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Top 10 Mistakes Business Owners Make With Their Technology and IT Decisions

Technology. Love it or hate it, it's a necessary part of business today. Some business owners feel investing in technology is a waste of funds. Others think technology works well for other business owners, but can't make it work for them. Here's a list of the top 10 mistakes business owners make that leads to the cost of inefficient IT adding up. Read it and avoid the same pitfalls.   1. Is IT a part of your strategic business plan? If not, why not?   If not, your company will be unnecessarily challenged in meeting strategic goals.Technology is complicated, confusing and intimidating, but also closely tied to the success of an ever increasing number of businesses in today's marketplace. All you need is a good IT Advisor to work with you, make recommendations based on your goals, and deploy those recommendations on time and on budget. Don't think it's important? Well let's review that for a moment.   Your client info is stored on computers Your sales efforts, leads etc are stored on computers and require advanced software to track. Your employees work on computers, and are more efficient with file and printer servers installed as part of the network. Your communications rely on email, antivirus software, cell phones and SmartPhones and syncing them all back to office computers and so on. All your data needs to be protected, backed up and available for recovery should disaster strike. If you haven't thought about just how important a regular IT audit & review is for your company, you're leaving too much up to chance. IT is an integral part of your business. Give it the appropriate focus, budget and consideration and see how it can add value to the overall strategic plan.   2. Does your technology match your business plan or did you try to make your business plan fit with whatever technology you had?   If your growth strategy requires a team of independently operating sales reps, make sure your IT supports that in the most cost and time efficient way possible. If your work flow is more of a process that must go from person A to person B to person C, then your IT design should match your work flow. If it doesn't, it's costing you time and money.   Don't make the mistake of making your business strategy fit into your existing IT set up. That could be a devastating move for your business. With the help of a trusted IT Advisor, you can find and implement solutions that support your business needs, add value to your company and simplify daily operations for your entire team.   3. Is Your Technology Secure?   Your threats might include: A virus A network wide virus A fire The failure of your single back up drive Employee theft of data And just plain ol' we hack for the fun of it hackers Your technology should be secure. Many businesses under invest in this area and too many come to regret it. One unfortunate incident can prove to severely outweigh the cost of investing in appropriate security.   4. Are You Under Utilizing Technology In Your Business?   Have you purchased the right amount of technology or power for your needs? Are your processors slowing down your team? Is your server scalable? Do you continue to invest in an antiquated model when the cost/benefit ratio for a new system makes fiscal sense. Technology is an investment and can give your company a considerable competitive edge. Don't overspend on unnecessary technology just because you are enamoured with "toys" - yes, this is the case with some rare folks. But do strike the correct balance that will give your business the IT power it needs to excel forward.   5. You bought what? How are you planning on using that technology?   You might be surprised to learn that there are cases of business owners purchasing technology and then never using it. It usually results from an impulse buy or a "sale" purchase. If your technology purchase was not part of strategic business plan, it may not fit in. If your technology purchase was the result of a sale, it may be the wrong technology. Even if it is the right piece of equipment or software, simply purchasing it doesn't necessarily mean that you have thought enough about how to:   Make it work with what you've already got How to properly install and configure it How to train your team on using it properly/to full potential Porting your data over to it...and so on. Don't be frivolous with IT purchases. Work with your IT Consultant to make planned purchases and implementations.   6. Don't Get "Sold"   If you go out shopping for IT, or give most IT "departments" a budget, I assure you they will find something to spend it on. It may not be what your business needs, but they already have a "new", "exciting" or "cutting edge" solution that they have been drooling over and dying to work with. Is it what best suits your needs? Maybe. Maybe not. Will it be the simplest most effective solution for your needs, and easy enough for all you employees to use? Are you sure about that?   It comes down to this: You don't want business processes to fit in to your technology. You want the right technology to support your business processes in the most efficient way possible. An independent IT Consultant who won't gain financially from a purchase recommendation is a wise choice here. Such an IT Advisor won't "sell" you anything, but will help you navigate your options and purchase the IT you need.   7. Failing To Outsource   There comes a time in every new business when the cost benefit of managing your IT yourself diminishes to the point of no return. At that time, outsourcing might just be the sensible option. In mid size companies, outsourcing or having an IT firm on call as needed helps balance costs and necessary IT support. In a large company, outsourcing can significantly reduce the IT budget with Service Level Agreements.   Service Level Agreements are suitable for many companies, giving them a fixed cost for enough IT service to efficiently run their business. The best part is that Service Level Agreements cost a fraction of a full time IT employee. Be sure to explore this option thoroughly. Unless technology is your core service or product, your needs may best be served by an independent IT firm and a good Service Level Agreement.   8. Failing To Plan for the Worst   Disaster recovery is a term often used for cleaning up after a hurricane, tsunami or data loss. Albeit in different ways, all incidences are considered a disaster for those involved.   But data loss doesn't just happen when a drive fails or becomes corrupted. Paper fades or goes up in a fire. Devices are stolen. Data Protection solutions help reduce such losses. Overall, a well thought out back up and recovery plan can be simple to implement and low cost to run. Not having a data backup and recovery plan is just too high of a risk. In some instances, it could mean the death of a business.   9. What's Your IT Policy? How Many Hours Do You Want Employees On Facebook?   Endless of hours are wasted each day by employees who are the clock, but doing anything but business related work. Web surfing, IM, chatting, social media, online dating and personal email pervades the business landscape. You don't have to be austere and cut it out completely, but you can monitor it, curb it and significantly reduce those lost productivity hours.   How about your company green policy and the environment? Is it important to you? Have you communicated that to your employees? Do they know not to print documents unless essential, to refill cartridges if possible, to recycle old electronics in appropriate ways?   Make it policy and it will stick. Whether it's reducing wasted hours on social media or dating sites, or saving paper, your trusted IT Advisor can help you better manage your resources by implementing the right technology and policy.   10. Grow With It. Scale It. Upgrade. Keep Your Technology Up-To-Date.   Technology evolves faster and faster. Don't buy in to the one sided view of "IT is a never ending cost with no return". Rather, accept and plan for technology that will suit your purposes today but will also grow with you in future. Accept that upgrades are as essential as ongoing product development, sales training and team building. Avoid delaying upgrades until all your technology is obsolete and unsupported by your industry ( or the software industry), leaving you with an enormous upgrade bill due all at once.   Of course on the flip side of that token, don't be the company buying up technology aimlessly. Your IT purchases should always be planned out and support your business model.

