Hot Picks: Gadgets to Gift Dad on Father’s Day

To celebrate dearest dad this Father’s Day, we have curated a list of the hottest gadgets to gift the leading man in your life. Make this special occasion a moment to remember with a luxurious present that shows him your appreciation. Whether it’s for the dad that is constantly on-the-go, for the coffee-loving or music-loving dad , we’ve got all the must-have gadgets right here. Scroll for more…

For the watch collecting dad

MB&F x L’Epée ‘s 1839 Orb

Time and again, the world of haute horology impresses us with stylistic designs and sophisticated engineering that put the art of clock making at the forefront of artisanal craftsmanship. A case in point is the 1839 Orb, the collaborative creation of two renowned Swiss maisons in the world of luxury watch making, MB&F and L’Epée.

This sleek, spherical clock is designed with four elytra (wing-like) panels that swivel open to reveal the timepiece in all its mechanical glory. The orb is powered by an 1839 hour-striking movement, with an 8-day power reserve. Just like Big Ben, it chimes every new hour, but can also be switched off at the user’s discretion. Available in black or white, if this doesn’t impress your watch-loving dad, we don’t know what will!

Price: US$31,000
For more information: mbandf.com

For fathers always on-the-go

Gold Valet 3 wireless charging platform by Volonic (Limited-edition!)

Nothing spells luxury quite like gold. Its aureate tint adds a touch of opulence to any surface or object. Much like the Valet 3, a limited-edition charging device by California-based luxury lifestyle brand Volonic. Encased in 18K yellow gold and padded with sumptuous vicuna wool, this device might possibly be the most luxurious accessory you can prop on your desk.

Engineered with a 22.5W charging speed, it is compatible with a variety of devices including as Apple, Google and Samsung, as well as any device with the Qi-enabled feature. Its 9″x5″ construction also features a full-scale, cordless charging platform that allows users to place multiple devices anywhere on its surface, fuss-free; making sure dads on-the-go will always have a full bar when he leaves home.

Price: HK$1.9 million
For more information: volonic.com

For the dad who loves photography

Sumsung S22 Ultra

If dad hasn’t gotten his hands on the Galaxy S22 Ultra yet, the special occasion of Father’s Day will be the perfect time to get him one. This is the only model in the S22 series that includes a built-in S Pen and a slew of camera upgrades, including an impressive Nightography mode for dads who enjoy taking night photography. Its Quad Camera shoots in 108 MP, F1.8 aperture, 10MP telephoto and x10 optical zoom.

Other perks include a slimmer design, brighter display, faster refresh rate and a faster S Pen (a first in its S series and an improvement on its Galaxy note line up). The model comes in a range of colour schemes: Burgundy, Green, Phantom White and Phantom Black. Don’t forget to visit their website for a slew of special offers available this Father’s Day!

Price: HK$10,798.00
For more information: samsung.com

Also Read: Top smartphone releases in 2022

For the father who likes to lounge

KEF LS60 wireless standing speakers

British high-end audio specialist KEF celebrates its sixtieth anniversary with a pioneering wireless floor-standing speakers, LS60 Wireless, designed as an all-in-one speaker system that offers a more immersive listening experience at home. Pumping out high-fidelity audio along with different modes and intuitive sound settings that allow listeners to fine-tune its audio performance that best suits their listening preferences.

Whether dear dad is just relaxing to his favourite tune or immersed in the latest TV series, this all-in-one speaker system instantly connects to any device (wired or wireless) via Bluetooth and through a range of inputs such as HDMI and RCA. The model is available in three elegant matte finishes: titanium grey, mineral white and royal blue.

Price: HK$54,800
For more information: hk.kef.com

For the creative father

Apple MacBook Air (M2 chip)

Apple unveils the new MacBook Air powered by its new M2 chip. Boasting a slimmer design in four sleek looks, a larger 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, a 1080p HD camera, MagSafe charging, to name just a few. The highlight here though is its new M2 chip with a ultra fast 24GB Unified memory, ProRes accelerator, and up to 20 hours of battery life for all dad’s creative productions.

Price: HK$9,499
For more information: apple.com/hk/en/mac

For the music-loving father

Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay EX (New colours available!)

Danish audio experts Bang & Olufsen has just put out two new colours for its Beoplay EX wireless earbuds. For the perfect gift this Father’s Day, choose between the Gold Tone and Black Anthracite for an audio accessory that dear old dad will appreciate for on-the-go use and everyday wear. Built for comfort with a fully waterproof design, and praised for its phenomenal sound quality and adaptive active noise cancellation, this is the brand’s most versatile true wireless earphones to date.

