Essential TECHNOLOGY
From next-generation e-readers to a device that can track your metabolism in real time, Selina Denman rounds up some of the latest must-have gadgets
KINDLE PAPERWHITE
Amazon has released two next generation versions of its most popular e-reader. The new Kindle Paperwhite (pictured) comes with a 6.8-inch screen, the largest ever for the Paperwhite, up to 10 weeks of battery life, faster page turns, adjustable warm light, USB-C charging and 8 GB of storage. The 300 ppi display is glare-free and delivers laser-quality text, for easy reading in all conditions, even direct sunlight. On top of this, a new Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition offers an auto-adjusting light sensor and is the first of Amazon’s e-readers to offer wireless charging. The new devices feature a completely redesigned interface, with several new features for an easier and more intuitive experience, making it more seamless to switch between the home screen, your library or your current book. A new library experience includes updated filters, sort menus, collections views and interactive scroll bars.
Dh579 ($157) for the next generation Kindle Paperwhite and Dh749 ($203) for the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, www.amazon.ae/kindlepaperwhite
LG XBOOM 360
An eye-catching conical design means the new LG XBoom 360 wireless speaker delivers impressive omnidirectional sound whatever the occasion. It promises to “envelop listeners in rich, detailed audio”, whether indoors or outdoors. Typically only found in high-end audio products, the reflector structure of the tweeter and woofer is designed to deliver 360-degree sound with minimal distortion. The tweeter’s titanium diaphragm creates a linear frequency for accurate reproduction across the high frequency range, while the durable glass fibre woofer generates dynamic bass with a clear, natural mid-range response. The device also features 360-degree mood lighting with three different presets – Ambient, Nature and Party – as well as a range of customisable lighting options and sound effects. It offers 10 hours of play on a single charge, and is available in beige, burgundy, charcoal black and peacock green.
$399, www.lg.com
WITHINGS SCANWATCH ROSE GOLD
The Withings Scanwatch is now available in rose gold, making it that much easier to be health orientated and style conscious at the same time. The Scanwatch was developed in collaboration with cardiologists and is the world’s first clinically validated hybrid smartwatch to detect both arrhythmia (atrial fibrillation) and nocturnal breathing disorder risk. It also offers heart health tracking (ECG) and respiratory monitoring (SpO2). The new rose gold version is made from Sapphire glass that is scratchresistant and durable, with a 13-millimetre display and pressable crown. It is also water resistant up to 50 metres. There is the option to pair the watch with a selection of different wristbands to make a style statement. As with all Withings devices, the Scanwatch connects with the free Health Mate app, which provides data and insights, as well as the ability to schedule activity reminders, set goals and manage achievements.
$352, www.withings.com
LUMEN
Lumen is the first at-home device that can track your metabolism in real time. It works by measuring the carbon dioxide concentration as you breathe into a handheld device. These levels indicate the type of fuel that your body is using to produce energy – a mix of fat and carbs. An accompanying app can then offer personalised suggestions on what to eat and how and when to fuel your body. “With Lumen, we are bringing scientifically rigorous insight into personal metabolism for the very first time, allowing anyone at home to measure how efficient their body is at burning calories, but also sharing research-driven recommendations on how they can reach their health and fitness goals faster,” says Michal Mor, Lumen’s cofounder and head of science for product. Lumen’s daily insights encourage users to improve metabolic flexibility – the body’s ability to shift efficiently between using fats or carbs as a source of energy.
$299 for the device and 12 months of tracking, www.lumen.me
LEICA 007 EDITION
To mark the release of James Bond’s No Time to Die, Leica has launched a 007 Edition camera. Limited to 250 pieces, the camera captures Leica’s signature minimalist aesthetic, with a streamlined design that includes the 007 logo on the deck cap and Bond’s signature gun barrel motif on the lens cap. Finished in “ocean green” leather, each device is individually numbered and housed in a handcrafted case by British suitcase maker Globe-Trotter. As part of Leica’s long-running partnership with the popular British film franchise, its cameras play a role both on set and behind the scenes. In No Time To Die, Leica cameras make an appearance in Bond’s Jamaican home, as well as Q’s home in London.
Dh31,000 ($8,440), www.leica-camera.com