November 2006 Archives
« October 2006 | Main | December 2006 »
November 30, 2006
Waterproof iPod Nano case for watersports fans
H2O and Otterbox have created an iPod case ideal for those who often get caught in the rain, or for those who enjoy watersports.
The interactive Otterbox for iPod Nano second generation has an interactive Click Wheel membrane, allowing users to scroll through and choose their favourite tunes while protecting the device with an airtight seal.
A drop-proof design also guards against other damages.
Kristian Rauhala, chief executive officer of H2O Audio, told Digital Trends: "H2O Audio is the first company to come forward with a truly waterproof solution for the second generation nanos and we are delighted to offer it along side our popular waterproof first generation housing to keep Nanos dry and in the thick of the action this winter."
The case is usable with any style headphone, but for true waterproof status, iPod users can purchase waterproof headphones online.
Easy carrying is also aided by a removable neck lanyard and belt clip, with optional armbands for added convenience.
The case fits two, four and eight-gigabyte models of the iPod Nano second generation.
It retails at $79.95 (£41).
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:58 AM
November 29, 2006
Website launches iPod competition
Onemillionpages website is offering a four-gigabyte iPod Nano to the first reader who finds the hidden iPod image within its pages.
The website contains facts, trivia, sudokus and anagrams, as well as complex treasure hunts, with the average visitor reading 200 pages.
Co-creator, Jacob Jenne, stated that the competition is "not your average contest"
"We're really excited about the attention our site is getting," he added.
According to the group, the scope of the website means that it would take a visitor almost seven weeks to see all the material, based on reading one page per second for 40 hours per week.
The winning page in the last contest was 800,102, with the prize going to Bobby from Ontario in Canada.
To be directed to any page, the visitor must type the number into the search box.
Readers can also add their own messages to the site's pages while attempting the various puzzles.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:56 AM
November 28, 2006
WaterField designs new iPod cases
WaterField Designs is offering a new style of case for the iPod Nano, available in a variety of colours.
The iPod cases can be purchased in the taxi colour scheme – black and yellow checkerboard – as well as in blue, celeste (light green), lead and red checkers.
Indium nylon fabric, which is a plastic-based thread, gives the case durability while having a "pleasant-looking and unique" finish, according to Gizmodo.
The interior of the case has a neoprene, no-scratch lining.
Headphones can be tidily stored away into a black elastic loop stitched on to one side of the case, while openings at the head of the case enable the user to insert headphones or a charger, keeping the iPod Nano in its case.
The WaterField case costs $22 (£11.30) and a bigger version of the same design is available at $29 (£15) for the iPod Video.
WaterField also has a selection of cases for iPod speakers, iPod accessories, cameras, glasses PSPs, keyboards and computers.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
November 27, 2006
iPod-users wake up to the Luna
Consumers will soon be able to wake up to their iPod music, with the launch of XtremeMac's Luna dual alarm clock and audio system.
The Luna – which costs $150 (£77.50) – is compatible with dock-connecting iPods and is equipped with a modern white and black digital clock face displaying the current time, date and dual alarm details.
While changing settings, it switches to an iPod -like menu interface.
Bass, treble, radio tuning and volume can all be adjusted using an 18-button remote control or the four dials on the top of the unit.
The controls also enable the user to customise alarm volume, duration, display brightness and snooze time.
XtremeMac said: "Once you hear Luna's exceptional sound, you'll want to use it for more than just sleeping and waking.
"Luna's newly-developed, precision speakers deliver stunning clarity and powerful sound any time of day."
It added that the compact design means that the device fits into any room.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:46 AM
November 24, 2006
Ofcom closes iTrip law loophole
Telecommunications regulator Ofcom is set to legalise the use of FM transmitters in the UK, permitting iPod owners to broadcast the stored music to a nearby radio.
Until now, accessories such as the Griffin iTrip have been available to buy in stores such as PC World, but a loophole in the law meant that it was illegal to use them without a broadcasting licence.
