November 2005 Archives
« October 2005 | Main | December 2005 »
November 30, 2005
iPod insurance rumoured
It's every iPod owner's worst nightmare: a careless moment in a bar, a hastily handled cup of coffee and suddenly the player disappears or its entire content is wiped.
For music lovers this is a double disaster. There's both the annoyance of losing favourite, often hard to find, tracks and the expense of replacing the content or player itself.
In response to this potential catastrophe, the Walt Disney Company is to offer iPod insurance, which will provide the funds necessary to replace lost content.
Credible sources close to Macsimum News told the website of Disney's plans and the news service is confident in reporting that users will soon be able to protect themselves against musical heartache.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:29 AM
Mac dock for iPod?
Apple plans to integrate an iPod dock onto the next Mac Mini, fresh rumours have suggested.
Thinksecret, a website devoted to tracking all Apple-related developments, claims that sources have let slip that the new Mac Mini will include a dock.
If true, this will be great news for iPod video owners, as it will allow easy transfer of video content to the player. It is also thought that the move indicates Apple intends to make greater use of iTunes for sharing television programmes.
It was first rumoured that Mac Minis were capable of sporting an iPod dock in March last year.
A computer enthusiast took his Mac Mini apart and found unused connections on the riser card and a firewire link that did not appear to connect to anything. In a feat of archaeological reasoning that would do Indiana Jones proud he concluded the design had originally included a dock.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:28 AM
November 29, 2005
iPod tax cut planned
The so-called French 'iPod tax' could be slashed, it was revealed today.
Sources claim that the government will reduce the levy charged on iPods, with effects felt potentially as early as next week.
Although it is legal to copy music for private use in France, the government imposes a levy on all related paraphernalia, such as blank cassettes, hard disk drives and, of course, the popular iPod.
Currently the levy on the 4GB iPod nano is €50, but this could be slashed back to just €8 under the new proposals.
Apple has not confirmed what effect a tax cut could have on iPod costs, but French shoppers hope that their country will no longer be the most expensive place in the world to buy an iPod.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:14 AM
Thanks given for iPods
Thousands of Americans certainly will have been thankful this holiday weekend, with sales of iPods confirmed to be "staggering".
From Friday to Saturday of the Thanksgiving weekend, sales of the Black iPod nano 4GB were up 95 per cent on the week before, with the white version recording an equally impressive rise of 88 per cent.
Apple has officially confirmed that demand for the iPod nano has been extraordinarily high, while Best Buy sold out of the gadget over the weekend.
Rumours have already been spreading that many US stockists will have run out of iPod stocks by Christmas, which could have prompted many shoppers to give this year's must have gift earlier in the holiday season.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:13 AM
November 28, 2005
Kazaa ordered to filter
Kazza has been told it must prevent illegal music downloads to PCs and the iPod or be ordered to cease trading.
An Australian court ruled that Kazaa has ten days to introduce filter software to its programme, in order to prevent music theft.
"Copyright infringement is occurring on an enormous scale at this moment," explained Justice Murray Wilcox.
The filter works by checking user searches against 3,000 key words chosen by record labels and is updated fortnightly to prevent new releases slipping through.
IPod owners who want to make sure they only download music legally should use sites such as iTunes.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:22 AM
Halfords thanks iPod
Riding on the back of iPod's success has helped cycling and car retailer Halfords beat the gloom seen elsewhere on the High Street.
While shoppers have stayed away from other stores, Halfords' car-integration kits for the iPod has contributed to its massive £40 million profits.
The company reported a 20 per cent rise in earnings for the six months to October and believes it owes the humble iPod a great big thank you for many of these sales.
Halfords sells kits that allow iPod owners to hook up their digital music player to their car stereo, providing high quality MP3 music on the move.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:21 AM
November 25, 2005
IPod in a Christmas stocking
Many people will be wishing for an iPod nano in their stocking this Christmas and now a new accessory promises to deliver this – with a twist.
Newly available, the Marware Sportsuit Santa is a red and white Christmas-stocking shaped pouch designed for the iPod nano, iPod garage reports.
