Here’s our annual look at some of the items you might want to consider for the C-level executive on your Father’s Day shopping list.
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What's a Father's Day without a high-tech robot Dad can call his very own? Here's our annual look at some of the items you might want to consider for the C-level executive on your Father's Day shopping list. Of course, they also all make excellent really late Mother's Day gifts if you're still looking for that perfect something.
BIG-i robot
With its voice programming, face recognition and motion tracking, BIG-i can act like another pair of eyes around the house. BIG-i can be programmed to spot a child picking up fruit and remind him to wash his hands first. When BIG-i sees someone leaving the kitchen, it can remind you to turn off the oven.
The BIG-i robot won't be available until the fall, but it's so darn fascinating you might just want to pre-order one now and present a gift certificate on Father's Day.
Cost is expected to be $699. More information is available at www.nxrobo.com.
Jack Nicklaus Perfect Golf
Playing golf can take a lot of time when you do it amidst the fresh air. Playing online can be so much faster. Of course, golf games are a dime a dozen, but this one needs consideration because it's from Jack Nicklaus.
Jack Nicklaus Perfect Golf not only lets you play golf, but you can design the courses you play on. Most golfers at one time or another have had the itch to design their own holes.
The physics engine, built specifically for golf, implements true skid and roll bounce physics, as well as accurate green-speed measurements. Inside the game, users can: select different swing mechanics, including full controller support; choose various time-of-day and weather options; customize players and golf clubs; and select from multiple difficulty options to play the courses they've designed.
Jack Nicklaus Perfect Golf is currently available on Steam for Windows, OSX and Linux (www.jacknicklausperfectgolf.com). The game will be offered soon on a variety of other platforms, including consoles and Android TV. The cost is $34.99.
TimePorter for Apple Watch
Twelve South unveils TimePorter, a new travel tote and portable charging stand for Apple Watch. Resembling a luxury eyeglass case, TimePorter is designed to hold your Apple Watch charging cable, extra watch bands, USB chargers and more. The case incorporates the Apple Watch charging disc and converts into a travel charging and display stand.
Outside, TimePorter is wrapped in soft black or white leather. Custom hinges open to a full 180-degrees. A silicone plug covers and protects the charging port when not in use with the charging disk. A hidden magnetic closure keeps everything sealed and secure when traveling.
Plus, I like the fact it looks like an eyeglass case. Maybe that will make it less of a target for opportunistic thieves.
The cost is $49.99. More information is available at www.twelvesouth.com/product/timeporter
Weego Jump Starter Battery+
I'm a big believer in these small jump starter batteries that can be stored anywhere, including a boat or camper. Sometimes things can go wrong in the most inconvenient places and it's good to have this little piece of reassurance with you.
Starting at a $99 suggested retail price, Weego Jump Starter Battery+ is affordable, paying for itself with just one use (ever pay for a boat tow?). Of the three Jump Starter Battery+ models available, the professional model can jumpstart gas engines up to 9.6-liter (4.8-liter diesel).
But the beauty of this line of batteries is it can be used to charge most anything with a USB cord. Plus, Weego jump starters are incredibly long-lasting — created to withstand 1,000 charging cycles and losing only 2 to 5 percent charge per month when stored. All models feature a built-in flashlight to help you see through the jump and the two largest models have SOS and strobe light functions for emergencies.
Outside of emergencies on the road or water, Weego is there no matter what. Jump Starter Battery+ will also charge anything with a USB port: phones, speakers, tablets, etc. And the two largest models also charge laptops.
Weego is available throughout the U.S. in marinas, auto and motorcycle dealerships, boat service and supply shops, sporting goods and outdoor outfitters, in addition to online retailers. Log onto www.myweego.com for more info.
The ProEnergy Towel
OK, so not all gifts are high tech. This one gets included just because it's different and seems to work well, especially for sports on hot summer days.
The ProEnergy Towel uses smelling salts in the form of an essential oil infused-disposable towel. It's considered an alternative to the energy-product market. The towels blast open the capillaries in your nose, which provides a flood of oxygen to your brain and body, the company says.
Cost is $1.99 per towel, which is less than a 5-Hour Energy Drink costs. Oddly, the 24-pack price is $47.76, which saves you exactly nothing. The towels can be purchased at various outlets. More information is available at www.proenergytowel.com.
