The holidays are upon us, and Apple products are once again in ridiculously high demand. Though consistently popular year round, Nielsen this year reports that tech products such as the iPad are topping lists around the country. While Black Friday may have come and gone, there is still plenty of time to shop for all of those on your “nice list.” To assist you in selecting the perfect Apple gift, we’ve polled our employees to discover the best ones of the season.
5. 11-inch MacBook Air:
Though it may not be the right machine for all users, there is no denying the popularity of Apple’s newest and most portable notebook. Boasting next generation features such as solid state storage by default, an amazing display, and ample battery life, the MacBook Air is a glimpse of the future in a machine that’s available now! To read a more extensive review of the 11-inch Air, click here.
4. 4th Generation iPod touch:
In many ways, the 4th Generation iPod touch is just as revolutionary as the iPhone which inspired it, and shares its digit. Though it doesn’t sport an identical line-up of features, the touch maintains an edge over the iPhone as it is contract free. If you don’t need constant access to data or the ability to place traditional phone calls (touch owners can place VoIP calls via Skype or other apps) then the touch is an enticing and affordable alternative to the iPhone 4. With the amazing Retina display, front and rear facing cameras, and speedy A4 processor, the 4th gen. touch bundles great features into a gift that’s perfect for all ages.
3. iPod Shuffle:
The iPod shuffle had a return to form this September. The buttonless design of the 3rd generation model worked for some users, but was widely regarded as a bit of a flop. Based directly off of the 2nd generation model, the new shuffle brings back button controls while carrying over the VoiceOver capabilities of the previous generation. The smallest shuffle yet, its square design is very akin to a postage stamp. With an array of flashy colors available and an attractive price of only $49.99, the shuffle is a sure-to-please stocking stuffer, or a great first iPod.
2. iPad:
2010 is certainly the year of the iPad–as far as Apple products are concerned at least. Launching to tremendous success earlier in the year, the iPad has quickly become the fastest selling Apple product of all time. Moving over 8 million units in under six months, it is no surprise that it nears the top of the list for the best Apple gifts of the year. With the recently released iOS 4.2 software, the iPad is even greater than before. With changes so extensive, some users are reporting their iPads feel like an entirely new device post update. Spawning a myriad of exclusive HD apps in under a year, the iPad’s biggest strength is its software. Combining the nearly endless offerings of the App Store with a intuitive, portable, and affordable touch screen tablet is clearly a recipe for success. Though a bit pricier than some of the other items on the list, the iPad is sure to be in increasingly high demand as the holiday season progresses. Get them while you can!
1. Apple TV:
Though the iPad trailed a close second, the Apple TV is the absolute favorite gift of 2010 here at SDE. While the device may not be fully realized yet, Apple has already hit a home run in terms price, content, and convenience. For a mere $99.99, the Apple TV allows for rentals of the latest HD movies and TV shows, AirPlay from iTunes and iOS devices, and much more. The inclusion of Netflix Instant Stream integration is another huge plus. As the Apple TV is relatively simple to set up, it makes a great gift for anyone with an HDTV–even technophobic parents. While the device does include an Apple Remote, you will need to purchase an HDMI cable separately.
To browse our selection of HDMI cables click here