Izwan Ismail looks at products that made their mark in 2014
1. Xiaomi Mi 3
The Chinese phone brand made a huge impact herethis year.
Mi 3 is an example that premium smartphones need not be above the RM2,000 benchmark. At RM889, this Android phone is a steal with features and capabilities that match its more expensive rivals.
2. Curved TV
It made its debut this year but is yet to become a household item. Viewers feel more immersed as the curved edges give a real-world feel. Pictures have more depth, are sharper and have better contrast. Available from most major brands.
3. Sony A7S
The Alpha 7S is still the smallest and lightest full frame interchangeable lens camera around. With an sensitivity up to ISO 409,600, the 7S reveals astonishing detail and colour even in the dead of night. With Full Pixel Readout, a 4K-optimised sensor and uncompressed 4K output, making videos is a breeze. Available at RM7,999.
Phone 6/
4. iPhone 6 Plus
Despite the “bendable” issue, both iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus continue to be the most sought after smartphones. At 6.9mm, iPhone 6 is still one of the thinnest phones, with a Retina HD display that offers ultra sharp images. The camera has a sensor that allows 81 per cent more light and the new burst effect, capable of taking up to 10 photos per second. Prices from RM2,399 to RM3,549.
5. Smartwatch
Many phone makers have come out with their own smartwatches this year to pair with their premium smartphones. These smartwatches offer more than timekeeping, including syncing with the phones, running apps and taking pictures. Although the masses have not adopted it yet, it signals the beginning of the wearable computer Age.