The year’s top tech toys
Brace yourself: there are a limited number of shopping days left until Christmas. If you’re a bit behind schedule, or simply can’t find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, not to worry. Just read on for our list of the year’s best — Santa might even be able to take this year off. Sorry, big guy.
The gift Sony In- Ear Noise Cancelling Truly Wireless Earbuds, $279.99.
Best for Audiophiles on the go.
These sleek- and- shiny Bluetooth earbuds deliver epic sound, with crisp highs and resonant base. Active noise- cancelling technology drowns out ambient noise, which is great for commuting and travel. Sync to a compatible app to customize adaptive sound control, which automatically adjusts ambient sound for activities like walking and running. The gift Google Home Mini, $79.99. Best f or Tech geeks and music lovers.
It’s a speaker you can talk back to! Unlike other Bluetooth speakers, this one comes equipped with Google Assistant, which means it connects to your smart home ecosystem, giving you handsfree control of everything. Search online for pumpkin pie recipes, raise the temperature, crank your tunes or play a TV show using only voice commands. The gift Pet cube Bites Interactive Wi- Fi HD Pet Camera, $329.99.
Best f or Pet parents and their furry friends.
Never leave Fido on his own again. This camera with two-way audio allows you to check in with your pet, call him a good boy and even reward him remotely. Access the video feed from your smart device via the downloadable app and dispense treats at the push of a button. The gift ZEEQ Smart Pillow, $299.99. Best for Anyone who needs a good sleep (a.k.a. everyone)
Yes, you read that right: a smart pillow. This innovative device contains motion sensors, sending data about your sleep quality to your smartphone. It also detects snoring, vibrating to make you change your sleeping position, and has built- in speakers that can play audio books, music and more without disturbing your partner. The gift HP Sprocket Photo Printer, $159.99. Best for Hands- on photographers.
This portable printer connects to a compatible device via Bluetooth and makes wallet- size prints of your favourite images. This is great for the holidays: why not make instant Christmas decorations out of your annual family- and- tree photo? Or: share your best Insta- grams with relatives who aren’t on social media. The gift Instant Pot 9- in-1 Duo Plus Electric Pressure Cooker, $149.99. Best f or Avid cooks with small kitchens.
This versatile, 5.7- litre gadget does the work of nine different kitchen appliances: pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, egg cooker and more. Adjust its 15 programs on the large blue LCD interface and take the guesswork out of cooking. Plus, it’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe. The gift Ring Wi- Fi Video Doorbell Pro, $279.99. Best for Security-savvy homeowners, and renters, too.
Answer your door from anywhere with this smart doorbell. A motion sensor alerts your smart device when someone is at the door, streaming full-HD video with enough detail to identify your guest. Two-way audio allows for a conversation, and you can automatically record the footage if desired. The gift Fisher- Price Think & Learn Teach ’ n Tag Movi, $69.99. Best for Little ones who love to learn.
This cute little robot rolls and dances, keeping preschool- aged kids active and engaged. Three game modes and six games encourage them to explore the world around them while following directions. The gift Fitbit Ionic Watch, $399.99. Best for Fitness fanatics and resolution-makers.
Fitbit’s answer to t he smart watch craze, this virtual coach tracks your daily fitness and goals, and creates personalized workouts. Its PurePulse continuous heartrate monitoring gives realtime stats whether you’re on the move or meditating. Plus, it’s water- resistant, so you can wear it in the pool or the rain, and it can store and play more than 300 songs. The gi f t Best Buy Geek Squad Membership, $ 19.99 per month. Best for Anyone who needs help with their gadgets.
Take the tech- support pressure off yourself ! Whether your giftee needs assistance setting up a new printer, t roubleshooting a smart- home device or purging a computer virus, the Geek Squad can assist — even if the device didn’t come from Best Buy. Members get free 24-7 online and phone support and deep discounts on in-person services.
Best Buy has a huge selection of gifts, at great prices. Shop in-store or online, any time, and check off everyone on your list. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for the Blue Shirt Elves, friendly instore holiday helpers who are happy to assist with whatever you need. For more, visit bestbuy.ca. *All prices listed are as of the date of publication and subject to change.