Volume 04, Number 23

Technology

Tech Gifts for that Special Someone
by Andrew Robinson

The year-end gift-giving season is upon us and the Weekender is happy to help holiday shopping with a “His and Hers” selection to get you started.

Last month, Apple released their latest and greatest line up of iPods, including what has got to be their finest version yet: the iPod touch. Combining a revolutionary multi-touch interface with a 3.5 inch/480 by 320 pixel touch screen, Apple has given us a preview into tomorrow with a mobile computer that is not only a great wide screen video iPod, but also a wireless internet device with a full featured web browser, and direct access to YouTube and to the iTunes Music Store. It's amazing how fast this device catches your fancy— as with a lot of Apple technology, one has to actually use it to really appreciate it's utility and elegant functionality. Because it's an iPod, we all know it's the number one portable music device around, but this model also has a compelling calendar and an easy-to-use address book (both of which are editable on the iPod touch), and a way of displaying your photos and movies that is an actual delight to use. Again, it's Apple's best iPod to date, which is reason enough to delight your lucky gift recipients, but add to that the multi-touch screen, the wireless web browsing and the photo- and video- viewing, you have something that is literally a must-have this season. iPod touch from ¥36,800. Apple Store Ginza, Sayegusa Honkan, 3-5-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. Tel. 03-5159-8200.

How about the discerning tech-woman on your list? The name of Swarovski has meant stunning crystal accessories for decades, and this year we find a new line of accessories that shows technology doesn't have to be dull looking. The new Swarovski headphone sets all add elegance to your music listening, transforming mundane headphones into stunning crystal accessories. The Amazone model is a beautiful necklace with headphones integrated, and the Icon, Mirage and Space earphones add a crystal Swarovski touch to your mobile music everyday.

Also in the collaborative Swarovski and Philips ‘Active Crystals' line are a set of USB storage devices contained within striking pendants and crystal encrusted objet d'art items. All have one gigabyte of storage, for 1,000 photos or 250 songs, and come with password protection and a USB 2.0 interface, as well as a signature Swarovski crystal enclosure. Items range from ¥12,600–¥23,100 for the various headphones, and ¥27,300 for the USB storage pendants. All items can be purchased at 19 limited Swarovski shops in Japan. The Swarovski Shop Ginza, 1F Kinsei-Bldg., 8- 5-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. Tel. 03- 3569-0525. www.swarovski.com