I don’t know about you, but not much got my juices flowing. You’ve seen one TV, you’ve seen them all — except for that 103″ monster plasma. Sadly, I didn’t actually get to Vegas this year… I waited too long to finalize plans and missed my opportunity. However, that won’t stop me from listing the gadgets I want in 2006.
In no particular order…
TiVo Series 3 in HD
I’m so ready for this dual-tuner HD model to hit the market. I’ve used the Motorola 6412 and while it’s sufficient as a basic DVR, TiVo’s interface and enhanced functionality are clearly superior. Since returning the 6412 to Comcast, I’ve had to watch Lost and House live and I’m missing out on football instant replays. Please TiVo, hurry… and bring this in under $600.
Toshiba Gigabeat S
This is the smallest and sexiest MS-powered portable media player. I dig the fact you rotate the device and have control buttons conveniently placed on top of the unit. A larger video library (see Vongo) and better battery life than the video-capable iPod ups the ante for compact media devices. Most likely this will be a gadget I play around with for a few weeks and then ebay — a keeper model would look something like this, but also include PIM features and phone capabilities. We’re still a year or so away…
Kyocera KR1 EVDO Router
This EVDO wireless router has been in joint development with Dlink for quite some time now. According to one report out of CES, the final firmware updates are in place and the device has been sent to manufacturing. If I’m lucky, it’ll be available for purchase next month 2/3 cheaper than the $600 Junxion box.
Griffin TuneCenter
Let’s face it, Apple’s got the interface to serve up video better than anyone else at this point. If they add movies at a higher resolution than the current 320×240, this appears to be a great device for providing VOD/PPV. It’s only a hundred bucks, comes bundled with an IR remote, powers your vidPod, and outputs to the TV. Of course, it’s only cool until Apple releases a competing product… and you know they will.
Sony Reader
Previous eReaders have been underwhelming in terms of technology and support. Sony seems seriously committed to pushing this mainstream, using the iTunes/iPod model of creating an online store featuring thousands of titles for download. My buddy Ryan over at Engadget didn’t care for the display, so I won’t be ordering this sight-unseen.
Apple MacBook
No, I don’t want the new 15″ MacBook Pro… but I do want a MacBook. The improved horsepower is awesome, as is the enhanced LCD with iSight bezel. However, I’m holding out for a 12″-13″ widescreen model which will hopefully drop this spring. Two things might hold me back, though. Apple has given up PCMCIA in favor of an ExpressCard slot, so my EVDO card isn’t supported without an external accessory. I’m also worried about the cost of beefing up the processor and brightening up the screen — Apple conveniently fails to mention battery life when describing the new laptop.
Garmin Forerunner 205/305
Once upon a time I was a runner who slowly completed both the Chicago and Marine Corps marathons. Nowadays, I’m a couch potato. Garmin’s updated Forerunner line uses the more sensitive SiRFstarIII chipset and has improved the antenna’s position to accurately track my progress from couch to fridge. The new models also have a more stylish design and are waterproof, perhaps partially justifying the $100 bump in price.
Sorry you missed it Dave. We’ll have to catch up there next year — a fun time.
I’d expect a 13″ wide-format iBook (or Intel analogue) rather than MacBook Pro. As a 12″ PowerBook owner (two models), I can understand your preference.
I’m worried about battery life, too. Word from Apple when TidBITS asked was that they were too new to commit to a number.