12 unwanted gadgets this holiday season

PR professionals are keen on the latest gizmos, but these devices are more appropriate for the ‘naughty’ list’ Next time, just send the coal.

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With the holiday season upon us, I’m certain you are too busy updating your naughty or nice list to notice that your elves have a series of, um, unwanted presents that may make it under the tree this year. So, to make your life a bit simpler, I’m forwarding you this list of the most unwanted gadgets.

These are items that wouldn’t even make the famed Inspector Gadget say “Go Go Gadget.”

1. The briefcase toilet

Do I really need to explain why this one should be avoided?

2. Phone handset for cell phones

I appreciate your concern about our getting brain cancer from the overuse of mobile devices, but an old-school handset plug-in device for smartphones is just too heavy and, well, less portable. Ever heard of Bluetooth?

3. Angry Birds game

Somehow the addictive online game doesn’t translate well to real life. Now if you could create a real-life version of Farmville—oh, wait, never mind.

4. Nintendo Gameboy DSi XL

Seriously? I’m sure even your elves know these bulky game devices offer no incentive or option for users to upgrade. Did you learn nothing from Apple’s Pinpin?

5. Heated mouse pad

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