November 2004 Archives
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November 23, 2004
Matias Mini Armor
iPod armor is the ultimate in hard protection for your iPod mini. With the tagline ‘total access when open, total protection when closed’, it is the next best thing to actually owning an iPod: it mirrors the sleek design of the iPod mini so well that you could almost just carry the case around so people think you have an iPod…
The iPod Armor comes in two equally attractive designs, both with a plastic brushed steel effect and front opening panel. The insides are lined with chic black velvet to provide non-slip friction and hold your iPod in place. One of the designs comes with a clear plastic front, to let the colour of your mini be seen, and the other has the same metal-effect front as the back, with an embossed click-wheel design and a clear screen panel. This model also comes with a belt clip.
After getting the iPod mini in the case, (which is a bit tricky as it is a reassuringly tight fit), it is held perfectly with no rattling around. It felt smooth and elegant like the iPod mini itself. As with most hard cases, you have to open it to get to the iPod's controls, but this is simply a case of pulling it open: much less hassle than unzipping it or removing it completely. It closes with a satisfying click, essentially shutting your iPod away from the damages it could encounter.
The great thing about these cases is that any top-loading devices (iTrips, Navipods) or charger cables can be used whilst the iPod is in the case. With other models of hard cases (and even some soft ones) you face the cumbersome unloading and reloading in any charging situation. The charger can be connected by opening a rubber flap at the bottom, but due to the thickness of the case it is too big to fit in a dock.
A disadvantage to these cases is that the metal surface can get scratched, unlike some of the fabric-covered hard cases such as the Marware Sports Sleeve. However this does prevent the iPod itself from being scratched, which is surely what the case is designed to do?
As far as the iPod is concerned, why buy a thing of beauty just to hide it in a case? You won’t find a case that is more suited to the job it performs: it protects from scratches and shock, and displays your iPod as it should be seen.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:39 PM
Griffin iTrip
The Griffin iTrip is the CD-changer’s worst nightmare: when used in combination with your iPod, its ability to play up to 10000 songs will leave your George Michael and Dido CDs turning in their trays.
The iTrip is an FM radio transmitter designed to plug into the top of the iPod or iPod mini and broadcast the tunes on your iPod to the world (well, the few metres) around, through a standard FM radio.
And that it does.
You can get iTrips for any generation of iPod: for the original 1st and 2nd generation iPods there is the iTrip with fiewire connector, for the 3rd and 4th generation the iTrip for iPods with dock connector ports, and the iTrip Mini for the iPod Mini. Regardless of generation, the iTrip is very simple to get started - it is just a case of installing the software with the frequencies onto your computer and plugging in the iTrip. This is easy - you just fit it in the top of the iPod. There is no need to turn it on or put in batteries as it runs off the iPod’s power source. The software comes on a CD or can be downloaded from Griffin's website. In a flick of a firewire cable the software is loaded, then you are ready to start broadcasting.
If you find a frequency that is pretty much clear on your radio (ie, there are no other ‘official’ radio stations broadcasting on or near that frequency), then the iTrip is amazing. You can get near-CD quality, but have a selection of songs the equivalent of up to 300 albums. It is stated on Griffin's website to work from distances of up to 30 feet, and in station-free areas this can more than be achieved. The iTrip is small and light, doesn’t noticeably drain the battery power, and matches the sleek Apple design perfectly. It is the ultimate driver’s companion, but also perfect for broadcasting in the house when you want your tunes to come through the stereo. The sound is even better in the house than in the car as you don’t run the risk of entering another radio station’s broadcast area.
The only difficulty you may encounter is when trying to broadcast in urban areas, where there are a lot of radio stations. It can be difficult to find a clear channel to tune into, and then your tunes will sound crackly, which is exceptionally frustrating.
On a downside, the iPod-iTrip combo’s main asset is potentially a cause for its downfall. The massive choice of songs can prove a real distraction when driving. With all the iPod car holders coming onto the market it is inevitable that the majority of Griffin iTrips will be used in cars. Fiddling around with the click-wheel whilst trying to handle the steering wheel can prove a difficult challenge.
One suggestion is to travel with a friend to act as your own personal DJ, or just organise a playlist before you set off. The iTrip is the ideal companion to your iPod, and for the price of a couple of CDs, your iPod deserves to free its music to the waves.
In addition, OFCOM (the Office of Communications) have deemed the iTrip to be illegal for use in the UK and Europe as it contravenes broadcasting laws. However the iTrip can still be bought online as it can be used legally in other countries.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:32 PM
Ten Technology Navipod
With our newly sedentary lifestyles in the 21 st century, we like things to be easy, preferably so we don’t have to leave our chairs let alone our houses. The introduction of the Navipod from Ten Technology is another step in the direction of inertia, bringing the ability to control your iPod from the other side of the room.
The appliance consists of an infra-red sensor on a receiver unit, and a mini remote control with the functions to play/pause, skip and adjust the volume. For when the iPod is not docked, a chrome stand is provided to support it and keep it upright. Clearly this device is useless unless it is connected to a speaker system, and thanks to the helpful provision of a pass-through headphone port, the speakers can be connected either through the dock or through the earphone line-out (located on the back of the receiver unit).
