From Eveningsnews.com
High Tech is Hot This Holiday Season
By
Dec 4, 2005, 00:04
(ARA) – Technology is the gift of choice this holiday season and consumers are lining up to purchase the hottest tech gifts on the market. In fact, the Consumer Electronics Association is forecasting a 10 percent increase in sales of consumer electronics during the holiday season. A recent study by CompUSA TechInsights found that of consumers who plan to purchase tech gifts this year, more than 90 percent will spend more than $100 on tech gadgets.
What are the most desirable items on the tech-enthusiast wish list? According to Brian Woods, executive vice president and general merchandising manager for CompUSA, “We’ve identified four main trends that will guide holiday technology purchases: digital audio and video, mobility, Internet phone capabilities (or Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP), and expert service and support.”
Here’s a breakdown of what Woods expects to see in consumers’ shopping carts this season:
* iPod $99.99-$399.99
The recently released, pencil-thin iPod nano packs the entire iPod experience into an impossibly small design. Even newer, the iPod Video boasts 30 or 60 GB storage space and lets you take music videos and TV shows on the go with a 2.5-inch color display.
* iPod Accessories $4.99 and up
You may already have an iPod, but do you have everything you need to personalize and extend it? Accessories include the JBL OnStage Speaker System, iTrip and iTrip Mini FM Transmitter, SkinRubberized Protective Cover and Apple Leather Case for iPod and iPod mini.
* PowerShot SD500 Digital Camera, 7.1 Megapixels $399.99
The digital camera is thinner, yet more powerful than any digital camera ever before -- and it fits perfectly in your purse or pocket.
* Everio GZ-MG20 20GB Hard Drive Camcorder $699.99
Everio records more than 24 hours of video on a high-capacity 20GB hard drive.
* Linksys Phone Adapter With 2 Ports For VoIP $59.99
Just plug the Linksys phone adapter into your router and use the two standard telephone jacks to connect your existing phones or fax machines.
* PalmOne Treo 650 $599.99
An example of converging technologies, the PDA phone is the tool to keep you productive when you’re not at your desk.
* LIVESTRONG Notebook Pavilion L2005cu Special Edition Notebook $1,399.99
For each notebook purchased, $50 is donated to the Lance Armstrong Foundation which provides practical tools and information to people suffering from cancer.
The most appreciated gift this season may be a bundle of tech support services. The CompUSA TechInsights survey also found that 57 percent of consumers expect a knowledgeable sales staff and the availability of in-home installation and support service when they purchase tech items as gifts from a retailer. Check local stores to find flat rate, easy-to-understand service packages and give a gift card as a stocking stuffer. Look for packages that include:
* Wireless Networking Configuration to ensure your network is properly WEP-encrypted and to prevent strangers from using your Internet connection or stealing your personal information.
* In-Home Connection and Set-Up Package to save time and get your computer system or digital technology up and running quickly.
* In-Store Hard Drive Installation to save time and money by enabling you to bring your device to a store for a quick install or update.
So what’s the key to choosing the perfect tech gift? According to Woods, “Do your homework when you choose the product and the retailer. Make sure they offer in-home or in-store tech service to help get you set up. And look for expert advice from the sales staff.” Courtesy of ARA Content
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