Accelerometer-activated brake light
Fabric’s new FLR 30 brings some techie smarts to the conventional bike light. It’s got an integrated accelerometer which detects when you slow down and automatically increases the lamp’s brightness, the idea being it’s like a car brake light. The change in luminance is said to draw more attention than a steady level. The FLR30 is USB-rechargeable, with a waterproof casing rated to IPX5 and it comes with a universal rubber strap mounting. €36 from cyclesuperstore.ie
Kodak Ektra camera smartphone
Taking its design and styling cues, not to mention its name, from the iconic brand’s 1941 system 35 camera, the Kodak Ektra is aimed at the smartphone snapper who fancies a more sophisticated photographic toolkit. The 21MP sensor, six-axis image stabiliser, manual and customisable mode settings, and 4K video capture, give it plenty of compact camera features. The other side, so to speak, is an Android smartphone with the usual offerings. The overall sense of it, with the steel and leatherette detailing, imbues it a handsome retro-finish. The question is whether Kodak’s camera chops are sufficient to sway the tempted smartphone buyer. Approximately €550, see kodak.com for December launch details
Spark rechargeable lantern
As small as a pack of cards, the ultra-light Spark is a USB-rechargeable lamp with a useful flexibility. It can work as a hanging lantern thanks to a diffuser bag to spread the glow, or can be angled as a small portable spot or even carried as a flashlight. With a bright bank of LEDs, it gives out from 25 up to 160 lumens, with a selection of dimmable light settings, including an emergency mode. And it’s water-resistant. The Spark can work with a number of different mountings, like a GoPro’s as well as Gear Aid’s own. $49.95 gearaid.com
