Back to school cool isn’t complete without the latest tech accessories and gadgets. While you’re busy scooping up notebooks, pens, pencils, lunchboxes and a new fall wardrobe remember that tech accessories are also in high demand; if not on the school provided list, then definitely in the minds of middle school and high school students.
According to the Pew Research study, “Teens, Social Media & Technology Overview 2015,” 92 percent of teens report going online daily and nearly three-quarters of teens have or have access to a smartphone, basic phone, tablet, or desk or laptop computer.
Tweens and teens can express their individuality through nearly every tech accessory imaginable, from colored keyboards to bracelets that teach them how to create their own code. Since the average teen spends nine hours per day with media, it’s no surprise we’re seeing companies develop products that help teens accessorize their tech gear in style. Check out these practical yet trendy devices that are on the “must have” list for back to school.
1. Protective phone cases
Phone covers are as practical as they are stylish for young adults on the go. The Candyshell Clear iPhone 6S and iPhone 6 cases from Speck comes with a one-year warranty and the patented design provides two layers of protection. In April 2016, the NPD group named this case as the top-selling case in the United States. Choose from a variety of colors made for a several brands including iPhone, Samsung, LG and HTC.
Pictured: The Candyshell Clear Case for iPhone 6; Price: $34.95; Speck products available at speckproducts.com and select retail stores including Apple, Target, Best Buy, Verizon and Nordstrom.
2. USB flash drives unique as your teen
With Action Sport Drives your student’s flash drive will stand out from the crowd, ensuring it doesn’t get mixed up with a classmate’s. The bold surfboard, skateboard and snowboard inspired designs allow teens to express their individual styles with official graphics from Quicksilver, Roxy and DC shoes brands.
Pictured: SurfDrive USB Flash Drive in Quicksilver Neon Green; Available in 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB; Price: $12.99; Available at: Best Buy, Kohl’s, OfficeMax, Office Depot, Kmart, Sears, Staples, Quill.com and Wal-Mart.
3. Stylish headphones
According to the Common Sense Media Census: Media Use by Tweens and Teens, listening to music still dominates teens’ interactions with media. Two-thirds of teens participating in the study listened to music “every day.” Stylish and sturdy headphones are a must for this set. The Beats Solo2 On-Ear Lightweight Headphones, Luxe Edition come in four new colors — red, blue, silver and black. These foldable headphones are perfect to take on the go so teens can listen to their favorite tunes wherever they are.
Pictured: Beats Solo2 On-Ear Headphones, Luxe Edition in Blue; Price: $199.95
4. Keyboard covers
Protective keyboard covers are a great way to shield computers from spilled drinks or food and they add pizazz to an otherwise standard keyboard. Keyboard covers come in a variety of colors and designs to fit teens’ personal style. Check out the Silicone MacBook Keyboard covers from Claire’s Inc. This affordable and decorative accessory brightens even the most stressful of school days.
Pictured: Black and Gold Aztec Print Silicone MacBook Keyboard Cover; Price: $9.99; Fits MacBook, MacBook Pro and MacBook Air 13 inch keyboard
5. Modern day friendship bracelets
For children interested in coding, have them try Jewelbots, a friendship bracelet that also teaches kids to code. With Jewelbots, friends can connect their devices to send secret messages to one another. Downloading the app allows users to increase their Jewelbot’s features. If kids connect their bracelet to a computer they can download mods that teach them to develop their own custom code. Let the programming begin!
Pictured: Price of one Jewelbot: $49 Pre-order, $69 list price; Available at jewelbots.com
