Technological innovations are becoming the norm in every aspect of everyday life, and holiday time is no exception! Christmastime can be both festive and high-tech with the following new products available on the market. Bobby Caldwell of Erie, PA explores how modern technology is revolutionizing holiday decorating, from smart lights to app-controlled ornaments.
Smart Lights
It seems like nowadays everything and everyone talks to Alexa. Now, your Christmas lights can too! Light Rhapsody LED lights can be controlled by any Alexa-compatible smart device. They cost about $60, are 25 feet long, with 24 bulbs. You can have Alexa make various changes with them – tell them to blink, control the brightness, change the colors, and even pulse them in time with music from Amazon music.
The Light Rhapsody set is indoor only. Lumenplay makes outdoor app-controlled C7 lights for about the same size and price. They can be programmed to be virtually any color, blink along to music, etc.
Holographic Decorations
Some people have static light up holiday characters on the lawn… but the most cutting-edge Christmas fiends have movie, talking, and even singing decorations on full display! AtmosFX sells amazing Christmas-themed holographic animations (as well as cool Halloween stuff too). Prices start at only $6 so this is a fun, affordable option. You’ll just need a projector and a plain open wall, sheet of fabric, or prop for the yard.
Yuletide options include a singing and dancing Santa; virtual Christmas tree; Christmas carolers; Santa’s sleigh ride; Yuletide window; enchanted snowman; Santa and his elves; Christmas balloon parade; Nativity window; winter wonderland; and more.
Flickering Flame Lightbulbs
It might seem counterintuitive, but those looking for a more old-fashioned Christmas vibe can also incorporate technology into their decorations to hit just the right vintage note. Flickering candles can set the festive tone, but are also temporary, high maintenance, and dangerous. Consider installing LED bulbs that give the illusion of flickering flames but without the hassle! They can make your whole home look like it’s lit with candles or lanterns. Texsens offers a great option priced (as of this writing) at about just $6 per bulb.
Rotating Christmas trees
One of the most frustrating things about decorating a Christmas tree is deciding which ornaments will end up in the back of the tree. It’s necessary to keep the tree balanced but also means you’ll rarely see them. Thanks to technological innovations, you no longer have to make that tough choice! There are a variety of remote controlled rotating artificial tree stands for pre-lit trees, like this GREATDAY Rotating Tree Stand from Amazon.
App-Controlled Ornaments
Apps don’t just control your lights now – they can also control your ornaments! Try this app-controlled light up tree topper that can change colors and styles, or silver ornament with Bluetooth speaker option. Amazon also has a QR code enabled ornament with a Christmas countdown, scavenger hunt, and journal for kids.
In Conclusion
Thanks to technology, your Christmas can be merry, bright, and cutting edge! Consider adding smart lights, holographic decorations, flickering flame LED bulbs, rotating trees, and app-controlled ornaments to your holiday setup.