Your iPod will look like it's been freshly placed by Santa in a traditional Christmas stocking – albeit one for a nano-sized leg!
Suitable for any iPod nano, the stocking completely covers the gadget, including its notoriously delicate screen.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:22 AM
New iPod batteries
Long-term iPod owners may have noticed that the iPod battery's ability to recharge and hold its power declines over time.
Previously, owners of a dying iPod had to send the entire gadget to Apple, to be swapped at a price for a re-conditioned model.
Now, Sonnet-Technologies has launched its own line of high capacity replacement batteries, suitable for all iPods except the shuffle and iPod nano.
The kits come complete with tools to open the iPod casing and a step-by-step CD-rom to make sure you do this properly.
Users should note that opening the case will void the Apple warranty. However, Sonnet argues that the batteries typically start to die after the one-year warranty has expired.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:20 AM
November 24, 2005
New speakers for iPod
They may look cool, they may be one of the most fashionable accessories of the decade, but at the end of the day people love iPods for their fantastic music capabilities.
Accordingly, music fans will be excited to hear that boynq has launched a speaker and dock system specifically for the iPod.
Suitable for use with the iPod, iPod mini or iPod photo, the speaker promises to provide stereo quality sound direct from your iPod.
Fitted with treble and bass adjustments, the speaker should satisfy serious music buffs, while its 'made for iPod' accreditation guarantees the high standards Apple consumers would expect.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:13 AM
IPods get personal
With sales exceeding 30 million we already knew people loved the iPod.
But now it seems they are really going to love their iPod, even the humble iPod mini.
Love Labs has launched a new iBuzz vibrating bullet, a new toy that vibrates in time with your iPod.
Users slip a bullet into their pocket, which then vibrates in time to the music playing on the iPod.
Increasing the volume will increase the intensity of the vibrations, which could explain why commuters overheard listening to pounding drum and bass look so happy with themselves.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:12 AM
November 23, 2005
US can't get enough of the iPod
With the dollar still weak against the pound, many Brits travelling to the US could be tempted to up-grade their iPod while they are there.
However, shoppers would be advised to stick to online bargains in the UK, as rumours of an iPod shortage are already being circulating stateside.
IPod news reports that many retailers in the US are complaining that orders simply aren't meeting the frenzied demand for the digital music players, with some orders only covering half the anticipated weekly sales.
However, shoppers shouldn't despair just yet. Apple has already taken steps to ensure that no one will have to wait too long for the latest iPod by signing new contracts for vital software.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:16 AM
ITunes reaps iPod's success
iPod fans have helped make Apple iTunes one of the top ten music sellers in the US.
New figures by NPD show that iTunes is outselling many popular 'offline' stores, reporting more music sales than both Tower Records and Borders.
The increasing success of digital music, combined with a retail slowdown, saw iTunes grow from the 14th biggest music seller to seventh in the three months leading up to September.
In more good news for Apple, NPD analysts predict that iTunes can expect to see its share of the market grow larger still.
The new figures are further confirmation that digital music is an increasingly important part of the music business and Apple iTunes is set to lead the trend, providing seven out of every ten songs downloaded.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:15 AM
November 22, 2005
IPod tops 30 million sales
With sightings of their tell-tale white earphone cord now more common than ever, you could be forgiven for thinking that there is no one left who does not own an iPod.
Now Apple has confirmed this hunch, yesterday announcing the official sales figures for the iPod so far.
More than 300 million iPods have been sold since the gadget's launch in November 2001 – equivalent to everyone in England owning six of the popular music player.
To ensure such high sales continue, Apple has taken steps to enhance production of the iPod nano and iPod shuffle by signing £1.25 billion worth of contracts for NAND flask memory chips.
"We want to be able to produce as many of our wildly popular iPods as the market demands," said Apple CEO Steve Jobs.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:22 AM
IPod tops Xmas wish list
It's good news for Santa this year, as most Americans are tipped to ask for a gift that is highly portable and suitable for even the sleekest of chimneystacks.
The iPod is predicted to be the top electronic gift this Christmas, with stockings set to be filled with the slim-line contours of the iPod nano and iPod mini.
