With Christmas just a few days away, I’m sure there are oodles of people just giddy with anticipation, not for what they think might be waiting under the tree, but for the expression of pure joy they’ll see on the faces of those who will have your wondrous tech gifts bestowed on them.
Especially if your’e going over the river and through the woods this holiday season then the gift of tech might fall a little flat for those that find themselves away from home. Most of the more popular items on this year’s wish list may require a little setup, so if you want to rock out like a true electronic Santa Claus, here are a few things to consider.
What you’re giving: iPad / iPod
What you should do: There’s no doubt that, once again, there’s going to be Apple logos on many of the presents under the tree, but an iPod without any music on it is like egg-nog without any bourbon. So, before you even break out the wrapping paper, unpack your “i-device” and sync it with an existing iTunes account. If this is your first foray into the land of Steve Job’s toys then it might require a little more work, but even if you download iTunes plus one album, one app, or one movie, you’re going to make the gift that much better right out of the box on Christmas morning.
Remember, this is especially important if you’re going to be away from home since it’ll be virtually impossible to do from Grandma’s PC. If you’re completely hopeless when it comes to managing tech like that, then you might want to consider giving your gift a little early. Just think of how much better that iPad is going to be for that lucky someone when they’re watching movies and playing games en route to and from wherever you’re going.
What you’re giving: Camera / Camcorder
What you should do: If you’re giving a camera this season, then it’s all about capturing memories, right? Well, if you don’t heed the following advice then all you’re going to remember is the wrapping paper carnage that remains on Christmas morning after the dust has already settled. First, you must consider making the camera the first gift that’s opened, but more importantly you have to make sure that the thing is ready to start shooting right out of the box. Enter - the memory card.
Ten years ago you wouldn’t give a camera as a gift without some film to accompany it, right? Same rule should apply here. While some digital cameras may come with an SD Card, very likely it’ll run out of space in a hurry. As with the i-thingys, go ahead and un-box the camera, slip in a memory card, and format it so that you’ll be ready to go right off the bat. You wouldn’t want to miss the expression on dad’s face when he unveils his new reindeer tie, after all.
What you’re giving: New Smartphone
What you should do: Activation! A new phone without a network might as well be a paperweight. Of course you run the risk of cutting your daughter off from her text-crazy friends if you make the switch too soon, but an impromptu trip to Verizon on Christmas morning isn’t going to be fun either.
Most phones these days can be activated over the internet, so all you have to do it put little Sally to bed, wait until she’s asleep, and make the switch. For an extra surprise, give her new phone a call in the morning, let her dig through the pile of gifts to find the one that’s ringing, and let her unwrap her mobile wonder first thing.
What you’re giving: Anything with Batteries
What you should do: Charge ‘em first! Most advanced batteries today require that they be fully charged before their first use. For those that require upwards of six hours to do so, it’s kind of a bummer to have to sit around and wait to play with your new toy. As I’ve already mentioned, your woes can be avoided by simply doing a little pre-wrapping prep. Open box, take out batteries, charge, re-seal, and then wrap. Now you’re good to go.
Note: You can improve the life of your batteries by allowing the power to fully run out before recharging again, especially during the first use. Pass it on!
There you have it, the tech tips that’ll put you on the ‘Nice’ list for next year. Is there anything we missed? Did we help you save Christmas? Let us know, won’t you?
