Jonathan Takiff: Season's gadgets

(Source: The Philadelphia Daily News)THE GIZMO: Funny how we think about giving gizmos seasonally - in February for lovers, in June for dads and grads. Lots of companies pitch products with just such a hook. But the truth is, a smart gadget is always welcome. Herewith, some options that are good for everyone.

BABE MAGNET: We're hearing buzz about digital cameras going "bye-bye" (the newly discontinued Flip camcorder line being a sore case in point) because people are content taking digital stills and video with mobile phones. Yet a dedicated digi-camera with the right features set still deserves attention.

Take, please, the Samsung DualView ultracompact series, boasting a second LCD screen on the front that displays whatever is being captured by the lens. In effect, that second screen serves as a mirror for the subject - great for attracting a baby's attention. A front screen's also good for getting a glum teen or grown-up to perk up, after noting, "Eew, I look awful!" Or to help the shooter get properly framed in an arms-length self-portrait.

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