Gadgets, apps, and accessories for fun in the sun

Summer has arrived with its warm weather and sunshine. Before you head out to celebrate the season at the beach, be sure to pack these essentials for some high-tech time in the sand!

Beachside R&R (Relaxing and Reading)
For book lovers like me, seeking relaxation at the beach involves curling up with a good book in the sand. Doing so is even more convenient with an e-reader. E ink (electrophoretic ink) e-readers use a technology that simulates paper, providing a glare-free reading experience, even in bright sunlight. These devices allow you to carry your entire digital book library wherever you go. Some models even include a 3G internet connection to ensure you can shop for a new book the moment you need one – even if you’re lounging by the shore!

Safety First
Sun safety is a big concern for beachgoers. Luckily, there are quite a few apps to help you protect your family from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV Safe Timer (iOS) and MyUV Alert (Android) offer tips for safe sun exposure. Check them out for personalized sunscreen reapplication reminders based on your skin type, activities, and sunscreen’s SPF level.

Music and Memories
Gone are the days when playing music on the beach meant lugging around a boombox and some D batteries. Bluetooth speakers can supply the tunes to set the mood for your coastal get together. They provide quality sound in an ultra portable package with a rechargeable battery. Simply connect your Bluetooth-enabled phone or tablet to play internet radio from apps like Rhapsody, Pandora, or Slacker Radio, or let your friends share their playlist for the afternoon.

There are a few items that can help you capture and share your memories with family and friends. Take better pictures with smartphone add-ons like the Olloclip, which transforms your ordinary phone camera lens into a 3-in-1 wide angle, macro, and fish eye lens. A waterproof case like the Lifeproof case will protect your phone and allow you to photograph all of the waveside action. You can share them instantly with apps like Instagram (iOS, Android) to all of your friends using your phone’s 4G connection. Check out Samsung’s new Galaxy S III (AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile), which uses S Beam technology to make instant picture sharing as easy as tapping your phones back to back!

Feel free to comment and share your ideas for upgrading your beach experience and staying high-tech this summer!