Brilliant Tech Innovations That Are Changing Everyday Life

MiFi Liberate

The MiFi Liberate creates a private Wi‑Fi hotspot, delivering fast 4G LTE internet for up to 10 devices at once. Perfect for laptops, tablets, e-readers and music players, it lets small groups stay connected whether for work or travel. This model is the first mobile hotspot to include a vivid color touchscreen that simplifies setup and lets you manage connections directly from the display. Operating on AT&T’s 4G LTE network, the battery provides up to 11 hours of use on a full charge. Compact and travel-ready, it supports roaming in more than 200 countries. $49.99 with a two-year contract.
att.com

MyIdKey © MyIdKey

MyIDkey

MyIDkey is a secure, portable credential manager that works over Bluetooth or USB and includes voice-search functionality. The device displays passwords and ID data on the go and can auto-fill login credentials when paired with a phone or tablet via Bluetooth, or when connected to a computer via USB. Biometric input lets you use finger or thumb swipes, and you can program multiple swipe patterns and tap sequences for layered security. If the device is lost or targeted by repeated unauthorized attempts, it will automatically wipe its data; recovered or replacement devices can restore credentials by syncing to the desktop app or Arkami’s encrypted cloud. Winner of several CES innovation awards, MyIDkey is priced at $169.99.
myidkey.com

PocketPlug © PocketPlug

PocketPlug

PocketPlug combines a protective phone case with an integrated wall charger, featuring retractable prongs so it functions as both a sleek protective shell and a portable power solution. Designed for iPhone 4/4s, iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S III, the polycarbonate case shields devices from drops and scratches while eliminating the need to carry a separate charger. Simply plug the case into a wall outlet to recharge your phone; a built-in USB port also supports charging in a car or from other USB power sources. PocketPlug is compact, practical and avoids the common hassle of forgetting a charger. $69.95.
goprong.com

Field Trip © Fieldtripper

Field Trip

Field Trip, developed by Niantic Labs at Google, is a location-aware guide that highlights interesting, unusual and noteworthy places around you. Available on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Google Glass and Android devices, the app runs quietly in the background and delivers relevant discoveries about your current location — from architectural history and local events to restaurants, shopping and exclusive deals. Content comes from a network of around 130 publishers, including Historvius for local history, Time Out for restaurants and nightlife, and Cool Hunting for unique shopping spots. Field Trip surfaces curated suggestions as you move about, making it easy to explore nearby points of interest. The app is free to download.
fieldtripper.com