Being the final column of the year, I thought it would be a good time to look at what MIGHT be the coolest up and coming gadgets for 2016 …. So in no particular order …..

Quell

Quell, from NeuroMetrix, is a band designed to provide drug-free pain relief through a new technology called wearable intensive nerve stimulation (WINS). It’s intended for patients with chronic pain caused by conditions like Fibromyalgia, Osteoarthritis, and Sciatica.

When worn, the band stimulates sensory nerves, which carry neural pulses to the brain. These pulses trigger a natural response that blocks pain signals throughout the body. Therapy sessions are delivered every hour, and they continue during sleep.

Quell also connects to your smartphone so you can track therapy sessions, control features, monitor quality of sleep, and store data to the Quell HealthCloud via mobile app.

IonVR

IonVR is a mobile virtual reality headset uses a smartphone as its display. Smartphones with screens measuring 4.5 to 6 inches and running platforms including Android and iOS will work.

The device runs on MotionSync Technology (patent pending), which aims to address virtual reality sickness through a smoother VR experience. The headset uses a modular system to hold the phone so users don’t need to buy a new headset when they replace their smartphone. The modules for holding the smartphone can be replaced as new devices are released.

IonVR lists gaming, entertainment, and live sports as potential consumer applications for its headset. Potential enterprise applications include medical, promotions, and real estate. The above image depicts IonVR’s proof-of-concept prototype.

Sengled

Sengled aims to use “smart” light bulbs to transform your home into a connected home.

The company sells a range of light bulbs with varying functionalities. The Snap light bulb, for example, has a wireless HD camera so that you can attach it to your porch or garage for outdoor monitoring. Video can be reviewed instantly or stored in the cloud.

The Boost bulb, another smart bulb, provides WiFi in addition to LED light, so you can add connectivity to Internet dead zones within the house. The Voice bulb responds to your voice, notes your appointments, and sends you reminders. You can also use Voice to send alerts if it records sounds such as a smoke alarm or crying baby.

Orée

Orée is making tech tools that don’t look like your average tech tools. The company builds keyboards, wireless chargers, smartphone cases, and trackpads, among other tech products, made of natural materials like wood and leather.

So whilst there will undoubtedly be more significant technology enhancements in 2016, I bet there is at least one gadget here you would love to own? For me it is a toss up between the wooden keyboard (can get a wooden mouse too) and the Sengled light bulb technology.

Thanks for reading my column over the past year, have a Happy Christmas and New Year and see you all in 2016!