8 smart digital devices to have in 2018
Once upon a time, being in your car used to be a lonely act. Today, there are literally thousands of built-in devices that you can use to not only make your driving easier, but also to enjoy it more. Whether you’re looking to stay connected, improve your visibility, or run on-board diagnostics, there are tons of nifty gadgets at your disposal. In this article, we take a look at some of the most pragmatic and adventurous gadgets available on the market today.
1. Dash cam
In terms of pragmatic devices, there is none more useful than the dash cam. A dash cam can be used to record your daily commute, which is useful not only if you are taking a scenic route, but also if you have an accident. Models like the Nextbase Dash Cam 212 and Apachie G30 Dual Dash offer an affordable way to keep yourself legally protected and to help you capture some amazing images.
2. Bluetooth
If you’ve ever used a smartphone, a Bluetooth car kit is one of the strongest device investments you’ve ever made. Bluetooth kits made by companies like Belkin allow you to connect your phone to your car and interact with your contacts hands-free. This means that the next time you receive a call, you can answer without having to miss the call or pull over to the side of the road.
3. GPS tracker
Mobile GPS systems are perhaps the most common devices found in modern vehicles. Every day millions of commuters use GPS to navigate their way to work, but not many use GPS trackers. A GPS tracker can be connected to your smartphone to keep you aware of your vehicle’s location. Companies like Spy Tec offer affordable trackers to help you make sure your car isn’t stolen.
Four. Mobile wifi access point
If you are a fan of 4G data, this next device is perfect for you. A mobile WiFi hotspot box will allow you to transfer your car to a mobile router! Entry-level models. However, it is worth noting that you will need to pay for the data on a monthly basis, so check how expensive your provider is before you buy.
5. Rear camera
A backup camera is one of the best buys if you want to improve your maneuverability on the road. With this device, you can mount a camera on your rear license plate, which will then transmit live images directly to your phone. This way you can check what’s behind you without stretching your neck!
6. USB car charger
Keeping your phone charged during long drives can be a nightmare at times, but with a USB car charger you can keep your phone charged even if you don’t have a USB port in your vehicle.
7. Smart car adapter
When it comes to maintenance, there are few devices that can match a smart car adapter. A smart car adapter is a machine that can be connected to your car to generate data about your vehicle. Apps like Automatic can be used to run diagnostics and check for problems with your car. Similarly, the CarLock Cloud adapter will notify your contacts if you have an accident. Smart car adapters are one of the best ways to interact with your vehicle while driving.
8. Mobile apps
Lastly, there are tons of mobile apps for drivers to use, listen to, and interact with on the go. If you want to use your phone as a GPS, Google Maps is a great place to start, but that’s not all. You can also use nifty apps like Openbay to collect quotes from garages in your area in the event of a breakdown. Similarly, apps like Fuelly allow users to track their fuel consumption and overall fuel economy.