Tech Sense: December 2025

Tech Gift Ideas 2025

Last month’s column focused on gifts to help get along with Microsoft’s cancellation of Windows 10.  This month I will go over some other technology gifts.  We have seen many of these before.  Some have changed, and all are still good suggestions. 

Simple Photo Cameras

I still use my old electronic cameras (mostly from Canon).  We also still have several Kodak brand cameras from when Kodak was still a camera company.  Yes, I have a good camera on my phone but many phone cameras have limited capabilities.  These small cameras offer advantages including better zoom options, better lenses, and more control over lighting and focus settings than most phones.

This year my daughter asked me for a camera to take with her on her trip to Europe.  I found a reasonably priced new Kodak camera, under $80. It seemed to be perfect for her.  Other similar old camera brands like Minolta are also available.  I believe this is a good way to introduce people to photography.

Pi Zero 2 W

I am a believer in the use of small computers to learn how to use computers and to create new useful computer tools and projects. I also believe that they are fun.  The Raspberry Pi series of computers are great for these purposes.  One of the smallest is the Pi Zero 2 W.   The Pi Zero series is best to learn the use of the Linux command line.  It is possible to use the Pi Zero 2 to create retro video game platforms that can run games from the old arcade machines and Atari’s, and Commodore 64 systems.  The still inexpensive Pi 4 can even run newer games.  The Pi Zero 2 W sells for the same $15 as the original Pi Zero and the basic Pi 4 with 2G of memory sells for $45. 

Three-D Printers

New Three-D printers have improved over the years.  The latest printers support multiple colors and are easier for beginners to learn how to use.  The Bamboo series offers a range of 3D printers with a very basic model selling for under $200.  Enclosed printers are available online for less than $300.

Bluetooth Devices

Bluetooth Speakers connect to other devices using wireless technology common on most mobile phones.  The speakers can provide louder and higher quality sound than your phone can provide.  Waterproof speakers can even allow listeners to music from the phone while showering.  Bluetooth car adapters can let your older car radio play music from your phone as you drive. 

Technology allows other devices to connect to the phone and exchange data.  Many earphones use Bluetooth to connect to the phone instead is using wired headsets for example.

An OBD II Code Scanner allows you to find out why your check engine light is on.  The scanner plugs into the OBD II port found beneath the steering wheel and a Bluetooth scanner uses Bluetooth to connect with a phone or tablet.  Once connected the scanner can read the codes generated by the car and show the reason for the check engine light.  Apps on the phone or tablet can then describe the most likely issue and describe the best repair.  Find these devices online for less than $20.

Car Jump Starter

These little devices use a lithium battery that can store enough power to jump-start a car.  The cost of these devices has dropped by as much as 25%.  The devices can be recharged in a running car or using a household 120-volt outlet.  The devices hold their charge for about 6 months and are handy to recharge phones.  A good idea to keep with a car emergency kit.  Available at many online and department stores for between $40 and $100

Electronic Photo Frames

Prices on Electronic Photo Frames have dropped substantially this year with some being available for under $40.  The devices look like a regular picture frame, but the photos change every few seconds.  When I give these, I try to load them with family photos.

Voice Assistant

Yes, there are still a few voice assistants on the market.  Last year I purchased the new Amazon Echo Pop because I wanted to be able to turn the lights on and off in my office without using my phone.  I also find it useful to play music while I am working.  The Pop currently sells for about $22 on sale.  The Echo 5 with a small 5-inch video screen sells for about $55.  It allows me to see who is at the front door.  Yes, I can do this with my phone if I can find it, but I always know where the Echo is located.  The echo devices also work as a household intercom system. 

Yes, there are other voice devices available, but I believe the Echo devices are the best value and provide exactly what I need.  I do not currently use the new Alexa+ features.

Video Games

I am not going to cover games consoles other than point out that there is a new Nintendo Switch 2.  Instead, I will point out that there are three major outlets to purchase games online: Steam, Epic, and GOG.  Steam gift cards are easy to find in many stores making it easy to gift a game as a gift without the need-to-know which game the receiver wants.  Most of these are computer games but sometimes platform games are available as well.

GOG is interesting because if provides a large number of older games that have been updated to play on modern hardware. 

There is also a service called “Humble Bundle”.  They offer games, some utility software, and a limited selection of eBooks.  Humble Bundle offers discounted games and gives an amount from each purchase to charity. I purchase most of my games and many of my books on Humble Bundle.

Happy Holidays

I have run out of space.  I hope I have brought a few good gift ideas for you this year.  Tech Sense returns in January.  In the meantime, I wish Happy Holidays and a bountiful New Year to everyone.