Compiled by CIARA O'BRIEN

Samsung Galaxy S II

Thinner, lighter, faster, smarter … the Samsung Galaxy S II really does live up to its hype. The dual-core processor makes the phone a speedy thing, zipping through tasks and multitasking effortlessly. The 4.27-inch Amoled screen is bright and clear, reproducing excellent colour. It weighs in at just 116g, and is less than 8.5mm thick; turn it sideways and it almost disappears.

And to top it off, it uses one of the newest versions of the Android operating system available for mobile phones at present – Gingerbread. It also has the latest wireless technology, Bluetooth 3.0, and an 8 megapixel camera with 1080p high definition recording and playback. Smarter than your average smartphone.

samsung.com/ie

Pioneer SE-CL331 washable earphones, $55

Earphones aren’t always the most pleasant things, especially if you use then while exercising, which means sweat and all sorts of dirt can be lurking on the ear buds. Pioneer has now come up with a set of headphones you can wash post-workout. The headphones are water resistant enough to stand up to a rinse after use, though they’re not fully waterproof.

They’re certified as IPX7, and are good for immersion up to a metre. So you can use them in almost any sport – except diving or swimming.

They come in a few different colours too, and have four sizes of rubber tips that ensure you get the best fit possible.

Pioneer.eu

Eton Raptor Solar-Charger, €113

When it comes to multitasking, the Eton Rapture Solar-Charger takes it to a whole new level. Not only will it charge your mobile devices, it will also help you find your way in the wilds, light your way, keep you entertained on the way, tell you what time you arrive at your destination and even open your bottles for you.

The device combines a compass, barometer, altimeter, USB charger, radio, alarm clock, LED torch and a bottle opener in one handy, lightweight device. It charges via a solar panel, so you’ll never be caught out, and clips to your bag with a carabiner, so you don’t even have to hold it yourself.

etoncorp.com