Gadget Man

Documentary series hosted by Stephen Fry that sees him giving an insight into the world of technology., Richard Ayoade continues his noble quest to find gadgets that can help with the bothersome tasks of everyday life and this week he faces one of his personal Waterloos – the ‘staycation’ holiday. With the combined horror of picnics, days out and bracing walks in the countryside looming, Richard turns to comedian Phill Jupitus to hold his hand through his ‘trial by leisure’. Gadgets are central to surviving his UK break, and the two holiday makers enjoy a haul of tech that ranges from the world’s tiniest caravan to 360 degree cameras, 300 litre ruck sacks and a pair of trousers that casually transform into a picnic table. Back at home, Richard’s technical team have been busy sourcing contraptions that allow him not only to visit Maidstone’s legendary Teapot Island from the comfort of the visitor car park, but also to join Phill on a taxing country hike – without expending any of his valuable energy., Richard Ayoade looks at the exhausting world of parenting, testing some of the more innovative devices which help to look after babies and toddlers, with help from mum Denise van Outen. He also explores the realm of gadgets for older kids with TV dad Hugh Dennis. His main objective is to showcase gadgets that promise to make parenting more enjoyable and less stressful. The episode culminates with Richard showcasing his brainwave for a parent-friendly playground that runs on kiddie-power alone, taking away the need for mums and dads to push swings and roundabouts. Gadgets featured include a self-assembling pram, a mind-controlled helicopter, the latest interactive computer gaming and a £10,000 robotic babysitter. Dir: John Pereira;