iZ, $100

Best described as a bug-like robot, iZ is a cross between a bright, noisy toy that Dr Seuss might have dreamed up and a digital groove machine. It plays a mix of beats, rhythms and leads tracks by pressing its belly, twisting its ears and flicking its antenna, with its bug eyes bouncing in time and horn-shaped shnoz changing colour.

It has three modes: "Play" lets you listen to saved tracks, "DJ" produces its own mix of sounds and "WZIZFM" has iZ thinking it's a radio. Expect iZ to pass comment on the music. You can plug in an iPod or any MP3 player, so that the critter becomes a speaker with attitude.

www.funtastic.com.au

Pick a box

20Q Challenge, $70

The original palm-sized 20Q was last year's big Christmas hit. This larger family-oriented model works much the same but sits on a table and can be played by teams. Questions scroll across the purple dome - accompanied by the rather noisy hum of what could be the computer's brain thinking aloud - and players must answer by pressing buttons.

An additional choice lets you refine answers and presumably helps the computer work out what you're thinking. Also new is 20Q Big Screen ($46).

www.radicagames.com

Balancing act

Crumpler bundle camera bags, From $25

When it comes to pitting style against practicality, Crumpler is uncompromising: style wins. That's not to say the range of bags is impractical, although Crumpler happily admits it's not stitching an extra pocket on the outside if it spoils the look.

Having said that, its new range of water-resistant photo bags does a fine balancing act. The ripstop nylon bag, in three sizes and four colours, has a main padded compartment and zip pocket for bits and pieces. A removable strap and Velcro belt loop prevent you dropping your bundle.

www.crumpler.com.au