As we move closer to Christmas some very noteworthy pieces of hardware will be hitting stores.  Here are 3 to look out for.

3 - XBox One from Microsoft

12 years after the launch of the original Xbox games console things have some a long way in video games technology.  Yes the XBox360 is still going strong and will continue to do so for a number of years, but Microsoft’s new XBox One console sees the company almost going back to the drawing board, now using the Blu-Ray disc format for games along with digital downloads.  Cost = $599

2 - Playstation 4

It’s no accident that just 7 days after the XBox One launches the new games and entertainment system from Playstation will also hit stores.  Naturally we can expect better performance from the PS4 with faster processors and graphics capabilities, but the new controller that features a touch pad is what you might call a ‘game changer’ ...it also features a share button so you can quickly share gameplay video and images with friends.  Cost = $549

1 - iPad Air

Now i’m not for a second suggesting that the iPad you bought 12months ago is old technology, but perhaps if you don’t already have a tablet device this will be worth looking at.   Earlier this week Apple annouced the iPad Air which can be ordered from November 1.  The iPad Air is 20 percent thinner and 28 percent lighter than the fourth generation iPad and they are calling it the lightest full-size tablet in the world, promsing all-day battery life.  Cost = Starting at $598

Windows 8.1 - Available now for windows 8 users HERE.

Online Charity Scams

If you’re planning to donate to a charity be aware that scammers may present themselves via email pretending to represent a charity or non-profit organisation.

If you see an unsolicited or suspicious email asking for money, don’t click on any links within the message, simply delete it.  If you plan on giving any donations online, use a reputable charity website.  If you’re not sure or want to report a scam visit www.scamwatch.gov.au.