The Navipod performed just as it specified it should, from a range of up to 15 feet. The receiver unit requires no extra batteries as it runs directly off the iPod'spower supply. The remote is good for one-handed operation and small enough to carry around in a pocket for easy location. Its disc-shaped design and smooth rubbery buttons were pleasant to use and looked simple and modern, if not exactly in keeping with iPod’s style. The battery it required is easily replaced, but with the minimal amount of power it needs it wouldn’t need replacing often.
However, there are a couple of downsides to its use. Unless you know exactly what order and in what playlist your songs are in, you are going to have to keep getting up to look at the iPod’s screen to know what is playing. If you just want to randomly scan through your tunes, the Navipod is ideal, otherwise this drawback kind of renders the Navipod pointless. There is also no click wheel to skim through the songs; instead the ‘back’ and ‘forward’ buttons have to be used. Also, the remote is tiny, only 2.5 inches in diameter, and so has great potential to be engulfed by the ever-pilfering sofa cushions.
For use in the car (more practically for use only in conjunction with a dock-connecting FM transmitter) it is handy for those in the back seat for controlling the tunes in the front. Although, this could lead to couch-commando style remote squabbles, and is perhaps better kept to less distracting situations.
For its designed function the Ten Navipod is perfect, it serves as a remote control as good as anyone could wish. But its application is not necessarily that well thought out: the inclusion of a menu screen to search for the song you want would make this product a great deal better.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:28 PM
Sumajin SmartWrap
This is the invention you wish you had thought of, but believed that if you had then people would think you were joking.
The Sumajin Smartwrap is the simplest product available for the iPod, but also one of the most useful. Everyone has experienced it: you put your iPod away in a hurry, carelessly stuffing the cable into your pocket, only to pull it out later and spend your whole bus journey untangling it. With the Smartwrap the lag time from your pocket to your ears in significantly reduced, allowing you more time to enjoy your tunes.
This ingenious invention is the answer to cable-knot torment. Shaped like a Magnum ice cream stick, you simply slot your cable into one end, wrap the excess around the middle, then slot the other part of the cable through the opposite end.
The Smartwrap is made from flexible, smooth silicone, it is comfortable to use and doesn’t have the tendency to collect lint like some other rubber-based products. After a period of testing and constant winding and unwinding, the Smartwrap still looked as new as the day it was opened. It comes in nine colours, and conveniently most of them match with the Evo iSkin cases for stylish co-ordination.
The only grumble consumers could have is the price tag, which seems excessive for such a simple product, but it is the practicality and durability that makes it completely worth the cost. A brilliant, uncomplicated innovation that serves to make your life easier, the Sumajin Smartwrap is the ideal solution to an all-too-common problem.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:26 PM
iSkin Evo2
If you want your new 4th generation iPod to retain its factory-fresh finish, you are going to need protection. But protection doesn’t have to mean engulfing it in layers of nylon or dated leather sleeves. A cutting edge technology requires a sophisticated shield. Cue the iSkin Evo2.
Coming in a range of vibrant colours, this soft, silicon case provides a squidgy barrier between your iPod and the scratchy tendencies of the outside world. In a step up from the iSkins of old, the Evo2 comes with an improved soft contact-point screen protector (past models have tended to scratch due to their hard plastic design), and a more durable belt clip.
In another improvement on the 3rd generation Evo iSkin, helped by an improved iPod design by Apple, more of the iPod is now protected. Thanks to the elimination of the buttons, and the regression back to the classic design of the first generation iPod, the controls are back to being on the click-wheel, leading to a less complicated iSkin shape and hence a better fit.
In development terms the skin has evolved from the immensely popular Exo iSkin in terms of its accessory accommodation. The rubber on the top of the iSkin Evo is thinner, allowing the connection of iTrips, iTalks, Nav iPods and the like. This is a huge convenience for the contraption-junkies who were forever removing their iPod from its case in order to use a new gadget. The handy flap opening on the bottom of the skin allows the charger to be connected, without needing to peel the bottom off like some other case designs, such as the Speck cases. Unfortunately this also means that the iPod cannot be put in a dock to charge, as the case makes it too big to fit.
For all its benefits, unfortunately due to the rubbery nature of the iSkin, it is a magnet for fluff and lint. A couple of days in your pocket or the bottom of your bag and the iSkin can start to resemble a hamster. But this is only really apparent on the darker shades of the iSkin; on the more vibrant colours the problem isn’t really noticeable. To reduce the problem the iSkin can be washed in detergent, rinsed then dried, and the fluff wont stick so much.
The Evo2 iSkin makes your iPod feel so protected it almost seems like it could bounce. But we wouldn’t recommend trying it. A big improvement on past designs, and a hugely successful case, the iSkin Evo2 is an ideal protector for your iPod.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:23 PM
Belkin iPod Extended Battery
Everyone at some point has been frustrated at their battery running out, cursing for not charging it the night before, and wishing that the iPod like mp3 players of old would come with replaceable batteries. Well, here is a product that is almost what you wish for. The Belkin iPod Extended Battery is a plug-in device containing 4 AA batteries that can be used to charge up your iPod whilst on the move.
This play-time extender from Belkin consists of a plastic case to hold the batteries and a short cable to insert into the dock connector. It also has 2 suction cups to attach it to the metal back of the iPod, an LED indicator of power levels, and a secure switch to prevent accidental switching on and off.