Price: HK$3,678
For more information: stores.bang-olufsen.com

SoundLink Flex Bluetooth speaker from Bose

No trip to the beach or a rooftop barbecue is complete with good music to fill the air. Highlighting the SoundLink Flex Bluetooth speaker, renowned US audio engineers Bose sets the bar for portable speakers for dads who love being outdoors. Boasting 12 hours of playback per charge and protected by a waterproof rating of IP67, this Bluetooth wireless speaker pumps rich and crispy clear sounds no matter the orientation, thanks to its PositionIQ technology.

With a sleek and stylish aesthetic, its powder-coated steel grille and silicone exterior comes in two shades: Black and Stone Blue. Powered with 12 hours

Price: HK$1,399
For more information: bose.hk

For the stylish dad

Phantom II Deep Blue by Devialet (Exclusive!)

French audio expert Devialet’s exclusive Phantom II Deep Blue is one that will have your stylish dad grooving in style to his favourite tune. Featuring a distinctively new colour scheme exclusive to this model, thanks to acclaimed Italian producer Luigi Tozzi, this wireless easy-to-move speakers for the home boasts an impressive clarity of pure organic sound through its hypnotic ambient technology that pumps out tracks in high-fidelity (98dB) and deep base from within its compact body, you can rest assured that audio quality on this device will not fall short.

Price: HK$12,990
For more information: devialet.com

Also Read: Latest water gadgets to explore the ocean like a pro!

For the coffee-loving father

Nespresso’s Vertuo coffee system (NEW!)

There’s nothing like a warm cuppa to fuel your inner desires. But somedays busy dads just don’t have the time to wait around for a French press to whistle or a drip coffee to fill his cup. Enter Nespresso’s Vertuo coffee system – boasting new technologies that deliver a wider range of taste and five well-portioned sizes. It Comes with an all-new brewing system powered by its ground-breaking Centrifusion technology that allows for quality coffee to be served instantly with a simple touch of a button.

Price: HK$1,988
For more information: nespresso.com

EG-1 electric coffee grinder from Weber Workshop

Very little else beats the delightful aromatic and sensorial smell of a cuppa in the morning. Starting the day off right is done no better than by treating yourself to freshly ground beans for your morning brew. The Workshop EG-1 electric coffee grinder by coffee equipment manufacturer and specialist Weber Workshops, allows you to grind beans for both pour-over and espresso-style preparations.

Thanks to its magnetically mounted burr set, this device eschews any screws in which coffee residue can build up, making for an easier to clean as well as consistent quality throughout. Additional mounts include the Ultra burs for pour-over coffee and the Base burrs for a grind that’s similar to what you’d get from a conical burr machine.

Price: HK$3,495
For more information:weberworkshops.com

Also Read: 7 Life-changing tech gadgets for your home

Gadget accessories for dad:

TUMI x Razer’s exclusive travel accessories collection (Limited-Edition!)

International lifestyle brand of travel accessories Tumi has joined its creative hands with global gaming accessory brand Razer in creating a limited-edition travel collection comprised of a backpack, sling bag, luggage and laptop sleeve for all dad’s lifestyle needs. The luxury lifestyle brand features the award-wining gaming lifestyle brand’s iconic electric green on the linings of each product while boasting the innovative design and excellent, sturdy construction that the brand is known for. tumi-hk.com

BezelHold’s The Capsule II versatile watch holder

Hong Kong-based watch care and storage product maker BezelHold offers passionate watch collectors a functionally versatile vessel for precious timepieces. The Capsule II, handcrafted with the finest granulated leather, then lined with velvet fabric on the inside, and boasting a semi-shock resistant structure for durability, can hold up to three watches at a time – each compartment a detachable piece that allows for flexibility and versatility, whether at home or on-the-go. bezelhold.com

Also Read: 5 best pocket-size cameras to take on your travels

Five best pocket-size cameras to take on your travels

Summer is out! Those who are itching to take a trip out of town or hankering for a thrilling off-road adventure or even an underwater deep dive will want to capture all their exciting moments on camera. Afterall, if you don’t get to show it off on social media, did it even happen at all? For that, we’ve listed the best compact, pocket-size cameras in 2022 that are perfect for vlogging your adventure on-the-go.

As substitute for bulky DSLR or mirrorless digital cameras, but notches ahead of your handy smartphone, these pocket-size cameras are perfect for those wanting to travel light, but still look for high resolution playback for any weather and occasion. Small enough to slip into your pockets and easier to fiddle with than your smartphone, these are the pocket-size cameras to get for your next travel.

Best Overall: GoPro HERO 10 Black

eight Best pocket cameras to take on your travels gafencu gadget review gopro hero 10 black (3) — (Photo: Hero 10 Black, courtesy of GoPro)

The Specs: Starting at the top of the list is the Hero 10 Black by action camera specialists GoPro. Although we had hoped to find a worthy contender to trump the coveted Hero 10 Black, to the surprise of none, it remains at the top of the best action camera and pocket camera for travels. Versatile to the max, it can suit any occasion or situation, from high-intensity sports videos to underwater diving shots, or simply travel vlogs and day-to-day video journaling.

