Design

The ultimate WIRED Christmas gift guide for 2019

Don't panic. We've got you covered. From ultimate toasted sandwiches and space-age shirts to scuba diving sans gear and perfumed body art, we've rounded up the best Christmas gifts that make life a whole lot smarter
Tuesday 10 December 2019
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You could go for the traditional bar of soap, some ghastly own-brand shower gel collection, or even socks. All will suffice for what could technically be termed a Christmas "gift", but none would likely be welcome, or thoughtful.

However, if you truly are out of ideas then, joy to the world, we have selected a comprehensive list of clever/fun/awesome/stylish/dependable/odd (delete as appropriate) present ideas ideal for even the hardest relative or friend to buy for in the festive period.

Looking for a new way to scuba dive without all the cumbersome kit? Done. The only guitar you'll ever need? See below. Even a banana stand capable of accelerating ripening. In short, there's something here for anyone at any budget. Merry Christmas.

Bendo Bunch banana stand

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Like bananas? You're not alone. But the world's most popular fruit is facing extinction, and scientists are racing to save it. How can you do your bit? Well, treat your curvy consumables right! This minimal banana stand protects from bruising while allowing air circulation to assist in ripening. Usually only available in Australia and the US, the good folks at Make will ship the Bunch from Oz if you email and make a request.

Price: £15.63 (plus shipping) | Make

Ikea Tradfri vintage smart light bulb

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If you can believe there’s such a thing as a statement smart bulb, this is it. Tinted glass and glowing faux filament LED make this the only Tradfri smart home hipsters will countenance. The bulb, variously known as Edison and its Ikea model number, produces the kind of warm glow that facilitates both earth-shattering collaborations and face-numbing after dinner chat. It can be controlled by a £6 remote control wireless dimmer.

Price: £10 | Ikea

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