Docks
An iPhone dock makes the process of synching and reharging your iPhone a smooth process. It sits stable on your desk so there’s no messing with USB cords that get tangled and flop around. A dock also keeps your iPhone’s screen upright while you’re sitting at the desk. A dock also comes in handy if you like to use your iPhone as an alarm clock next to your bed. The Griffin Simplifi (pictured above) is compatible will all versions of the iPhone and can be found for $45. Apple sells its own official dock for $30.
Alarm Clock With iPhone Dock/Charger
Like to sleep with your iPhone close by? An alarm clock with an iPhone dock built in can be useful, as it charges your iPhone as you sleep. When you wake up in the morning, you’re ready to go. You can also play your music through its speakers. Just make sure to get an alarm clock that shields itself from the iPhone’s GSM noise (the pops you hear from speakers when a cell phone is close by). A good choice is the iHome iP9BR Clock Radio, which sells for $80.
Gift a Specific Song, Album, Movie, Etc in iTunes
Are iTunes gift cards too impersonal? Give your gift some meaning by gifting a specific song, album, TV show, or movie in iTunes. To gift in iTunes, click the arrow that appears next to the price. To deliver the gift, you can either print it out on paper and put it in envelope (there will be a special link to download the gift), or you can email the gift link to your loved on, who can click on it and immediately download it.
Extra Wall Plug and USB Cord
This combo is actually one of the most useful you can give an iPhone user. Sure, the iPhone already comes with a plug and cord, but everyone has that moment when they wish they had one at school or work or by the bedside too. A wall plug and cord can keep your iPhone charged up anywhere you have access to an outlet.
The plug and cord can be expensive if you buy from an Apple store (cord $20, plug $30), but the plug can found for $10 on Amazon, and third-party iPhone USB cords are as cheap as $3.
Car Charger
If you use the iPhone in the car for music, GPS, or other purposes, you’re going to need a car charger. A good basic car charger is the XtremeMac InCharge $19, but buyer-beware versions can be found for as cheap as $3.
iPhone Car Mount
When using the iPhone in the car, safety is your first priority. A car mount will keep the iPhone within reasonable viewing distance. No more fumbling for the iPhone. A good car mount like the Kensington Dash can be had for around $25.
Battery Case
Does your loved one always complain about a dead iPhone battery? A battery case fits snug around your iPhone and essentially doubles your iPhone’s battery life. It’s a perfect gift for travelers or busy people in general (and who isn’t?). They’re a little on the expensive side, but you can’t put a dollar amount on happiness. And happiness is a charged iPhone. A good battery case is the Mophie Juice Pack Air ($79).
iTunes Gift Cards
A classic standby. iTunes Gift Cards can be used to purchase anything in iTunes, including apps. If your loved one wants an expensive GPS app or the iPhone, a gift card is a way to give it to them. iTunes Gift Cards are available in various denominations.
Handmade Accessories from Etsy.com
Etsy.com is an online store where various artists and craftsmen sell their handmade crafts. There are thousands of items for the iPhone. Most are pouches and bags that the iPhone will fit into, but there are some cool items like iPhone bars of soap, handcrafted stands, headphone wraps, iPhone magnets, pillows, and paperclips. Perfect for that special someone who likes kitschy gifts. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s fun to browse around and see what people’s imaginations have come up with.
