But by far, the biggest bonus for iPad users would be the 10-hour battery life, which is significantly longer than any laptop computer or netbook presently available, Larsen said. Another benefit is the touchscreen, which makes web browsing even easier.
While the base model starts with 16GB, versions with up to 64GB can be purchased for additional storage.
While most busy business executives are likely familiar with the capabilities of the iPhone, the BlackBerry and the BlackBerry Pearl, the Android might take them for a whirl. As a matter of fact, many different cell phone manufacturers have adopted the Android operating system into their phones.
Some of the top Android phones include the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Mini, which runs on the Android 1.6 operating system from Google and integrates it with the UX interface from Ericsson; the LG InTouch Max GW620, which offers a five megapixel digital camera, simple to use interface and eight hours of talk time; and the Motorola Cliq, available through T-Mobile, which features a sliding keyboard, a log of e-mails, text messages and social networking updates, remote data access and the capability to keep Twitter and Facebook pages up-to-date. Another Android phone that is very popular is the T-Mobile Pulse Mini. This phone was made specifically for cell phone buyers with limited money who want the perks of an Android phone but don’t want to pay extra for it.
The V-MODA Remix Remote remote features an integrated three-button interface that allows busy executives on a business road trip hands-free access to answer calls and control their music libraries. At $99.99, these headphones will allow executives to answer client calls or listen to their favorite new bands while hitting the gym at the end of the day.
The H17txt with MotoSpeak Bluetooth headset is designed with text-to-speech technology. To use it, all an executive has to do is download the MotoSpeak™ application to a cell phone, allowing all text messages to be read over Bluetooth. This allows busy business owners to stay connected on the road in a more responsible way.
The Parrot Minikit Slim is a sleek and lightweight portable Bluetooth hands-free kit. Easily attached to a car visor, the Minikit Slim automatically synchronizes mobile phone contacts and updates seamlessly whenever it connects, allowing busy executives on the road to dial a numbers using voice recognition. Nevertheless, the best part of Parrot is its vibrating panel technology, which it uses in place of speakers. Instead, the top panel is connected to the audio circuit and vibrates to reproduce natural, open sound and deliver crystal-clear conversation.
But for business executives who aren’t so technologically savvy, other options abound, in the form of products from Brighton, Vera Bradley and Tommy Bahama.
“These are top selling lines that offer a great selection of products,” said Roxanne Mann, owner of Walk on Water boutiques, with locations in Lake Mary and Winter Park. “They make good quality items that keep consumers coming back.”
Brighton products include leather laptop cases, rolling briefcases and luggage, belts, wallets, picture frames, business card holders, letter openers, pens, passport covers and planners.
“Whatever it is, Brighton items are always popular,” Mann said. Equally popular is the Vera Bradley line, known for its signature look of colorfully printed quilted fabric products. These include laptop bags, travel kits and cosmetic bags, tote bags and purses, wallets, lunch boxes, note card, notepad and pen holders, desk calendars and the Metropolitan bag, which has a laptop sleeve and space for holding folders, notebooks, notepads and pens.
The Pandora charm bracelet is another hot item for 2010, Mann said. It’s fine jewelry that comes in gold, silver or two-tone, with the best part being that wearers can personalize it to their tastes with charms for any occasion.
For the busy businessman, Mann suggests Tommy Bahama belts, shoes, wallets or travel cases. A t-shirt from the Life is good line is also great, as are Quiksilver brand shirts and wallets and Southern Proper neckties and polo shirts.
For unique gift items made locally, buyers may choose Marie-France, with boutiques in Heathrow and Thornton Park. The company offers one-of-a-kind jewelry made by local artists.
“We have a unique assortment of costume and collective jewelry made from natural stone, as well as some vintage items, all priced under $50 a piece,” said Marie Bersia, owner/founder. She added that Marie France boutiques also carry their own line of soy candles.
“They’re highly fragrant, and they’re made from soy wax, so they burn cleaner,” Bersia said. “People are looking for ways to make their environment cleaner, which makes these candles very popular. A four ounce jar provides 10 to 20 hours of burn time, which is a great value. And they’re made locally, which promotes local manufacturers.”