The law will now be changed on December 8th, due to lobbying from groups such as Griffin and Belkin since 2003, as well as consumer demand.
"It's a fact of life that the wheels of broadcasting law turn so slowly, but we are overjoyed that our efforts have finally borne fruit," said Steve Hawkins, managing director of Griffin distributor AM Micro.
All legal FM transmitters will carry a CE mark, ensuring that they comply with the standards.
The iTrip enables car users to listen to their iPod music through the existing car stereo.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:56 AM
November 23, 2006
Department stores capitalise on iPod
Department stores worldwide are cashing in on the iPod this year, to boost their Christmas sales.
J C Penney in the US is selling a range of iPod-friendly polyester Kenpo jackets ranging from costs of $109.99 (£57.40) to $179.99 (£94), with fabric iPod control systems woven into the sleeves.
The "made for iPod collection" includes a choice of colours and designs, with a current favourite being the Kenpo for iPod Ski Jacket in yellow with black and white pockets.
In Rinascente department store in Milan, Italy, new iPod listening stations have been launched, with plans to introduce them in other European stores, according to Macworld.
Meanwhile, John Lewis in the UK has a wide computing section, offering all iPod models including the new 30 gigabyte iPod video.
The chain also sells a variety of iPod accessories, including the Bose SoundDock Speaker system, which retails at £249.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:53 AM
November 22, 2006
RhinoSkin offers selection of iPod cases
RhinoSkin has introduced a selection of high-polish finish aluminium cases for the iPod shuffle, available in red, blue, green and pink.
The iPod shuffle Accents have a neoprene lining and retail for $20 (£10.50).
Also available from the group is a range of accessories for all versions of the iPod , including the iPod Nano and the iPod Photo.
For the iPod Video, the group has designed an aluminium hardcase, which is durable but light as a feather and gives easy access to the click wheel while protecting the device.
Meanwhile, the iPod Video Leather Flipcase, which is available in either black or pink and also retails at $34.95 (£18.34), has pockets for credit cards or other ID inside the flipcover.
Other iPod accessories, such as a Universal RhinoClip and Universal Screen Protectors, are also part of the collection.
Cases for the iPod Nano, in white, black, pink, green and blue, are also offered by RhinoSkin at a cost of $29.95 (£15.72), as it states "New iPods need new cases".
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
November 21, 2006
Ixos launches iPod Disco Cube
For iPod users wanting something a little bit different this Christmas, Ixos has launched its iPod Disco Cube.
This fluorescent cube flashes its lights with the beat of the music, allowing the user to charge and synchronise their iPod at the same time.
Bringing back memories of the era of the Rubricks cube and Duran Duran, the Disco Cube could also be ideal for a Christmas party.
The Ixos Disco Cube is compatible with all MP3 players and has a 3.5 mm jack.
It retails at £75 and is available from Debenhams.
Meanwhile, the iPod recently proved useful when 25-year-old Pini Nou of Vancouver, Washington was mushroom-picking and became lost.
Nou used the glow of his iPod Nano as a flashlight to attract his rescuers' attention while speaking to them via mobile telephone, the Seattle Times reported.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
November 20, 2006
Friendly iPulse Bear for iPod kids
An iPod accessory for younger users has been created by Sharper Image Design, in the form of a teddy bear.
Friendly iPulse Bear has a pouch for the music player and an in-built speaker, with a hidden cable connecting to the headphone jack of any iPod or other audio device.
The iPod is activated by squeezing the bear's paw, which also kick-starts the iPulse Led lightshow in green, blue and red.
His eyes also light up in blue and green, pulsing with the music's rhythm, frequency and volume.
Retailing at $39.95 (£21), the Friendly iPulse Bear runs on 4 C batteries or by AC adapter and can be ordered in white or brown.
Also available are the iPulse ZipConnect Speakers which are compatible with any MP3 player, iPod, portable CD or satellite radio and display a similar lightshow in time with the music.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
November 17, 2006
Mint tins produced to disguise iPods
A new case has been developed for the iPod nano and shuffle, to reduce the risk of theft.