Macnewsworlds reports that US consumers are predicted to spend more than $17 billion on electronic gifts between now and Christmas, with a significant chunk of this spent on iPods and related accessories.
The craze for iPods has been aided by a trend for US shoppers to give more expensive gadgets this year, with the $200 iPod nano tipped to be more popular than a $50 DVD player.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:21 AM
November 21, 2005
EMI goes iPod friendly
Apple iPod users may soon be able to transfer music from copy-protected CDs.
The EMI group has announced that it will now use Macrovision technology on its copy-protected products, which the company claims will be compatible with iPod technology.
Previously most CDs have been protected with Digital Rights Management technology, which has only been compatible with Windows technology.
"This is an important step for EMI and Apple, but even more so for music consumers who will soon be able to legitimately port music from protected discs they own to the iPod," said EMI.
However, fans of EMI artists such as Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Coldplay shouldn't hold their breath just yet, as Apple itself is still sceptical towards EMI's claims.
If the CDs are developed they will have usage rules modelled on the iTunes site. Music fans will be able to upload one copy of the CD onto their computer, which can then be transferred to their iPod, and make three further copies onto blank CDs.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
Meet the iPod with the PhD
It might not always make you richer or more attractive to the opposite sex, but now the iPod can promise to make its users smarter.
Computer science lectures from Harvard's Extension School classes can now be accessed as a free podcast on iTunes, the Harvard Crimson reports.
Users have been able to access audio lectures since September, but now the service hopes to capitalise on the launch of iPod video by offering visual lectures.
The service is expected to be popular with users, combining the established student trick of recording lectures with the ever-increasing popularity of the iPod.
With a place on iTune's top 100 podcasts already in the digital bag, it seems that the trend for downloading lectures can only get bigger.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:02 AM
November 18, 2005
iPod leading digital revolution
It seems there is no stopping the iPod as Apple has this week revealed that it's handy little gadget and iTunes are at the forefront of the "digital revolution" in Japan.
According to Business Computer News, iPod and iPod accessories account for 60 per cent of the total market.
The iTunes Music Store was launched in the country over the summer and has a good level of growth in terms of available titles.
The market for accessories is also booming, over 1,000 different tailor-made for iPod accessories such as speakers and skins are available and a third of cars manufactured next year will have iPod compatibility.
Philip Schiller of Apple said: "We're delighted that Japanese music fans love the unrivalled combination of the world's most popular online music store and the world's best digital music players."
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
Digital industry boosted by iPod
The increasing popularity of downloadable music and video clips has helped music group EMI post strong first-half profits.
EMI saw pre-tax profits rise nine per cent to £41 million in the six months to September 30th.
Much of this resulted from the popularity of downloads among the so-called iPod generation, with digital sales growing by 142.4 per cent during this period to £44.6 million.
Eric Nicoli, chairman of EMI, believes that today's figures are representative of a general shift from high street sales to downloads across the industry.
"The global recorded music industry declined only modestly in the half, continuing the improved trend driven by rapid digital growth," he said.
EMI has recently launched a new online music video download service in a bid to cash in on the growing market for video content following the launch of the new iPod video.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
Seasonal sleeves for iPod
The time has come to deck the halls in celebration of the festive season, and iPod users who want to get into the Christmas spirit can with personalised covers.
Specialists in textile design and manufacture Wrappers has come up with the ideal stocking filler for the season to be jolly.
The "Merry Christmas baby" covers can be used with the fifth-generation iPod or the iPod nano.
Available in black, or his-and-hers blue and pink they make the perfect Christmas iPod accessory.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:24 AM
Wear your iPod on your sleeve
Speck has released a ruggedised rubber armband for iPod users on the move.
The Speck SkinTight Armband & Skin combines a tough iPod case to protect the device, while the detachable armband enables freedom of movement for the user.
The product is compatible with the iPod nano, and features a clear plastic plate which can be slotted into the case to offer increased protection to the iPod's screen.
The armband is secured using Velcro and is made from a comfortably soft rubber that is tight like a second skin.