The Belkin iPod Extended Battery aims to provide up to 20 hours of extended play on a set of four AA batteries (and a full internal iPod battery). It does this reasonably well, depending on the state of your iPod battery, and is definitely a good emergency backup should you be caught miles from the nearest plug socket. An advantage of having to use replaceable batteries (though you could always use rechargeable ones) is that the power-supplying ability of the device is not going to diminish, whereas if it the battery pack itself has to be charged you may lose power over time. The potential for listening to your music is essentially limitless, provided you have enough batteries, and it is great for when you forget to charge your iPod.
However, for all its functionality, it isn’t the most stylish of accessories. It is bulky and unattractive, and although it aims to complement the iPod in style, its size and weight doubles that of the iPod in both respects. It is definitely a good concept, and useful if you don’t need to carry your iPod around independently, such as if you were on a plane or had a bag to put it in. It would not look cool attached to a belt clip, and definitely would not fit in any normal sized pockets. The suction cups do provide a sturdy, scratch-free attachment to the iPod, but would be useless if the iPod was in a case (except an iSkin or Speck Skin which are made of rubber). Also, if used when doing physical activity the cups wouldn’t be that secure, but unless you are doing a marathon you shouldn’t need that much battery power.
In summary, the Belkin iPod Extended Battery does what it sets out to accomplish, but it doesn’t do it with particular grace. It adds little-needed weight and bulk to a meant-to-be-portable device. A little re-engineering and a different type of battery could solve some problems, but that is for Belkin to accomplish.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:13 PM
Altec Lansing inMotion vs Logic3 i-Station
The introduction of portable speaker systems for the Apple iPod are a recent development in freeing your music from the confines of its computer.
These folding, transportable speaker systems are the answer to the question of small-space, big-sound needs, with allure and features as standard. Two of the offerings from the iPod accessory industry are the Altec Lansing inMotion Portable Audio System and the Logic3 i-Station.
The first thing that strikes you about both of these sound systems is the volume that they can put out. The Logic 3 i-Station boasts 2 x 3 watts per channel speakers with neodymium aluminium speaker cones, while the Altec Lansing inMotion houses a Class D amplifier that powers four full-range micro drivers to deliver a full spectrum of pure, distinct sound.
For speaker purists, the Logic 3 i-Station has a separate 2.5 inch 6 watt sub woofer, but comparatively the Altec Lansing inMotion harnesses the technology of MaxxBass®, an innovation designed to give deep bass without the need for an external sub. Although the sound quality and clarity of the inMotion speakers are better than the i-Station when played at a moderate volume, and the MaxxBass® system quashes the myth that a sub is needed for good bass tones, distortion is worse at higher volume levels. The 3D internal surround sound system of the iStation genuinely improves depth, which is a useful feature seeing as the speaker levels cannot be manually adjusted.
With regards to appearance, both sets conform to the iPod's clean, white style, but the Logic 3 i-Station has a more moulded look, giving it a slight advantage in the aesthetics department. Also, a well-placed blue LED never goes unnoticed in the visual stakes, à la i-Station.
From a practicality point of view, both speaker systems have different features that lend themselves to usability. Both stations allow for charging and synchronisation (when connected to a computer) of the iPod, but the Logic 3 i-Station provides the cables for you to do this. Both models can accommodate for older models of iPod, albeit through an auxiliary input jack that can also connect to other music devices (mp3 players, CD players, Walkmans etc). Both the iStation and the inMotion provide for the mini iPod with a dock adaptor. Having the volume and power controls on a flat base (like in the Altec Lansing inMotion) is much more practical than positioning them on an upright stand, such as on the front of the iStation.
As these speaker systems are meant to be portable, a good protection method should be part of the package. The i-Station comes with a piece of clear plastic that slides over the front panel to protect the speakers, but nothing to protect the rest. If the speakers are dropped or banged around, a piece of plastic will not provide that much padding. The inMotion however folds up neatly into it’s base and then goes into a nifty padded bag, which provides a barrier to scratches and also a means of carrying it.
Speaking statistics, the Logic 3 i Station has a 25g less weight advantage on the Altec Lansing inMotion, and also a considerably lighter price tag. The i-Station weighs in at 400g and approximately £60, while the inMotion costs £100. The dimensions are very similar, only the iStation is 10mm thicker when folded up. So, for the extra £40 for the inMotion all you are really gaining is a bag…
But that said, there is always going to be a tradeoff. The sound quality is better with the Altec Lansing inMotion, but the Logic3 iStation wins in the looks department. Its up to you to make the choice.
Posted by ipodworld at 04:26 PM
Monster keeps iPod drivers happy
Monster has released an innovative new iPod accessory in the shape of its cassette adaptor.
The device enables users to simply and easily play their digital music offerings through a car tape player.
The firm says that the iAdapt Cassette Adaptor also removes the hassle of having to tune to a particular radio station in order to function, or installing expensive equipment.
Users simply plug in the device to the iPod and the music is played through the car speakers.
Posted by ipodworld at 04:22 PM
Solio unveils new solar-powered iPod charger
Disruptive Technology Channels has unveiled details of its new solar powered charger, the Solio.
The new charger marks the latest in a long line of iPod accessories to be brought to the market, offering its own unique innovation.