It shoots in 5.4k 23MP at 60fps and can dive underwater up to a depth of 33ft. It boasts an amazing HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization in all modes and performs brilliantly even in low light. It features a wide and extra wide angle lens that captures video and images in professional quality and also offers timpe lapse and slow-mo modes. It captures stills of 19.6MP videos as well as snap 23MP photos in its dedicated photo mode. It is also powered by a new GP2 processor that allows for smoother video playback, especially on its improved front-facing screen.

The Cons: Despite the impressively clear resolution of its specifications, the one flaw that we can point out is that its colour contrasts and range of colour profiles fall flat on details and its built-in microphone could have been made to sound more detailed.

The Verdict: With a shock-proof case that is mountable to a wide range of different accessories, and full-automatic feature, this action / pocket camera is the perfect companion for adventure-seekers and beginner vloggers. It even allows for cloud connectivity for easy and instant sharing.

Most Compact: DJI Osmo Pocket 2

eight Best pocket cameras to take on your travels gafencu gadget review dji osmos pocket 2 (3) — (Photo: Osmos Pocket 2, courtesy of DJI)

The Specs: Ultra-compact and light weight, the Osmos Pocket 2 by drone experts DJI has put out a pocket-size vlogging camera perfect for capturing memorable moments on your travels or day-to-day. Despite its miniature size, it packs impressive specs. Most notably, its impressive image stabaliser, thanks to its built-in 3-axis stabilization and ActiveTrack 3.0 technology which captures clear and focused movements while on-the-go.

The device shoots in a 4K wide angle in 24fps with a pretty clear built-in microphone. It also features various shooting modes such as, time lapse, slow-mo, and even a story mode that offers video and music templates for short film compositions — simplifying video production and photography while on-the-go. It firmware technology also allows for users to seamlessly switch from video to photo mode with a simple click of a button, perfect for those who love collecting snapshots of their travels and experiences.

The Cons: Although the device offers a myriad of shooting modes to choose from, its quality and functionality can be limited depending on which mode you’re in. For example, active tracker and face tracking isn’t available in 4K mode and the ability to zoom in on slow-mo mode is absent.

The Verdict: There’s not a lot to complain about with the DJI Osmos Pocket 2, but if there are any drawbacks to this is, it would be that it does not compare to the image and video quality you would get from a DSLR, which isn’t surprising given the size of this pocket camera. Although there could be some improvements on consistency of quality throughout the different shooting modes, overall it is a great pocket-size camera to take on travels for day-to-day journaling, vlogging and easy editing.

Also Read: Must-have water gadgets for your ocean exploration

Best All-rounded 360 Cam: Insta360 One X2

The Specs: Never miss a shot because its 360 lens captures EVERYTHING, allowing for efficient, effortless, and stress-free video editing. It shoots in an impressive 5.7K quality in 24fps in a more dynamic range of colour profiles and modes, such as stable cam, 150-degrees wide angle, selfie mode, stable cam mode and of course 360-degree mode.

It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, and holds comfortably in the hand, and with instant connectivity to your smartphone and a dedicated editing app, sharing memorable adventures and amazing video content with friends and family is made even easier. Did we mention that this camera is also IPX 8 waterproof up to 8 meters underwater without a case?

The Cons: The only drawback is that its firmware can be a little laggy when switching from one mode to the other, and has been criticised for occasionally freezing in between modes. And although the battery life is a vast improvement from its predecessor it still only captures about 60 to 80 minutes of high resolution video. For this we suggest to pack extra batteries.

The Verdict: Nonetheless, the strengths definitely outweigh the drawbacks with this pocket-size camera. Making this a versatile action camera that boasts the unique feature of a 360-angle for an immersive throwback of every moment.

Best for Beginners: Akaso Brave 7 LE

eight Best pocket cameras to take on your travels gafencu gadget review akaso brave 7 (3) — (Photo: Akaso Brave 7 LE, courtesy of Akaso)

The Specs: The Specs: The Akaso Brave 7 is the brand’s most expensive model to date, but still it is one of the most affordable action cameras on the market that will still offer decent quality videos and photos. It shoots 4K videos in 30fps and 20MP photos. With a 6-Axis Image Stabiliser, its video quality isn’t the best on the market right now but it does score points above brands like GoPro and DJI in areas like battery life and convenience.

