September 2007 Archives
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September 28, 2007
PDO unveil new iPhone case
Portable Device Outfitters (PDO) has released details about its new protection casing for Apple's iPhone.
The PDO Topskin, which has been made available to pre-order in the US, has been designed to protect the new mobile phone from general damage through regular usage.
Expected to be shipped from the beginning of October, the silicone Topskin covers buttons including the power and volume switches, but features cut-outs for the device's speakers, microphone and camera.
The new case, which will retail at around $20 (£10) will also feature a rotating belt clip and is expected to be released in black, blue, pink and white designs.
News on the latest accessory available for Apple's iPhone comes after Noreve released their own leather protection case for the device.
The case, which features embossed lining and a handcrafted exterior, is available for about €40 (£28).
Meanwhile, Apple have also released a new software update for the phone which installs a number of new settings onto the device.
The download is available through the iPod manufacturer's iTunes website.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
Gear4 launches iPod Nano 3G cases
Gear4 has launched its new range of cases designed for the 3G model of the iPod Nano.
According to iLounge, the company, which provides iPod accessories including speakers, in-car equipment and Bluetooth devices, have unveiled the range with both an 'urban' and leather design.
The urban case is expected to retail at around £20, while the leather version is predicted to sell at £15. Both versions are set to be available to buy from the middle of October.
There are also plans to release the new range of cases for both the touch and classic models of the iPod.
Gear4 is one of the UK's leading technology and retail companies for iPod accessories. Its BluEye iPod technology won accessory of the year at the MacWorld awards at the end of July.
The device, which retails for around £50, allows a user to receive their mobile phone calls through a bluetooth headphone system connected to their iPod.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:38 AM
September 27, 2007
iPod bicycle speaker launched
MyCyFi has revealed plans to launch a new iPod accessory ideal for people on the move.
iLounge has reported that the CyFi is a speaker designed to sit on the handlebars of a bicycle and wirelessly play a rider's favourite songs on his iPod.
It is also expected that the technology, which includes volume and playlist controls on the speaker, will be able to provide music for up to four riders with the same systems on their cycles.
The device will cost around $150 (£75) and is expected to hit the shops at the beginning of 2008.
MyCiFi's launch of the new travel speaker system comes after Ministry of Sound entered the household market with the launch of its micro system earlier this week.
The MOSMC1319, which features a built-in CD player, USB interface and a charging dock for iPods, has been priced at £87.99 in the UK.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
September 26, 2007
Apple warns against iPhone damage
Apple has advised iPhone users to steer clear of downloadable programs which allow the handset to be used with other telephone service providers.
The iPod manufacturers told Reuters that should users download an unlocking program to allow the iPhone to be used with a service provider other than AT&T, "it will likely result in the modified iPhone becoming permanently inoperable".
AT&T is the only authorised iPhone service provider in the US, while O2 was recently confirmed as the exclusive network for the handset in the UK.
According to Phil Schiller, Apple's head of worldwide product marketing, using an unlocking program such as iUnlock or Anysim will render the iPhone inoperable once the user installs an Apple-supplied software update.
However, a market analyst told Reuters that Apple is probably legally obliged by AT&T to prevent unlocking.
"There is probably wording in their contracts to the effect that they have to make best efforts to remedy software changes that unlock the phone or make it available to other networks" said Van Baker, a Gartner analyst.
Apple chief executive recently cause controversy when, at the launch of the new iPod touch, he confirmed that the price of the iPhone was to be slashed by $200, angering customers who'd purchased the handset at its initial release price.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:46 AM
Ministry of Sound iPod dock launched
Dance fans will want to pick up the latest iPod accessory, released in stores this week.
Legendary nightclub the Ministry of Sound has launched a new iPod dock, called the MOSM139IP.
As well as offering full iPod functionality, the Micro System offers 2 x 10 Watt RMS sound.
Available for £89.99, it's compatible with CD-Rs, CD-RWs and WMAs and also has a 30-track programmable CD deck, including search, pause, repeat, random and intro functions.
The iPod dock also has a radio.
The Ministry of Sound was officially opened in London's Elephant and Castle in 1992 and has expanded in recent years, with franchise clubs opened in Taipei, Singapore and New Delhi.
Also a record label, the Ministry of Sound releases several dance compilations each year and recently bought the Hed Kandi label.
The new Ministry of Sound iPod dock also includes a USB port, allowing connection with other entertainment devices.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:44 AM
September 25, 2007
iPod remixes on the way
A British production duo has pioneered a remix technique designed to sound better on the iPod.
The Boilerhouse Boys said that their "production" remix of Why, the comeback single from UK songstress Gabrielle, was designed "specifically for the way people now listen to music".
