Unfortunately, a cord-free tech life is still a fantasy, although things are improving. Charging mats for handheld devices such as cell phones, MP3 players, and game consoles are just now hitting the market. Dell has a similar, albeit larger and less elegant, product for one of its new Latitude laptops. The spec is cutting cables to HDTVs--well, except for the power cord. Wireless music systems are becoming more affordable, and that means fewer speaker wires to trip over. Computer peripherals are getting in on the action too; some multifunction printers and external hard drives and ditching their data-transfer cables.

If there's a downside to the wireless craze--at least from an energy standpoint--it's the AC-to-DC tradeoff. Power adapters and their cords are cumbersome, unsightly, and they tether you to a wall outlet. By comparison, battery-powered devices like wireless keyboards, mice, speakers, and Bluetooth stereo headphones are far more convenient, but require an endless cycle of recharging and replacement.

Ultimately, cordless gadget nirvana may require a long-distance such as the one dreamed up by famed inventor and engineer . But until that day arrives, keep stocking up on those AAs.

Here are several new and updated products that will help you cut the cords in your life.

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