April 2007 Archives
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April 30, 2007
Presidential candidates favour the iPod
Presidential candidates including Hilary Rodham Clinton, John Edwards and Biden have stated that the iPod is their favourite electronic device in a recent survey.
Research conducted by the Associated Press has revealed the candidates' likes, dislikes, first jobs and pets.
John McCain has 22 pets, including two turtles, while Chris Dodd's favourite online portal is howstuffworks.com, a website which explains the fundamentals of everything from noise-cancelling headphones to spontaneous human combustion.
If they weren't working in politics, the candidates would have a variety of alternative ambitions.
Bass-playing Mike Huckabee would try to gain recognition with his rock band, Capitol Offense, in contrast to Mitt Romney who would follow his father's footsteps into the motor industry, working for Jeep-maker American Motors.
Rudy Giulani fancies a job as a commentator at Yankee Stadium and Bill Richardson dreams of playing on the pitch as centre-field.
As well as being favoured by the rich and famous, the iPod has been suggested as a tool for helping people keep fit, as users can download Yoga sessions and appropriate music to their iPod s from Yogadownload.com.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:18 AM
April 27, 2007
Topeka jobs search downloadable for iPod
New iPod users in Topeka, Kansas will be able to use their device for job-hunting as well as its usual repertoire of functions, with the help of the new City of Topeka folder in Notes.
The new feature, which can be downloaded to iPod s via the City of Topeka website, Topeka.org, also enables the user to search for jobs offline.
Each story takes up around 3,000 kilobytes.
To use the function, the job-hunter must go to the main menu, select Extras, then Notes and City of Topeka.
The information can be navigated by using the scroll wheel and click button.
However, only those with the newest iPods can use the service, as a Notes feature is needed to activate it.
In the meantime, Apple has posted $5.26 billion (£2.64 billion) in quarterly revenues, driven by an increase in Macintosh and iPod sales.
Some 10.5 million iPod units were sold over the past year, showing 24 per cent growth.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
April 26, 2007
Reward scheme launched for iPod customers
A reward scheme has been introduced by Macintosh and iPod accessory retailer TheGadgetLocker, giving customers cash back on items they have purchased.
Those who register with the GadgetVault VIP Reward Points programme will accumulate one reward point for every dollar spent at the e-retailer, with each point worth $0.5 (£0.25).
Customers can then use the reward points they have gained towards any subsequent purchase.
Joe Ryan, founder and president of the GadgetVault VIP Reward Points programme, said: "In the airline industry, frequent flier mile programmes have always been hugely valuable to customers.
"And we're happy to bring this very successful concept to TheGadgetLocker customers around the world in the form of the GadgetVault VIP Reward Points programme."
Members of the programme receive exclusive invitations to private sales and events hosted by TheGadgetLocker, while also creating product wishlists, writing product reviews and receiving exclusive discount coupons.
In the meantime, shares of Apple Inc have exceeded the $100 mark for the first time, helped by the board of directors' vote of confidence in its chief executive officer Steve Jobs.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
April 25, 2007
Laser engraving for iPods
iPod owners looking for a more personalised touch can literally make their mark on their mp3 players, with unique laser engraving available.
It's not unusual for personal messages to be engraved on to watches, pendants and the like, but now 21st century music lovers can extend the practice onto their iPods, in a free service running until May 13th.
Designed to offer a unique, personalised gift solution the engraved iPod can feature anything you want to say, up to 23 characters across two lines, according to Uber-Review. Engraved on the back of the player with lasers, the message promises to add a personal touch to the ubiquitous media player.
Between October 2004 and April 2005 free, custom laser engraving was available for the 20 and 40GB iPods, iPod mini and iPod photo.
Though iPod owners have the freedom to have any message of their choice engraved on to their players, some more controversial offerings have been rejected in the past.
Highlights include 'When my battery dies, so will you', '10,000 Stolen Tunes Inside' and 'This iPod will self destruct in 1 year', according to Method Shop.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:16 AM
April 24, 2007
Bluetooth accessories launched by iSkin
Bluetooth accessories are being added to the iPod's repertoire by iSkin, as it launches three simple new stereo audio accessories.
The Cerulean wireless products have been described by Broadcast Newsroom as "easy to use, sleek and powerful".
While the Cerulean TX connects to the iPod or to a computer, enhancing it with streaming capabilities, the Cerulean RX docks with iPod speakers, adding audio functionality.
The speakers automatically locate TX-equipped iPod s or computers, requiring no complicated setup or additional software.
Meanwhile, the Cerulean F1 combines a stereo Bluetooth earphone and a mono mobile headset and can be connected to a TX-equipped iPod and a Bluetooth-supported mobile phone.