In addition, wearers of the iPod can choose to position their Nano upside down for easier screen viewing without sacrificing comfort.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:23 AM
Belkin tops iPod accessory innovations
Connectivity solution firm Belkin has been recognised with the CES Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering "Best of Innovations" Award for one of its iPod accessories.
The TuneStage for iPod got top ranking, while a number of other Belkin products were also honoured, including the TuneSync and the TuneCommand for iPod.
Director of industrial design at Belikin, Ernesto Quinteros, said: "The iPod accessory space has become a dynamic ecosystem with new product solutions launching every other week.
"Due to this competitive environment, we were really delighted that five of our seven CES awards went to accessory solutions for the iPod."
The winning products will be displayed at the annual trade show for consumer technology 2006 International CES, in Las Vegas in January.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:14 AM
Perfect match, direct to your iPod
For those of us not lucky enough to have met our perfect match already, finding the time to meet and date people can be difficult.
As a result online dating services have become incredibly popular among young, single but busy professionals who are keen to meet people without wasting hours out looking.
And now a new website has been launched to allow daters to save even more time in their quest for true love and romance.
Poddater.com lets members download the profiles of potential perfect partners to their
iPod so they can check them out while on the move.
With the popularity of the iPod showing no sign of waning, it looks like download dating could be the future of romancing for 21st century singles.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:09 AM
November 15, 2005
Harness the power of the sun for your iPod
Most of us feel a degree of concern about climate change and would like to use less energy in our day-to-day lives, and now a Dutch company has come up with a way this can be applied to our high-tech gadgets.
Private company Soldius has been developing a new solar power source that can be used to charge up any iPodiPod Shuffle and Nano.
The company specialises in producing portable solar charges for a variety of consumer electrical goods and the Soldius 1 Universal Solar Charger for iPod and mobile phones is the latest offering.
The product has been designed as the ideal iPod accessory for users looking for a fast and reliable portable charging device
President of Soldius, Don Doney, said: "The Soldius 1 is the world's first portable solar power plant and ideally suited for iPods and mobile phone users anywhere in the world.
"Consumers and business travellers can charge their iPod or cell phone on-the-go - while on their way to and from work, while in the office, golfing, at the beach or their backyard patio."
Users simply need to plug the Soldius1 into their iPod and leave in direct sunlight to supply the device with juice that, literally, doesn't cost the earth.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:15 AM
Hit the road with your iPod
Most motorists have suffered the problem, attempting to locate a mobile phone or iPod that has disappeared into the depths of a pocket whilst driving.
Now TEN Technology has released a handy new flexibleDock adjustable car dock and charger to help drivers use and keep track of their iPod.
The flexDock mini designed specifically as an iPod Mini accessory has been available for some time, but the new product extends functionality to all iPod models.
John Lin of TEN Technology said: "The new nano iPod is almost too small - if you don't keep an eye on that little guy, it is sure to disappear.
TEN's flexibleDock ensures that won't happen and even charges the nano (and any other iPod) while displaying it securely and safely for the driver."
The dock can be used with standard in-car cigarette lighters and supports cassette adaptors and line input cables to allow iPod tracks to be played on the car stereo.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:14 AM
November 14, 2005
Speck gets rugged with iPod
Speck has announced the launch of a new ruggedised rubber case to protect your iPod from the elements and from accidents.
The Speck ToughSkin is designed for fifth generation iPod models, and can be used both as a belt clip cover or as a pocket case.
Incorporated into the design are gripping grooves, which add protection and also help to prevent butter-finger disasters.
The iPod accessory provides good access to the screen and controls, and is available in sleek black or clear.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:02 AM
iPods promoting poetry
If you thought that our world of increasingly high-tech gadgetry was leading to an abandoning of traditional forms of entertainment and culture, think again.
A recording of various works by British Romantic Poets is doing surprisingly well among the iPod generation in the US.
And publisher HarperCollins has revealed that online downloads of poetry collections rose by 40 per cent last year, compared to little change in book sales.
A spokesperson for online retailer Amazon told the Herald: "It will undoubtedly catch on more and more. Audio literature gives people an excellent alternative to music for their entertainment."
