Last-minute Christmas Gift ideas for Christmas Eve shopping

Ok, if you are reading this you really are in trouble.  So, here’s some techy gift ideas that will go down a treat for that special person in your life (who you clearly forgot about until today!).  There’s no online shopping delivery going to help you out here, so we’ve browsed the Apple Stores, JB HiFi, Dick Smith and a few others for ideas.

First up, for just $109 I don’t think you can go wrong with Apple TV.  This tiny little box connects to a home WiFi network, the power, and then to your TV via (the included) HDMI cable.  With it you can watch content from your iPhone or iPad on your big-screen TV plus you can rent and buy movies, TV shows, and buy music from the iTunes store and listen to your existing iTunes collection.  Plus there is a photo screensaver and a whole stack of apps, including my favourite – Crackle – from Sony Entertainment which features a bucket load of free (Advertising supported) TV shows and Movies to watch from the internet.
How Much: $109
Where: Apple Store

For the lover of geek stuff the Belkin Wemo will go down a treat.  The Wemo switch is a simple device you plug into your power point and connect to your WiFi network.  That power point is then controllable via your mobile phone.  Even better is the Belkin Wemo Light Switch – requiring an electrician to install it, it’s not something that will be up and running on Christmas Day but it’s a bloody awesome thing to have.
How Much: From $59.95
Where: Dick Smith, JB HiFi

If that special person drives a bit, then the in-car mounting solution from Logitech called Case+ is an excellent gift idea.  The case for the phone is sleek and good looking, while it’s metal back is a practical part of the solution, snapping simply to the magnetic mount which suction’s onto the windscreen.  To make it even better you can also buy the “Case+ Energy” which is extra battery power to get you through those busy days.
How  Much: $69.95
Where: Dick Smith & JB HiFi

For the green-thumb or the one plant wonder owner the Parrot Flower Power is just brilliant.  Stick this plastic gadget into the soil next to your plant and after just a day and then syncing with your iPhone the “Flower Power” app will tell you if the plant needs more water, more fertiliser or if you need to move it into or out of the sun.  It’s a great talking point over Christmas lunch.
How Much: $79.95
Where: Apple Store

Wander into any good mobile phone retailer and you’ll find a range of cases for your device from Aussie company STM.  The team at STM have a range of innovative cases for iPhones, Samsung Galaxys, iPads and more.  All colours, all types and a load of price ranges too.
How Much: $20 and up
Where: JB HiFi, Bing Lee

Anyone with a smartphone who enjoys even a little music would love a Bluetooth Speaker for Christmas.  It’s hard to split them and pick the best but for my mind the splash proof versions from Logitech and Braven.  Logitech’s Boom is a cylindrical shaped beast which pumps out great sound in a good look.  Braven’s 440 portable is a smaller and cheaper option also well worth a look.

How Much: Braven 440 – $64, Logitech UE Boom – $197
Where: JB HiFi

Vouchers are a real cop-out, but they are more than just an “I couldn’t think of anything” gift.  iTunes or Google Play gift vouchers allow smartphone owners to buy new apps and also build up credit which can be used for in-app purchases – so if he like’s Real Racing 3, a gift voucher could buy him a Ferrari (in the game) and that’s cool right?
How Much: $20 and up
Where: Everywhere! (Woollies, Coles, Service Stations etc)

If you’re looking for pure outrageous spoil factor, check out some Sonos Speakers at Harvey Norman or JB HiFi.  These things don’t come any less than $299 and for the sweet-arse Sonos Play:5 you’re looking at $596 but my oath are they worth it
How Much: $299 and up
Where: Harvey Norman, JB HiFi

Captain Scrooge? Check out this idea for the person with cable management issues.  Buy them a box of Bulldog clips and all their Christmas’ have come at once.  Or not as the case may be.
How Much: Cheap
Where: Woolworths, Coles, Officeworks, Newsagent

Merry Christmas everyone!!