August 22, 2010 - I won't call them "magical," but here are 5 pretty cool and useful
Bluetooth accessories you can buy today to support and enhance your mobile lifestyle. These wireless products were selected based on their innovative designs
and practical value, and all are under $100.
JawboneJawbone headsets are award-winning Bluetooth headsets for your mobile phone. The ICON product line is billed by its maufacturer Aliph as "the world's first intelligent headset" -- one that can connect to multiple phones simultaneously, uses mulitary-grade noise and wind reduction technology, and comes with its own set of apps for customizing your headset and linking it to convenient services like 411 or voice-to-SMS services. Plus, these headsets come in 6 sleek, jewelry-like designs (a unique combination of standing out while being unobtrusive at the same time).
MoGoThe MoGo Mouse from
ID8-Mobile is an ultra-thin, business-card-sized wireless mouse that stores and charges inside your laptop's PC Card or Express Card/54 slot, reducing your chances of losing it or running out of power. There are MoGo Mouse models that are also multimedia remotes (to control iTunes, YouTube, or Windows Media Player from across the room) or wireless presenters (to control PowerPoint presentations from 30 feet away) for more ultraportable multi-tasking.
PricegrabberThe IOGEAR Solar Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit enables you to enjoy hands-free talking while driving (a must for safety and legal compliance). The eco-friendly device can be charged using solar power or USB or car adapter. Other features include switching between two mobile phones, dedicated volume and mute buttons, and visor bracket or windshield mounting (check local regulations before sticking it up on your windshield, though). Handy for when you don't want to wear a headset and if you're not keen on having to charge a hands-free kit.
Freedom / screengrab by Melanie PinolaThe Freedom keyboards (two versions shown, Freedom Pro and Freedom i-Connex for Apple products) is a portable QWERTY keyboard for smartphones and PDAs that folds into a compact 6.4" x 4.0" x 0.75" size. It works with Windows Mobile, BlackBerry, Symbian, and Android devices, as well as iPhones/iPads. In addition to the 5 rows of keys, there are also useful LED indicators and dedicated keys for calling and common tasks. If you have a touchscreen-only device, now you can add on a physical keyboard to help you type faster and use your mobile device more productively.
ZOMMIf you've ever misplaced your cell phone, lost it, or left it behind (or fear any of those three events happening to you), take a look at the ZOMM, a tiny keychain device that functions as a Bluetooth speakerphone, wireless leash (alarming you when your phone goes out of range), and personal safety device (panic alarm that can dial emergency assistance for you) all in one.