The portable charger uses ergonomically designed solar panels to ensure it can keep going, with the mains acting as an alternative power supply.
Tom Dudderidge, managing director at Disruptive Technology Channels, said the Solio was a "fantastic accessory for any serious iPod user".
"Using its solar panels or mains adaptor, it can store enough power for a complete iPod battery recharge. This means that iPod users will never have to worry about battery life again when they are on the move!"
The charger takes just eight to ten hours of direct sunlight to fully charge the empty internal battery.
Posted by ipodworld at 04:21 PM
iPod aficionados attracted to new Apple store
Apple has opened its new flagship London store to a rapturous reception of eager fans keen to get their hands on the latest iPods, iPod accessories and a range of other products.
Crowds gathered at the new Regent Street as fans eagerly queued to check out the latest innovations among the digital music offerings.
Some of those who made it into the shop in the first batch of customers had been queuing for longer than a day
Around 5,000 customers had assembled by the time the doors opened on Saturday morning, with lucky customers promised a goody bag for £249, with the contents worth at least £700.
Bags came complete with a range of Apple accessories, wireless keyboards, iPods and iPod gadgets.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:53 PM
Underwater iPod accessory makes a splash
The popularity of the iPod has seen the portable music device taken everywhere by devoted users - with a new accessory potentially even allowing music fans to take the system underwater.
H20 Audio has launched the first underwater iPod product, producing a housing case that claims to protect the iPod from all manner of conditions.
The SV-iMini comes with a waterproof dial and push button, enabling users to access their system underwater.
Kristian Rauhala, CEO of H2O Audio, hailed the new system as heralding "a new era for action sports", combining "music with high-energy action watersports".
"Now all sports enthusiasts can enjoy iRiver music players just as cyclists and runners have for years."
H2O Audio also provides patented waterproof headsets so that users can listen to their personalised playlists whether swimming, kayaking or skiing.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:52 PM
iPort delivers iPod docking system
A new in-wall docking system has been designed for the iPod enabling users to enjoy the digital music output over their home stereo.
Audio architect Sonance says that its new iPort is the world's first device of its kind, with plans to ship the product later this month.
Mitch Witten, Sonance vice president of sales and marketing, hailed the new offering.
"The iPod is an icon, a symbol of status and personal freedom," he commented.
"The iPort is the first product that lets it slip seamlessly into a home audio system. It's a great new accessory for existing multi-room systems as well as for new installations, in one room, or in every room of the house."
The iPort is crafted to fit with the ergonomic design of the iPod whilst also offering a secure and reliable set up.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:52 PM
U2 iPod debuts in Apple's London store
Apple has confirmed that its new U2 iPod will go on sale at the new flagship store in London this weekend.
Senior vice president of retail Ron Johnson revealed that the new iPod "will be available in-store when we open on Saturday".
Mr Johnson said that the firm was striving to ensure adequate stocks of the digital music player would be available.
"We hope we have enough stock, at least for the beginning of the day," he added.
The new iPod Photo will also be available, as the new store opens for business.
The 20GB U2 iPod comes complete with engraved band signatures and is designed in a red and black finish.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:51 PM
Japan joins Apple's digital music revolution
Japan is the latest region to embrace Apple's download service, with the digital music access expected to be a big hit in the Far East.
Apple is expected to begin the new download service by next March, with up to 100,000 tracks being made available according to the Nihon Keizai
With iPod users currently unable to download songs directly in Japan, the new service is likely to be seized on by those with a digital music player.
It is thought the new service will provide a fillip to iPod sales and the accessories available to Japanese users.
The iPod, which can store up to 15,000 songs, has already taken the US and Europe by storm.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:51 PM
HP embraces iPod's world
Hardware developer Hewlett-Packard (HP) has hailed the impact of Apple's iPod since its release and sought to further integrate the device into its own production lines.
HP has been a leading player in the development of iPod accessories, with consumers warming to its printable "tattoos" - water-resistant, removable, printable stickers designed to protect and personalise the music player.
Users are able to print their own pre-made tattoo designs, or they can download them from the web.
Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina told the Mac Observer the potential for new opportunities and scope for creativity were boundless.
"We are quite excited about the HP accessories that we can wrap around the iPod and the way we can integrate the iPod into a broader HP solution," she said.
The technology firm is now examining new ideas for the iPod and is already selling the fourth generation iPod device.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:50 PM
New iPod holder released
A new iPod holder has been released by Liquidink Graphics to work in conjunction with Apple's portable music system.
The stand is made of transparent Perspex and can be customised with a laser-engraved name or symbol.
The customized version retails for around $18.95, with the plain version worth $15.95.
The AiPod fits all iPod models, including the new iPod photo 40GB, and 60GB, and also comes with a ready made slot to accommodate the dock connector cord.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:50 PM
Downloading beginning to take off
Music downloading is becoming an increasingly popular activity according to new research published by Ipsos-Insight.
The firm's quarterly study of trends within the industry indicates that more than a third of Americans aged over 12 have paid to download music, as the technology becomes familiar and word of mouth continues to widen its reach.
The figures mark a 150 per cent increase on levels around the same period last year, and correspond to around 20 million people.
Matt Kleinschmit, vice president for Ipsos-Insight, and author of the Tempo report, said that the web was seeing an array of sources for users.