The iDisguise has been created in the style of an Altoids mints tin, disguising the product as "something else that is not worth stealing".
Available in Wintergreen or Peppermint Candy, the iDisguise contains a layer of protective soft foam to fit the iPod device.
The company said: "With theft of personal audio players and digital cameras on the rise, iDisguise set out to develop a simple yet effective anti-theft solution: disguise it as something else that is not worth stealing."
To prevent the tins from becoming recognisable to thieves, the group has stated that it will produce a limited number of each and continue to launch new designs.
Costing $11 (£5.80), the iDisguise can be purchased from the group's website.
iDisguise is an independent company, based in Princeton, New Jersey.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:40 AM
November 16, 2006
Hasbro launches range of iPod dancing animals
Hasbro has announced the launch of a new range of dancing animals that promise to love every track on an iPod.
Dubbed i-Animals, this range of creatures includes cats, dogs and fish that react uniquely in relation to the music they find themselves exposed to; each i-Animal contains a LED-based face that pulses with colours that change with the style of the music, reports Ministry of Sound.
"This cool kitty puts on quite a performance as she sinks her claws into your favorite music. This feline is fond of rock, punk, rap, hip-hop, dance, techno and more," Hasbro said of the i-Cat.
Furthermore, each i-Animal comes with an individual unique feature, such as the cat's ability to add scratching and drum effects to iPod tracks.
In order to make your iPod dancing i-Animal more unique, Hasbro has also launched a new range of accessories, which include a range of clothing accessories and an i-Dog bag.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:39 AM
November 15, 2006
Airlines to provide iPod integrated services
Apple has announced that it has agreed deals with a number of leading airlines to provide integrated in-flight iPod entertainment services.
Air France, Continental, Delta, Emirates, KLM and United will deliver in-flight connections which allow passengers to both power their iPods and to view their videos on seat-back screens.
According to Greg Joswiak, vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing at Apple, the new service, which will be launched in 2007, will enhance the in-flight experience for passengers.
"There is no better travelling companion than an iPod and now travellers can power their iPods during flight and even watch their iPod movies and TV shows on the seat-back displays," he says.
United says that it will install iPod connections in the first and business class areas of its aircraft on international flights, while Delta is to equip its flights from New York and Atlanta to the west coast with the technology, complementing its new seat-back entertainment system, reports USA Today.
© Adfero
Posted by ipodworld at 09:58 AM
November 14, 2006
Gizoo reveal 'perfect stocking fillers' for iPod
Gizoo has recommended a variety of iPod products that would fit into a stocking this Christmas.
The iPod USB Retractable Data Cable - retailing at £9.95 - can "easily" transfer music files from your PC to the iPo, while the Main USB Adapter, at £7.95, is compatible with the iPod and other MP3 players.
Meanwhile, the iPod Car Charger (£4.95) can save iPod users from long car journeys without music, in addition to the Car Audio Cassette Adapter, which costs £9.95.
The Tripod MP3 Speaker, a propeller speaker, allows music to be shared "wherever you go".
For a novelty product, the iDog MP3 Speakers would be a fun addition to a stocking.
More expensive than the other iPod accessories, "this music hungry hound" costs £29.95.
The iPod iSnug (£14.95) can be strapped to the arm so that the user can't mislay it, while the iPod Universal Dock with remote and AC adapter (£29.95) has the multi-purpose function of playing music and videos while charging and synchronising the device at the same time.
Net4now gadget website describes the gifts as "great stocking fillers" and "perfect for loved ones and their iPods".
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:38 AM
November 13, 2006
Wireless sync created for iPod
Silex Technology has created a wireless sync for the iPod, enabling users to transfer songs and video wirelessly to the device over an 802.11 gram WiFi network.
