Gadgets

A rollable laptop features a flexible display that can extend vertically by rolling out from within the laptop chassis, increasing screen size without adding bulk. Unlike foldable laptops that bend the screen in half, rollable laptops unfurl the screen like a scroll or window shade, offering up to 50% more display area while maintaining portability. For example, Lenovo's ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable expands from a 14-inch to a 16.7-inch screen with a motorized mechanism activated by a button or hand gesture.

The rollable laptop's expandable screen allows users to increase their workspace on demand, which is especially useful for multitasking, document editing, coding, and presentations. For instance, the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable lets users see more lines in Excel spreadsheets (from 39 to 66) and display dual 16:9 screens stacked vertically, improving productivity without needing multiple monitors or constant scrolling. The portrait orientation also enhances viewing of vertical apps like Instagram and TikTok.

The AI hardware ecosystem refers to the interconnected components and devices—including specialized chips like GPUs, CPUs, AI accelerators, semiconductors, and servers—that work together to support AI workloads. This ecosystem is crucial because AI tasks require massive computational power and efficiency that no single device can provide alone. Instead, a combination of hardware optimized for different AI functions enables scalable, high-performance AI applications across various environments such as data centers, edge devices, and cloud platforms.

A singular, all-encompassing AI device is unlikely because AI hardware needs vary widely depending on the use case, workload complexity, and environment. Different devices—phones, laptops, wearables—serve specialized functions and require distinct hardware optimizations. Instead of one universal gadget, the future points toward an ecosystem of interconnected devices and hardware components that collectively deliver AI capabilities tailored to specific tasks and contexts.

Travel gadgets that optimize packing typically have compact, foldable designs and multifunctional uses, such as fold-flat phone tripods or 3-in-1 foldable iPad cases. They are made from lightweight materials and often combine several functions into one device to reduce the number of items needed, thus saving both space and weight in carry-on luggage.

RFID travel wallets protect travelers' personal information by blocking unauthorized radio frequency scanning devices that can steal data from passports, credit cards, and other documents. This prevents identity theft and keeps travel documents physically and digitally secure during trips.

The best festival accessories for 2025 include innovative gadgets designed to enhance experiences across various genres and locations. These may feature wearable cooling devices like rechargeable neck fans, high-fidelity ear plugs, and other tech that improves comfort, engagement, and enjoyment during festivals.

Technology elevates enjoyment and engagement at festivals by providing gadgets that improve comfort, such as wearable fans and ear plugs, and by integrating digital tools that enhance interaction and personalization. These innovations transform everyday festival activities into more immersive and enjoyable experiences.

A complete gaming setup usually includes a gaming PC or console, a monitor, and peripheral devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and headset. Additional accessories can include gaming chairs, desks, microphones, and lighting to enhance the gaming experience. The setup can range from basic to elaborate depending on budget and personal preferences.

When selecting gaming monitors, important factors include resolution, refresh rate, and proper setup to fully utilize the gaming PC's capabilities. For peripherals like keyboards and mice, responsiveness, ergonomics, and compatibility with the gaming system are crucial. Proper integration of these components ensures an optimal and immersive gaming experience.

Smart notebooks are digital or hybrid notebooks that allow users to write manually but then digitize their notes for easy editing, searching, and sharing. They improve productivity by enabling quick retrieval of information, facilitating collaboration on group projects, and reducing paper use, which also benefits the environment. Some smart notebooks come with features like OCR text recognition and real-time synchronization with mobile devices.

Notebook whiteboards combine the portability and permanence of traditional notebooks with the reusability of whiteboards. Unlike permanent paper notebooks, they offer erasable pages that can be rewritten endlessly, reducing paper waste. Compared to bulky wall whiteboards, they are compact and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go study sessions. They help students organize thoughts visually, boost creativity, and improve focus by providing a screen-free space for brainstorming and planning.

Fitness accessories not only support physical activity but also enhance mental health by providing motivation, measurable progress, and a rewarding exercise experience. They help release endorphins, reduce stress and anxiety, and offer a distraction from negative thoughts, thereby promoting mental equilibrium alongside physical fitness.

Innovative gadgets include luxury treadmills with advanced features, desktop breathing companions that aid mindfulness, neurofeedback headbands like Mendi that track brain activity, smartwatches such as Garmin for fitness tracking, and sleep-focused devices like the Loftie clock that promote better rest—all designed to optimize physical health and mental wellness.

Handyman essential gadgets during Amazon Prime Day often include power tools like cordless drills, electric scissors, utility bars, and battery-powered yard tools. These items are designed to enhance convenience and efficiency in various home improvement and repair tasks.

Discounted handyman gadgets available during Amazon Prime Day simplify tasks by offering features such as cordless operation, ergonomic design, and multifunctionality. For example, cordless electric scissors reduce hand strain and improve cutting precision, while smart tools and accessories can automate or speed up routine jobs, making them safer and less time-consuming.

A portable SSD such as the Crucial X9 Pro is recommended because it provides a reliable, fast, and compact way to back up important academic documents, lab reports, and syllabi. Its small size, durability with an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, and speedy performance make it ideal for students who need to carry their data securely and access it anywhere on campus.

Students should select tech gadgets by balancing performance, portability, and price while considering their academic requirements (such as software needs for STEM or humanities courses), lifestyle factors (like portability for commuters or battery life for long study sessions), and budget constraints. Additionally, taking advantage of student discounts can make midrange devices more affordable.

'Designing Electronics That Work' is unique because it is written from a designer’s viewpoint, focusing first on project requirements and specifications rather than just components or debugging. It compiles practical knowledge and lessons learned from real-world experience, aiming to help engineers avoid common mistakes and design electronics that function reliably from the start.

The author, Hunter Scott, is the director of hardware engineering at Reach Labs, a wireless power R&D company. He holds an engineering degree from Georgia Tech, has founded two hardware startups, and has over 10 years of experience designing electronics. His book distills the knowledge he gained from his career, including many design mistakes and debugging challenges.