"In the past year, we've witnessed the high-profile launches of many new online music services and download stores," he commented.
"American downloaders are embracing the concept of fee-based digital music in growing numbers," he added.
Of those who download music the report says a quarter have a portable audio player such as the iPod, as portable music increases in popularity, with MP3 players becoming "an increasingly critical item in the digital music enthusiasts' toolkit".
Posted by ipodworld at 02:49 PM
iPod accessories scoop design awards
The stylish lead set by Apple with the iPod is being followed by iPod accessory manufacturer Belkin, with the firm collecting a host of awards for its offerings.
Belkin scooped seven prizes at the prestigious International CES Innovations 2004 Design and Engineering Showcase for its portfolio of Apple-friendly products.
Winning products from the technology developer included the TuneBase FM for the iPod mini and also the Digital Camera Link for the iPod.
Belkin's director of industrial design, Ernesto Quinteros, said the firm's emphasis on lifestyle-inspired innovation was "really beginning to pay off".
"We spent a lot of time observing everyday usage models and identified opportunities which would improve the way people perform and enjoy their daily activities," he explained.
The award were sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA).
Posted by ipodworld at 02:49 PM
Apple and the open road
Long car journeys need never be dull again thanks to the iPod.
Apple's successful portable music device can transform a regular car to a major sound system.
Accessories like the PodGear CarDock FM enable users to broadcast their tunes and pick them up on their car stereo.
The PodGear CarDock FM can also keep your iPod fully charged.
With music downloads becoming more and more popular, the iPod offers a great way to store and manage your music.
Accessories like the PodGear CarDock FM are helping to take the music experience of iPod owners to the next level.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:48 PM
Apple Store brings iPod to London
London is preparing to welcome its first Apple Store, as a host of branded goodies including the iPod and its accessories are given their own shop.
Located on Regent Street in the heart of the West End, the store opens for business this weekend with customers able to purchase the latest products and also test out some of those under development.
Email facilities will be available to shoppers, as will the latest prototypes, and even a 'Genius Bar', where trained Apple experts will offer help and advice on all the latest technical gadgets.
Apple envisages a store that will cater for every last whim of the gadget fanatic, as Informa Media's analyst Simon Dyson explained to the Evening Standard.
"The iPod is the must-have product and this store will become the high temple," he quipped.
The Apple Store will mark the company's second foray outside of America after its Tokyo shop.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:48 PM
Griffin iTrip for Christmas
One iPod accessory sure to be on many a Christmas list this year is the Griffin iTrip.
This handy little device enables iPod tunes to be broadcast on radio signals, which you can pick up with your home hi-fi.
The innovative iTrip offers yet another means of sharing the music on your iPod with friends and family.
As the festive season approaches, iPod users are sure to be pondering which of the wealth of accessories they should ask Santa for.
From a colourful iSkin to the Tivoli iPal buying an iPod is just the starting point in transforming your music experience.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:47 PM
Business booming for the iPod
Apple's popular portable music device, the iPod, received a welcome boost this week.
Analysts at Merrill Lynch raised their projections for iPod sales for the three months to December from 3 million to 3.5 million units.
The announcement comes as sales pick up ahead of the Christmas period.
Many a music lover will have the iPod on their Christmas list, while existing owners are sure to be stocking up on accessories.
With funky add-ons from Creative TravelSound Speakers to the Solio charger iPod accessories can become something of an addiction.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:47 PM
U2 help launch new iPod
Members of the legendary Irish rock band U2 have helped Apple launch its new portable music offering.
The new look iPod with larger capacity and digital display follows the dramatic recent success of Apple's flagship offering.
As part of the tie-in with U2, Apple has launched a special edition iPod featuring the signatures of the band members.
The U2 iPod goes on sale on the iTunes website later this month and comes in a box set with a 400-song catalogue of the band's music.
Apple has also launched a 60GB iPod photo, which enables users to store and view digital images.
The iPod is becoming a major fashion accessory, with music fans taking advantage of the range of accessories now available.
In fact, music on the move has never been easier whether your iPod is tucked away in an iStyle leather carry case or the waterproof Lilipod.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:47 PM
Share your music with the Tivoli iPal
The iPod from Apple has successfully established itself as the market leading portable music device.
Now with the vast range of accessories available, users can share their music with friends.
The Tivoli iPal for example can turn the iPod into a mini stereo system.
Vern Seward of the Mac Observer said this week that the Tivoli iPal offered one of the best means to upgrade from the standard white ear buds.
"Although the iPAL can't quite fill a room completely with music, the sound it produces is pure, sweet, and very clean," he said.
Tivoli iPal's retail for around £130.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:46 PM
Supermarket rides music download wave
UK supermarket giant Tesco is to offer customers music downloads via the company's website.
Following the success of services such as iTunes and Napster, Tesco is the first supermarket to offer downloading of music and will be supported by Entertainment UK, the music wholesale division of Woolworths which already supplies Tesco's CDs and DVDs.
The service is expected to offer around 500,000 songs available at a cost of 79 pence each - the same price as market leader Apple iTunes.
Tesco.com chief executive Laura Wade Gery said: "Music buying is changing. As the price of portable digital music players falls, customers will demand more choice."