Ben Wolff, one half of the duo, told the BBC that as most people now consume music in 2.0 format - on MP3 players like the iPod - higher frequencies in the digital music file needed to be boosted to combat the loss of sound quality found in MP3 files.
He explained that the "production" mix was inspired by some classic hits.
"I put together a playlist of the 50 greatest songs of all time according to Rolling Stone magazine, because I thought that was a good yardstick. You've got to aim high, after all.
"Almost without exception, each of those tracks had incredibly satisfying stereo. Whether it was The Beatles, the Stones, The Clash, or Bruce Springsteen's Born To Run, you could take out one earphone and hear half of what was going on - then you could put in other earphone and hear something completely different. It was thrilling."
Wolff added that production techniques from the Motown era were also instrumental in creating the iPod remix.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:40 AM
September 24, 2007
Timex allows iPod remote control
Fed up of having to reach all the way into your pocket to up the volume on your iPod?
Watchmaker Timex has launched a new product that makes listening to your favourite tracks even easier.
The Timex iControl watch, launched in the UK from October 2007, allows users to skip backwards and forwards within an iPod playlist, as well as adjusting the volume and pausing playback.
The Ironman iControl - the watch's full name - controls iPod functions via a wireless module that plugs into the iPod unit.
Available for £79.99, the iControl also carries out standards sports watch functions, including night light, 50-lap memory, water resistance to 100 metres, three alarms and a chronograph.
According to timex.com, the iControl is compatible with the first and second generation iPod nano and the 30GB, 60GB and 80GB fifth generation iPod video.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
September 21, 2007
iPod touch problems to be combated
Apple has confirmed that problems with defective models of the new iPod touch will be dealt with.
As detailed by the Wall Street Journal's technology correspondent Walt Mossberg, "some early iPod touch units have had defective screens, where images appeared too dark".
The same fault was noted in iLounge's review of the iPod touch, with Jeremy Horwitz writing that a "noticeably downgraded screen exhibits problems such as inverted blacks and dead pixels, which detract from video viewing experience".
While Apple is yet to release an official statement concerning the problematic early models, Mr Mossberg writes that "Apple says this problem affected a small number of units and is being remedied".
Many users will eagerly await the confirmation of an official replacement policy, after several US consumers were angered at being charged a $30 to $40 restocking fee when complaining about the dark screen on the iPod touch.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:32 AM
September 20, 2007
Apple iPhone production to double, says reports
The newly released iPhone product from Apple is predicted to be so popular that the manufacturer is looking to double its production levels, according to reports.
One source familiar with Apple told thestreet.com that Apple is going to increase its manufacturing target for the quarter ending December 31st 2007.
Apple has planned to manufacture 1.54 million iPhones by this date but according to the source "that 1.54 million number is going up".
The company declined to comment on these reports.
This week O2 announced it would be the first UK company to offer a contract on the Apple iPhone.
An Apple statement says the iPhone – which comes to the UK on November 9th – combines three amazing products.
"[These include] a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls and a breakthrough internet communications device with rich HTML email, web browsing, searching and maps. With its sophisticated multi-touch interface and pioneering new software, iPhone completely redefines what you can do on a mobile phone."
Posted by ipodworld at 10:49 AM
September 19, 2007
Third gen iPod nano has 2-inch screen
The newly released third-generation Apple iPod nano has a two-inch display screen - something which has been catching the eye of retailers and bloggers alike.
It is one of the major selling points of the new device and along with the wider, stouter design marks this model out from previous slim iPod nano incarnations, reports PC World.
The third-gen nano still manages to accommodate the signature Apple scroll wheel despite retaining its 0.25-inch thickness.
Leaked photos recently appeared of the latest nano on websites worldwide and it quickly garnered the name "little fatty" among the blogging community, according to Business Week.
A survey for the same magazine by market research firm iSuppli also discovered that he new model has the highest profit margins out of any of the iPod nano series thus far.
The nano has quickly become Apple's most popular member of the iPod product range in the last two years.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:56 AM
September 18, 2007
O2 wins iPhone contract?
Ahead of an official press conference later today (Tuesday September 18th), it is though that O2 has been awarded the exclusive contract for distributing the iPhone in the UK.
Though its UK launch has been somewhat overshadowed by last week's unveiling of the new iPod touch - basically the iPhone without telephone capabilities - mobile operators had fought tooth and nail to win exclusive rights for the handset.
But the deal might not be as lucrative as one would think - one rival operator told the Guardian that the agreement was "madly money-losing".
It is thought that Apple played off the four major phone operators against each other - both Orange and T-Mobile thought they had won the contract at different points - and O2 reportedly "came from behind at the last minute" to seal the deal.
Though it was originally thought that the successful operator would have to hand over 10 per cent of its iPhone revenues to Apple, industry estimates place O2's debt at around 40 per cent.
