Technology has been a huge development in recent years, making tedious tasks simpler, automating processes and generally increasing productivity. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 42 percent of Americans cite technology as the biggest improvement to life in the last 50 years. While new gadgets can be helpful, you might come across a device every now and then that, due to its complexity, actually makes life harder — don’t get caught in this trap. Check out a few devices that really are helpful and allow you to boost everyday productivity.
1. The Pocket Printer
Are you tired of dealing with paper jams and printers that just never seem to connect to your computer when you need them? With this small, 350 gram device, you can get your documents printed without any of these issues. All you have to do is connect it to Wi-Fi, and send what you need printed to the device straight from your laptop, smartphone, desktop or tablet, and then just place the device on a piece of paper — simple as that.
2. Roomba
Dust, dirt, crumbs, pet hair and other particles are constantly building up in your home, and it can be tough to keep up with the cleaning. Consistent vacuuming take time and a lot of effort, so why not leave it up to a robot to do it for you? Roomba offers a collection of vacuuming robots that make use of sensors to keep your floors clean all the time. More time to focus on work and the things that you enjoy.
3. Artificial Intelligence
Designed to create a more intuitive user experience, Qualcomm’s Artificial intelligence platform works to make your devices even smarter than they already are. The platform enables battery-efficient performance, camera recognition, noise detection and elimination and biometric security. Even cooler is that the cognitive technologies allow your devices to take note of your behaviors and, over time, build the capability to anticipate and react accordingly. You no longer have to continue repeating the same processes as your device will be able to anticipate your needs, increasing productivity dramatically.
4. Phree
Looking something like a pen, Phree is a high resolution mobile input device that allows you to write, draw and annotate on any surface you want. Through a Bluetooth connection, the content automatically downloads onto the device of your choice, and is compatible with programs like EverNote, OneNote, Acrobat and even Viber. Ever remember something but don’t have anything to write it on? Or you just can’t be bothered to get your phone or laptop out to jot it down? With Phree, you won’t forget to add anything to the grocery list, email that person back or finish that task you’ve been pushing aside for days.
With each innovative step in the tech world, we have the opportunity to make our lives more streamlined, more productive and generally a little easier. But you have to be careful of those technologies that either haven’t been updated or just don’t do their job well, so try out some of these recommendations.