While the new downloads won't be compatible with Apple's iPod, the move by Tesco comes as further evidence that music fans are prepared to pay for legitimate downloads.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:46 PM
New security system 'locks' up your iPod
Technology firm Micromat has released a new repair utility tool that enables iPod users to lock their device.
The PodLock system is designed to protect important files and ensure privacy for those sharing their music storage set-up.
Using an "invisible" partition the lock protects certain files using a password, particularly useful for those using the iPod to transport data or sensitive information.
PodLock also claims to enhance the running of the iPod, using a defragment tool to speed up the drive. In addition the system enables users to back up their data on a Macintosh hard drive.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:45 PM
iPod users avoid getting in a tangle
Fans of Apple's popular iPod music device can now avoid getting into a tangle with their ear bud wires.
Thanks to the Sumajin Smartwrap users can get on top of their wires when listening to music when out and about.
The Smartwrap is a cord manager that picks up any slack between your iPod and your ear buds.
Winner of an ID magazine design award the cheap and functional little tool is expected to be a big hit with people who are constantly on the move.
From commuters to joggers the Smartwrap offers a solution to the eternal problem of too much white cable.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:45 PM
Luxury hotels offer guests iPods
Luxury hotels in the US have turned to iPods as their latest perk for high rolling guests.
The move comes as the iPod becomes an increasingly popular means of storing and listening to music.
Thanks to the huge range of accessories for the iconic device, iPods can quickly be transformed into music centres.
Whether using a Tivoli speaker system or cable to hook the iPod up to the room's own speakers, hotel guests can provide a soundtrack for their stay in some of America's top hotels.
The hotel iPods typically come pre-loaded with thousands of tracks for guests to scroll through and play.
Guests are asked to leave a deposit just in case they're thinking of taking the iPod home along with the hotel's towels.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:45 PM
Express yourself with the iSkin Mini
As mobile phones made their transition into the mainstream of consumer goods colourful fascias were among the most popular accessories.
A new skin for your mobile phone provides an opportunity to brighten it up and make it your own.
Now iPod owners can do the same with their portable music devices.
Following the launch of the iPod Mini a new range of protective and colourful iSkin Mini covers have been unveiled.
The iSkin Mini is designed to protect the iPod from minor knocks and give owners a chance to customise their portable music buddy.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:44 PM
Star rating for the iPod Photo
USA Today has awarded Apple's iPod Photo 3.5 out of 5 stars.
The upbeat review of the new offering comes as a major boost for Apple as the company looks to encourage more music fans to upgrade.
The iPod Photo allows users to store and manage thousands of digital photos.
This portable photo album cements the iPod's role as an essential tool for on-the-move entertainment.
iPod users can already take advantage of a huge range of accessories from iSKin fascias for customisation to docking ports that turn the iPod into a home entertainment system.
The iPod Photo is launched at a time when digital photography is becoming increasingly popular.
The handy device can store enough photos to cover 5,000 square-feet of wall space.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:42 PM
Socks for iPod this Christmas
Apple has unveiled the latest in the long line of iPod accessories to grace the stores this Christmas - with festive socks set to fill stockings.
The socks are available to pre-order from the Apple Store and come in a range of different colours.
Green, purple, grey, blue, orange and pink offerings are all available, as the ideal carry case for the compact digital music player.
A spokesperson for the company told Mac World: "When we looked around at all the third party accessories for iPod we thought it would be great to produce a seasonal gift for iPod from Apple hence came the socks."
Shipping will begin early next month ahead of an expected festive rush.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:41 PM
Rumours abound of iPod games
The iPod could be made even more user-friendly with the news that software publishers are examining the potential for producing games for the portable music device.
Reports on the Inquirer suggest that speculation is rising about code programmers Digital River, with rumours pointing to a possible software tie-in.
While neither company has so far responded to the rumours, shares in Digital River have soared on the back of the speculation.
It is thought that the games could be developed ahead of Apple's next version of the iPod, further widening the scope and functionality of the digital music system.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:41 PM
iPod Ads Scoop Award
The promotional campaign for Apple's iPod has been named as one of the best advertising drives of the year by the American Advertising Federation (AAF).
Using a study of more than 120 advertising leaders, the AAF established what the major trends and events of the industry year were, with the stylish iPod slots garnering much attention.
The campaign, which has featured a range of celebrities and stars in its distinctive adverts, recently starred mega band U2 performing a new song.
The band appeared in the advert the as iPod's trademark silhouettes.
For Apple's next campaign in the US it is seeking "unique and interesting" members of the public to play a part.
CinemaFactory will produce the slot, and is targeting "dancers, performers and uniquely talented people" for the eye-catching ads.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:40 PM
iPods are on the Xmas wish list
Digital music players and their accessories are set to top the wish lists of Christmas shoppers this year.
The findings of the Best Buy Holiday Trend Index, shows that a staggering 67 per cent of those asked are going to purchase consumer electronics products as gifts, with iPods and the array of accessories that serve it attracting much attention.
Those surveyed said they particularly liked the personalisation and mobility involved in gifts such as digital music players.
"As consumer electronics become more diverse, portable and personal, customers have the opportunity to match the gift they give to the lifestyle of the receiver," explained Mike Linton, executive vice president, consumer and brand marketing for Best Buy.