It is IPX 7 waterproof without a case, and can dive 1 meter underwater (farther with a waterproof case) and has the feature of switch shooting modes while underwater with its touch-screen dual screen, which most action cameras don’t. With this device you can also choose to shoot in time-lapse and slow-mo in 60fps HD mode for all those high impact action moments.

The Cons: A major drawback to the camera, especially for those who enjoy narrating their day-to-day and travels is that, although it is built in with an internal mic, the audio clarity and quality is not comparable to that of GoPros or Camcorders, and it does not support external mic.

The Verdict: Overall, the Akaso Brave performs well and comes complete with several accessories and mounts upon purchase, which makes it much more affordable than that of GoPro and DJI models, although it is the brand’s most expensive model to date. It will serve well for beginners and those who prefer convenience.

Best for Photos: Ricoh GR IIIx

eight Best pocket cameras to take on your travels gafencu gadget review ricoh gr iiix (2) — (Photo: Ricoh GR IIIx, courtesy of Ricoh)

The Specs: For a compact substitute for a DSLR, Ricoh has put out a pocket-siz camera that makes one-handed shooting comfortable and effortles. It shoots 24.4MP through an APS-C sensor and 40mm high-resolution GR fixed lens.

It fits comfortably in the pocket and scores high for its portability, convenience and quality that serves street photographers and photography enthusiast a golden balance between high resolution cameras and mobile phones. Those who enjoy everyday photo journaling will find themselves reaching for this gadget more often their smartphone.

The Cons: Although its 24.4MP and APS-C sensor gives the camera great image quality, the auto-focus for video is not great, especially compared to the other action cameras presented on the list. Aside from that, the shooting modes and settings are pretty basic and the battery capacity doesn’t boast a very long lifespan, but like the Insta360, you can always buy extra rechargeable batteries.

The Verdict: Although the Ricoh GR IIIx is more limiting than most DSLRs, it is certainly more compact. It also boasts sharp images in high resolution and high contrast in 35mm format, although its auto-focus doesn’t perform well on video, which may be a deal breaker for those on the market for vlogging cameras.

Also Read: Essential camping gadgets to level-up your next outdoor experience

Nature’s Music: Bose’s new Smart Soundbar 900

Close your eyes and imagine: the rustling of tall grass in the wind while birds chirp their melodic sing-songs in the background; whispers in the crowd or the dramatic low-tones of the bass in a musical concert. Sound is nature’s way of speaking to us.

Bringing to you a stylish at-home audio system that sits discretely underneath any 49″ and wider smart TV, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 offers a cinematique experience that goes well beyond your usual Netflix and chill. Whether you’re watching the latest binge worthy TV show or relaxing to your favourite musical playlist, renowned audio expert Bose offers a state-of-the-art smart audio device for the home.

Presented in a minimalist yet sleek white / black aesthetic, the details that go into its design is as beautiful as its engineering feat. Measuring at a lean 104.5cm x 5.81cm x 10.7cm, tempered impact-resistant is laid atop the device; its body is beautifully wrapped around with a metallic grille which pumps out an immersive soundscape.

Although slim in structure, this smart Soundbar performs with the utmost immersive sound quality thanks to its intelligently engineered sound system. Supporting Dolby Atmos content as well as boasting the brand’s exclusive TrueSpace — the company’s proprietary audio processing technology. The device analyses non-Atmos content (such as stereo or 5.1) and up-mixes the sound quality to create a more dynamic and true-to-life soundscape in the comfort of your own home.

The soundbar transports your perception of space by isolating each instrument, dialogue and special effects, producing multiple layers of crispy clear details through its multi-directional drivers, delivering ultra realistic details and an unparalleled sound quality.

Its wireless connectivity allows users to connect to their device via Bluetooth, WiFi, and Apple AirPlay 2. What’s more, its Bose Music app ADAPTiQ audio calibration system synchronises any Bose smart-home headphones and speakers via SimpleSync for a truly harmonious at-home listening experience.

For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/3ILerSv

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy

A decade ago, transparent TVs and voice control screens were only but fiction in our favouite sci-fi movies. Now, the future is brighter than ever, from screens that unfold from underneath your marble flooring to see-through display panels. These are the most futuristic televisions now available on the market.

For best overall TV:
Sony Bravia XR A90J OLED TV (HK$47, 990)

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy_gafencu Sony Bravia XR A90J OLED TV — (Photo courtesy of Sony)

Ultra thin display panel and sleek bezel supported on a pair of adjustable stands to customise users’ desired height. It also allows for two settings that enables users to either lay the screen flat on the table, stand it upright or even mounted on a wall. But what amazes in this engineering feat lies behind the display. Built-in with Acoustic surface audio+ transducers from within the screen, the audio comes directly from the screen — delivering on an immersive multi-directional soundscape.