Top 10 Mistakes Business Owners Make With Their Technology and IT Decisions

Technology. Love it or hate it, it's a necessary part of business today. Some business owners feel investing in technology is a waste ...

Hyundai shows off Equus iPad owners manual, available for test drives in the App Store (video)

<DIV class=separator style="CLEAR: both; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaT8l_dggJDOGuaQbmhv2XQcNeU2__Xsn55Z8Tk7J2TUUB77Z6YHZ3Z_jMYpU-Qx3YaPJijNLPI7j1FKk3ju5s5y_FHg1PuY2L4AWR_ofcSfSjw8F-TECiFvOgpPlu6SbINZROmOY4EvQ/s1600/equus-2010-12-17-600.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1em; MARGIN-RIGHT: 1em"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaT8l_dggJDOGuaQbmhv2XQcNeU2__Xsn55Z8Tk7J2TUUB77Z6YHZ3Z_jMYpU-Qx3YaPJijNLPI7j1FKk3ju5s5y_FHg1PuY2L4AWR_ofcSfSjw8F-TECiFvOgpPlu6SbINZROmOY4EvQ/s1600/equus-2010-12-17-600.jpg.jpg"></A></DIV>Yeah, we know, you're still having a hard time thinking of Hyundai as a luxury car brand. Get with the times, man. The Equus ("echoos") is legitimately high-end, and not just because each and every one comes with a 16GB WiFi iPad pre-loaded with the car's owners manual. Naturally this isn't just a boring stack of info that you'll only pull out to look up tire pressures and engine oil capacity -- oh no. This is a properly interactive experience showing you how the directional headlights work, providing videos of various interior configurations (including the reclining "First Class" rear seats with legrests), and even offering what looks to be something of a driving game. Sure, it's no Real Racing, but it is free, and you can check it out in the App Store now. Or, you can just live vicariously through the video below.

Hyundai shows off Equus iPad owners manual, available for test drives in the App Store (video)

Yeah, we know, you're still having a hard time thinking of Hyundai as a luxury car brand. Get with the times, man. The Equus ("echo...

Xbox 360 owners spend more time gaming than PS3 or Wii users

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/big-three-consoles-200-200.jpg"> A new Nielsen study claims that Xbox 360 owners spend proportionally more of their time using their console to play games when compared with PS3 and Wii owners. In news which is sure to kick off console fanboy bickering across the internet, Nielsen's new poll claims thatan average of 28 per cent of Xbox 360 usage was spent online gaming, compared with 19 per cent on PlayStation 3 and only 12 per cent on the Wii. <img alt="CH" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/images/console%20habits_preview_barchart.jpg.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Gaming, TV, movies Xbox Live is clearly one of the major reasons why many hardcore gamers choose the Xbox 360 over competing consoles. "Compared to the other two consoles, the bulk of time on the Wii is in the form of offline gaming," states Nielsen's research. "The system trails in use for online play. This may reflect the lesser emphasis on online applications and gameplay for the Wii in general. "The PlayStation 3 stands out for its use as a DVD/Blu-Ray player as well as a gaming console," Nielsen added. Traditional offline gaming Nintendo's Wii has the highest proportional usage for streaming services such as US service Netflix or BBC iPlayer which claimed 20 per cent of all console usage time, whereas Xbox 360 owners only spend 10 per cent of their time on such services and PlayStation 3 users only 9 per cent of their time. "In terms of streaming, Netflix was introduced this year for the Wii, but its lead in share is likely a function of the fewer hours per user that is being divided up... overall, the Wii is most defined by its use for traditional offline gaming." The PlayStation 3 was easily on top when it comes to watching DVDs and Blu-Rays – the latter being a fairly obvious result, seeing as it is the only one of the three main consoles that has an in-built Blu-ray player. The average PS3 user spends 27 per cent of their time on movies and TV shows, with the average Xbox 360 user spending 11 per cent of their time watching DVDs.

Xbox 360 owners spend more time gaming than PS3 or Wii users

A new Nielsen study claims that Xbox 360 owners spend proportionally more of their time using their console to play games when compared with...

Amazon Windowshop for UK iPad owners arrives

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/computing/mobile-computing/Tablets%20and%20touchscreens/best_free_ipad_apps/amazon_windowshop-200-200.jpg"></div><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=latesttecompu-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=B003K0E6BG&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Amazon.co.uk has launched its version of the Amazon Windowshop – a 'complete rewrite' of the site specifically for the Apple iPad. 
Amazon.co.uk is, as you already know, the UK version of the online merchant giant's operation, and it has now created a specially tailored version of the site for iPads, following in the footsteps of its US big brother. 
Amazon Windowshop boasts a"fluid user interaction…made possible by the iPad's responsive, multi-touch interface", which Amazon is hoping will tempt Apple fans into a late Christmas spree.

Amazon Windowshop for UK iPad owners arrives

Amazon.co.uk has launched its version of the Amazon Windowshop – a 'complete rewrite' of the site specifically for the Apple iPad. ...

