NEW YORK -- Whether you use technology for work, play, or some of both, there are plenty of new products on the digital horizon.

More Information PC Magazine DigitalLife Shopping Guide

An advance look used to mean products that might hit the shelves in six months, but things move so rapidly now that you'll see some of the following products in about six days.

PC magazine showcased a bunch of products at a preview for their aptly named Digitalife publication. If you suffer from an acute case of techno lust, this selection should satisfy the cravings.

Virtual reality interfaces have become lighter, cheaper and ready to speed you into cyberspace. One example is the new Chameleon 8 remote control. There's not a button on it. The touchpad illuminates only the controls you need for the device your using -- a stylish substitute for more than a half dozen clunky remotes.

Staying in the same area, live TV is as close as your pocket. Real-time live broadcasts are now possible, and the quality is good enough to enjoy a baseball game.

Speaking of sports, your inner athlete may be as near as your computer. Sensor-equipped boxing gloves turn your moves into virtual jabs, hooks and blocks in a cyberspace boxing ring.

Do your kids argue about access to the home computer? Tell them to "Zip It."

"It's a wireless instant messaging device for all the millions of kids that are using instant messaging," said Ralph Heredia, VP of business development for Zip It.

Zip It interfaces with your home PC and lets kids IM each other without tying up your computer.

Staying wireless, PC magazine's Lance Ulanoff came through with some gadgets that are practical, fun and inexpensive.

"Pacific Digital Memory Frames -- if you have a wireless network, you're going to be able to view photos," Ulanoff said.

The next device was a bit more fun.

"The Robo Raptor, which is coming out in two weeks for $99," Ulanoff said, is so real you'll think it's alive.

With any of these items, do shop around and check for warranties, particularly when you are buying an early production run. These days, first buyers are often the unknowing beta testers -- not on all products, but certainly for some.