Makerbot, one of the companies pioneering the mainstreaming of the 3D printer market, was acquired by Stratasys, another 3D printing heavyweight, in June for $403 million.
For many tech industry observers, the deal signaled a shift in 3D
printing’s profile as a novelty technology for hobbyists and prototyping
tool for manufacturers — a shift toward a future in which the
technology may permeate every facet of everyday life.
However, the advent of 3D printing offers such a broad range of possibilities that some are still trying to understand its ramifications.
These HTC One smartphone speakers may be pricey, but for those who
appreciate the seamless marriage of old and new, the audio tool can
double as an art piece. Perhaps the best feature of the Gramohorn II is
that it doesn't require power to operate; its double phonograph-style
design offers all the sound amplification you're likely to need from a
smartphone.
Price: $1,613
It was only a matter of time before 3D printing was harnessed to give
us cooler glasses. If you want your frames to truly stand out, these
should be your first stop. The company offers 3D-printed frames
specifically tailored to the shape of your face -- some of our mugs
don't fit into a cookie cutter template -- or your choice from a variety
of premade styles.
Dental hygiene doesn't have to be a chore. This 3D-printed toothbrush cleans all your teeth in just six seconds.
Chomp down and rush out: Keeping your pearly whites clean has never
been so easy. However, keeping the Blizzident clean and germ-free seems
like it might be an entirely separate chore.
Whether you're a Halloween diva or a year-round trendsetter, these
ornate nail attachments are definitely conversation starters. The makers
are currently accepting orders for the nails and plan to ship them to
buyers sometime after January 2014, but that shouldn't stop you from
placing your bid now.
Making art on the iPad is increasingly common, so it's only natural
that your tablet stand mirrors your aesthetic bent with a little old
world-style sculptural flair. It's not adjustable, so it's best suited
for propping your tablet up on a desk, but if you're looking for an
adjustable stand, the options are a lot less interesting than this.
If you own Google Glass,
then you know how bright lights can make reading through the device's
tiny lens difficult. This little attachment solves that problem in an
instant. By covering the tiny square lens on Google Glass with a custom
shade filter, images and text instantly become clearer, regardless of
the environment or lighting situation.
Why not mark your celebration with a set of shot glasses? OK, so the design may look a little like that creepy hand from
The Addams Family, but you can just tell your friends that it's a
Game of Thrones souvenir from the "Red Wedding" scene.
Price: $37
Drivers who already made the move from dashboard navigation systems to iPhone
will welcome the arrival of this easy-to-install smartphone cradle. Of
course, you should never text and drive, but if you decide to stop along
the side of the road, this little iPhone holder makes smartphone map
viewing just a bit easier. It's also handy for your co-pilot sitting in
the passenger seat.
Until Apple
releases its rumored iWatch, this is probably the coolest way to carry
around an Apple device during a run or workout session. The necklace is
really just an elaborate holder for the iPod Shuffle, but its design
makes it look like an entirely new device.
Price: $29
For those who cherish all things spooky, regardless of what other
people may think, this skull is hard to pass up. It comes in several
sizes, from handheld to almost full scale, but if you don't want to
freak out your coworkers, we suggest a smaller one.
Price: $95 (price ranges based on size)
You've already linked your iPhone to all the numerous data-sucking
services in the App Store, so if you're nervous about data privacy, this
case can let you harbor conspiracy theories with tongue firmly planted
in cheek. The manufacturer claims this case is layered in real gold, a
design aspect that will likely win brownie points with the
bling-obsessed.
Price: $39.87
When high-end department store Neiman Marcus gets into the 3D-printed
jewelry business, it's safe to say that 3D printing has gone
mainstream. You can have this necklace emblazoned with your loved one's
initials, too.
Price: $295
On the list of things that commuters claim they can't live without,
coffee and iPhones rank high. This tool lets you put both within easy
reach during your drives to work. It's not the most high-tech solution,
and if you don't have built-in cup holders, you'll have to buy an
attachment. But for many motorists, it offers a safer alternative than
keeping your smartphone on your lap while steering.
Price: $44.87
If you don't know Grumpy Cat,
you have been living under a rock. The feline is an unstoppable
Internet phenomenon. The original printed version of Grumpy was solid,
making the item heavier and bit more costly. This version, however, is
hollow and affordable for even the most cash-strapped cat lover. Submit
now and grab this totem to the almighty cat, and perhaps you will be
forgiven for ever doubting Grumpy Cat's power.
Price: $31.89
A common problem with Apple's earbuds is their refusal to stay in
place, especially while running. Place your EarPods into these special
holders, attach them to the inner fold of your ear and enjoy a more snug
fit. Sure, Apple design chief Jony Ive probably wouldn't approve, but
this item delivers a clever solution while maintaining the EarPods'
lightweight feel.
Price: $7.49
It doesn't matter which political party you pledge allegiance to,
any
model of a United States president riding a raptor holding military
weaponry is automatically a collector's item. The item is currently just
a model, but it comes fully colored and ready for your snark. Just glue
the machine gun to the figure's hand, as recommended by the
manufacturer, and you'll be off to the raptor races.
Price: $249.99
USB drives are easy to use and handy in a pinch. Keep your most
valuable digital assets safe by carrying them around on this super
convenient clip-on. The low-tech creation uses the USB port opening to
attach itself and give you an easy way to keep track of your stored
data.
Price: $4.68
Steve Jobs may no longer be with us, but his memory still lives on.
This playful homage to the late innovator reminds you to "think
different." Created by the Dutch design studio Sevensheaven, its pixel
art usually found in old-school video games and Lego set creations.
Price: $99.33
Some fashionistas may balk at 3D-printed jewelry, but it's hard to
deny the uniqueness of this mesh purse. The purse, which is made of
white nylon plastic, has a matte finish and a "slight grainy feel,"
according to the manufacturer. The straps come in several lengths in
case you want to adjust the purse to suit a particular look.
Price: $95
A smartphone with 100 apps just isn't geeky enough for some power
users. For these showoffs, this iPhone 5/5S case with working gears is
just the technophile accessory to let everyone know where your passions
lie. The gears don't do anything cool like power your iPhone by
generating solar energy, but the mesmerizing turns of its synchronized
movements likely make it worth the price and extra bulk.
Price: $23.66
Whether newly elaborate jewelry designs made possible by the
technology or the ever-growing variety of 3D-printing machines
themselves, which have become increasingly affordable, only the most
diehard luddite would deny that 3D printing is poised to change many
aspects of our lives.
It's pretty easy to go out and buy a 3D printer and start churning out your own creations, but not everyone has the money (or time commitment) that such creations require.
For those curious consumers still on the sidelines, not yet ready
step up and make their own 3D printer creations, we've compiled a list
of some of the most interesting 3D-printed items that can be purchased
as gifts for the holidays.
Some are amazingly practical, while others are simply designed to add
a bit of whimsy to your day. But they all use the magic of 3D printing,
offering an early look how the technology could change the look and
feel of a wide range of consumer products over the course of the next
few decades.
Take a look at the 20 3D-printed gift ideas we've assembled in the
gallery above and let us know if you think you're ready step into the
era of 3D printer-created swag.
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