You Need a System Administrator - A Guide for Website and Small Business Owners

If you are reading this article, it's a good bet that you already have a website that matters to you, and you also aren't taking care of it the way you should. I know that sounds like a harsh way to start off an article I hope you will take the time to read through, but you are like hundreds of thousands of other website owners in this regard, so don't feel too bad about it. I am hoping to help you be in a better position and better protected. The average website owner, who plans to make some money through their website, needs help. They may already be making a living, either directly or indirectly, through the efforts they've put into their website. They also very likely to be a sitting duck, waiting to be shot by a passing automated or directed attacker. The internet, known in everyone's awareness to be a dangerous place, is like a back-alley in a dangerous part of town. Except on the internet you don't just have to worry about people who might target you specifically, you also have to worry about those who have set up automated methods to seek out your vulnerabilities and abuse you. The first thing you should worry about is not someone looking to get into your website and do bad things. It's improbable, but not impossible, that someone has put any mental effort into choosing you as a victim. Instead, your first priority should be the automated 'bots' that are constantly patrolling for weak websites and servers to exploit. In 2004, an experiment was ran by researchers who put a number of newly-installed, non-updated computers on the internet and started their stopwatch. In less than 4 minutes, the machines were infected with all sorts of nastiness and then used to seek out other machines for infection (1). A note on that number though...4 minutes was the average. Some Windows computers were hacked within 30 seconds...long before a computer operator could secure them with the latest patches from Microsoft. For what it's worth, Linux and Macintosh systems were never compromised in that experiment, though automated attacks for those operating systems do exist. There has been no sign of things getting better in the past couple years. Even before Windows Vista was released for public sale there were people able to attack it. For these reasons, no computer should be connected to the internet without being protected by a firewall. All I've stated in the previous paragraph is about personal workstations, but it all equally applies to the server for your website. In this case, a computer is a computer. If you are on a managed server at your webhosting provider, you'd better hope they have updated the server and put some firewalling in place before it goes live. It's very likely they have, but it's always worth a question to them about the state of their security and whether they have an automated patching process in place so that newly discovered exploits are taken care of before the automated bots come to you. Here's where things get sticky. If you've got even the slightest queasiness in the pit of your stomach right now about asking intelligent questions of your webhost provider, you need someone to ask those questions for you. I'll get back to who that is exactly in a second, though if you've read the title of this article you already know what I'll tell you. Things get even messier the more popular your site is and how much resources you need to run it. At a certain point, you may find yourself requiring a colocation (a server owned by you but sitting on the racks at a webhosting provider) or a rented/lease server solution. In these cases, unless you purchase a service contract to maintain it from the webhosting provider, you are going to be responsible for the security of the server. Are you ready for that, muddling through applying security patches, blocking access to certain ports, managing automated and verified backups, doing security audits of the website code and having what could very possibly be tens of thousands of lines of log files emailed to you for inspection every day? Hooray for you if you are capable if this! Double-hooray if you are not, because you've just made my point. You need a system administrator and a fresh cup of your favorite beverage. A system administrator is the person who watches out for your interests on the internet, like a security guard that also makes sure you aren't doing something silly like leaving your front door open or the keys in your car. Their responsibility is to verify that not only can the attackers not get in, but they aren't seeing enough information to know where your vulnerabilities lie. They are there to watch the reports of vulnerabilities and make sure your server is up-to-date to protect against automated and non-automated attacks. They've got the expertise to back up your important files and databases and keep them in a secured location, while verifying that the backups will actually restore properly to a new location if they attackers do find a way in (or the computer hardware fails, or any variety of other catastrophes). Not only that, but they can help you right from the start too...making sure the server you are planning on operating with has the required power to do the job you want it to do and is protected as much as possible against common but unexpected things like hard drive failure. So, if I haven't sent you running for the hills and abandoning all technology, consider your current status and what you could lose if everything you currently have on the internet disappears, never to be seen again. Your need for a system administrator can be satisfied and you'll sleep better at night, having a guardian angel watching over your digital availability. You need a system administrator and now all you have to do is find a good one. That, I'm afraid, is a topic for another article.

You Need a System Administrator - A Guide for Website and Small Business Owners

If you are reading this article, it's a good bet that you already have a website that matters to you, and you also aren't taking car...

