Apple Pay
Apple introduced Apple Pay with the iPhone 6, adding a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna to connect with payment terminals. While it didn’t immediately transform in-store shopping, the service has steadily expanded and now supports more than 800 retail brands. Apple Pay relies on Touch ID and a tokenized payment system to enhance security and reduce the risk of fraud. It is available in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, with plans for further launches. Compatible devices include iPhone 6, iPhone 6s and Apple Watch. The service is free for users.
© Yubico
Yubico YubiKey
As more of our lives move online, a single password is often insufficient to protect sensitive accounts. Yubico’s YubiKey addresses that risk with a small hardware authenticator that acts like a physical key. The device helps secure accounts by storing encrypted credentials and requiring physical presence—inserted or tapped—when signing in. The computer recognizes the YubiKey as an input device, letting you authenticate with a simple touch of the activation button. This approach greatly reduces the chance of remote account takeover. The YubiKey is an affordable option for strengthening digital security, typically priced in the $40–$50 range.
© Bowers-Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins P5 Wireless
Bowers & Wilkins is a respected name in audio for blending high-fidelity sound with refined industrial design. The P5 Wireless builds on the company’s P5 Series 2 platform, offering a mid-range headphone that emphasizes both sonic quality and portability. Its rectangular ear cups house drivers tuned for clear, balanced audio, and Bluetooth connectivity with aptX support helps preserve audio fidelity over wireless connections. The P5 Wireless is aimed at listeners who want premium sound and elegant styling, with a retail price around $399.99.
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Asus Chromebit CS10
The Asus Chromebit CS10 resembles a flash drive but features an HDMI connector to plug directly into a TV or monitor. It’s part of the “computer on a stick” category, packing a complete Chrome OS-based computer into a compact form factor. The Chromebit is optimized for cloud-centric workflows and includes 16GB of local storage for files. Although installing traditional desktop applications is limited by Chrome OS, the device can run web and Android apps such as Amazon, Google Docs, Netflix and the free web version of Microsoft Office, making it suitable for media playback, light productivity and browsing. The Chromebit offers a low-cost, portable option for turning a display into a usable computer, with a typical price of $84.99.