Making a switch from Android operating system to a Google alternative that offers an incredibly smooth interface and navigation system, making your surf through the entertainment hub, jumping from different channels, streaming platforms and other applications effortless. But the highlight here is its remote control which doubles as a voice control to switch between different channel inputs, access voice search features.

For a TV with the best display:
Samsung NEO QLED 8K 65″ / 75″ / 85″ (HK$54,980 – HK$99, 900)

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy_gafencu_Samsung NEO QLED 8K — (Photo courtesy of Samsung)

Until now, previous LEDs were built with huge lenses that required the necessary bulk casing for protection. But with this quantum mini LED finally arrives packaging and lens free. Boasting only 1/40 of the size of your typical LED but with 33-times more LEDs — Samsung’s quantum matrix technology impressing spectators with a technology that displays high density light balance for brighter and more accurate pictures along with an anti-reflective panel to offer an immersive cinematic experience.

Whether set to stand or to be hung on the wall, this smart TV is amazingly thing and seamlessly blends into the home as part of the decor. that only only immerses watchers in an immersive soundscape at home, but also blends in with the decor as it hangs on the wall like a frame or stands. Though while it puts out all the stops for its visual output, it may be lacking in sound quality as compared to the next TV on the list. However, it isn’t anything that a Samsung soundbar, bought separately, cannot make up for.

Also Read: Five innovative gadgets to elevate your stay-at-home lifestyle

For best gaming TV:
LG Signature 8K OLED TV (HK$239,800)

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy_gafencu_LG Signature 8K OLED TV — (Photo courtesy of LG)

For tech enthusiasts and gamers, this alternative is a hit in the right direction. With razor sharp display coming through this shockingly slim structure, more bass and excellent fidelity — producing realistic soundscapes, the cinematic experience of this smart TV is only further highlighted by its wide scale 8K resolution support and unparalleled response time in game mode that stages the ideal gaming experience and overall mesmeric cinematic experience for the current and future standards of triple-A games.

Opting for its Rollable R 88″ Z1 (HK$299,800) counterpart, you can roll out and hide this ultra slim TV into and out of sight without a hitch.

For a transparent TV:
Xiomi Mi TV LUX (HK$60,833)

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy_gafencu_Xiomi Mi TV LUX — (Photo courtesy of Xiomi)

Although the first appearance of a transparent screen was showcased in Korea by LG, a possible contender situated much closer to home boasts a similar technology, if not the same, that makes for an impressive and unique smart TV for the home.

Chinese tech company Xiomi is the first to commercially release a transparent TV. Delivering surprisingly clear details and an impressive soundscape — contrary to what would be expected from a see-through panel. However, its transparency does impart some glare that might not deliver on the most crisp dim and white details unless it is placed in front of a plain black or white surface.

But if clarity is not a priority as much as equipping your living space with the most innovative and modern devices, this serves as the perfect focal point for a well-designed home, complemented by a smart TV to entertain guests with a slew of streaming platforms and channels.

Also Read: Must-have gadgets for the city’s on-the-go urbanites

For the ultimate luxurious entertainment device:
C SEED M1 4K 165″ (HK$3 million)

Futuristic Smart TVs To Buy_gafencu_C SEED M1 4K 165 INCH TV — (Photo courtesy of C Seed)

The world’s first foldable 165″ Micro LED TV has been unveiled to the market this year, though it is accompanied with a similarly massive price tag. Austrian design firm C Seed is slapping a fat HK$3 million to this truly luxe gadget. Unfolding from underneath the floor panel of your own home and transforming your living space into your own personal home cinema, this mammoth of a television stands at a tall 7-feet featuring a 4-panel display with invisible boarders that blends each panel together to seamlessly deliver nonrestrictive displays.

Also Read: Latest water gadgets to explore the ocean like a pro!

Latest water gadgets to explore the ocean like a pro!

After a year of on-and-off social distancing measures, the summer of 2021 is truly special. And if you’re seeking some ocean-diving fun, invest in the best water gadgets to elevate your seascape adventure before the end of the season.

We are listing out the water gadgets to make all your friends envious – take a look:

the best water gadgets to get this summer 2021 gafencu F5 s seabob underwater ski jet — Photo courtesy of Seabob

F5 S by Seabob (Underwater Jetski)
The perfect ocean-going toy for thrill-seekers – the F5 S underwater jetski by Seabob brings man even closer to the ocean. A high-performance jetski with six different speed levels that allows riders to cruise on the surface and safely dive 40m underwater and accelerate back up to the surface. Measuring only 1.1 metres and at 34 kilograms, it is easily controlled by the shift of the driver’s own bodyweight. It boasts a high degree of flexibility in movement plus a safety depth lock that helps prevents the watercraft from diving to a certain limit. The F5 S comes in a range of up to a dozen colour options.