Buying Guide: 12 best gifts for iPad owners

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/justmobilestand-200-200.jpg"> Looking for iPad gift ideas? You've come to the right place. We've got 12 cool iPad add-ons, gadgets and accessories to suit a range of price points and purposes. From stocking fillers to more serious investments, we've got you covered. 1. foldIO Case for iPad - £38.99 <img alt="Foldio" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/foldio%201-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> What you want from an iPad case is good cushioning, multiple viewing angles and portability, and that's exactly what the foldIO Case for iPad gives you. There are three display positions, which has you covered however you like to use your iPad. Buy the foldIO Case for iPad for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Scosche-Foldio-P1-Leather-Texture/dp/B003VN1X04/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1290782486&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£38.99 from Amazon</A> 2. Octiv 450 - £129.99 <img alt="MP450" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/ALTEC-MP450-Straight_Reduced_HORIZ1-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> A stereo speaker dock for your iPad, this attractive accessory can rotate your iPad into portrait or landscape mode and play high quality audio with low distortion while charging your iPad at the same time. There's even a remote control. Buy the Octiv 450 for <a href="http://store.apple.com/uk" rel="nofollow">£129.99 from Apple</A> 3. Twelve South Compass - £35.93 <img alt="south compass" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/12southcompass-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> We love this iPad stand because it's so light-weight and portable. It folds up small enough to slip into your back pocket, yet can hold your iPad securely in two different display positions, for watching movies or typing. Buy the Twelve South Compass for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/TwelveSouth-Compass-9-7-Silver-12-1012/dp/B003XQMUVA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=officeproduct&qid=1290789740&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£35.93 from Amazon</A> 4. Brenthaven 5-in-1 iPad Case - £54.95 <img alt="Carmount surfer" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/5in1_carmount_surfer-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The best thing about this iPad case is that as well as using it to prop up your iPad up in a variety of positions, you can use it to attach it to the back of a car seat with a headset strap, so you can keep the little ones amused watching movies on long journeys. What a great idea! Buy the Brenthaven 5-in-1 iPad case for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Brenthaven-Enclave-5-Case-iPad/dp/B0043NS9VM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290789863&sr=8-1-catcorr" rel="nofollow">£54.95 from Amazon</A> 5. be.ez LE rush en Ville - £38.95 <img alt="Le rush en ville" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/LErush-EnVille-family-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Port your iPad around in style with the be.ez. LE rush en Ville. Available in three loud colours, there's a compartment for your iPad and a front exterior pocket with a velcro opening for cables and whatnots. Buy the be-ez LA chic marine for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-ez-100925-LErush-Ville-Coffee/dp/B0044BBSQG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=computers&qid=1291214790&sr=8-1">£38.95 from Amazon</A> 6. OverBoard, 100% water, dust and dirt resistant iPad case – price TBC <img alt="Overboard case" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/overboard-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> It might not be the season for wallowing in the pool with your iPad, but with the OverBoard iPad case you can be the envy of your friends this summer. Alternatively, relax in the bath for a long hot soak while playing Angry Birds - the choice is yours! [NB - the OverBoard is not yet on sale, but should be available very soon] Buy the OverBoard for <a href="http://www.over-board.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">£44.95 from OverBoard</A> 7. Incipio KICKSTAND case for iPad - £19.39 <img alt="Incipio case" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/incipio-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> This modest little iPad case won't break the bank, yet gives you a position for watching movies and a magnetic closure on the front protects the screen when you're not using it. Buy the Incipio KICKSTAND case for iPad for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Incipio-Kickstand-iPad-Light-Grey/dp/B003DIUT3E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1291214886&sr=8-2-catcorr" rel="nofollow">£19.39 from Amazon</A> 8. tizi - £149.95 <img alt="tizi" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/tizi-320-100.jpg" width="320"></IMG> tizi is a mobile television receiver that enables you to watch TV on your iPad via Wi-Fi. Its rechargable battery lasts up to 3 and a half hours and it comes with a program guide. You can change channel by swiping your iPad screen! Buy the tizi for <a href="https://www.equinux.com/eqnetwork/store/products/tizi.html#" rel="nofollow">£149.95 from equinux</A> 9. Apple Wireless keyboard - £56 <img alt="Apple wireless keyboard" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/keyboard-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Need a keyboard for your iPad? Of course you do. It's not the cheapest, but the official Apple wireless keyboard suits the iPad best, and connects over Bluetooth. Buy the Apple Wireless Keyboard for <a href="http://store.apple.com/uk/product/MC184B/A?mco=MTY3ODQ5OTY" rel="nofollow">£56 from Apple</A> 10. Just Mobile UpStand - £34.03 <img alt="Just mobile upstand" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/justmobilestand-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Help your iPad to sit pretty with this stunning, precision engineered aluminum iPad stand. Its extra height makes it ideal if you want to do some typing with a wireless keyboard. Buy the Just Mobile UpStand for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Just-Mobile-Upstand-for-iPad/dp/B003X0BHP6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=computers&qid=1291220012&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£34.03 from Amazon</A> 11. Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit - £25 <img alt="iPad camera connection kit" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/cameraconnector-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The iPad is a perfect device for displaying your photos and with the Camera Connection Kit you can simply pop in your SD card and put your photos straight on your iPad, without having to go through a computer and syncing first. Buy the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit for <a href="http://store.apple.com/uk/product/MC531?mco=MTc0MjU1ODY" rel="nofollow">£25 from Apple</A> 12. Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard - £29.95 <img alt="Bluetooth mini keyboard" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/computing/mobile-computing/images/ipad_gifts_2010/flexiblekeyboard-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you're after the ultimate portable keyboard for your iPad then this flexible keyboard will fit the bill. It connects over Bluetooth, so there are no wires to worry about. Simply roll it up when you're done typing and you're ready to go. Buy the Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard for <a href="http://www.gearzap.com/flexible-bluetooth-mini-keyboard.html#" rel="nofollow">£29.95 from GearZap</A>

Buying Guide: 12 best gifts for iPad owners

Looking for iPad gift ideas? You've come to the right place. We've got 12 cool iPad add-ons, gadgets and accessories to suit a range...

Android 2.2 coming today for T-Mobile Galaxy S owners

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/Mobile%20Phones/Samsung/samsung-galaxy-S-i90001-200-200.jpg"> T-Mobile seems set to be next up to offer next generation functionality to its <a href="http://www.techradar.com/reviews/phones/mobile-phones/samsung-galaxy-s-689293/review">Samsung Galaxy S</A> customers with the release of Android 2.2. The <a href="http://support.t-mobile.co.uk/discussions/index?page=forums&topic=80103825157760012c52e07803002f32">Support Forums</A> for the pink network have received word from operator that the update will be coming, and in a strange turn of events, making it available over the air. "Our handset team have been working closely with Samsung regarding this update and future updates and would like to share their news with you. Smooth installation "Our goal is to make the update process smoother and we are working to become the only mobile operator offering FOTA (Firmware over the Air) updates for the Samsung product range. "The aim was and still is to have the FOTA update available at some point today. If for reasons outwith our control we are unable to have a FOTA update process fully functioning by close of play today, then we will make the update available for download via Samsung KIES." We're still waiting to hear word of whether this has actually happened for anyone as yet, with Twitter still quiet on the subject, so perhaps the over the air issues are slowing things down. The Galaxy S update is more pivotal as it will likely include fixes to the phone's operation, which include slowdown on certain applications opening, which can become very frustrating for users.