He pointed to the way that gadgets such as the iPod have evolved from the days of cold, impersonal technology, to offer a stylish, exciting and user-friendly device.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:39 PM
Going green with the iPod
Music fans worried about the environment can now make use of an innovative new accessory for the iPod.
Apple's market leading portable music device has become a must-have for music lovers.
The Solio not only allows users to charge their iPods on the move but does so using renewable energy.
Retailing for around £50 the solar powered charging device is expected to be popular with holidaymakers.
The Solio is easy to use and can avoid the unwanted interruption of a battery failure when you're nowhere near a power point.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:39 PM
Christmas Rush for iPod
Apple's portable music device, the iPod, is expected to be top of many Christmas lists this year.
Demand for the multi-purpose handheld could even outstrip supply.
The message from retailers is to get your order in early to avoid disappointment.
If the shops do sell out there is however always iTunes, Apple's online music store.
With a new 60GB version on the market, white ear buds could be as common as turkey as families up and down the country celebrate Christmas.
Anyone hoping that Santa will bring them an iPod might also want to ask for some Matias Armour or Speck Skin protection to help avoid any nasty accidents once the wine starts flowing.
Posted by ipodworld at 02:37 PM
November 21, 2004
Tivoli iPal
Tivoli have been around for a long time as far as consumer electronics go. Their close partnership with the legendary late designer Henry Kloss has enabled them to stay up to date with the current trends whilst keeping classic designs as part of the trademark.
The iPal is essentially a top-quality mini radio covered by the umbrella of the iPod. The popular PAL (Portable Audio Laboratory) radio has been launched in many different colours and limited edition styles, and now is the turn of the iPod to get the Tivoli treatment.
First Impressions...
Appearance wise, the iPal caters for all tastes. It has the retro lovers covered with the manual dials and perforated mesh-like speaker cover, yet appeals to the modernists with the cool chrome finish and smooth lines. An extendible aerial adds further comparisons to the nostalgic radio ga-ga times. The large tuning dial is not only stylish, but allows finer station selection to be achieved, though this is supposedly superfluous as the iPal is designed to (and does) automatically locate the best signal.
This single-speaker audio system is the perfect complement to the iPod. It can connect directly to the iPod via a cable, or can be used in conjunction with an FM transmitter such as the Griffin iTrip for wireless broadcasting. And if you ever get bored of your own songs, you can switch to listening to AM or FM radio stations for a bit of variation.
Not only is the iPal powerful, it’s also portable, but only in the most rudimentary sense of the word. The boom-box of the 80s was also portable. The iPal provides nothing by way of compaction or carrying handle/case, but it does offer fully rechargeable batteries topped up in around 3 hours, and giving around 15 hours of playback. No other iPod speaker system offers the novelty of a rechargeable power system, and although it is slightly more expensive than other similar products, the saving on batteries would be substantial.
Performance
The sound quality is amazing for a single-speaker system. It is really broad and clear, with only minor distortion at full volume, and it doesn’t have the harsh sound that some mono radio systems can produce. Surprisingly refreshing is the great bass response, even out-performing the Altec Lansing inMotion, which has the advantage of stereo speakers. The weight of it when compared to the other portable speakers such as the inMotion or the Logic3 i-Station does provide a sense of significance in speaker output, and adds to the notion of quality, but that factor has implications for its portability.
If there could be anything to complain about with the iPal, cradle-lovers may wish for some sort of housing to rest or charge their iPod in whilst broadcasting. Due to the fact that the speaker is merely an i-vamped radio, Tivoli are yet to provide for the iPod. In addition, the sound is extracted from the iPod through the headphone jack, whereas other speaker systems use the dock connection, which is generally thought to be the most effective in reproducing music. The plus side of this though is that the iPal is generation-independent, and so iPod mini and also 1st and 2nd generation iPod users do not have to feel left out of the music liberation era.
Overall...
On the whole the iPal is a great, compact system, not specifically designed for the iPod but completely compatible with it. It does ask the question though, that with so much choice on your iPod, are you really going to want to use a radio, or just buy a less-expensive speaker-only system? Either way, it looks great, sounds fantastic and does more musically than the usual iPod speaker systems can. A definite recommendation for the style- and sound-conscious iPod user.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:11 PM
November 20, 2004
America demands cheap music online
Americans would be more inclined to buy music over the Internet if the price of songs came down, according to a new survey.
A study from research firm InsightExpress has revealed that cost is one of the key issues putting consumers off online music.
Only 12 per cent of adults surveyed had purchased music on the Internet.
One of the reasons cited besides price was the lack of a digital music player, which is something Apple could help with.
The popular iPod is already flying off the shelves ahead of the Christmas rush and offers a great way to store, manage and play music files.
Apple has also demonstrated through the success of its iTunes website that music fans will pay for music on the web, even with competition from file sharing sites.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:34 PM
Apple shares buoyed by iPod
Computer giant Apple saw its shares hit a four-year high this week thanks largely to record iPod sales.
As the Christmas season approaches it seems shoppers can't wait to get their hands on the market leading portable music device.
Key to the success of the iPod, which enables music fans to store, manage and play their favourite songs, is the availability of compelling accessories.
Far from a next generation Walkman, the iPod has become a must have for music lovers.
On the move and at home the iPod is the ideal music companion.