The Silex wiDock features 3.5 millimetre and S-Video plugs as well as an audio cable and SVL software, compatible with both Windows and Mac.
Users can also charge the iPod battery and control playback using the Apple remote.
The wiDock includes a 3.5 mm audio output, S-Video output and Ethernet connectivity and can be connected to a regular 10/100 Base-T wired network.
Silex is set to release the wiDock to be retailed this month.
Meanwhile, Vaja has introduced the iVod Silver, an iPod case made from Argentine leather, featuring polished silver sterling accents around the screen and Click Wheel.
The new case can be personalised with text or graphics and ordered with an optional belt clip.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
November 10, 2006
iLuv wireless headphones and ear clips
The gadget group iLuv has introduced a new set of wireless headphones and ear clips, compatible for use with the iPod as well as Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones.
Including a Bluetooth audio transmitter, soft-cushioned ear pads and a mini-USB connection, the iLuv i903 Noise-Cancelling Headphones are retailed at $100 (£53).
The built-in microphone enables users to answer calls as well as making them, via the touch of a button.
Meanwhile, the iLuv i202 Stereo Ear Clips clip directly to the ear, with their folding, swivel design.
Available at a cost of $90 (£47), the clips have integrated remote control functions, including play, pause, skip and volume control, as well as a "dongle-style" Bluetooth audio adapter, according to iLounge website.
The i202 has a continuous music listening time of up to 14 hours and a talk time of 13 hours, in addition to a 200-hour standby time.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
November 09, 2006
iPod Nano Red gets a matching case
Marware has created two new models of its special case for the iPod nano Red.
The Sportsuit Sprinter has a black neoprene body and colour-coordinated red graphics, along with an adjustable hand strap and a Velcro closure.
Its removable mini-clip is compatible with Marware's Multidapt interchangeable clip system.
The Sport Grip has been created in translucent red and is coordinated to match the Nano, while offering an easy-grip exterior.
This model has a "silky texture" and has a tapered edge which allows easy access to the iPod Nano click wheel.
Marware's Sportsuit Sprinter Red Special Edition costs $25 (£13), with the Sport Grip retailing at $10 (£5.24).
The iPod Nano Red has been developed in support of the Global Fund to Fight Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria, a campaign initiated by U2 singer Bono and philanthropist Bobby Shriver.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
November 08, 2006
DVDs and iPod combine with new iSymphony system
DVDs can now be played on the same system as the iPod, with the launch of iSymphony's DVD Music Micro System.
The 50-watt stereo supports iPod music and Windows Media playback through an in-built universal dock and has auxiliary input for the iPod shuffle and generic music players.
It also has a 99-track programme memory, a clock radio function, card slots for SD, MMC and Memory Stick, removable dock adapters to fit all docking iPods and a 50-key remote control.
Being USB compatible, the device can also play music from USB flash memory devices including the iPod shuffle.
In addition to this, the iSymphony M2 dock allows the iPod to charge while the music plays.
The DVD player can display films in all conventional formats as well as DivX, Mpeg-4 and VCD movie files, while the DVD drive serves as an MP3 and WMA-capable CD player.
M2 ships from Sam's Club and other retailers, costing $200 (£105).
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:50 AM
November 07, 2006
Consumers urged to buy iPods online
Christmas shoppers are being urged to buy their presents online, as research showed that electrical items such as the iPod range could be cheaper when bought from retail websites.
The four-gigabyte iPod Nano could be purchased at a price £49 less at the website getflashing.com than at the cheapest high-street store, according to Which? consumer group.
Less expensive MP3 models tended to cost £20 less online, the study found, while savings could also be made on DVD recorders, photo printers and digital cameras.
Which? Online Editor Malcolm Coles said: "Shopping online, with no queues, no crowds and unlimited opening hours, is a gift for those of us who dread the thought of fighting for Christmas presents on the high street.
"It's often cheaper, too - especially for MP3 players and digital cameras, which are both bound to be popular gifts this Christmas."