Tomas Rojcik, spokesperson for iSkin, said: "Cerulean TX, RX and F1 bring the advantages of stereo Bluetooth functionality to the iPod and computing platform.
"Like the iPod, TX, RX and F1 are easy to use and demonstrate iSkin's commitment to innovation."
The TX and RX cost $149.99 (£75) together, while the F1 retails at $129.99.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:10 AM
Bluetooth accessories launched by iSkin
Bluetooth accessories are being added to the iPod's repertoire by iSkin, as it launches three simple new stereo audio accessories.
The Cerulean wireless products have been described by Broadcast Newsroom as "easy to use, sleek and powerful".
While the Cerulean TX connects to the iPod or to a computer, enhancing it with streaming capabilities, the Cerulean RX docks with iPod speakers, adding audio functionality.
The speakers automatically locate TX-equipped iPods or computers, requiring no complicated setup or additional software.
Meanwhile, the Cerulean F1 combines a stereo Bluetooth earphone and a mono mobile headset and can be connected to a TX-equipped iPod and a Bluetooth-supported mobile phone.
Tomas Rojcik, spokesperson for iSkin, said: "Cerulean TX, RX and F1 bring the advantages of stereo Bluetooth functionality to the iPod and computing platform.
"Like the iPod, TX, RX and F1 are easy to use and demonstrate iSkin's commitment to innovation."
The TX and RX cost $149.99 (£75) together, while the F1 retails at $129.99.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:10 AM
April 23, 2007
LifeTips to guide the iPod user
An advice portal for mp3 player users has been launched by LifeTips, to guide them through the process of buying and using the iPod and other mp3 brands.
LifeTips.com answers questions including what size memory the user should aim for, as well as "demystifying" the processes of downloading and file-sharing.
Byron White, president of the group, said: "Before selecting the memory size you want for your mp3 player, it makes sense to take a few minutes and decide how you plan to use your player.
He added that those who use their iPod or other mp3 player only for working out should consider a less expensive 256-megabyte device which can hold up to four hours of music.
The group claims that its 500 expert writers are "so great, they're gurus".
Other topics offered by LifeTips include entertainment and fitness, family, food and drink, business, education, careers, training, green living, sports, travel and money.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
April 20, 2007
Vertical stereo features iPod dock
A new audio stereo system has been launched, with an integrated iPod dock.
The i9200 vertical audio system from iLuv features four vertical CD bays with sliding doors, alongside a dual band radio and an mp3 facility.
It also includes a clock and an alarm function.
The unit and speakers can be wall-mounted or attached to the detachable stands, while the speakers can be positioned separately.
A remote control is supplied to activate all functions of the unit.
Macworld said: "The central display on the i9200 completes the symmetrical design and shows a number of functions including clock settings, CD playback, radio station selection and iPod playback."
The i9200 is available in a choice of black and white.
It retails at $249.95 (£125).
In the meantime, the iLoad has been launched, enabling users to stream music to the iPod without powering up the computer.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
April 19, 2007
Apple to bring iQuiz to iPod
Apple is set to bring a new game to iPod users, visitors to the French iTunes Store have noted.
Its iQuiz game was available on the website for a limited time and expanded on the basic Music Quiz programme included with the fifth-generation iPod and iPod nano.
The description reads: "Test your entertainment knowledge with iQuiz, a timed question-and-answer game for your iPod.
"Test your knowledge of the songs, artists and albums present on your iPod and take on the challenges of questions about movies, music and television."
Meanwhile, the iTunes Store launched an album sale on Wednesday, offering nearly 100 classic albums for $7.99 each, including those of U2, Nirvana, Mary J Blige, Smashing Pumpkins, Oasis and the Police.
Older albums from Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis and Bob Dylan were also available.
The store sells Audiobooks, free Podcasts and iPod Games as well as music.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:44 AM
April 18, 2007
Maths competition gives kids the chance to win iPod
Children in the US are being invited to participate in an online maths competition to win a selection of gadgets, including an iPod .
In celebration of National Math Awareness Month, Raytheon is urging middle school students across the country to take part in the Math Match, which will challenge students to answer real-world maths questions in an online contest.
The top performers will be offered an HP Pavilion laptop, a Kodak EasyShare digital camera or a 30-gigabyte iPod .
In addition, the school with the most participants will be awarded a Staples gift certificate valued at $500 (£249).
The competition began yesterday, April 17th, with entrants logging on to Raytheon's MathMovesU website.
Mathematics Awareness Month was first held in 1986 and now takes place each year in April, with the aim of teaching the public to understand and appreciate maths.