With portable speaker systems like the Tivoli iPal or the InMotion Speakers iPod owners can convert their handy portable device into a sound system.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:33 PM
Amazon launches new iPod store
Amazon has launched a new dedicated section for iPod and iPod accessories, according to reports on MacWorld UK.
The move at the American Internet retail giant is designed to reflect the rapid growth in popularity of the music system, with users continuing to update or expand their suite of iPod accessories.
The store offers both iPod and iPod mini accessories, as well as iPod Photo and the latest special edition U2 versions.
Amazon says that its most popular item is currently the silver iPod mini.
The 20GB iPod is currently the second most popular product, with the pink mini iPod also performing well.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:30 PM
November 19, 2004
Shure E2c Sound Isolating Earphones vs Apple In-Ear Headphones
For standard-issue headphones, the Apple iPod ones are pretty good. But there comes a point where you have to wonder, what is there out there that will make my music sound better? Well, a good start is getting your music closer to your eardrums. A couple of the aurally-probing ones that we tried were the Apple in-Ear Headphones and the Shure E2c Sound Isolating Earphones.
The first thing that was noticed with both of the earphones was the lack of sound loss to the outside world. People sitting next to you on the tube wouldn’t even know you were listening to Celine Dion… You, however, would be enjoying her in full Las Vegas-esque surround sound and no-one would be any the wiser.
Shure E2c Sound Isolating Earphones
The E2c headphones from Shure come with a variety of foam or flex earpieces to ensure maximum external sound is blocked. The challenge is getting the right ones to fit, as putting the earphones in your ears for the first time was a bit of a challenge (note: clear earphone is left, clear-and-black earphone is right). We found that the earphones didn’t really accommodate very well for small ears, but that the foam pieces worked the best: they could be compressed and then expand when inside your ear to mould to its shape (plus they are what rock stars use, which means they must be hip. And good for sound quality of course).
After the initial unfamiliar sensation of something filling your ear, and the strange pressure difference, you eventually get used to the feeling and it becomes unnoticeable. The earphones produce a really impressive, high quality sound with deep bass and a near-perfect balance. You really will notice all the parts of your music that you missed before. They block the majority of ‘white’ noise, i.e. constant noise such as that experienced on a tube or aeroplane, and most of conversational noise as well. You can have your music at a loud enough level to drown out exterior noise and yet quiet enough to not feel like you are going to blow your eardrums. The reduced volume level also means less drain on your iPod battery.
Aesthetically, the earphones are mediocre. They resemble a mechanically engineered insect when out of your ear, and it takes a reasonably large ear to accommodate them comfortably when they are in. However the discreet, behind-ear cables are an advantage, and look better than some of the more conventional front-hanging cables. They also serves to reduce ‘drag’ from the weight of the wire, which is slightly thicker than Apple’s cable.
Slightly gross-yet-handy is the provision of a wax removal kit, which is for cleaning the end of the earphones. It is also recommended to clean the earpieces with soapy water routinely.
Apple In-Ear Headphones
These earphones also come with 3 sizes of earpieces in order to gain best fit, and maximum noise exclusion. They were more comfortable than the Shure E2cs and looked a lot better; the design is more conventional and obviously with being made by Apple they are better-matched to the iPod. They weighed a lot less, which could contribute to a more comfortable fit due to less ‘drag’ on the ears. Again finding a size to fit was a bit difficult, but generally the smaller ones could be inserted deeper into the ear. A cable toggle also served to customise the fit and keep the wires a bit more tangle-free.
The sound quality was disappointing. The sound isolation was fairly effective, but as the earphones weren’t a very tight fit it wasn’t as good as it could have been. Disappointingly the material that the earphones were made from was far too slippery to enable them to sit comfortably in the ears. Unless the earphones were held further in than they naturally sat the bass was poor if heard at all, and the overall sound was quite tinny. The treble was acceptable, but unless you are listening to country and western music I’m thinking you might require a bit more than that. If you are looking for an improvement on the standard ones, the Apple In-Ears will not live up to expectations, apart from preventing people overhearing what you are listening to (which maybe a good thing if you are listening to country and western music).
Overall...
Overall, the sound quality of the E2cs was a huge improvement on Apple’s standard issue headphones. The sound isolation was very effective, the earphones were comfortable once they were gotten used to, and for their quality they are a reasonably low-cost product for the market that they are in. The Apple earphones were barely an improvement on the standard ones, and the sound quality was not as high as should have been expected. Visually however they were more appealing than the E2cs, and should you not want to stray from the iPods impeccable accessory co-ordination, these earphones are a reasonable investment.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:18 PM
Apple Store brings iPod to London
London is preparing to welcome its first Apple Store, as a host of branded goodies including the iPod and its accessories are given their own shop.
Located on Regent Street in the heart of the West End, the store opens for business this weekend with customers able to purchase the latest products and also test out some of those under development.
Email facilities will be available to shoppers, as will the latest prototypes, and even a 'Genius Bar', where trained Apple experts will offer help and advice on all the latest technical gadgets.
Apple envisages a store that will cater for every last whim of the gadget fanatic, as Informa Media's analyst Simon Dyson explained to the Evening Standard.
"The iPod is the must-have product and this store will become the high temple," he quipped.
The Apple Store will mark the company's second foray outside of America after its Tokyo shop.
Posted by ipodworld at 05:11 PM