Handy translation for globe trotters
Faster to interpret vocal conversations between a visitor and locals than a smart phone, the Travis One Business Edition translator mediates real-time, two-way talks in any of 80 languages. It also dispenses a transcript in both languages to the Cloud for digital recordkeeping. Top bilingual dictionaries from around the world have been enlisted by its Holland-based creators.
Available at www.travistranslator.com, $298
A sleek smartwatch confers style, smiles
Yearning for an all-in-one wrist-borne phone alert, fitness sensor, and timepiece — but would rather not wear any of today’s popular boxy designs? Garmin offers a thin, lightweight smartwatch: Vivomove HR. Packing elegant analog watch hands and a discreet touch screen along with heartrate monitor, stress tracker, and message display, this fashion statement truly combines form and function.
Available at www.garmin.com, $299
Smarter tracking from a smart collar
Feel secure and aware of your roaming pooch’s location and physical condition with this Fitbit for Fido. The LINK AKC Smart Collar, monitored 24/7 over remote phone service for a small monthly fee, can signal your best friend’s whereabouts via GPS, track canine activity, and temperature. It can also provide audible cues for training purposes, plus a night light.
Available from Amazon, $129 + monthly service from $5.95
Link loved ones to pure air
Anyone in your household suffering from allergies to pollen, mites, bacteria, or pet dander? Philips’ Air 5000i Purifier deploys not one, but two pre-filters, two true HEPA filters, and two active carbon filters to remove allergens from a large living area’s much-used expanse. Easily connected via WiFi or its own Air Matters app, this basket-sized indoor atmosphere clean-machine can be monitored by phone when at home or away.
Available from Amazon, $696
