We may as well admit that our smartphones have become permanent extensions of our hands, and accessorize them as such. While these indispensable palm-sized gadgets can already do everything from planning our trips to monitoring our pulses, a world of add-ons make them even more useful. These 13 companion gadgets including instant photo printers, rugged keychain chargers, grip-all tripods and $5 stocking stuffer speakers make great “I don’t know you that well” gifts.
Instant Mobile Photo Printer
Missing the instant gratification of Polaroid cameras, but don’t want to give up the convenience and compact profile of your smartphone? The Polaroid Zip Instant Mobile Printer is roughly the same size as most smart phones, and wirelessly prints photos in less than a minute using a special dye paper that requires no ink or toners. Packages of the printer and photo paper start at $129.99 at PhotoJoJo.
Universal Retro-Style Device Holder
Designed to mimic the look of classic swing arm desk lamps, the STAN positions your phone, tablet or eReader for hands-free use. Place it on your headboard to hang a tablet over your head for the laziest Netflix marathon of your life. Get it for $89.99-$109.99 at The Design Industry.
Luma Tiny Lampshade Night Light & Travelamp
Clip this tiny acrylic lampshade onto your phone, turn on your flashlight and you’ve got an instant night light requiring no extra power. The ‘Luma’ version is available for $9, or get the larger and more classic lantern-style Travelamp for $8.
Hobie Time-Lapse Photo Tool
The Hobie is a little spinning tripod that takes panoramic photos or record moving videos from a 360 degree point of view. It’s portable, adjustable and clips onto a basic kitchen timer at the base. Pre-order the basic version for roughly $36.
Gekkopod Adaptable iPhone Tripod
Wrapping its legs around objects so it can grip as well as a gecko, the Gekkopod makes it easy to mount a smartphone or compact camera to tree branches, bike handles, fences or any other convenient vantage points you may find along your travels. it can also be used on its own as a mini tripod. It comes in a variety of colors for $19.90.