Android 2.2 coming today for T-Mobile Galaxy S owners

T-Mobile seems set to be next up to offer next generation functionality to its Samsung Galaxy S customers with the release of Android 2.2. ...

Buying Guide: 12 best gifts for iPhone owners

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/revoaxis-200-200.jpg"> There's no shortage of iPhone gadgets on the market in time for the holiday season, but how do you separate the best iPhone accessories from the also-rans? With our help, of course! We've compiled a list of 12 of the hottest iPhone accessories and add-ons for you here. Buy that special iPhone-owner in your life one of these for Christmas and you can be sure of a happy New Year. 1. Sonos ZonePlayer S5 - £349 <img alt="Sonos s5" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/Sonos%20S5%20and%20iPhone-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you're after the ultimate in cool iPhone gifts then this wireless multi-room audio solution that you can control from your iPhone will be a hit. The Sonos ZonePlayer S5 can access your iTunes library on your Mac or PC, and you can control it with a <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/sonos-controller/id293523031?mt=8">free iPhone app</A>. Buy the Sonos ZonePlayer S5 for <a href="http://electronics.simplyelectronics.net/search?currency=gbp&w=sonos+s5&gclid=CO_O4cCSmaUCFYw14woduwtQJQ" rel="nofollow">£317 at Simply Electronics</A> 2. Mophie Juice Pack Air - £79 <img alt="Juice pack air" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/JuicePackAir-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> It's more expensive than other battery boosters, but the Juice Pack Air looks the part. When you're getting low on power just press the charge button to give your iPhone a boost. You can basically double your battery charge, and connecting to your PC using a USB cable enables you to sync while its connected. Buy the Mophie Juice Pack Air for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mophie-Juice-Rechargable-Battery-iPhone/dp/B0046EBTQ0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1289494403&sr=8-2" rel="nofollow">£79 at Amazon</A> 3. Just Mobile AluPen - £14 <img alt="Alupen" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/alupen-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Stand out from the crowd with a stylus for your iPhone! This pencil-like creation is made of aluminium and a rubberised nib means it works with the iPhone 4. It's great for handwritten notes or tapping on the on-screen keyboard. Buy the Just Mobile AluPen for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Just-Mobile-AluPen-iPhone-Touch/dp/B0042U9AT6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1289494710&sr=1-2-spell" rel="nofollow">£14 at Amazon</A> 4. Scosche IPUSBM flipSYNC - £16 <img alt="flipsync" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/flipsync-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> This great little Christmas stocking filler is perfect for iPhone 4 owners. Measuring less than 5cm when closed, it flips out to reveal a USB to iPhone 30-pin connector, and can easily be attached to your keyring for portability. Buy the Scoshe flipSYNC for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Scosche-IPUSBM-flipSYNC-Keyring-Charge/dp/B003554F7Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1290448387&sr=8-1-spell" rel="nofollow">£16 at Amazon</A> 5. Revo AXiS - £199 <img alt="Revo axis" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/revoaxis-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you're looking for something to put by your bedside to plug your iPhone 4 into then the Revo AXiS has to be amongst the best of the bunch. It's touchscreen controls give you access to internet, DAB and FM Radio, and of course it can charge your iPhone and play any music it contains. Add in wireless streaming of music from your Mac or PC and a strong robust sound and you've got a winner on your hands. Buy the Revo AXiS for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Revo-Touchscreen-Internet-iPhone-Streaming/dp/B003ZVKPJC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290446997&sr=8-1">£199 at Amazon</A> 6. Moshi Moshi 04 - £142 <img alt="Moshi moshi" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/moshimoshi-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The Moshi Moshi is a great idea - at first glance it's a Bluetooth speaker set for your iPhone, but if you detach the top part it becomes a handset which you can walk around the house with. Buy the Moshi Moshi 04 for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Native-Union-Wireless-Handset-Speakers/dp/B003XIIUN0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1290447178&sr=1-3" rel="nofollow">£142 at Amazon</A> 7. Fivepoint gloves - £25 <img alt="Fivepoint gloves" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/fivepointgloves-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Keep your hands warm this winter when you use your iPhone thanks to the innovative <a href="http://www.fivepointgloves.com/">Fivepoint gloves</A>. The tips are conductive, so you can still use the iPhone 4's capacitive mult-touch screen without taking them off. Buy the Fivepoint gloves for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/FIVEPOINT-Gloves-Large-Oxford-Fingertips/dp/B004CRV60A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=clothing&qid=1290448056&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£25 at Amazon</A> 8. Time Speaker Dock - £39.99 <img alt="Time speaker dock" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/TimeSpeakerDock-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The Time Speaker Dock works in conjunction with a free app to create a gorgeous, fully-functioning analogue clock that also charges your iPhone. There's also an alarm clock, FM radio and snooze and sleep functions. Buy the TIME Speaker Dock for <a href="http://www.play.com/Search.html?searchstring=TIME+Speaker+Dock&searchtype=allproducts&searchsource=0" rel="nofollow">£39.99 at Play.com</A> 9. Sennheiser MM 450 Travel - £226.95 <img alt="Sennheiser mm 450" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/Sennheiser-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Bluetooth headphones are a great idea - no wires to tie you down and great sound quality too. These Sennheiser's aren't cheap, but they impress thanks to built-in play/pause volume adjust and skip track controls. Buy the Sennheiser MM 450 Travel for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-MM-450-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B002O03HHM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=computers&qid=1290686544&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£226.95 at Amazon</A> 10. Altec Lansing inMotion Compact iMT320 - £43.19 <img alt="iMT320" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/alteclansing-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you want a portable speaker dock then you need something that works off both batteries and mains, and sounds incredible. The iMT320 fits the bill perfectly, and it won't break the bank either. Buy the Altec Lansing inMotion Compact iMT320 for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Altec-Lansing-InMotion-Portable-Universal/dp/B003DTVDHE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290687387&sr=8-1-catcorr" rel="nofollow">£43.19 at Amazon</A> 11. Guitar Sidekick - £29.99 <img alt="Guitar sidekick" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/guitar-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The Guitar Sidekick attaches snuggly between the nut and the machine heads of your axe, holding your iPhone at just the right angle, which makes it perfect for the budding guitarist who wants to follow along to tablature as they play, using apps like <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/tabtoolkit/id325946571?mt=8">TabToolkit</A>. Buy the Guitar Sidekick for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Guitar-Sidekick-AmpliTube-iPhone-Holder/dp/B0042U0ZG8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290769168&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">£29.99 at Amazon</A> 12. Etymotic hf3 - £125.50 <img alt="hf3" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/iphone_gifts_2010/hf3_group1-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> We all know that Apple's iPhone earphones aren't ideal. If you want to get something that's much better quality we'd recommend these noise-isolating earphones. Stunning sound, a three button controller and a mic. What more could you want? Buy the Etymotic hf3 for <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Etymotic-ERHF3BK-HF3-iPhone-Earphones/dp/B003YTROIU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1290772541&sr=8-2" rel="nofollow">£125.50 at Amazon</A>

