Merilee Kern

With reports citing that 2019 will be a pivotal year for consumer technology, here’s a look at some noteworthy lifestyle-enhancing solutions that are well-suited for Valentine’s Day gifting.  

Rowkin True Wireless Earbuds

True wireless headphones from Rowkin are a perfect gift or get for Valentine’s Day or any occasion. The Ascent Charge+ model features an ergonomic fit primed for security and comfort. Constructed with a premium mylar diaphragm driver as well as an acoustic cavity, these earbuds produce dynamic sound and impactful bass with the benefit of touch controls. The case is Qi-compatible for wireless charging (comes with a Qi wireless charger in the box) while also doubling as a power bank to keep your other devices charged courtesy of USB-C rapid charging. The Ascent Charge+ also features a mobile app for locating your earbuds and personalizing your sound profile. The Ascent Micro model also has many similar features to the Ascent Charge+ but is even more compact for easy portability! Rowkin.com

Aquio Bluetooth Speaker Water Bottle

USA-designed Aquio water bottles with detachable Bluetooth speaker, powered by iHomeAudio, are manufactured with high-quality stainless steel that is also notably BPA-free. Aquio’s removable speaker is powerful, IP67-rated waterproof, sandproof and features designer weather-resistant premium woven acoustic fabric. Its rechargeable battery provides up to six hours of wireless audio playback time. The 16-ounce bottle, designed to fit all cup holders, is double wall steel-insulated maintaining temperatures up to 14-hours for hot liquids and a full 24-hours for cold. AquioBottles.com.

iHome Zenergy Aroma Bluetooth Therapy Speaker

Create a calming environment throughout your home with the combination of light, sound and aroma therapy. iHome’s iZABT50 Zenergy Bluetooth Speaker features six different sound therapy tracks designed to calm your mind, lower your breathing and heart rate and prepare your body for sleep. You can also select from seven different 115 Lux, full-color light therapy modes designed to align your circadian rhythm at night and improve your mood throughout the day. It also includes aromatherapy to help create a calming environment with the use of essential oils (initial 5ml lavender supply in the box), with absolutely no water needed. iHomeAudio.com

Owl Cam Automobile Security Camera

Owl Cam is a first-of-its-kind device combining video security with an instant emergency response service to assist in the event of an automotive accident or other security or emergency situation. Owl Cam sits on your vehicle’s dashboard, capturing 24-hour footage with real time updates sent directly to your smartphone. Doubling as a travel buddy, Owl Cam also makes it easy to download and save high-definition photos and videos of the funny and meaningful moments or breathtaking views throughout your road trips. Features include dual-facing HD cameras, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, instant video access from anywhere from your smartphone, a 14-day video loop, voice capture and naming, anti-theft floodlights and also the assurance that your videos are 100 percent private: Only you can see, share or delete them. Amazon.com

Ellie Fashion-Tech Activewear Subscription Box

Ellie.com offers monthly activewear subscriptions allowing members to liven up their fitness routines with one of three featured outfits from top-quality activewear brands like Marika, Bally Total Fitness, Balance Collection and Zobha. Clothing that Ellie.com offers, like Marika Activewear specifically, integrates the latest in fashion technology and the best raw materials to create apparel that looks as good as it feels. Affordably-priced and effortlessly chic, Ellie’s subscription box pricing starts at just $40 per month for a quality and stylish three-piece outfit, including a legging, sports bra and seasonal tops ranging from tanks, tees, hoodies and lightweight jackets. For an additional $10, select the five-piece option and get two fun fitness accessories to compliment a pre-styled three-piece outfit. Ellie.com