A renewed interest is thought to be largely the result of the popularity of rap lyrics, as a new generation appreciates the connections between modern and traditional verse – made all the more accessible by the convenience of an iPod.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:00 AM
November 11, 2005
More choice for iPod video clips
One of the world's leading entertainment industry databanks has announced that it is to make an even wider choice of video clips for iPod users.
Showfootage.com offers owners of Apple iPod Video a range of video clips to stylishly customise youriPod.
Ranging from live clips to computer animated scenes, the selection is ideal for adding a personal touch to your iPod.
The service can be used without a subscription, and even offers a free "clip of the week" available via the iTunes online store.
Matthias Finke of Showfootage.com said: "Our expanded range of clips enables iPod owners to use the video function on their new device not only for music videos, but also to integrate their personalised iPod into their lifestyle. The clips can be used as screensavers or background images."
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:03 AM
iFusion compact convenience
It may now be even easier to make full use of the portable nature of your iPod as Sonic Impact has launched a new speaker case system that is designed for maximum convenience.
The iFusion is a portable speaker case system that features a unique docking station tailor-made for the iPod and as an iPod Mini accessory.
Boasting official "Made for iPod" approval from Apple, the accessory also allows users to store any iPod model within and has space to keep a battery and ear buds.
Richard Bracke of Sonic Impact said: "For the first time within the industry, users while travelling now can fully protect their sound system and iPod as well as downsize their travel items from three to one."
The design is compact for ease of portability, and features advanced Maxxbass technology for premium quality sound.
The company plans to release a version compatible with the iPod Shuffle in the near future.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:41 AM
November 10, 2005
Right regal iPod fan
The iPod has many famous fans but none perhaps as illustrious as the Queen.
It was reputedly the monarch's love of music and gadgets that led her to send a servant out to Regent's Street to purchase the silver £163 MP3 player.
"The Queen loves music and was impressed by how small and handy the iPod is," a royal insider revealed a while ago.
In addition to music on the move the Queen also took possession of a mobile phone last summer and her most recent technological acquisition is a satellite navigation system.
The Sun reports that the Queen was seen using the system last Sunday.
Posted by ipodworld at 08:46 AM
One song book to fit all iPods
A new portable music system has just been launched by Tivoli Audio, and the good news for iPod owners everywhere is that it's compatible with all models.
The iSongBook boasts a "universal docking station" that is designed to fit all types of iPod, and even charges while the iPod is playing.
Fitted with a sensitive digital AM/FM receiver, the sound quality is clear and precise.
Chairman at Tivoli Tom DeVesto said: "The iSongBook is so versatile as a travelling music system for the iPod that it has a universal docking station that will perfectly fit all current iPod models, regardless of size."
The iSongBook has also been given a white and silver faceplate to match the iPod's sleek design.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:34 AM
November 09, 2005
Heads up for new iPod headset
If you are looking for the ultimate in hands-and-wire-free iPod Nano usability then the latest mTune-N stereo headset from Mcally is sure to appeal.
The mTune features a tailor-made "dock" for the ultra-small iPod Nano to slot into just above the left earpiece.
The slot is designed to ensure that the control pad and screen are left exposed, however, so users may adjust the track or volume without removing the device from its position.
In addition to this, the headset may be connected to other audio sources through a stereo mini-jack incorporated into the right earpiece.
The streamlined and hassle-free headset is also available for use with an iPod Shuffle.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 02:31 PM
A bit of culture through your iPod
A content company is planning to offer pay-per-view theatre productions over the internet for viewing on computers and iPods.
UK Theatre Network (UKTN) wants to allow PC, Mac and video iPod users to download video of a variety of shows. Users will be able to see an advert and read reviews for the show at the company's website, before paying for the full length video.
The company says that whilst theatre audiences continue to decline, PPV would open the medium to millions around the world, contributing much needed cash to maintain embittered theatres.
"For the first time, theatres will have the ability to reach out from the physical limitations of the auditorium - and tap into a global audience," said Douglas MacFarlane, founder of UKTN.
"While nothing can ever replace the thrill of live, up close, in-the-flesh theatre; this is the first time that an alternative has ever been provided - giving theatre-lovers the opportunity - and the means - to enjoy their passion any place, any time."
