True, you are technically on the mitch from work, but you are still available for that crucial call. Everyone thinks you are somewhere in the building when in fact you are strolling along Sandymount Strand, taking in those bright spring rays of sunlight, listening to your Walkman. What a life!
Then there's a strange sound. At first you think its the music that Larry Gogan has decided to visit upon you. Then you realise aaaargggh! its your mobile. You rip the earphones out, lunge for the phone in your inside pocket, frantically looking for the button to take the call.
Not quick enough. You check the calls received; yes, it was the Important One, who has just been diverted to your voice mail. You idiot!
If only you had been using the new Ericsson Portable Handsfree with FM radio, none of this would have happened. As soon as the call came in, the radio would have automatically muted and you would have answered the phone.
After that, it functions as any handsfree set does, with one of those cord microphones that you can clip onto your jacket.
The Ericsson Portable Handsfree with FM radio, around £50 (€64 ), is available from mobile phone shops.
Sean Mac Carthaigh Gizmo suggestions gratefully recieved: smaccarthaigh@irish-times.ie
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