Phone
The battery runs out too quickly when they surf the Web, watch a movie or play a video game. They wish the phone offered turn-by-turn directions like a true GPS unit and without monthly payments. A tripod would come in handy when they want to take a group photo on the phone for Facebook.
All these holes can be filled by accessories that make for good gifts. Weve got some suggestions.
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TomTom for iPhone Car Kit, $119.95
This new kit from TomTom Inc. makes the iPhone easier to use for in-car navigation. The kit includes a mount – allowing you to attach the phone to a window or the dashboard – and a car charger.
In addition to this kit, your recipient would need a GPS application on the iPhone – TomTom sells one for $100, with no monthly fees.
Pros: The TomTom mount is sturdy and grips the windshield tightly. It tilts forward and back, and rotates for viewing street maps in landscape mode, if you want a wider angle. The mount has a built-in GPS receiver to boost signals, a speaker for louder driving instructions and a microphone so you can take calls handsfree. The mount also charges the iPhone and has a line out for music playback.
Cons: There are cheaper GPS apps and third-party car kits on the market.
Where to buy: Apple.com, TomTom.com and Apple retail stores.
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Mophie Juice Pack Air for the iPhone, $79.95
Its an iPhone case that just about doubles the life of the phones battery as well. The phone charges through a connection port embedded in the case.
Cons: The top of the case doesnt curve over the iPhone screen, making me worry that theres less protection if I drop my phone face down.
Where to buy: Online and various retail stores.
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Gorillamobile by Joby, $39.95 for iPhones, $29.95 for all other devices
Pros: Propping up your phone to take group photos or self portraits isnt the easiest of tasks. Gorillamobile by Joby aims to solve that with a 6.5-inch malleable tripod whose legs wrap around the trickiest of terrains.