Price: HK$111,482
Get it here.

the best water gadgets to get this summer 2021 gafencu hydrofoil fliteboard flite — Photo courtesy of Flite

Fliteboard by Flite (Hydrofoil Surfboard)
New waves — no problem. Fliteboard Air takes your surfboarding and wake boarding experience literally to a whole new level. Award-winning e-foil creators Flite has put out a hand-held remote-controlled hydrofoil that lets you hover above calm waters. Powered by a motor situated under the base of the board, made with aircraft-grade aluminum and a design to keep you balanced as you glide at a speed of 60kmph, it is the best performing and durable eFoil currently on the market.

It features a Virtual Gear System that highlights its Flite Controller, which it claims is the world’s smartest eFoil controller, the digital screen remains easy to read under the glare of sunlight, indicating battery level, ride time, distance, speed and power usage among other useful information. This motorized surfboard is a fast, quiet and is built with an emission-free board that can also be customized to suit the riding experience. Move over hover boards — the hydrofoil is here to stay.

Price: HK$93,184
Get it here.

Also Read: Pool-side accessories to make a vibrant splash!

the best water gadgets to get this summer 2021 gafencu underwater 4k camerathe qysea fifish v6 — Photo courtesy of QYSEA

Fifish V6 by QYSEA (Underwater Drone)
Goodbye flimsy plastic water cases and shaky video footages, water vehicle manufacturers QYSEA adds to their line of underwater drones a new iteration that will excite photography and filmmaking enthusiasts. The Fifish V6 is a 4K UHD underwater camera with a 12MP lens, a f/2.5 aperture, 4000 Lumen LEDs that shoots beautiful, natural images in low-light settings. Weighing only 3.9 kilograms and measuring in 33 cm x 15cm, it is a must-have vlogging gadget.

Offering a polar opposite view from its aerial counterpart, it can shoot with 166 omni-directional field of vision in both JPEG and Raw DNG format, as well as 240 fps. With a 4-hour battery life, a 64GB internal storage, micro SD card slot, and a depth resistance of 100 meters, you can fully control the drone while tethered to its ergonomically designed smart controller or a VR Smart motion sensor headset that enables intuitive drone control. It also allows convenient video editing and instant share capabilities with friends and family via its dedicated app.
Price: HK$15,790
Get it here.

the best water gadgets to get this summer 2021 gafencu underwater scooter navbow sublue — Photo courtesy of Sublue

Sublue Navbow (Underwater Scooter)
The innovative underwater scooter Navbow by Sublue is a powerful gadget for the whole family. Leisurely cruising on the surface or dive down underwater with this handheld dual-motor underwater craft – it features 3-speed switches that lets you go as fast as 7.2kmph and dive down 40m deep. A battery life of up to an hour will help you explore a new way of life.

Weighing only 3.4kg, it offers maximum movement flexibility and maneuverability – handle it with one hand and let the other navigate the accessories on the mounting platform. Highlights also include the D-ring buckle and tow rope; you’ll never lose it or sink too far from reach when it’s tethered to your body equipment.
Price: HK$8999 (with battery)
Get it here.

the best water gadgets to get this summer 2021 gafencu powerbreather — Photo courtesy of Ameo

Ameo Powerbreather (Snorkling accessory with Fresh Air System)
Developed in Germany, the Ameo Powerbreather is a huge upgrade from the traditional snorkeling breathing tubes. It’s an innovative snorkeling accessory that allows water-loving individuals of every level to effortlessly breathe while swimming. Boasting a Fresh Air System that features two speed vents that separates exhalation and inhalation, it lets swimmers breath 100% fresh dry air for optimum endurance performance.

With its patented valve system, it prevents water from entering the snorkel, especially in open sea. It also comes with an assortment of vent attachments that lets you adjusts to different water and training conditions and offers a comfortable and non-restrictive experience for swimmers of all levels, including children in training, adults with under physio rehabilitation, or any watersport-loving individual who’d like to enjoy a more relaxed sight-seeing experience underwater. It also claims to be ideal for use with chlorine allergy in swimming pools.
Price: HK$888
Get it here.

Also read: Protect your skin from sunburn! Here’s how\

Feature image courtesy of Seabob

Bose’s robust speakers for all the summer adventures

If music is food for love, then quality speakers are the key to play on… Shakespeare couldn’t have been more right– music is the easiest way to transport yourself but in 2021 just music won’t cut it. You need ultimate sound quality to take the experience to the next level.