UKTN will first offer its services to smaller independent productions, before approaching larger West End theatres.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:31 AM
November 08, 2005
PC users switch for iPod
Users of personal computers are switching over to Apple models in order to take full advantage of their iPods.
An analyst from Needham & Co, Charles Wolf, said that more than one million people have switched to Mac PCs during the first three quarters of 2005.
According to Mr Wolf: "The 'halo effect' is clearly alive and well", as the popularity of new innovations in iPod models and iPod accessories inspire PC users to utilise Apple hardware.
He said: "With the introductions of the nano and video iPod, Apple has left its competitors in the dust."
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:35 AM
Exclusive preview of designer iPod accessories
Digital lifestyle accessory firm Kiwali has announced the preview of a new range of nanoDeco Fashion Faceplates for the Apple iPod nano.
The unique range of iPod accessories is intended to enhance and improve the stylistic appearance of the iPod nano, while also helping to protect against scratches and daily wear and tear.
The nanoDeco consists of two "faceplates" for the front and reverse of the iPod nano, affixed using an easy-to-remove adhesive.
Director of marketing for Kiwali, Paul Lee, said: "The nanoDeco is a natural follow-up to our exciting ShuffleDeco collection.
"We have a totally new set of very hip and sophisticated designs that will allow users to personalise the look of their iPod nanos."
The range will be widely available from December.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:01 AM
November 07, 2005
Make your own iPod iBling
If you thought bling was dead, think again. Just because Sienna Miller has made it fashionable to dress like a charity shop reject, doesn't mean all of us are into "boho chic".
So if you're into good old fashioned showing off (which, lets face it, you probably are if you bought an iPod instead of some non-descript MP3 player for one-tenth of the price), check out the iBling from Xtreme Mac.
This make-your-own iPod case kit features 750 sparkly adds-on (could be glass or could be gems, the jury is still out) in pink, turquoise, purple and clear.
Then, you can use non-toxic glue, a quaint little application tool and as much imagination as you can muster to create the iPod case of your dreams.
The iBling iPod case kit is out now from Xtreme Mac.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:09 AM
Fluff and iPod stuff
Introducing, dear iPod users, the Fluffer: the world's very first iPod faux fur coat.
Well, okay, it's not just a fur coat. It's more of an iPod case made from fake fur.
It consists of three elements – the faux fur outer case, the smooth satin lining and the fetching white leather boots.
It's comfortable, furry and guaranteed to keep your iPod warm and scratch-free in the forthcoming winter months.
"We wanted to bring serious softness, personality, and character to our first really fun consumer product," said Scott Lopatin, creator of Fluffpod, "all while safely protecting your iPod cuddled snugly inside Fluffer."
So if you want to get tongues wagging while protecting your iPod, check out the Fluffer from FluffPod
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:01 AM
November 04, 2005
Pod porn hits the net
Well, it was only a matter of time but someone has finally found a way to connect two of this century's biggest cultural icons – the iPod and pornography.
According to Reuters, a new subscription-only search engine will offer iPod users the chance to access an array of pornography and other adult-content video files, specifically tailored for iPod video usage.
Guga chief executive Thomas McInerney, said: "We kid ourselves, but in the end it's probably porn that people want."
From this month, Guba will convert video files from Usenet into the iPod-friendly H.264 format.
Reuters reports: "Although Guba offers up a wide variety of video, from the satirical news program 'The Daily Show' to Japanese animation, its 'erotica' section is likely to be the biggest draw."
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:26 AM
Goodbye furry dice, hello CarClip
If you are looking to replace your tired and outdated furry dice/smelly tree car mirror ensemble AND you want a new, hip and handy iPod accessory then check out the CarClip.
"What is it?", I hear you cry, well listen up and I'll tell you. A two-in-one iPod holder and dangly rearview mirror accessory! Amazing!
Designed in Muji-esque transparent Perspex, the CarClip makes it easy for you to choose your iPod music selection while driving.
Currently compatible with the iPod mini and iPod nano, the CarClip will soon be shipping for all 3, 4 and 5G iPod models, allowing all iPod motorists to keep their ears on the music and their eyes on the road.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
November 03, 2005
Where's your head at?
