What good is an Android device without some fun accessories? The holidays are a great time to treat the Android fan in your life to accessories that reflect his or her personality. You can find tons of cases, headphones, battery chargers, and tons more on the market, but not all devices are created equally. Check out this list of killer accessories for your Android phone or tablet.
10. Square Card Reader
No, not everyone needs a way to handle credit card payments while on the go. But, if you do, Square provides an excellent solution. Mobile payment systems are developing rapidly, but they're not perfect yet. And even when the systems are ready to go, there will still be plenty of people who don't have compatible mobile devices for payments.
Square provides a simple solution with a device that plugs directly into your phone. Simply set your price, scan a credit card through this handy little gadget, and you're good to go. Square charges 2.75% per transaction, but there are no hidden fees. If you run a business – heck, if you want to have a yard sale – the Square Card Reader is a great solution.
9. Mirror Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy S3
When it comes time to making wish lists, people usually don't talk about screen protectors. The truth is, smart phone and tablet users need them, and these inexpensive little guardians can help prevent more costly damage.
With the mirror screen protector for the Samsung Galaxy S3, you get a cool-looking protector, and it gives you extra privacy from prying eyes. These things cost less than a buck, so it's almost a waste not to get something like this for whatever type of phone or tablet you have. Pick up the mirror screen protector here.
(The Mirror Screen Protector is one of our Top 10 Gifts Under $25.)
8. Bamboo Solo Stylus
If you're going to pick out a stylus for your Android device, go with an industry-leader. Wacom has been creating cutting edge drawing pads and apps for desktops for years, and the company's styli match the quality of the rest of its devices. You can opt for the solo stylus, which gives you the essentials, or opt for the collapsible Pocket model or even the Duo, which includes a ballpoint pen on the other side. Take a look at the Solo and compare the devices to see what works best for you.
7. Arkon XXL Smartphone Workout Armband
If you like to workout with your phone nearby, you need some sort of way to take care of it. Holding onto your phone while running is practically asking for a chance to see how extensive your phone insurance really is.
Arkon has a straightforward option to hold larger phones while still allowing easy access to the touch screen. The XXL size optimally fits phones with a screen size between 4.3" and 4.7" (yes, the Samsung Galaxy SIII will fit). As you'd expect, the armband has cutouts for the phone's audio jacks on either the top or the bottom. The armband is very affordable, and it will provide basic protection from the elements (and from gravity!). Even if you don't pick up one as a gift, you should grab an armband here.
6. Audiosynq Mini Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds Stereo Headphones with Microphone
Audiosynq's headphones certainly aren't the only wireless option out there, but these earbuds get great reviews – even better than more expensive options. Wireless headphones fulfill a number of usage needs. If you exercise and use your phone as a music player, then you know how much of a hassle it is to have wires hanging and getting caught in your clothes.
With the built-in microphone, your wireless setup will allow you to answer your phone and have a conversation without having to scramble to change your configuration. The headphones are compatible with computers, as well, but it syncs with only one device at a time (seems to be fairly standard in this space). Check out Audiosynq's gear here.
5. New Trent NT70T External Power Supply
If you travel very much, you know how precious your battery life is. Finding an outlet is not a guarantee, and layovers don't always allow you enough time to recharge anyway. New Trent has you covered.
The New Trent NT70T External Power Supply offers two USB ports to be able to charge both your phone and your tablet at the same time. With a slim profile, the device will easily fit in your carry-on, and it packs a 7000mAh battery (translates to +/- 400% of your phone's battery life).
Pick one up on Amazon while they still have stock, or pick one up directly from the manufacturer.
4. Motorola Wireless Keyboard with Trackpad
Keyboards are practically a necessity for tablet-owners these days. The Motorola Wireless Keyboard with Trackpad is a Bluetooth accessory that will work with any Android device. This keyboard comes with a multi-touch trackpad which docks down in front of the keyboard, so you can use the keyboard without it if you happen to not have enough space. And of course, you can always use a keyboard for your phone, too. Buy Now
(The Motorola Wireless Keyboard with Trackpad is one of our Top 10 Gifts Under $100.)
3. SONR Labs Speaker Dock
Charge your phone, and get great sound at the same time! The SONR Labs Speaker Dock will work with all Android devices and select other media devices, allowing you to dock your phone in landscape or portrait depending on where the charging port is. This speaker dock includes a sub-woofer and 2 other speakers to bring you the best sound possible. Buy Now
(The SONR Labs Speaker Dock is one of our Top 10 Gifts Under $100.)
2. Bose Bluetooth Headset Series 2
We have some gift guides with decent budgets here on Android Headlines, and you'll notice that this item is clearly not on any of them. The Bose Bluetooth Headset will set you back a pretty penny, but it's Bose. You know that the sound will be absolutely amazing, and customer reviews confirm our natural bias toward the quality of the brand. One interesting tidbit about this device: you order for either the left ear or the right ear. The fit is quite specific. Check it out and see if it can fit your holiday budget.
1. Otterbox Defender for Motorola Droid RAZR MAXX
You have to take care of your phone. Even with insurance, replacing a phone is a costly and annoying process — especially when you're having to get a phone just because you dropped it. Get yourself (or your loved one) the Otterbox Defender for rugged protection. Otterbox makes cases for all the major Android phone series, so you can find a match even if you don't have the Droid RAZR MAXX. Pick it up at Amazon today.
(The Otterbox Defender is one of our Top 10 Gifts Under $50.)