SALTZMAN: Spring into new tech
Spring has sprung, a glorious time of the year when the Great White North becomes the Great Green North once again. Canadians bravely take a step outside into the warmth, take a deep breath of fresh air, and venture out with nary a coat in sight. But that doesn’t mean you need to leave tech behind. From smartwatches and portable audio to wireless meat thermometers and robots that quietly cut your grass, there’s plenty of gadgets and gear that help you get the most out of the new season.
Not all smartwatches are created equal. Designed by runners for runners, the Garmin Forerunner 265 ($559) helps athletes better plan, prepare, and perform at their best. This GPS smartwatch features Garmin’s premium training metrics and recovery insights, a bright and vibrant color AMOLED touchscreen display, and impressive battery life of up to 15 days. Along with health and sleep monitoring, you can see (and feel) phone notifications, download music for when you’re out for a run (via Bluetooth headphones or earbuds), and tap the watch at retail to securely buy items. It’s available in multiple colors and in 42mm and 46mm sizes.
The Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones are a “sound” investment for active music lovers. Normally $280 but on sale for $189 until March 25, these headphones are a stylish and great-sounding option for outdoor activities and Spring travel. With up to 50 hours of wireless battery life and a lightweight design, they are an ideal companion for music lovers on the go.
The eufy FamiLock S3 Max Video Smart Lock ($399) allows touch-free access to your home by simply holding your palm up to the sensor. With 99.99999% accuracy, you can register up to 50 palm prints for family and friends. Another cool feature is an integrated 2K doorbell camera that offers a wide-angle and head-to-toe view to see visitors and deliveries. The Husqvarna Automower “iQ” Series of robot lawnmowers are its smartest yet. These wire-free models no longer require a perimeter wire professionally installed under your lawn to stay on your property, making lawn maintenance hassle-free.
To protect your home from costly water damage this spring, the Moen Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff ($559) can detect flow rate, temperature, and pressure throughout the entire home. It can sense issues like frozen or burst pipes and turn off the water supply to minimize damage. Sony Interactive Entertainment’s MLB The Show 25 ($89) is the latest in the beloved baseball video game franchise, now available for various gaming consoles.
For barbeque enthusiasts, the MEATER Plus ($149) wireless probe communicates your food’s internal temperature and grill’s ambient temp to its companion app on a smartphone or tablet, allowing you to cook with confidence. Ideal for cooking indoors or outdoors, this small gadget works with all cuts of meat and fish.
Spring is the perfect time to embrace new technology and enhance your outdoor experience. These gadgets and gear will help you make the most of the season and enjoy the Great Green North to its fullest.
