All the cool new gadgets you need to be more tech forward

In a world where innovation is the new norm, staying ahead of the tech curve is no longer optional—it’s a lifestyle. From cutting-edge e-readers that elevate your reading experience to retro-inspired cameras that pack a punch of nostalgia, we’ve rounded up the coolest new gadgets that combine style, functionality, and sheer brilliance. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, photography buff, or just someone who loves a sleek new device, there’s something on this list that’s bound to impress. Let’s dive in!

Change the way you read 

Of course, nothing can replace a good ol’ paperback (yes, the word for that musty smell from books, it is bibliosmia. TML). However, the Kindle’s latest 7-inch update—it’s got features such as auto-adjust brightness, better battery life, wireless charging—does make for pleasant long-read experiences. Perfect for the tech-obsessed. 

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (2024), Amazon, ₹16,900 approx.

Lost TWS, what’s that? 

Imagine dropping your earpods while you’re walking down the street and are unable to find it (true story from not so long ago). With this TWS, you don’t have to blame your astigmatism—the device has long-distance map positioning and floor search, just in case you lose the pair. It’s the brand’s first earpods with their next-generation operating system, HarmonyOS NEXT—spatial audio, face-to-face translation, AI volume detectors and reminders, and more. Also, there are features such as two-way silent calls—for no matter how noisy it gets—and intuitive gesture control...What’s not to love!?! 

FreeBuds Pro 4, Huawei, ₹18,000 approx.

Nostalgia, now a click away 

Just as the name suggests, this miniature all-in-one handheld camera that fits in your pocket has additional features including a mini sound system, a selection of minigames, custom filters. Bonus: It’s as retro as it can get! 

PocketCam, TOMBOGO, Bose, ₹15,000 approx.

Call this a star speaker...we did!

Rejoice music lovers as the French brand known for high-fidelity solutions has now launched a pair of wireless (almost, we must add) that will provide a sonic experience like no other. That bass is what purist audiophiles will call impressive.

Diva Utopia, Focal, ₹33,88,600 approx.

Is your phone the next camera?

Think a 200MP Zeiss APO telephoto sensor, Vivo’s V3+ imaging chip, 6.78-inch curved OLED display on a frosted AG glass back phone with a sleek design. Looks like the Chinese brand is ready to give tough competition to even camera brands.

X200 Pro, Vivo, ₹90,000 approx.

A resurrection like no other

After partnering with American designer Ronnie Fieg for the Ultra Open Earbuds, Bose is ready to resurrect the iconic 901 speakers (it was discontinued in 2016) with fashion/culture brand Kith. This one’s to watch out for!

901, KITH X Bose, ₹1,19,900 onwards

VR but make it luxe

Luxury brand Caviar has introduced Oracle, a customised version of the Apple Vision Pro, and honestly, we’re here for it! A functional piece, yes…but with that luxe update you never thought could happen.

Oracle Vision Pro, Caviar X Apple, ₹25,41,650 approx.

A screen like no other— soon

Just a tech update—that we wanted to tell you about. LG’s prototype of a stretchable display is official—and it’s the world’s first-of-its-kind, with a display that is capable of expanding up to 50 per cent. This prototype by the Korean company features a 12-inch screen as well. Excited!!

Sound so good

The brand’s first wireless earbuds look, feel, and sound great—as is expected from them. Want us to list the best features—six updated microphones with a “slightly larger-than-usual microphone inlet” to improve voice call performance, active noise cancellation, and transparency mode. And there’s more!

Beoplay Eleven wireless earbuds, Bang & Olufsen, ₹42,300 approx.

A one-of-a-kind collab

If fashion and audio had a collab one could boast about, it’s got to be this one—a limited-edition speaker by the British brand that has been reimagined in the signature black and champagne colourway associated with Fred Perry (the polo shirt, remember!?). We call it a perfect addition to your bookshelf (or even work desk).

Bluetooth Speakers, Ruark X Fred Perry, ₹40,550 approx.

Sonic pleasure, guaranteed!

Dialling down the volume is not an option here given the upgraded acoustic architecture means better tonality and bass, and sound that can fill any room. Add to that a litany of features such as lightweight, portable, 24-hour battery life. We’re sold!

Pill Portable Bluetooth Wireless Speaker, Beats, ₹16,800

‘Mech’ tech for the win

A new 108-key version of the keyboard by this brand is perfect for those looking to have a fun typing experience. Now that email will definitely find you ‘well’.

Retro Mechanical Keyboard, 8BitDo, ₹10,170 approx.

Talk about monumental sound

As the name suggests, this speaker by the Stockholm-based brand is inspired by Brutalism. Think of a clean, structural, geometric look that will steal the show in any room—yes, it’s just that! But the design is not just for show but to enhance the acoustic properties, something the brand is well-known for.

Brutalist Speaker, Transparent, ₹3,38,930 approx.

This article first appeared in Cosmopolitan India, November-December 2024, print edition.

Images: Pexels, respective brands

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