There are plenty of smartphones on the market, and as their numbers increase, so does the cool tech that comes with them. Sometimes though, a smartphone isn’t enough. When a person needs extra functionality, they’re going to need extra gear. Read on to discover some of the favorite gadgets that smartphone owners use to get the most out of their day-to-day.
Game Gear
Games on smartphones are a blast, but sometimes playing them can be difficult and cumbersome. That’s where the iCade Jr. and the Fling Game Controller comes into play. The iCade Jr. is a fully-functional mini-arcade system (like the one’s found in 80s video game arcades) that converts your iPhone into an arcade system complete with a joystick, four front buttons and four rear trigger buttons. It’s sure to be a kick for any retro gaming fan.
The Fling Game Controller is simpler in its function, but makes mobile gaming so much easier. Two analog joysticks suction cup to a phone’s surface to make controlling videogames easier without slip and loss of input during the most critical gaming moments.
Camera Tech
Three of the most popular accessories for smartphone cameras are the iPhone Photo Lens Dial, the olloclip 4-In-1 Lens for Samsung Galaxy S5 and S4, and the “just-about-universal” Sony QX30 Smartphone Attachable Lens Style Camera.
- The iPhone Photo Lens Dial is a rugged case fashioned with three different camera lenses for iPhone photographers. Lenses come in wide angle, fisheye and telephoto—and a bonus macro lens on the iPhone 5 version.
- The olloclip 4-In-1 Lens for Samsung Galaxy S5 and S4 clips onto a phone and offers four lens options: fisheye, wide-angle, 10x macro and 15x macro.
- The Sony QX30 Smartphone Attachable Lens Style Camera is offers the most functionality, but also comes in the largest size. The attachable camera can give a smartphone 30x optical zoom, has low-light functionality, image stabilization and high-quality 50p HD video.
Unique Chargers
Chargers usually come in only two types: a standard cord charger or the newer wireless chargers. The chargers that have made this list qualify as one of those, but with an added flare that makes them a must-have. The Flos D’E-Light “LED Desk Light & iPhone Charger in One” is exactly what the name suggests, both a desk light and Apple device charger. With this charger you can set your Apple device where you can see and use it while you’re working.
The WoodPuck Bamboo Edition Qi Wireless Charger Pad for Android isn’t much different than the other wireless charge pads out there. What makes this one different is a neat bamboo finish that gives it a unique appeal when compared to the competition. In addition to working with a wide range of Android smartphones, it also works on certain wearables such as the Moto 360.
Lastly, the SolPro Helios 4500mAh Tri-Fold Solar Charging Power Bank is a must-have for technology users on the go. This charger is an excellent device for people who love to be outdoors and want to keep their devices powered. It has its own case, so all you have to do is unfold it and place it in the sun for charging. In direct sunlight, the process takes about 4.5 hours. It even has two USB ports so you can charge two devices at once.
While what’s listed here is only the tip of the iceberg for smartphone accessories, let this article be your starting point into the world of smartphone gadgetry. Some of the add-ons here only work on newer smartphones, so if your current phone is outdated, you can sell your iPhone to SellShark and upgrade to a newer version. Most These pieces of tech are some of the best, though there are many more. If you can think of it, it probably exists—and is worth investigation.