If we’re going to be honest about it, or at least sensible, Mother’s Day and technology don’t always mix. “In honor of you, Mom, and to commemorate the love and devotion you’ve shown us over the years, my brother and I would like to give you … a wireless modem!”
We do not recommend this approach. On the other hand, there are remarkable technologies and engineering breakthroughs out there that will truly make your mom happy, because they’re not about processing speed or product features. They’re about family connections and natural beauty and, while we’re at it, prudent budgeting. Now that’s how to make mom proud.
Video postcards
Apple iChat DV Software If you’re an Apple computer owner, there is a technology you should strongly consider getting for your mom: Called iChat DV, it’s a simple software that lets you have live video conversations with your mom (or your wife, who may well be a mom), for free, from anywhere in the world. If your mom doesn’t have an Apple computer, she’d need one to make this work, but it may well be worth it: Any new MacBook laptop computer or iMac desktop computer has a built-in video camera, which lets you introduce your new baby or your not-so-new self to your mom, no matter where you are in the world, for free, live.
Just hold your kidlet up in front of the computer’s built-in video camera and say “Oochie-koochie.” Or drag your recalcitrant teen over, if that’s what’s required. The amazing software that makes it possible is included with all Macs; it translates the video image captured by your computer’s built-in camera, translates it instantly into a signal understood by your computer, and then sends that live video to your mom.
Again, your mom has to have an Apple computer, but it may be worth switching if she has a PC. My brother, who was just relocated to the West Coast for his job, has to be away from his wife and boys for many days at a time for the next few months, because his boys are not yet done with school. Using iChat, he literally has dinner with his wife and kids every night from 3,000 miles away. apple.com
Here's an option for PC people:
Logitech QuickCam Chat Computer Video Camera If you don’t have a Mac, you can still have a live video conversation with your mom, starring her grandchild, using the Logitech QuickCam Chat webcam. This webcam works with PCs and has an image sensor that compensates for low light (avoiding that grainy look), and it’s nicely shaped and sized, so it remains unobtrusive. Plus, you can manually focus it to make sure your mom sees you clearly (or keep it blurry if you didn’t get a chance to comb your hair). The way it clips to the computer, it can be situated at eye level, making you look more personal and natural. Which is key when you’re being streamed through the Internet. $29.99, logitech.com
The sonic treatment
Axiom Audio Audiobyte computer speakers Now wait a minute: Didn’t we urge you to avoid appliances? And aren’t stereo speakers pretty much as appliance-like as you can get? Yes, it’s true, but with this really beautiful exception: Axiom Audio makes some of the most gorgeous-looking (and -sounding) computer speakers in the industry.
Here’s why this will make Mom exceedingly happy — many families have put their home computer in the kitchen or family room. And lots of folks want great sound for the video that they’re watching more than ever before on their computers (YouTube, news, video games, etc.). So they want computer speakers. Axiom’s Audiobyte computer speakers not only got rave reviews for their sound, they also come in 10 different cabinet finishes, from wood grain to glossy blue. So your mom can watch you, hear you and compliment you on your taste, all in one conversation. $349; axiomaudio.com
Now that’s a happy Mother’s Day.
Paul Hochman is the gear and technology editor for the TODAY Show and a Fast Company magazine contributor. He covered the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Athens and Torino, Italy, for TODAY. He was also a three-year letter winner on the Dartmouth ski team and has a black belt in karate. Paul’s blog can be found at: