The internet as we know it dates back nearly 40 years. The Magnavox Odyssey, the first-generation gaming console that spurred the video game revolution, launched in 1972. The first-ever smartphone prototype — IBM’s Simon Personal Communicator — recently celebrated its 25th birthday.
One thing is clear:
Technology is constantly evolving, and it has quite the stranglehold on our attention as a species; the average person dedicates 10 hours and 39 minutes to their favorite tech gadgets each day.
Everything’s gone (and appears to be staying) digital!
So here’s a look at the nine pieces of technology you can’t live without in the modern age:
Smartphones: Android and Apple
No matter where you stand on the ongoing Android vs. Apple debate, smartphones have become a way of life for Generations X, Y, and Z. In 2021, there were more than 6.37 billion smartphone subscriptions across the globe. That means almost 85% of the world’s population is connected!
That half-pound, 5-inch device in your pocket swings the door wide open to:
- Cloud sharing (send files, images, and documents in seconds)
- Keeping in touch with loved ones through texts, calls, and video chatting
- On-the-go GPS navigation
- Study tools and virtual education
- Nearly unlimited web surfing and music streaming
- Millions of apps
- Capturing life’s precious moments
It’s like a modern fusion of everyone’s favorite tech gadgets: a camera, telephone, computer, gaming system, e-reader, GPS, and more!
Gaming Systems: PlayStation 5
While not everyone admits to playing Fortnite, Call of Duty, or Super Mario Bros, the pandemic exposed one unexpected truth: over 67% of American adults consider themselves gamers.
The PlayStation 5 is among the latest and hottest gaming systems in the world, predicted to eclipse 17.9 million sales in 2021 alone.
The latest installment to the PlayStation series features even more storage (667.2GB), 15x faster Wi-Fi speeds, and incredibly crisp 4K 120Hz output.
It’s the perfect outlet for de-stressing after a long day. And with PlayStation Plus offering online gaming, you can play against other players in your favorite games, like Assassin’s Creed and Grand Theft Auto V.
Smart Speakers: Google Home
Most smartphones feature a built-in digital assistant that you can trigger with a simple catchphrase: Hey, Siri! or Okay, Google! But with a smart speaker set-up in your home, that voice-activated convenience goes a step beyond.
We’re talking about Google Home!
From across the room, you can ask your modern home speaker to do just about anything:
- Play your favorite artist on Spotify
- Switch to a binge-able Netflix series
- Set a baking or wake-up timer
- Make a shopping list
- Turn the lights on and off (if they’re smart bulbs)
- Call a contact
It’s the perfect introduction to the smart home frenzy, the latest fad in a tech-forward world.
Video Doorbell: Ring
Whether porch pirates run rampant in your area or unexpected in-law “fly-bys” drive you nuts, a video doorbell like Ring is an incredible investment.
And it costs less than $100!
These sleek, modernized doorbells are easy to install and double as security cameras at your front door. When the doorbell detects motion on your property, it’ll send you a mobile alert with a live stream to the feed.
The doorbell also comes with two-way speakers so you can monitor your kids at the bus stop or direct the delivery driver to leave the package on the porch.
Robot Vacuum Cleaner: Roomba
It can take hours a week to keep a studio apartment clean and clutter-free, let alone a 3,000-square-foot mini-mansion. Corded vacuums can also be a hassle if you have stairs, chair legs, and potted plants blocking the path.
That’s why we leave our vacuuming to the machines.
More specifically, the Roomba!
This robot vacuum offers a fully automated vacuum experience. Simply switch it on, and allow its automatic Dirt Detect sensors to get to work. It’ll roll from room to room as it sucks up any dirt, dust, or stray hairs you’ve left behind.
The Roomba will vacuum under low-sitting furniture, cleaning those hard-to-reach spots that regular vacuums can’t access!
Fitness Watches: Fitbit Inspire HR
Fitbit made its debut back in 2009, launching a modern wearable fitness tracker that could sync data with a PC. The company has since rolled out a series of fitness watches that go well beyond the average pedometer.
That’s why the Fitbit Inspire HR is a tech-lover must-have!
At less than $100, it’s ultra-affordable and includes all the following features:
- Heart-rate monitoring
- Automatic exercise detection
- Five days of battery life
- Sleep tracking
- Water resistance up to 50 meters
- Smartphone notifications
If you’re health-conscious or trying to get in shape, a Fitbit is a great investment.
Smart Scale: Eufy
The traditional bathroom scale didn’t suddenly become outdated or inaccurate. But with the global push toward digital everything, Eufy’s Bluetooth-enabled scale adds a touch of convenience to your fitness goals.
All you have to do is connect it to your device and step on it!
The scale itself will record your weight each morning. But once you log into the app, you’ll uncover even more in-depth health data, like your body fat, basal metabolic rate (BMR), muscle content, and more!
It’s much easier to plan a diet or choose a workout routine when you know where you’re starting (and where you’re headed!).
Wireless Headphones: Airpods
Earbuds were once a true game-changer for the audiophiles jamming out at their desks or listening to tunes privately while on the go.
But they were far from perfect: snagged wires and uncomfortable in-ear plastic all but ruined listening experiences.
The year 2016 brought wireless, Bluetooth-enabled headphones in the form of Apple Airpods, and we haven’t looked back since.
These easy-to-pair, voice-activated headphones can connect to your favorite Apple or Android device for on-the-go listening. They also last up to 24 hours on a full charge and allow you to share tunes with a friend.
Laptop: Macbook Air
Since 2002, over 90% of industries have increased their reliance on computers, smartphones, and tablets. In a world where almost every career path requires one, splurging on the best is key.
The final piece of technology that you can’t live without is the Macbook Air. This incredibly slim yet powerful Apple laptop delivers:
- 3.5-times faster CPU speeds
- 5-times faster graphics
- 18 hours of battery life on a single charge
- No loud fan
- Up to 2 terabytes of storage
- A 2560×1600 Retina display
- Touch ID
Whether you’re editing with Photoshop, typing a draft on Google Docs, playing Minecraft, or scrolling through Instagram, the Macbook Air can handle it all.
Conclusion
The tech industry rolls out cutting-edge innovations every day. That means the Macbook Air and Roomba could be “outdated” within the next decade (or even a few years down the road!).
So, where will tech be by the year 2030?
Experts predict that:
- Robotic pharmacists will arrive in 2021.
- 2024 will bring 3D-printed livers.
- One in ten U.S. cars will be driverless by 2026.
- By 2022, 10% percent of clothing will connect to the internet.
- Mobile phones will reach “implantable” status by 2025.
There’s no telling what future generations will mastermind. But it’s exciting to imagine where tech will bring us five, ten, even fifty years from now!
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Adam Marshall is a freelance writer who specializes in all things apartment organization, real estate, and college advice. He currently works with Grove Stephenville to help them with their online marketing.
Read more: How to Solve Issues with Technology?
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