However, he added that consumers should use price comparison websites before buying goods as better deals could be found on the high street for products such as televisions and some DVD players.
In the meantime, Interactive Multimedia in Retail Group has estimated that £7 billion will be spent online by shoppers in the ten-week run-up to Christmas.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
November 06, 2006
Apple adds 8GB iPod nano Red to charity scheme
Apple has added a second iPod nano model to its Red Special Edition option, in support of the Global Fund against HIV/Aids in Africa.
The group will contribute $10 (£5.27) from the sale of each new eight-gigabyte iPod nano Red - purchased from Apple retail and online stores - to the cause, which was created by U2 singer Bono and Bobby Shriver with the support of UN secretary general Kofi Annan.
Motorola and The Gap are also participating in the scheme.
Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of Worldwide iPod Product Marketing, said: "Customer response to the iPod nano Red Special Edition has been off the charts.
"We're thrilled to add a second model with eight gigabytes of capacity, enough for 2,000 songs, so customers have yet another choice in supporting this important cause."
The new iPod nano Red is available for $249 (£131), while the current four-gigabyte model retails at $199 (£105).
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
November 03, 2006
iPod Buyers' guide released by iLounge
The 2007 iPod Buyers' Guide has been published online by iLounge, complete with iPod buyers' tips, the iLounge best of the year awards and exclusive reviews of new iPod accessories.
It also includes photographs of how the iPod can be integrated into any room of the home, as well as the history of the iPod.
Among the winners of the awards is Belkin, which received "iPod accessory of the year" from iLounge for its wide range of devices, from FM transmitters to Bluetooth receivers.
Gavin Downey, director of product management at Belkin Mobility, said: "Our products are extensions of our passions - SportComman was developed by avid snowboarders, TuneTalk Stereo by people in garage bands and TuneDeck by drivers who do not like wires.
"What we make is a reflection of what’s possible when end users create products."
Jeremy Horwitz, editor-in-chief at iLounge, added that the group is impressed by the way Belkin "goes out of its way" to give customers good product performance and compatibility.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:46 AM
November 02, 2006
Apple launches iTunes Latino
Apple yesterday announced the launch of iTunes Latino, an area dedicated to Latin music, music videos, television shows, audiobooks and podcasts which can be downloaded on to the iPod.
Offering exclusive iTunes tracks, the Latino store includes many categories, including Regional Mexicano, Rock Alternativo, Baladas y Boleros, Pop Latino, Reggaeton and Hip-Hop.
Eddy Cue, vice-president of iTunes, said: "We're thrilled to offer customers their favourite Latin music and video programming with iTunes Latino.
"Latin music has been a huge hit on iTunes and now we're bringing music fans even more of what they love in a dedicated area on the iTunes Store."
iTunes Latino features artists such as David Bisbal, Daddy Yankee, Juanes and Luis Fonsi, offering exclusives, albums, EPs and tracks.
Celebrity Playlists from Sergio Mendes, Julieta Venegas and Alejandra Guzman are also available for downloading to the iPod, in addition to hit TV shows from Telemundo.
Songs downloaded from iTunes Latino cost $0.99 (£0.52), while TV shows are priced at $1.99 (£1.04).
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
November 01, 2006
Apple to release "the world's smallest" digital player
Apple is set to release "the world's smallest digital music player" on to our shelves this Friday, November 3rd.
"Matchbox-size" at around half the measurement of the orginal, the new iPod Shuffle is 1.62 inches long and weighs 14 grams.
Containing one gigabyte of flash memory, the device can hold up to 240 songs with a 12 hour battery time.
Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing, said: "The new iPod Shuffle completes our all-new lineup of iPods for this holiday season and beyond – and we hope it's going to be a huge hit."
Users can listen to the songs either in random order or in the order they determined on their computer, although there is no display to show which track is playing.
The new iPod Shuffle retails at £55 in the UK and includes optional free laser engraving.
It is compatible with both PC and Mac with a USB 2 port.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM