360-degree audio. The HomePod offers high performance and is designed for serious audio enthusiasts. Expect it to be in high demand during the holidays.