Kobo Aura ONE
Kindle may dominate the e-reader market, but Kobo’s Aura ONE stands out as a strong alternative. This flagship model features a 7.8-inch E Ink Carta display with 300 dpi, offering the same pixel density as pricier competitors while providing a slightly lighter, though a touch thicker, body. A major advantage for bath- and beach-readers is the Aura ONE’s IPX8 rating, which protects the device for up to 60 minutes submerged at depths up to two meters. The Aura ONE delivers a large, high-resolution reading experience in a waterproof package. $229.99.
kobobooks.com
© PHILLIPS
Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit
Philips Hue continues to expand its smart lighting lineup with the White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit. This updated kit includes three 800-lumen LED bulbs and the Hue Bridge, which links your lights to your smartphone and smart-home accessories. The real value is in the app: you can select from curated scenes to match décor, season, or time of day, and configure “actions” that trigger lighting changes in response to events like weather or schedules. The system is versatile for mood lighting, automation, and integration with other smart devices. $179.99.
meethue.com
© MICHAEL KORS
Michael Kors Access
Michael Kors’ Access collection brings fashionable design to Android Wear smartwatches. Offered in two styles, the Bradshaw and the Dylan, these watches support interchangeable straps in metal, leather, and silicone to suit a variety of looks. Running Wear OS (updated to version 2.0), the devices let you customize watch faces to match the brand’s luxe aesthetic. Battery life typically lasts up to two days on a full charge, and charging is simplified with a wireless magnetic dock. These watches bridge fashion and functionality for users who want style with smart features. $395.
michaelkors.com
© ASTELL&KERN
Astell&Kern AK70
For casual listeners, a smartphone’s headphone output is often sufficient, but dedicated digital audio players appeal to those who want the highest fidelity. The Astell&Kern AK70 targets audiophiles by supporting 24-bit/192 kHz playback, delivering greater resolution than typical smartphone DACs that operate at 16-bit/44.1 kHz. The player offers multiple output options, including headphone jack, Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, USB, and optical output, making it a flexible choice for a high-quality personal music library. While it doesn’t stream, the AK70 excels as a portable device for serious listeners who store and play lossless files. $599.
astellnkern.com