Buying Guide: 12 best gifts for iPhone owners

There's no shortage of iPhone gadgets on the market in time for the holiday season, but how do you separate the best iPhone accessories ...

Buying Guide: Top 12 gifts for Xbox 360 owners

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/7%20guitar-200-200.jpg"> Getting the best Xbox gifts at Christmas can be a hard task, especially if you're shopping for the gamer that has all the latest titles. But it doesn't have to be that way, as there are loads of cool Xbox gifts for every type of gamer. There are tonnes of Xbox 360 accessories which make gaming easier, keep peripherals charged, and even open up areas of the Xbox experience that they've never been able to exploit. So call off the search and put your feet up, as we've found 12 of the best accessories and cool Xbox gifts, so you don't have to. 1. Kinect - £129.99 <img alt="Kinect" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/1%20kinect-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> <a href="http://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/games-consoles/controllers/microsoft-kinect-905010/review">Kinect</A> is one of the most in-demand presents anywhere this Christmas, and is a must have for any Xbox owner. If you've been living on another planet this year, then let us explain. Kinect lets you play a range of games using your body to control your character, much like the Wii, but without the control. A sure fire winner this Christmas that you can <a href="http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/microsoft-kinect-sensor-kinect-adventures-06861398-pdt.html?srcid=867&xtor=AL-50" rel="nofollow">pick up for £129.99</A>. 2. Lips Number One Hits with Microphones - £54.99 <img alt="Lips" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/2%20lips-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> If you're looking for a gift to get the family together this Christmas, then look no further than <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lips-Number-One-Hits-Microphones/dp/B002OEBEAK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1290708617&sr=8-4" rel="nofollow">Lips</A>. This karaoke game with two wireless microphones has a fantastic mix of modern classics and old favourites, from Black Eyed Peas to Roy Orbison and even MC Hammer. 3. 4Gamers Play and Charge kit - £9.94 <img alt="4Gamers charger" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/3%204Gamers-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Any Xbox 360 owner will know the pain of running out of AA batteries in their controller. Save them the inconvenience of interrupted sessions, and the environmental impact of wasted AA batteries by buying a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/4Gamers-Play-Charge-Kit-White/dp/B0029U2MAA" rel="nofollow">charging pack</A>. They can even play and charge simultaneously, so there's no need to come out of their room on Christmas Day to watch The Great Escape. 4. Modern Warfare 2 Throat Mic Communicator Headset - £19.44 <img alt="CoD throat mic" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/4%20ThroatMic-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> A must-have for any CoD addict, this officially licensed <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/4-/11607182/Madcatz-Officially-Licensed-Modern-Warfare-2-Xbox-360-Throat-Mic-Communicator-Headset/Product.html" rel="nofollow">throat mic</A> is designed to give clearer, less noisy sound for Xbox LIVE play. If your loved one lives and breathes the new Black Ops game then help them get into character, and lead their team in style, with this cool looking piece of kit. 5. Turtle Beach Ear Force X11 Headset - £37.97 <img alt="Turtle beach headset" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/5%20turtle%20beach-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you're tired of peace being ruined by someone acting out the war on terror from the next room, invest in the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Turtle-Beach-Force-Headset-Xbox/dp/B003A7HHKG/ref=sr_1_5?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1290461453&sr=1-5" rel="nofollow">Turtle Beach headphones</A> this Christmas. These luxury cans double as a headset and provide great quality sound and will give them an tactical advantage with clear definition and virtual surround sound. 6. Wireless Headset - £29.99 <img alt="Wireless headset" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/6%20wireless-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> The more active gamer might enjoy the convenience of a <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/4-/15945616/Official-Xbox-360-Wireless-Headset-Black/Product.html" rel="nofollow">wireless headset</A> more than a pair of beefy cans, and this makes the perfect stocking filler. The headset looks like a Bluetooth mobile type sported by city types in Starbucks, but means there will be no tangled cables in the pursuit of Xbox Live domination. 7. Rock Band 3 Wireless Mustang Pro Guitar - £109.99 <img alt="Mustang pro guitar" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/7%20guitar-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> For the wannabe rock star, there's no Xbox gift like the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rock-Band-Wireless-Mustang-Guitar/dp/B003RRTXYW" rel="nofollow">Wireless Mustang Pro</A>. This realistic guitar is geared up for Rock Band 3, so they can feel like Bono even if they sound more like Borat. It boasts actual strings, will play real chords, and doubles as a MIDI Guitar Controller when not in use on Rock Band 3, which will be rare. 8. Rock Band 3 Microphone Stand - £14.99 <img alt="Rock band mic stand" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/8%20Mic%20Stand-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> The average Rock Band star will slouch on the sofa, moodily murdering the Beatles while dreaming of being on the big stage. Give them a low-cost lift with this <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/4-/17285953/Rock-Band-3-Microphone-Stand/Product.html" rel="nofollow">mic stand</A>. At worst they can pretend to be on stage at the Astoria, at best, they can show off while singing and playing guitar at the same time. 9. Venom Xbox 360 Controller Twin Charge Cradle - £11.97 <img alt="Venom box charge cradle" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/9%20venom-380-100.jpg" width="380"></IMG> For those gamers who have more than one controller, get them this <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/-/3798/3065/-/10848535/Venom-Xbox-360-Controller-Twin-Charge-Cradle-Black/Product.html?searchtype=genre" rel="nofollow">twin charging cradle</A>. The unit holds two controllers and charges them together, meaning that multiplayer gaming doesn't begin and end with a race to find the last remaining AA batteries hidden in the kitchen drawer. 10. Xbox Live 2100 Points Card - £17.49 <img alt="Xbox live points card" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/10%20xbox%20points-380-100.jpg" width="380"></IMG> If you don't know what to get your Xbox addicted loved one, then play it safe with a <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/-/3798/3065/-/860182/Xbox-Live-2100-Points-Card/Product.html?searchtype=genre" rel="nofollow">gift card</A>. Xbox points can be spent on amazing games from the store, and even movie rentals too. 2100 points gets you two good Xbox Live Arcade games, with some left over for downloadable content. 11. Xbox Live 12 Month Gold Membership Card - £29.97 <img alt="Xbox live gold membership card" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/11%20xbox%20live-380-100.jpg" width="380"></IMG> Xbox Live is one of the greatest parts of the Xbox experience, but the £40 a year fee puts many people off. Treat your pet gamer to a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Xbox-LIVE-Gold-12-Month-Membership/dp/B000B5KMSE/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1290709227&sr=1-3" rel="nofollow">year's online gameplay</A>, with access to a world of multiplayer action, rentable movies and great extras like Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm from the console. 12. Call Of Duty: Black Ops ProGaming Glasses - £59.99 <img alt="CoD glasses" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/xbox_gifts_2010/12%20cod%20glasses-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you're fed up of your CoD loving friend, then give them the kiss of death with these <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/Xbox360/-/3798/3065/-/16139432/Call-Of-Duty-Black-Ops-ProGaming-Glasses-Universal/Product.html?searchtype=genre" rel="nofollow">ProGaming glasses</A>. The official spiel boasts that these specs enable gamers to stay more alert and play for longer, on their way to online domination. Just post some rations under the door, and move on with your life.

