Whether you’re a digital nomad, a frequent traveller for work or pleasure, or you’re simply always on the go and have somewhere to be, there is a wealth of tech gadgets that are now just as mobile as you are. Of course, various technologies have been going mobile for decades, but it’s only in recent years that we’ve seen advancements that have made digital mobility even more convenient, such as the Internet of Things (IoT).
Now, nearly every gadget you own can keep you connected and “plugged in,” no matter where you are or what you’re doing. This not only makes working from home more convenient, which has been a trend in recent years, but it makes every aspect of life more accessible, whether you are working, playing, relaxing, or socializing.
Guest post by Katie Brenneman.
How Portable Tech is Improving Accessibility
When we talk about accessibility, it’s important to note that we don’t just mean that certain gadgets can make life easier for those on the go or people who work remotely. We also literally mean that technology is also making life easier for those with disabilities.
Travelling, for example, used to be more difficult to navigate for someone with certain limitations, such as being in a wheelchair. However, with the latest advancements in tech, there are numerous gadgets that people can carry around with them to make travelling with a disability easier and more comfortable.
Simply having a cell phone, for instance, can enable a person in a wheelchair to streamline the check-in and boarding process. Instead of having to navigate lines and find the right desk, all while moving about in their wheelchair, they can easily access everything they need from their phone.
Aside from having a disability, there are other limitations people can experience that can be solved with portable tech. People with chronic illnesses, for example, can now more easily go about their day with wearables that help them better track and monitor their health concerns.
Even if you don’t struggle with any health issues or disabilities, having certain gadgets at your side can make life easier and more enjoyable. Whether you are working on the go and need a mobile hotspot, a busy parent who could benefit from a smartwatch to keep them on schedule and in touch with the family, or a gamer who wants to be able to access the metaverse from anywhere with a portable VR setup — there is something for everyone to make life more convenient.
The Latest Portable Tech to Make Your Life More Convenient
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of gadgets available today that can make living a mobile life easier. Below, we’ll touch on the ones that we think are the most popular and most used by many to make their lives more convenient — and hopefully yours as well.
1. Mobile Hotspots
Whether you’re a digital nomad, love camping, are going on a road trip, or are a global jet setter, an advanced mobile hotspot is perhaps one of the best devices to have in your digital tech kit. Mobile hotspots enable you to stay connected no matter where you are, which can be a lifesaver for some.
There have been many, many mobile hotspot devices that have come out over the years, but two that we think are worth noting are the Numen Air and the UPP. The Numen Air is more high-end and offers fantastic coverage for over 12 hours, whereas the UPP is more of the basic coverage option for those with a bit of a lower budget. Still, both of these options can get the job done in a pinch and help you stay connected wherever you might find yourself.
2. Wearables
Wearables are perhaps one of the greatest new tech inventions that are now possible, thanks to the IoT. Not only are wearable tech devices making life more convenient for people on the go, but these gadgets are also significantly improving the quality of life for wearers.
Fitness trackers, for example, aren’t just for health fanatics. These devices are significantly improving health outcomes for those with chronic illnesses and diseases, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure. Fitness trackers can help people struggling with these issues stay more mobile and help them better track and manage their physical activity as it relates to their condition.
In this same vein, smartwatches are also making waves for many reasons, but especially for those who battle chronic health problems. Not only can these devices track similar things as a fitness tracker, such as sleep and physical activity, but some advanced smartwatches can also monitor EKG, stress levels, heart rate, and even body temp.
Biosensors are another type of wearable device that can monitor things like biophysical state, biochemical parameters, or states of motion. For example, if someone falls or has a seizure, their sensor can send out an alarm to ensure emergency responders are alerted. These monitors can also be used to track bio-fluids, like blood sugar levels in saliva or even in sweat or tears.
These are just some of the many ways that wearables can help those who struggle with chronic health issues. Instead of being stuck at home or constantly having to visit the doctor, these wearable devices allow people to be more mobile and in control of their lives and their health. It’s also worth mentioning that you can easily find a smart watch for kids with a phone nowadays.
3. Folding Keyboards
If you’re a frequent flier, there are certain travel tech gadgets that can make your suitcase life more convenient, like a portable keyboard. While this might not seem like that big of a deal to some, if you are constantly in and out of airports and always on the go, having a keyboard that you can easily roll up and stuff in your bag can make a big difference.
Travel keyboards are incredibly convenient as they are often made of rugged silicon, are water resistant, and dustproof. This makes them easy to fold up and fit in small places and easy to clean. If they get dirty or dusty from constantly being stuffed in your bag or taken to certain environments, you can easily wipe them clean without any buildup getting stuck in the crevices like normal keyboards.
4. Portable VR
If you’re a gamer on the go, you’re likely all too familiar with your mobile gaming options. However, did you know you can now turn your phone into a mobile VR headset as well? Virtual reality (VR) has significantly gained popularity in the past few years as advances have made this technology even better and more accessible. For this reason, VR is actually being used now for more than just gaming.
People can use VR for educational purposes, for shopping, for “visiting” famous landmarks, for fitness, and even for “attending” events or meetings. However, without a fancy VR headset, doing all of these things was previously impossible. But now, anyone can access VR by using their phone.
You simply purchase the mobile headset, which is more affordable, and slide your phone in, which acts as the VR screen. This option does not have all of the same capabilities that come with a more advanced VR headset, but it certainly changes the game for those who want or need to access VR on the go.
5. Noise Canceling Headphones
Another excellent, yet often overlooked, gadget to have that can make a huge difference if you’re always on the move is a set of noise-cancelling headphones. Despite being a seemingly simple thing, noise-cancelling headphones can make a world of difference for certain people in a number of situations.
If you travel for work, a pair of these headphones can help you drown out all the noises around you, such as airport chatter and plane engines, and allow you to focus on your work. Noise-cancelling headphones are also great for people who are more sensitive to noise and might otherwise feel more anxious when out and about or travelling around, such as those who are neurodivergent. Even if you aren’t on the spectrum, research has shown that wearing noise-cancelling headphones can help anyone who might struggle with anxiety, which can increase.
Travelling is naturally more stressful for many people, but wearing noise-cancelling headphones can make the experience a lot more manageable and even more comfortable. Even if you aren’t travelling, these headphones can be great for any place or situation where you need to block out background noise and alleviate sensory overload.
It’s difficult to touch on all of the amazing gadgets that are available today, as there are so many, but the above are some that we have found to be most useful. Still, it’s all about doing your research and finding the gadgets that work best for you and your busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to get your hands on these devices, either. Many of these technologies have been available long enough now that you can find more affordable, refurbished options to fit your budget.
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