Tech journalist and frequent traveller NAFISA AKABOR on new tech you can use on your travels
If you’re a traveller who loves documenting your journey, having the right tools is key. To make sure appropriately equipped, this month we feature the dual live-streaming Nokia 7.1, DJI’s newest handheld stabiliser the Osmo Mobile 2, and the compact mirror-less FujiFilm X-T100. We’re also pairing Fitbit’s wireless earphones with MTN’s new music streaming app.
NOKIA 7.1
Nokia have always made premium quality handsets and the 7.1 is particularly well-suited for travellers with its dual cameras, HDR photos, bokeh effects and adaptive battery. Give your followers a first-person look into your next adventure by live streaming from both the front and back cameras simultaneously on the large 5.8-inch display.
R5 999
Vodacom.co.za
DJI OSMO MOBILE 2
If you want to take mobile videography to the next-level, the Osmo Mobile 2 is the best way to create stable, shaky-free footage. It’s lightweight, features a three-axis gimbal, ergonomic grip and 15-hour battery life; what more could you ask for on your next journey? It’s the best mobile stabiliser we’ve used.
R2 299
MyiStore.co.za
FujiFilm X-T100
Interested in upping your photo game? With this great camera form Fuji, you can take professional-looking photos of your travels without the bulk of a DSLR. The mirror-less FujiFilm X-T100 with interchangeable lenses is beautifully designed and best suited for landscape photography with the 15-45mm lens included. Grab it, strap it around your neck, and off you go sight-seeing. Also available as rent to own.
R11 500
FujiFilmRentals.com
Fitbit Flyer
There’s no better way to take in a city than by going for a run or walk through its streets. And these new Fitbit Flyer wireless earphones will be the perfect companion. Good quality sound and a comfortable fit – with various ear tip sizes and forms included – are the reasons it should be on top of your list.
R1 989
Takealot.com
MTN MusicTime
Planning a roadtrip across South Africa anytime soon? If you’re on MTN, take a look at its new music streaming service, MusicTime. It doesn’t use any data … yes you read that correctly! Create kick-ass playlists for offline play on your next holiday, or listen to chart toppers and curated playlists.
From R5 for 2 hours.
MusicTime.co.za
NEW YORK’S INNOVATIVE WIFI HOTSPOTS
Ever since spending my 30th birthday in New York, a part of me remained there … knew I had to return and fortunately, I’ve found myself back in the city every year since.
On my last trip, I got to see a feature I had only excitedly read about: a project that NYC undertook to convert old public telephone booths into high-speed WiFi hotspots. These LinkNYC kiosks are now operational, complete with USB charging ports, keypads for VoIP phone calls, and large screens displaying useful information along with ads.
They can be used to find restaurants nearby if you find yourself in a new neighbourhood, or just jump onto the hotspot for Whatsapp, social media and just about anything really. I even spotted a local with a camping chair watching Netflix on his tablet, but that’s where I draw the line.