The uSport iPod headband, yes headband, for the iPod shuffle is out now.
Designed to hold your MP3 player in place while you complete a vigorous workout, this iPod headband is made from a delightfully soft cotton and polyester combo.
It also features a handy wire management system to help you do away with all those meddlesome wires and the shuffle is housed in a tough, sweat-proof neoprene case.
It is "the first iPod shuffle headband accessory on the market" – which is no mean feat considering the fact that a new iPod accessory is released every ten minutes - or something.
So if you want to enjoy a fumble-free workout without pulling out your earbuds or having them fall out spontaneously, then check out the uSport iPod shuffle Headband.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:24 AM
Apple to ship 37 million iPod this year
Industry analysts are predicting that Apple will ship a staggering 37 million iPods by the end of this year.
Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray told leading US finance magazine Forbes: "We expect the iPod to continue to be a foundation for growth in other parts of Apple's business, and we expect that by the end of calendar 2005 more than 37 million iPods will have shipped, providing Apple with a greater scope of awareness for various products ('halo' effect)."
He added: "Indirectly, we expect the iPod to continue to be a foundation for growth in other parts of Apple's business."
Mr Munster cited the record sale of 1.23 Apple Macs in the September quarter as evidence of this trend.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:23 AM
November 02, 2005
PodFit and you know it
The PodFitKit, an iPod accessory with one of the best names yet, is out now from inSight Concepts.
Snappy name aside, this is quite a handy product. For it turns the standard Apple iPod earbuds into custom-fit earphones.
According to the company press release: "Everyone loves Apple's iPod, right? But what about those earbuds? They're uncomfortable. They fall out easily. And the sound you experience changes depending on how the earbuds happen to fit at the moment."
"PodFitKit solves these issues, and more. PodFitKit is the ultimate iPod accessory!"
It consists of a "unique, mouldable silicone material that, when fitted properly, becomes integrated with the iPod's earbuds."
So if you want great audio and a comfortable custom fit for your iPod earbuds, check out the PodFitKit from inSight Concepts.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
Splish-iSplash
We all love singing in the shower, but the lack of bathroom-friendly iPod speakers has been a bit of a damper on the world's bathtime fun.
No more. US company ZipConnect is releasing the iSplash – a splash-proof speaker system that will allow users to wirelessly transmit their favourite iPod songs to blare out in the bathroom.
It features a rotating speaker handle so that users can hang the sound system from their shower rail or shower head, much like a bottle of shower gel.
And the 900MHz dual-frequency PPL transmitter relays audio from your iPod, or indeed any MP3 player, to as many as four additional speakers up to 150 feet.
The iSplash splash-proof iPod speaker is shipping now from ZipConnect.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:53 AM
November 01, 2005
Get up, HandStand up!
Keep your iPod safe and warm like a new baby born this winter, with the iSnug from HandStands.
This popular hard-shell iPod case, described as "the ultimate in iPod protection", is now available for the iPod nano.
It comes with an EVA foam cut-out, belt-loop and a mesh pocket for iPod headphones and wires.
It also features a leather iPod skin, lanyard, micro-fibre cloth and a clear protective film for your nano screen.
Small and versatile, this iPod case will keep your iPod nano as bug as a rug in an iSnug. Or something like that.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:06 AM
One million iTunes videos sold in 20 days
Apple has managed to sell over one million video clips since the launch of the iPod video less than three weeks ago.
According to MacWorld News, the iTunes Music Store has shifted more than one million videos since it began selling them on October 12th.
There are currently more than 2,000 music video clips, animated shorts and hit TV shows on sale at iTunes and Apple CEO Steve Jobs is pleased with its success.
"Selling one million videos in less than 20 days suggests there is a market for legal video downloads," he said.
"Over next challenge is to broaden out content offerings, do that customers can enjoy watching more videos on their computers and new iPods."
Music videos are available from artists such as Coldplay, Madonna and Eurythmics, while the top downloads are said to come from Kayne West, Michael Jackson and Fatboy Slim.
(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:05 AM