I don't know about you, but bringing my mother up to speed in the 21st Century of technological advances has been somewhat of a struggle. She has an iPhone 4, which she insists does everything she needs it to. It takes her 10 minutes to send a text, she doesn't really know what an app is, and don't bother asking her to Google something on her phone. Gifting gadgets doesn't always work out the way I intend it to, but there are awesome gadgets to give your mom for Mother's Day that she'll absolutely love, regardless of how tech savvy she is.
Not all technology has to be complicated, and some technology is freaking awesome. My generation knows that. But for my mom, who's a little less interested in computers, the internet, and the fastest way to communicate with her best girlfriends, finding the perfect gadget to gift her can be a doozy. Lucky for you, I've done the research. Whether your mom is a texting-fiend or she'd rather not bother with a smartphone, there's a gift on this list for every single type of mother. From leisure to practicality, technology's got something to offer to everyone. (And don't be surprised if a few of these wind up on your own wishlist.)
1Tile
If your mom is always misplacing things, whether it's keys, bags, her wallet, the remote control, or pretty much everything she lays her hands on? The Tile ($24.99) is your solution. Using bluetooth technology and a handy dandy app, Tile helps you find your lost items by using sound, by seeing its last known location on a map, or by marking it as lost, and getting an alert when its found. I might need to stock up on a few of these myself.
Tile Item Finder, $24.99, Amazon
2GoPro HERO
For the adventurous mom, the GoPro HERO 4 ($329.99) is the perfect gift. Whether she's a runner, a biker, a hiker, a skydiver, or just going on a really awesome vacation? She'll be pumped about this.
GoPro HERO 4, $329.99, Amazon
3Fitbit Alta
The sleekest looking wearable technology to date is the new Fitbit Alta ($129). Beyond tracking your steps and activity, the Alta can also sync with your phone to let you know when you've got incoming calls or messages. Perfect for the connected mom who doesn't want to be on her phone all of the time.
Fitbit Alta, $129, Amazon
4Oontz Portable Speaker
Splashproof, rainproof, dustproof, sandproof, this lightweight Oontz Portable Speaker ($27.99) is perfect for mom to take with her on her next trip to the beach, or even just to have with her in the kitchen.
Oontz Portable Speaker, $27.99, Amazon
5Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones
For the mom that travels, these Bose QuietComfort headphones ($299) are a real treat. Though the price tag may be a bit steep, is there any greater joy than the sound of silence? These headphones will go with you everywhere.
6Adjustable Bamboo IPad Stand
This adjustable bamboo iPad stand ($20) is easy to clean with soap and water, making it a perfect companion for your iPad in the kitchen. It's perfect for the mom who loves to cook.
Lipper International Adjustable Bamboo iPad Stand, $20, Amazon
7Navdy
Dubbed as "Google Glass for your car", this hands-off navigation system for driving, Navdy ($299) projects directions onto the windshield of your car, so you never have to take your eyes off the road!
Navdy Navigation System, $299, Navdy
8MightyPurse
I don't know about you, but I can't get enough extra chargers for my phone. Which is why the Mighty Purse ($99.99) is not only high on my personal list, but something my mom would absolutely love. The purse charges your phone on the go, and is rechargeable by USB! Genius.
Mighty Purse Wristlet, $99.99, Amazon
9iRobot Scooba 450
A robot that scrubs and sanitizes your floor? Uh, yes please. The iRobot Scooba 450 ($479) has a 3-cycle cleaning process that soaks, scrubs, and squeegees, to ensure the cleanest floors around.
iRobot Scooba 450, $479, Amazon
10Petcube
For any mother who has more children than just those of the biological nature, the Petcube ($179) is a cure-all. Using wifi technology, you can stream live video of your pup, engage in play with a remote laser, or even talk to your pet. Never worry about Sir Fluffington ever again.
Petcube Wi-Fi Pet Camera, $179, Amazon