All the cool stuff that we miss out on
Kiwis often get early access to most new gadgets and services despite being a small country on the far side of the world.
The two biggest smartphone makers, Apple and Samsung, release their devices here on the same day as the US, Europe and Asia. However, some companies ignore New Zealand, while other products available here have limited capability. And while you can get just about anything sent here using services such as Youshop, you have to deal with overseas power plugs and potential compatibility problems. Here are some of the products not readily available in New Zealand.
Amazon Echo
This home speaker has been a big seller for Amazon and Alexa, the digital assistant that powers it, is now also available for some smartphones. Unfortunately, it’s not available to buy here despite being released two years ago. That may have something to do with our Kiwi accent or maybe New Zealand just isn’t a big enough market to bother with.
Roku
This is the most popular television streaming device. While it is possible to buy one in New Zealand with the correct power plug, it’s very expensive compared to its US price and it lacks the ability to use Nz-specific apps.
Apple Store
Belgium has one, so does Singapore and the UAE while Australia has 22 but New Zealand still doesn’t have a physical Apple Store.
Because of our small size, we’re unlikely to get one anytime soon, though we do have an online version that stocks all Apple products. But no physical store does mean Kiwis don’t have access to the company’s Genius Bar, which provides support and repairs for customers.
Google Home
The home speaker market is one of the hottest tech products at the moment but Google’s version is not on sale here. It’s not looking good for Kiwis with the company’s just-released Google Assistant app for iphones not available in New Zealand either.
Siri on Apple TV
The missing-in-action digital assistant theme continues with Apple. The company launched the 4th generation of its Apple TV last year with one of the main features being able to search using Siri. While the device was available here, the Siri function was missing and is still not activated.
Google Store
Google doesn’t have physical stores but its New Zealand online store is woeful. There are no Pixel smartphones or Daydream VR headsets for sale (PB Tech has both in stock), though you can buy a Chromecast streaming device and cables.
Ultra-fast broadband
While the fibre rollout is going well in New Zealand, many Kiwis still can’t get fast access to the internet. So far, just over 1.1 million people are able to connect to fibre, with about one-third of those actually connected. For this tech, you need to be patient with the plan being to connect 85 per cent of Kiwis within seven years.
Uber in the regions
The popular ride-sharing app is available in our three main cities but anyone living in the regions still needs to rely on taxis or public transport when not using their own vehicle.
Amazon Fire tablet
Kiwis spend a lot of time and money shopping on Amazon but we’re not able to buy these popular and affordable (US$50) tablets. The first model was released in 2011 and the most recent sixth generation went on sale late last year.
Vizio televisions
This company makes affordable 4K televisions that are well liked by tech reviewers. Its latest range of 55-inch 4K TVS start from US$550 (NZ$760). Review website The Wirecutter names a Vizio model as its top recommended television.