The connected devices that revolutionised 2017

Because life is more than just smartphones, we've made a list of connected devices that caused a sensation in 2017 thanks to their high level of innovation, embedded technology, and new uses.

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Google Home

Google Home emerged as the latest of the voice-controlled speakers. It can be used to ask Google anything you want to know, stream music, manage tasks and control compatible connected devices.

Sonos One

The latest Sonos wireless speaker can connect to your smartphone via Wi-Fi. And it can also connect to all the other Sonos speakers in your home, so you can listen to music in any room, or in stereo. This smart speaker also has voice control in certain countries.

Nikon D850

With its new Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-compatible D850, Nikon has really upped its game. Equipped with an ultra-high definition FX-format CMOS sensor with no less than 45.7 megapixels, it can produce files of up to 45.4 megapixels (meaning a maximum resolution of 8,256 x 5,504 pixels), providing exceptional detail. Its Expeed 5 processor gives it a native ISO of 64 to 25,600, and an extended ISO of 32 to 102,400. It can also film in 4K, time-lapse and slow motion in full HD, with the same degree of sensitivity.

(Related: Blasts from the past: Vintage meets modern technology in these hybrid products)

DJI Spark

Drone market leader DJI caused a buzz this year with the launch of the Spark, a highly portable, reliable and intuitive drone. What's new is its gesture controls: in gesture mode, users can instruct the drone to take off, take a high-definition selfie, and more. It also has a selection of shooting modes and offers live streaming via a smartphone or a virtual reality headset (available for purchase separately).

Apple Watch 3

One of the versions of the new generation of Apple Watches has long-awaited cellular connectivity, meaning it's not dependent on a smartphone. With its own SIM card, the watch can be used to make calls, reply to messages, plan meetings, etc. This Apple Watch Series 3 is waterproof to depths of 50m, which means you can wear it when swimming. You can also interact directly with Siri, Apple's intelligent personal assistant, set exercise targets, measure your heart rate and monitor sleep quality.

(Related: Top fitness trackers of 2017)

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