A quick glance at TIME’s published tech list would include some, if not all, of the following as ‘top ten’. It is an interesting list and is open to a lot of debate and exchange of views. The polls return average ratings or average stats that are then combined to make a list, so each poll will read differently than the next, but there are some names that will definitely make each list.
Here is a probable Top Ten of world technology.
1. Google Chromecast: Many companies are still trying to build devices, but billing the first one that got it right, this midget device delivers more than it packs.
2. The most powerful and portable iPad Air is a slimmer, lighter package with longer battery life and benefits from Apple iPad-optimized apps.
3. The reasonably priced Oculus Rift Game Development Kit, scheduled for release in 2014, is a virtual game changer. With an Android device, this hardware opens up a 3D virtual world of limitless imagination to the games that can be created.
4. The Pebble Smart Watch is a gadget that acts as a satellite receiver for the iPhone or Android phone, receiving text notifications via Bluetooth; its usefulness as a tool for playing games or tracking fitness on the go is practical. In addition to telling the time, smartwatches may be the future technological rivals of smartphones and tablets.
5. Apple’s iPhone 5s outperforms all others with two superior smartphone features: the Touch ID sensor and the unique dual-LED camera flash that provides custom lighting for an impressive array of photos.
6. Microsoft’s Xbox One works far beyond the aspirations of a simple game console; Windows 8 interfaces, built-in Skype video calling, and cable and satellite TV integrations practically make it a living room PC. Avid Xbox One fans are closely watching the exciting possibilities it offers.
7. Amazon Kindle Fire HDX: Third-generation Kindle tablets have been a hit since the day they hit the market. Simplifies the massive volume of Amazon content, whether it’s audio, books, games, music, or video, into the other innovative “Mayday” feature that puts you in touch with a live Amazon tech person who can offer real-time technical support .
8. The Nest Protect carbon monoxide/smoke detector from Silicon Valley’s Nest Labs is a touchscreen thermostat that’s smart on the web. What makes it attractive is the absence of a siren or fire alarm; instead, there’s a nice, calm female voice announcing, “There’s smoke in the kitchen.” Of course, if it’s barbecue that’s on the dinner menu, just wave your hand to fix it!
9. The Leap Motion Controller, a USB accessory that can be connected to your PC or Mac, is a great motion sensor that detects your hand movements to help you play games or read your favorite online newspaper. Newer laptops are integrating with this technology; HP’s Envy 17 may be the first.
10. Nokia Lumia 1020: All smartphones are called camera phones, but Lumia is the new camera phone. An astonishing 41-megapixel resolution is packed into the large sensor that can capture detailed snapshots without mass blurring; Android and iPhone fans begrudgingly admit that they can’t stop admiring this wonderful baby.