Welcome to The Independent’s first ever GadgetCast, a video version of the more familiar podcast, produced in association with Vodafone. In this easily-downloadable video, technology expert David Phelan brings you the eight essential gadgets to give or receive this festive season.

Christmas, whether you like it or not, creeps up with alarming speed at this time of year. Then there’s the perennial problem of what to buy friends and family – more Santa socks for dad perhaps? The novelty’s probably worn off. And, of course, your shopping must be squeezed in between all those Christmas parties – the scrum of the high street doesn’t hold much appeal when you’re hung over.

Not to worry, David Phelan has done all the legwork for you and yet his expert GadgetCast guide will take up just five minutes of your time. David gives the lowdown on these eight must-have gadgets:

  1. Sony Ericsson V630i mobile phone
  2. Doctor Who Cyberman Voice Changer helmet
  3. Nikon D80 SRL digital camera
  4. Nokia 8800 Sirocco mobile phone
  5. Motorola K1 KRZR mobile phone
  6. Intempo PP-01 DAB radio
  7. Nabaztag computer “rabbit”
  8. Palm Treo 750V smartphone

The Independent's GadgetCast and podcast service is recorded to the highest broadcast standards and the guides are free to download.
Thanks to The Tate Modern and artists Carsten ad Holler (The Slides Exhibition)