In the meantime, the Sheridan school district in Arkansas is set to launch iPod and WiFi-enabled buses in the area, engadget reports.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
April 17, 2007
Jobs earns salary of $1
The chief executive of Apple, Steve Jobs, earns a salary of just $1 (£0.50) per year, it has been reported.
According to documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the creator of the iPod has opted for a token paycheck, although he owns more than $5.4 million in restricted shares received from the company in 2003.
He was also reimbursed $202,000 for his private plane expenses and holds 120,000 stock options, the Associated Press reports.
Meanwhile, gadget producers continue to create new iPod accessories, such as the new-look version of Keyspan's TuneView for iPod remote.
Keyspan president Mike Ridenhour said: "Customers have told us that they love TuneView's ability to browse and manage an iPod throughout their house.
"However, many customers have said that they would favour a different look for the remote."
The remote, first created in December 2006, features a colour LCD screen and a two-way RF connectivity that works through walls and at distances of up to 100 feet.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
April 16, 2007
Razer creates keyboard with iPod dock
Razer has created a new white keyboard complete with an iPod dock.
The ProType, part of the ProSolutions range, has programmable keys on the left and right and a Razer logo on the wrist rest, all of which have a blue blacklight.
Its dock adds support for third-generation iPod users upwards, while fourth-generation users can insert an adapter.
The keyboard has two USB plugs, one for the keyboard and one for the dock, which can also charge the iPod when it is plugged in.
A dedicated button to launch iTunes is also featured.
Trusted Reviews said: "Initial impressions of the keyboard are certainly favourable."
Amazon is offering the device for $129.99 (£65).
Meanwhile, Gizmodo said that the "convenient yet pricey concept" would tidy up the desktop by removing some of the wires.
Another version of the keyboard may be produced which would accommodate the Microsoft Zune, the group reported.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:17 AM
April 13, 2007
Logic3 launches wake-up device for iPod
Logic3 has launched an iPod product that will stop its user from sleeping in.
The i-Station IS10 is an all-in-one 2.1 stereo alarm clock radio and docking station, available in either black or white.
Options for the wake-up call include a traditional buzzer, an AM/FM radio or a song from the iPod playlist.
An added feature enables the user to set the alarm for two different times, if his or her partner gets up later.
The LCD screen can be dimmed, so as not to disturb the sleeper during the night and the device can be powered by its built-in battery or by electricity.
Available from May, the Logic3 i-Station IS10 for iPod will retail at £70.
Meanwhile, the TuneView dock and remote control combination has been launched, offering video output and a full-service remote control as well as a colour LCD screen and access to iPod-based videos.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:50 AM
April 12, 2007
Open Mind provides training resources via iPod
Open Mind e-learning provider is offering guidance and advice to organisations regarding training resources that can be used via the iPod and mobile phone, as well as online and by CD-Rom.
The group is helping trainers to find the right e-learning solutions for their company's needs.
Alun Harvey, Open Mind's managing director, said: "We start by asking trainers two key questions: 'What do you want your e-learning to achieve?' and 'What do your staff need to learn?'
"We can then work with the trainers and their IT department to assess their technology, identify suitable courses and recommend the best delivery methods and management system for their needs."
Some 300 generic courses can currently be downloaded to the iPod, covering issues such as management skills, health and safety, workplace legislation, diversity, stress, IT skills and languages.
Authoring tools and learning management systems are also available for trainers to create their own courses.
Meanwhile, the 100 millionth iPod has been sold, with Apple topping the mp3 category in the US Top Selling Computer Hardware for February 2007 report.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:58 AM
April 11, 2007
Louie Austen iPod favourites revealed
Louie Austen has revealed the six favourite tracks he listens to on his iPod .
In an interview with the Metro, the artist said that tracks by solo male vocalists such as Frank Sinatra and Barry White made the selection on his iPod .
Additionally, Pink Floyd's Welcome to the Machine featured on his list of favourite tracks, a tune which he praises for its use of cash machine sounds.
Igor Stravinsky's The Firebird also took pride of place on Mr Austen's track list.
"This is the most brilliant composition I've ever heard," he remarked. "It's so touching and gives me such a kick."
Other songs which featured on his collection of iPod favourites were Mario Lanza's Be My Love and Milky Way, by Weather Report.
iPod fans may soon be able to access all of their favourite tracks by any artist on their Apple mobile phone, as the iPhone's launch is imminent throughout Europe.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:51 AM
April 10, 2007
Apple sells 100 millionth iPod
Apple has sold 100 million iPods , the computer firm said last night.
