Stacked3Here is my recent Daily Record column. My past Daily Record articles can be accessed here.

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Top Picks for 2024: Last-Minute Holiday Gift-Giving

The winter holidays are just around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s the perfect time to tackle your gift shopping. But don’t wait too long—time is running out! Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Struggling to find the perfect gift for that hard-to-please person in your life? If so, don’t worry! I’ve rounded up a few ideas that might be just what you’re looking for, including a few technology-related options.

Looking for the ideal present for a frequent traveler? I’ve got you covered! Now that most airplanes are equipped with seatback video monitors, compatible headphones are a must-have. Corded headphones are always a reliable fallback, and you can usually get a free pair on board. However, a wireless Bluetooth adapter is the perfect solution for those who prefer cordless headphones. This handy device plugs into the plane’s audio jack, allowing users to connect their Bluetooth headphones seamlessly and enjoy their entertainment wire-free. The Twelve South AirFly Pro Audio Streaming device, which currently costs $54.99 on Amazon, is one good option, but there are plenty of others that do the trick as well.

Another great investment is a ChatGPT Plus subscription, as staying up-to-date with the latest technology is essential for maintaining tech competence. While basic ChatGPT is free, the paid plan, priced at $19.99 per month, offers enhanced control over data and features. With a subscription, users can disable data training to prevent OpenAI from using their input for system training. Additionally, the paid version provides exclusive access to the newest features and the ability to explore or even create GPTs—specialized generative AI agents designed for specific use cases. It’s a thoughtful gift for anyone looking to stay ahead in the tech world!

A walking desk is a fantastic gift idea for the recipient who spends long hours at their desk. Compact walking pads don’t take up much space and often come with an attached desk, allowing users to work comfortably while walking at a steady pace. For example, the HccSport 3-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill Walking Pad with Removable Desk Workstation is available on Amazon for $369.99. This setup is easy to use—just place it under the desk and set the pace—and it’s a worthwhile investment in both the physical health and mental well-being of the sedentary workaholic on your gift list.

If you’re shopping for an oenophile, this idea is sure to be a hit: a subscription to SOMM TV. For just $6.99 monthly or $59.99 annually, the wine lover on your list will gain unlimited access to a treasure trove of wine-focused programming. From iconic films like SOMM and Bottle Shock to exclusive series exploring blind tastings, global wine regions, and specific grapes, there’s always something new to watch. It’s a thoughtful gift that will keep them entertained and informed all year long!

Finally, consider a Coravin for the wine enthusiast on your list. This popular device, favored by sommeliers, is ideal for those who enjoy exploring higher-end wines. Instead of removing the cork, the Coravin uses a fine needle to pierce it, injecting argon gas as you pour a glass, preserving the remaining wine. The Coravin Timeless Three Plus Wine Preservation System, which includes two argon gas capsules, is currently available on Amazon for the special holiday price of $186.75. 

So whether you’re seeking gifts for a technophile, an office warrior, or a wine connoisseur, this year’s gift list has you covered! There’s something for everyone, from low-cost subscriptions to practical gadgets and high-end indulgences. With these thoughtful ideas, you can find the perfect present and bring a little extra joy to your loved ones this holiday season. Happy gifting!

Nicole Black is a Rochester, New York attorney, author, journalist, and Principal Legal Insight Strategist at MyCase, LawPay, CASEpeer, and Docketwise, AffiniPay companies. She is the nationally-recognized author of “Cloud Computing for Lawyers” (2012) and co-authors “Social Media for Lawyers: The Next Frontier” (2010), both published by the American Bar Association. She also co-authors “Criminal Law in New York,” a Thomson Reuters treatise. She writes regular columns for Above the Law, ABA Journal, and The Daily Record, has authored hundreds of articles for other publications, and regularly speaks at conferences regarding the intersection of law and emerging technologies. She is an ABA Legal Rebel, and is listed on the Fastcase 50 and ABA LTRC Women in Legal Tech. She can be contacted at niki.black@mycase.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nicole Black is a Rochester, New York attorney, author, journalist, and Principal Legal Insight Strategist at MyCase, CASEpeer, Docketwise, and LawPay, practice management and payment processing tools for lawyers (AffiniPay companies). She is the nationally-recognized author of “Cloud Computing for Lawyers” (2012) and co-authors “Social Media for Lawyers: The Next Frontier” (2010), both published by the American Bar Association. She also co-authors “Criminal Law in New York,” a Thomson Reuters treatise. She writes regular columns for Above the Law, ABA Journal, and The Daily Record, has authored hundreds of articles for other publications, and regularly speaks at conferences regarding the intersection of law and emerging technologies. She is an ABA Legal Rebel, and is listed on the Fastcase 50 and ABA LTRC Women in Legal Tech. She can be contacted at niki.black@mycase.com.