To end another successful year of upgrading our smart homes, the Next Upgrade team has rounded up everyone’s favorite tech finds to see what new finds made a real impact in 2023. From game-changing smartphone stabilizers to nifty tracking devices, we’re sharing the gadgets that have become our daily go-tos. See what’s made life more convenient, productive, and even a bit nostalgic for us! Read on to discover the gadgets and accessories that have become essential to our routines in 2023.
Smartphone stabilizer
From DJI Official Website
I bought the DJI Osmo Mobile 6. It’s a game-changer—an intelligent smartphone stabilizer! It helped me with my travel videos and recording videos for my work as a Content Producer. It is easy to use and very slick. My life recording mobile videos was never the same!—Matthew Balicudiong, Editor-in-Chief
Tracking device
From Apple Official Website
As someone who tends to misplace things easily, I really appreciate the Find My feature by Apple. I’m also preparing to travel again in 2024, so I know this AirTag is definitely going to be helpful!—Elaine Calderon, Managing Editor
Bluetooth earhooks
From KZ Audio Official Website
KZ’s AZ09 Bluetooth Earhooks are my absolute favorite tech buy in 2023! I swear by my wired KZ in-ear monitors (IEM); they already do a fantastic job. Plugging the earpieces into ear hooks instantly turns them into wireless earphones!
While the wired ones are still best for calls, I appreciate how there is virtually no compromise on delivering crisp audio quality for music, videos, and games. Best of all, I can listen to my favorites while I’m not at my desk or on the go!—Karess Rubrico, Associate Editor
Bluetooth keyboard
From GOOJODOQ Official Shopee
My standout tech purchase of 2023 has to be the GOOJODOQ Magic Keyboard for my iPad. The magnetic attachment securely transforms my iPad into a sleek and portable workstation. This keyboard has undeniably become a helpful part of my daily routine, redefining how I approach productivity on the go!—Gracey Maala, Associate Editor
Tablet
From Xiaomi Official Website
One of the best gadgets I purchased this year is my Xiaomi Pad 6. As a Xiaomi girl, I was very happy to finally buy it. It’s perfect for working, binge-watching, and doing my creative hobbies. Its speaker is amazing, so watching a movie with it is a wonderful experience. Plus, I can bring it anywhere since it’s very handy.—Marhiel Garrote, Editorial Assistant
Smartwatch
From Apple Official Website
I like having accessible tech around me at all times, which is why the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen was my best purchase this year. For messages, I can quickly glance and assess what needs a reply. It is also great for my health because I can leave my phone at home and just go on a run. But my favorite aspect about it is its alarm; yes, I know it's pretty basic, but having your alarm vibrate on your person is effective when asleep.—Louigi Balao, Content Writer
Smart bulb
From CrabTekHome Official Shopee
My best smart home purchase for 2023 is the CrabTek Smart Bulb for my bedroom. It seems small, but the added convenience of not having to stand up when you’re sleepy to turn off the lights was truly an upgrade for me.—Jay Carag, Content Writer
Handheld gaming console
From Anbernic Official Website
My best purchase this 2023 is my Anbernic RG35XX because it allowed me to heal my inner child. As a kid, I’ve always wanted a Game Boy but couldn’t have one since my parents didn’t view it as a priority. Now that I’m earning money for myself, I can finally play the console games I wanted to play as a kid and discover other retro titles. Plus, it’s not as expensive as you would think! So yes, it’s a budol, but a really great one!—Kitty Elicay-Carpena
Wireless headphones
From Sony Official Website
This year’s best buy is my Sony WH-CH520 in Cream! (I had difficulty tracking this color variation down, but I’m really happy I waited for it!) I used to wear earbuds at the gym, but they slip out when I do some exercises due to core bracing and breathing; that’s why having these wireless headphones is super helpful to stay in the zone while working out. With 50 hours of battery life and enhanced audio performance, I can still use them during work calls after the gym.—Gelle Arcega, Art Director
As we conclude this tech-filled journey, it’s crucial to acknowledge the backbone of our digital experiences—the Internet! A fiber-fast connection, such as PLDT Home Fiber Plus plans, has played an important role in supporting our tech upgrades. Whether streaming content, working remotely, or engaging in online gaming, a reliable and fast Internet connection has been the unsung hero that ensures our seamless and uninterrupted tech experiences.