Buying Guide: Top 12 gifts for Xbox 360 owners

Getting the best Xbox gifts at Christmas can be a hard task, especially if you're shopping for the gamer that has all the latest titles....

Buying Guide: Top 12 gifts for PS3 owners

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/madcatz_black_ops-200-200.jpg"> Nothing pleases gamers more than being given something to help them get more from their plastic pride and joy. To help out with what to pick, we've rounded up 12 of the best PS3 gifts that are guarantee to be warmly received. There's a lot more to the PS3 than just games, of course, so we've got PS3 accessories to make the most of the PlayStation's web capabilities, media and Blu-ray capabilities, too. There's something for just about everyone available below. 1. PlayStation Move Starter Pack, £41.70 (£49.99 RRP) <img alt="PlayStation move starter pack" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/Move_starter-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> In TechRadar's <a href="http://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/gaming-accessories/sony-playstation-move-713638/review">PlayStation Move review</A>, we were highly impressed by Sony's new motion sensing controller. Grabbing someone a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/PlayStation-Move-Starter-Camera-Controller/dp/B003S9WRYW/ref=pd_bxgy_vg_h__text_c" rel="nofollow">Move Starter Pack</A> is a great way to introduce motion gaming, though you can also get <a href="http://www.game.co.uk/Accessories/PlayStation-3/Controllers-and-Accessories/PlayStation-Move-Starter-Pack-with-Sports-Champions/~r351594/?s=move&d=1z13fvhZ1z13mmt" rel="nofollow">deals</A> that bundle a Starter Pack with a game such as Sports Champions for around £70. Of course, there are lots of accessories for Move itself you could pick up, including the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/PlayStation-Move-Navigation-Controller-PS3/dp/B003NSBMHQ" rel="nofollow">Navigation Controller</A> (£17.99; £24.99 RRP) and the official <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Playstation-Move-Charging-Station-PS3/dp/B004477IZA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290625742&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">Charging Station</A> (£17.99; £24.99 RRP). 2. Gioteck Real Triggers, £2.99 (£4.99 RRP) <img alt="Gioteck real triggers" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/accessories/images/gioteckrealtriggers-300-100.jpg" width="300"></IMG> Speaking of improved triggers… Anyone sick of slipping off the convex analogue ones on their PS3 controller will be grateful for <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/PlayStation3/4-/5675248/Gioteck-Real-Triggers-For-PS3/Product.html" rel="nofollow">these add-ons</A>. They make the R2/L2 triggers concave and they'll stick out more, so will be much easier to press with precision. 3. Logitech Driving Force GT, £79.99 (£149.99 RRP) <img alt="Logitech driving force" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/logitech_driving_force-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> It's been a long old wait for Gran Turismo 5, but the game has finally hit store shelves. Any serious driving sim fan will know that the only way to play is with a racing wheel, and this Gran Turismo-<a href="http://www.game.co.uk/Accessories/PlayStation-3/Steering-Wheels-and-Accessories/Logitech-Driving-Force-GT-Wheel-/~r335653/?s=driving+force+gt" rel="nofollow">branded wheel</A> is just the ticket. Featuring force feedback, accelerate and brake pedals, a sequential gear shift lever and an adjustment dial for control over all the finer options in your car, you'll know the only reason for poor performance in races is between the sofa and the wheel. 4. Logitech Vantage Bluetooth Headset, £19.99 (£24.99 RRP) <img alt="Logitech vantage" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/logitech_vantage-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> With its adjustable noise-cancelling microphone and comfortable design, the <a href="http://www.game.co.uk/Accessories/PlayStation-3/Headsets/Logitech-Vantage-Wireless-Bluetooth-Headset-for-PS3/~r340422/?s=logitech+vantage" rel="nofollow">Logitech Vantage Bluetooth Headset</A> combines crystal-clear sound and a comfortable design with a solid 12 hours of use from its rechargeable battery. 5. Mad Catz Call of Duty: Black Ops PrecisionAim controller, £30.37 (£39.99 RRP) <img alt="Black ops controller" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/madcatz_black_ops-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> At this point, it's difficult to not know at least one person feverishly enjoying the latest Call of Duty game. This Black Ops <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Call-Duty-Black-PrecisionAIM-Controller/dp/B0041RQ85Y" rel="nofollow">licensed gaming pad</A> features PrecisionAim analogue sticks with on-the-fly sensitivity adjustments, lag-free 2.4GHz wireless communication, rubber grips (for better sticking to the hand in the throes of a frantic match's climax) and improved triggers. 