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Gizmo fatigue

Too many gadgets and too less time?

A business magazine lists a few "must-have" gadgets of the year. Having eyed some of the objects of desire (mp3 player/iPod/plasma screen television) for a while now, you decide it's time to take the plunge. Your wallet is lighter by a few thousand rupees but it hardly matters. The audio/video output is fantastic and you are floored. A few months later, in hindsight, you wonder if the gadgets are worth all the fuss. In the era of double income and less time to unwind, some gizmos end up gathering dust.

"My iPod can store data up to 30 GB but in all these months, I've managed to utilise only around 3 GB space. It's a great companion when I am travelling. It kills boredom and the quality of music is enviable. On normal days when I return home after work, online radios are my source of music. The choice of music is amazing and the broadband connection only enhances the experience," says Viraj Shetty, an entrepreneur.

We aren't disputing the increasing number of people joining the gadget-crazy tribe, but there's also the realisation that some gadgets are being rendered obsolete. The anytime-anywhere FM radio channels and the wide choice of music available on the Internet can reduce mp3 players to travel and jogging companions. There are satellite radio stations offering channels that cater to wide choices — from astrology to hip-hop and set-top boxes that add a dozen more channels to your television menu. So, the next time you are tempted to splurge on the coolest gizmo that hits the market, ask yourself if it's worth your money.

SANGEETHA DEVI. K

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