Robots mow your lawn, clean your floor
The hammock looks inviting but your lawn needs to be mowed. A Robomow robotic mower provides a tempting solution. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the mower trims your lawn while you nap in the sun. Before you can put the mower to work, you’ll have to set up the mowing perimeters with the included perimeter wire and plastic pegs. This lets the mower know where to mow and – more important – where not to mow. When the mower senses an obstacle, the blades will stop moving and the mower will change course. Forgetful? You can set the mower to do its job at preset times and days. The RC306, a mower that can handle a 6,500-square-foot lawn, costs about $1,100. The RM200, a basic model that can handle a 2,200-square foot lawn, costs about $800. Other models are available.
Vacuum and mop at the same time
Should you sweep or mop? You can set up Moneual’s Hybrid Robot Vacuum Cleaner to do both. Using the remote control, you can direct the RYDIS H68 Pro to vacuum a room’s floor and then have it scrub the floor with water and cleanser placed in its tank. The sparkling results will make your home ready for drop-in guests. The robotic cleaner also can vacuum without mopping and vice versa. Either way, its smart vision mapping sensors can track down – and clean – dirty areas that are often overlooked. It costs about $500.
High-tech speaker looks vintage
Tired of speakers that try too hard to look hip? Take a look at the Stanmore Brown, a vintage speaker from Marshall Headphones. Inspired by the looks and sounds of classic rock ‘n’ roll, the compact speaker bears the Marshall logo, brown vinyl casing, a fret-grille cloth and control knobs that really turn. Equipped with wireless Bluetooth technology and an audio jack, the active speaker promises to deliver big sound for $400. Similar models are available in black and cream.
Arty bags for your gear
If you need to lug your laptop from place to place, you might as well do so with a bag that will make you smile. Chrome Industries provides an appealing option for techies with an artistic eye. Designed by NOA, an artist known for his creative take on Japanese line-making, the eight Yalta bag designs are based on a canvas and acrylic painting depicting Black Fog. Each water-resistant bag represents a specific part of the painting where the Black Fog “produces” its own energy. Inside each bag, you’ll find a laptop pocket as well as room for other essentials. The bag costs about $140.