6. Official Sony Blu-ray Remote Control, £14.99 (£17.99 RRP) <img alt="Blu-ray remote control" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/accessories/images/blurayremote-200-100.jpg" width="200"></IMG> One of the best things about the PS3 is that it's actually a damn good Blu-ray player. However, the standard Dual Shock 3 controller isn't exactly ideal for media playback. Not to worry: <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/PlayStation3/4-/3308576/Official-Sony-Blu-ray-Remote-Control-for-PS3/ProductReviews.html" rel="nofollow">Sony's remote control</A> enables users to play and fast forward their dics in a more dignified manner. 7. Play TV, £19.99 (£59.99 RRP) <img alt="Play tv" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/accessories/images/playtv-420-100.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Not only does the PS3 contain ample digital storage thanks to its built-in hard drive, but it can be upgraded by the user to even more. Ideal, then, for turning into a Freeview recorder! Using <a href="http://gamestation.co.uk/Accessories/PlayStation-3/Other/Play-TV-with-Playstation-3-TV-Tuner/~r409556/?s=sony+ps3+remote" rel="nofollow">Play TV</A>, you can watch and record live TV on your PS3. Handily, it actually has two tuners, so you can watch one thing and record another, or even record two things at once. An electronic programme guide makes keeping track of what you want to record easy. 8. Venom Controller Charger, £10.99 (£19.99 RRP) <img alt="Venom charger" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/venom_charger-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Recharging your PS3 controllers using the supplied USB cable is all well and good, but don't you want something a little more interesting? Enter Venom's <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Venom-Controller-Pyramid-Charger-PS3/dp/B001E1H3WM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290628549&sr=1-1" rel="nofollow">Pyramid charger</A>, with its ability to charge two controllers and once and blue accent glow. There are more… subtle options on the market, but some things really are better when they glow (just ask the PS Move designers). 9. Official Sony PS3 Wireless Keypad, £17.99 (£24.99 RRP) <img alt="PS3 wireless keypad" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/keypad-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> If you've ever tried typing a message of any length on any console using just the on-screen keyboard directed by the game pad, we probably don't need to mention to you how infuriating it is. <a href="http://www.play.com/Games/PlayStation3/4-/8115006/Official-Sony-PS3-Wireless-Keypad/Product.html" rel="nofollow">This add-on</A> for the standard PS3 controller puts a full QWERTY keyboard at the user's fingertips, without having to put down the controller. Ideal for sending quick messages to friends in between multiplayer rounds. 10. Hori Fighting Stick 3, £39.99 RRP <img alt="Hori fighting stick" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/ps3_gifts_2010/hori_fighting_stick-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> For a true fighting game fan, then it's pretty much impossible to look at the authentic arcade-style layout on the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Hori-Arcade-Fighting-Stick-PS3/dp/B000MWE3BI/ref=sr_1_1?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1290629446&sr=1-1" rel="nofollow">Fighting Stick</A> and not come over a bit funny. There's no shortage of great fighting games around at the moment, and with Tekken X Street Fighter still to come, we can't think of a better way to get your Shoryuken on. 11. Logitech Cordless Mediaboard Pro, £38.09 (£49.99 RRP) <img alt="Mediaboard pro" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/accessories/images/mediaboardpro-420-100.jpg" width="420"></IMG> When trying do a lot of web browsing on the PS3, the standard controller can be pretty fiddly. Instead, try this <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Logitech-Cordless-Mediaboard-pro-Bluetooth/dp/B000W9N7JU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290630175&sr=1-1" rel="nofollow">keyboard from Logitech</A>, which will have users churning through URLs in no time. Not only that, but with a built-in trackpad for mouse control, it can be used to scan around pages and control services such as iPlayer easily. 12. PSN Card, £20/£50 RRP <img alt="PSN card" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/accessories/images/psncard-200-100.jpg" width="200"></IMG> Of course, if you want to give someone something to use with the PS3 that doesn't take up yet more living room space, why not go for a <a href="http://www.game.co.uk/Accessories/PlayStation-3-PSP/Playstation-Network-Card-20/~r343951/?s=psn+card" rel="nofollow">PlayStation Network gift card</A>? You can buy in £20 or £50 denominations, and the recipient can use them to buy games, DLC, movies and anything else that takes their fancy from the PSN store. It's the gift that keeps on giving (until it runs out).

Buying Guide: Top 12 gifts for PS3 owners

Nothing pleases gamers more than being given something to help them get more from their plastic pride and joy. To help out with what to pick...