In the five-and-a-half years since the digital music player was launched, Apple has seen solid demand.
Despite competition from rival MP3 players and the launch of mobile phones that can be used to download, store and play music, the iPod remains the dominant product in the market.
Apple has held on to its customer base by regularly updating its flagship device, improving capacity and launching the iPod nano, the iPod Video and the next generation iPod Shuffle.
"At this historic milestone, we want to thank music lovers everywhere for making iPod such an incredible success," said Apple chief executive Steve Jobs.
"iPod has helped millions of people around the world rekindle their passion for music, and we're thrilled to be a part of that."
iPod users can buy music from Apple's online store, iTunes, which has sold 1.5 billion songs since its launch.
As well as music, customers can also use iTunes 7 to download video clips, television shows and films.
The site currently sells more than one million videos every week.
Posted by ipodworld at 11:31 AM
April 05, 2007
Kensington flat-panel speakers launched
Kensington has released a set of flat-panel iPod speakers, which also incorporates an FM radio.
The SX 3000R is based around NXT's patented Distributed Mode Loudspeaker (DML) which offers a room-filling sound but "requires less space than traditional cone drivers", according to the Tech Lounge.
With dimensions of 16-inches by four by seven, the iPod speaker unit is sold complete with a trailing FM antenna, wireless remote, an A/C power supply and a user's guide.
The "glossy black plastic" speaker is covered with a honeycomb mesh and has controls for altering the volume.
A power status LED and an IR sensor can also be seen.
Meanwhile, the iPod can be placed in the dock on top of the unit.
The wireless remote features buttons for volume control, seek/skip and play/pause/power.
Superwarehouse said: "The Kensington SX 3000R Speakers with FM Radio for iPod give you a full, rich sound from the sleek flat panel speaker.
"An iPod docking station charges your player, whether it's on or off, so you're always powered up for a long flight, road trip or for the morning commute."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
April 04, 2007
Long Blondes singer reveals favourite iPod tunes
Kate Jackson, the lead singer of indie group the Long Blondes, has revealed that her favourite album to listen to on her iPod is Neil Young's On the Beach.
She also told the Independent that the first record she bought was the Bangles' Manic Monday when she was six.
Meanwhile, Ms Jackson's favourite record is Suede by Suede.
She stated: "It changed my perceptions of music.
"As a teenager I was into rock and punk, but Suede had an element of romance, fantasy and glamour that I craved."
The singer told Independent readers that the one thing that must change in the music industry is the reaction to women in bands, as this is still seen as a "novelty".
If she could choose to perform with someone else, it would be Jarvis Cocker or the Gossip's Beth Ditto.
The Long Blondes' album Someone to Drive Me Home is currently available on Rough Trade and the group is set to tour European festivals including the SnowBombing Festival in Austria and Hove Festival in Norway.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:53 AM
April 03, 2007
EMI and Apple sign "ground-breaking" iTunes agreement
A "ground-breaking" agreement signed between EMI and Apple means that consumers will be able to download tracks from iTunes without the restrictive DRM software.
From next month, songs by bands such as Gorillaz and Coldplay can be downloaded without the anti-piracy software which previously stopped people from making copies or playing them on mp3 players other than the iPod , the Metro reports.
Over half of the songs on iTunes will be available in this format by the end of the year, according to Apple chief executive Steve Jobs.
The downloads will be "virtually indistinguishable" from their original recordings, as the quality of the tracks is increased.
Eric Nicoli, EMI chief executive, said: "We believe that offering consumers the opportunity to buy higher quality tracks and listen to them on the device or platform of their choice will boost sales of digital music."
He added that the goal is to give consumers "the best possible digital music experience".
DRM-free updates of songs already purchased can also be bought for 20 pence per iTune.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:06 AM
April 02, 2007
Belkin launches iPod accessories for grommet holes
Belkin has made use of the grommet holes found in most office desks, with the launch of its In-Desk USB hubs and In-Desk Dock iPod accessories.
The group has created two varieties of hubs, including the In-Desk USB Hub and the Front-Access In-Desk USB Hub.
While the three-inch In-Desk USB Hub has flat ports for easy access, the latter is angled.
Meanwhile, the In-Desk Dock can hold any iPod in place with the bottom dock adapter.
The user can charge his or her iPod
while playing the music and the product includes a stereo in-and-out jack for private listening.
Apple Blog said: "Seems like a pretty smart idea since it reclaims what could easily be wasted space on your desk."
Gizmodo added: "Bravo, Belkin - I would never have thought I would get this excited over USB hubs and iPod docks."
All three accessories will retail at $40 (£20.30) and will be available soon.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:16 AM