Tech Tools:Waterproof and dust resistant, the Sony Xperia Z is something that you would immediately think has "rugged" written all over it. You know the one: rubberised, looks like it could withstand a significant fall. But no, Sony has instead created a sleek phone that manages to withstand the elements and still stay slim.
A large 5in screen takes care of images and video and the display has Sony’s Bravia Engine 2 technology built in. It’s powered by a quad core processor, and has a 13MP camera . The built-in NFC feature could become more important in the future.
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Logitech iPad Mini Ultrathin Keyboard Case, €79.99
If you have an iPad Mini, you might already have something to keep it safe from the rough and tumble of the real world. But what if you want to do any kind of work on Apple’s smaller tablet?
Logitech is offering an alternative to the onscreen keyboard – a thin case that also doubles as a work tool. The case is based on the same design as that for the larger iPad, pairs through Bluetooth, and brings in lots of iPad Mini-friendly shortcuts to help you navigate your way around the tablet. It also acts as a handy stand for when you are watching movies or reading.
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Minecraft Touchscreen Stylus, $19.99
The touchscreen stylus is such a run-of-the-mill thing. But this pickaxe shaped accessory draws its inspiration from Minecraft. Which means it’s not only slightly amusing to look at, should you decide to play the mobile version of the game, it feels about as real as hacking away with a pretend, pixelated pickaxe is ever going to get.
It works with most touchscreen mobile phones, and while it may not be the cutting edge of technology, it might at least be a conversation starter somewhere.
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Motorola P4000 Universal: Portable Power Pack, $76
At first glance, you might mistake the Motorola P4000 for a mobile phone. It’s a similar size and shape, but instead it’s a rather convenient battery pack for anything that’s powered by USB. Because the people at Motorola aren’t fussy what you charge with it.
It comes with a micro USB connection already built in so you don’t have to carry a cable, but should you feel the need to charge say, for example, an iPhone, you can simply hook up your cable to the regular USB port and you are ready to go. It can even charge two devices at once.