Internationally renowned audio technology giant, Bose has launched a slew of ultimate, slick sound systems which are perfect to fill your summer gatherings, pool-side jaunts or BBQ parties with seamless, pristine sound. The price is a real steal too, go ahead, pick one up and have your friends guessing where you got your sound system installed from…

For a day out in the sun:

Sharing a space with friends means an experience together – especially if that means creating memorable moments in the great outdoors – none sets the vibe better than the SoundLink Revolve+ II. It’s water and shock-resistant portable speaker that offers a truly immersive 360° listening experience for the whole party.

Clearly designed with on-the-go listeners in mind, its flexible fabric handle was deliberately created to make the tote-friendly gadget easy to hold and comfortable to carry. The device also boasts a water-resistant design – move your music anywhere – in the shower or by the pool or even a boat. Further adding to its defences are shock-absorbent bumpers to take on any inevitable bump or fall.

But don’t let this petite miniature amplifier fool you, pint-size as it may be, it is billed as the brand’s best-performing portable Bluetooth speaker. Boasting a powerful hardware that allows for truly immersive listening experience of up to 17 hours with all-around deep bass thanks to its full-range transducer and 360° omni-directional acoustic deflector — providing crispy clear details in every direction.

Featured in two shades: Triple Black and Luxe Silver, it flaunts an elegant outlook with a finely detailed front grille.

Promotion Price: HK$2,299

For the perfect companion indoors:

Rainy day in or choosing to cosy up on your couch – take your Netflix streaming sessions to the next level by losing yourself in a cinematic soundscape that transforms your living room.

Bose has pulled out all the stops with its sleek and slender Bose TV Speakers, featuring two full-range drivers — angled for wide spatial acoustics, and a centre tweeter that isolates verbal dialogues. The outcome of its engineering design is a sound system that delivers a rich and balanced home theatre experience.

Measuring at only 5cm, the simple and modest-looking sound bar does not fall short on performance thanks to its two optional audio modes: Bass and Dialogue. With a simple press of a button, Bass mode enables an even deeper bass level while Dialogue mode analyses the programmes you watch to adjust its configurations and provide clearer verbal dialogues for a cleaner and life-like listening experience.

The device is easy to install and small enough to subtly blend into the home, whether under the television or on a wall shelf. It also comes with a dedicated remote to effortlessly toggle between modes, adjust volumes and wirelessly pair with any smart device via Bluetooth —seamlessly switching from your smart TV to a musical playlist or podcast of choice. Perfect for any home!

Promotion Price: HK$1,899

For more Bose audio solutions, please visit this page.

Feeling Blue: blue light from electronic devices causes health concerns

Mobile phones and other electronic devices used by people all the time can pose little-known health hazards

Whether at work, at home or outdoors, people are constantly exposed to blue light from the sun and numerous other sources, like smartphones, tablets, PC monitors and TV sets. Unknown to many, though, blue light can either be a boon or even a significant bane to health depending on the type and amount of exposure to it.

Feeling Blue Mobile phones are causing health hazards gafencu magazine (5)

Medical experts say that natural blue light from the sun’s rays is beneficial to health as it triggers the production of vitamin D in the body. It regulates people’s biological clock to distinguish between day and night. It also stimulates and controls the production of the sleep hormone, melatonin, and increases mood.

Blue light is also helpful in the workplace and is credited for resolving various health issues and a much higher level of productivity and results. Certain studies have also claimed improvements in the treatment of facial acne upon exposure to a LED emitted at 414nm. A combination of red and blue lights is also said to be employed more and more in clinical dermatologic therapies.

“Some studies claim blue and red lights are being used more and more to address dermalogic issues”

However, Prolonged exposure to this artificial blue light, notably those emitted by strong LED lights or mobile electronic devices, can cause alarming side effects. While the benefits of this short-wavelength light are well documented, there is also a growing body of evidence that points to the potential health hazards of this artificial light.

Surveys have shown that many adults, who regularly use electronic devices with illuminated displays, report, or complain of various symptoms of visual fatigue, such as impaired vision, dry and irritated eyes, and even headaches. Meanwhile, contact with harmful blue light between 380 and 450nm is said to cause age-related macular degeneration. Over time, retinal cells can become irreversibly damaged, a common occurrence in industrial countries that can result in blindness.

No matter one’s stature in life or the nature of activities that a person engages in, he or she is bound to come across blue light in daily life since it is virtually everywhere. Changes in lifestyles are unwitting culprits in prolonged exposure to this artificial light. In addition to the natural rays from the sun, many people are constantly exposed to this type of short-wavelength light as lifestyle involves more and more use of smartphones, laptops, TV sets, and other electronic devices for prolonged periods of time.

” Changes in lifestyles are unwitting culprits in prolonged exposures to harmful artificial blue light”

Despite these health risks, there are no reasons, though, to be alarmed at this stage as precautionary or remedial measures are readily and easily available that can be employed to blunt or eliminate blue light’s potential negative impacts. Wearing safety glasses that reduce harmful blue light is recommended at workplaces with electronic screens. Actively reducing the volume of artificial blue light emitted by electronic devices with a blue light filter app or avoiding the use of devices at bedtime can go a long way in preventing adverse health hazards of excessive exposure to blue light.

While blue light poses potential health risks, the most judicious and safest route to take – just like with cancer and other health hazards – is to determine and employ the most sensible precautionary measures, specifically to stay away to the extent possible from an identified hazard and reduce or even avoid prolonged exposure to anything and everything that can cause harm.

Smart living: Smart gadgets for your home

Every year, innovative technology in home gadgets introduce functions and features that bring lots of convenience in the home. These include automatic home systems that control air-conditioners and TV sets, as well as automatic locks that allow remote access to whoever comes in and out of the home.

Here are some of the latest smart gadgets to elevate homeowners’ living spaces:

Smart locks

Technology has come a long way in terms of improving home security. From biometric locks to automatic WiFi locks that can be remotely controlled on the phone, these can now be integrated with security cameras to identify who goes in and out of the home. Smart locks also offer a solution to cases of emergency or the age-old problem of having to rush home because a family member forgot his or her keys.

Home management system

When the universal remote first came out, the invention threw people into a frenzy because of how impressive one remote can control multiple televisions. Fast forward to today, home lighting, entertainment systems, security devices as well as shades can all be controlled by an App on the phone to offer homeowners an all-in-one solution to home management.

Smart Lighting

With recent improvements in technology, smart systems now allow homeowners to dim or change lighting hues remotely. Some lighting systems even function as part of the security system, being turned on when a sensor detects movement and immediately alerts homeowners’ phones prompting them to remotely inspect their home via the home’s connected security camera.

Smart Windows

Enjoying a sun-lit room, while valuing privacy? By using panels of liquid crystals sheets and electrical current, some companies have invented windows that can switch from transparent to translucent with a press of a button. This system also functions to bounce off harmful infrared light from the sun but still allow visible light to shine through, something curtains and shades tend to block out completely. These windows can be used in offices and homes in which people like to maintain their privacy while still enjoy the luminous daylight.

Where to get smart gadgets for your home:

Smart Lock: August

Smart Home Management System: Homi & Somfy

Smart Lighting: Ring , Philips & Dyson

Smart Window: Easy System & EHD

Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 3: Headphones for those on the go

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, avid audiophile or simply someone who enjoys seamless music on the go, the new Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 3 headphones seem to be a pretty good fit whatever your audio needs may be.

The third edition of the flagship wireless headphone from the experts at German luxury audio solutions brand Sennheiser, the Momentum Wireless 3 has set a new benchmark for high-end auto noise-cancelling headsets. Everything about this sleek gadget screams ‘high-tech’, be it the absence of a power button (the headphones automatically turn on when the ear cups are unfolded), the in-built virtual assistant or its auto-pause/play feature, which tracks the user’s movements and triggers when the device is worn or removed while powered on.

A huge draw for the Momentum Wireless 3, though, is perhaps its ability to allow users to alter the level of noise-cancelling as the situation calls for it. Three levels of noise-cancelling can be chosen: anti-pressure, anti-wind and maximum. In a deft display of consumer behaviour awareness, Sennheiser has also fitted it with adjustable levels of Transparent Hearing, allowing users to select the amount of ambient noise filters through during their audio experience.

If that weren’t enough, the sophisticated eargear also comes with Tile tracking integration – a feature which essentially allows you to track it wherever you are – as well as the ability to connect wirelessly to two devices at a time. Pair that with undeniably strong sound performance and a luxurious exterior, and what you get is a high-end headset that you can take wherever you go.

Sole Benefits: Digital running commentary from Nurvv Run insoles

A veritable plethora of wearable tech has flooded the fitness market over recent years, with everything from watches to pants proudly offering to display your weight, reveal your secret sleep statistics or monitor your heart rate. Now, though, a newly-launched, particularly smart gadget targeted at runners is aiming to take things several steps further, with its manufactures claiming it can measure everything from cadence to stride length to pronation (the rolling of the foot as it hits the ground).

The product in question – the Nurvv Run insole – is the debut offering from Nurvv, a UK-based fitness technology company. The thinking behind it is simple – just slide a smart insole into your shoe and connect it to your phone via a bespoke app. Once you start running, the app tracks your strides in real time via its array of 32 sensors. Once you’re all lapped out, the Run system then analyses your running style and provides useful tips as to how to improve. It also tracks your workout frequency, going so far as to suggest rest days in order to avoid over-exercising.

Priced at US$300 per pair, though, the benefits of Nurvy Run don’t come cheap, particularly if you jog just occasionally. For those serious about running, though, these insoles and you could soon become fast friends.