The terms and length of the contract will be outlined at today's press conference.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:05 AM
Updates for new iPods
Apple has released a new iPod software update to combat problems experienced by users of the new iPod classic and the revamped iPod nano.
Sluggish performance had been noticed in early reviews of both models and Cover Flow was found to be a particular area of concern, with entering and exiting the application, reports Macworld.
Album art was also found to appear at less-that-desirable speeds.
In a more worrying problem, many devices were found to repeatedly reset, erasing a user's custom settings.
In response, Apple has issued iPod Update 1.0.1, with the speed of moving through menus with the Click Wheel greatly improved.
A poster to the Apple message board, calling himself jrcsh6, wrote:
"(I experienced) the skipping which was really just freezes I think. And then the longer freezing. Slow interface and all.
"I got the updated firmware/software 1.0.1 today and all my problems are gone. So far I'm about play with it some to see, but my initial test is that it's the update I was waiting on."
iPod Update 1.0.1 can be downloaded by attaching your iPod to your computer and clicking in the Check For Update button in the iTunes Summary tab.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:01 AM
September 17, 2007
iPod touch to hit iPhone sales?
Despite the fanfare accompanying its release, the iPod touch could have a negative impact for Apple, it has been claimed.
Industry insiders have argued that the upcoming UK release of the iPhone could be overshadowed by the new addition to the iPod line.
Though Apple is to hold a press conference in London tomorrow (Tuesday September 18th) to confirm the British on-sale date for the iPhone, the similarities between the handset and the iPod touch could cause problems.
Ben Wood, a research director with CSS Insight, told the Independent: "I think the… [iPod touch] will have come as a shock to the network operators that have secured exclusive rights to sell the iPhone in Europe. The iPod touch risks dampening demand for the iPhone."
He added: "Users will quickly realise they can purchase the iPod touch and get all the benefits of the iPhone – plus an additional eight gigabits of storage – at the same price, without having to commit to a lengthy contract term."
Peter Erskine, chief executive of O2, one of the major phone companies linked with the iPhone, responded confidently regarding sales prospects for the new handset.
"Anything that creates a little sizzle in that space has to be positive," he commented.
Apple has sold one million iPhone handsets since its US launch in June.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:06 AM
September 14, 2007
New iPod accessories from ezGear
A fresh line of accessories for the iPod classic, third-generation iPod nano and the brand new iPod touch have been confirmed by ezGear.
For the iPod touch, there's the ezSkin Touch, a silicone case similar to the model provided for the iPod Classic.
It will ship in October and includes an integrated screen protector , removable belt clip and pin and removable neck strap, reports iLounge.
For the updated version of the iPod nano, ezGear is offering a Slimline case, available in Onyx Black, Frost White, Ruby Red or Princess Pink.
Fans can also pick up a three-pack of ezSkin Slimlines, with either Onyx, Frost and Princess, or Cool Blue, Ultra-Lime and Ruby Red.
The clearCase Classic for the new game-geared iPod Classic is a clear acrylic case, allowing access to dock port, headphone jack, Click Wheel and hold button.
Also to be unveiled are ezView Leather Cases for all three new additions to the iPod range, all of which include built-in screen protection, removable straps, Velcro latches and protective covers.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
September 13, 2007
Gaming iPod announced
Though its launch was overshadowed by the unveiling of the iPod touch, a new development in the iPod range has illustrated Apple's commitment to diversity.
The new iPod Classic is to feature a screen specially designed for gameplay, allowing Apple a foothold in the highly competitive portable gaming market.
Pre-loaded with the trivia game iQuiz, as well as card puzzle Klondike and testing puzzle Vortex, Apple have desribed the new iPod Classic as "perfect for playing games".
But as well as offfering games traditionally associated with the iPod, users will also be able to visit the iTunes store to download software produced by third-party manufacturers.
Electronic Arts (EA) is already a major Apple partner - having produced seven of the 18 games currently available on iTunes - and has signed up to produce further content, including Sudoku, Tetris and The Sims.
Talking to PC World, James Holloway, EA Mobile's managing directror of emerging platforms, explained the company's willingness to work with Apple.
"I think the games are affordable for most people," he said. "For what people are getting, it's a tremendous value. We're very pleased with what Apple has done and we think our partnership is a really good one."
He continued: "The Click Wheel interface is a good thing. It keeps the gameplay simple and keeps the game mechanics simple.
"We're really good at developing games for devices that weren't originally meant to play games."
Posted by ipodworld at 08:55 AM
September 12, 2007
Philips combines iPod Dock with clock radio
Philips Consumer Electronics are to allow music fans to start their day with the highlights of their iPod.
With the AJ300D clock radio, the technology giant is to make an early start a little less of an ordeal, by combining the old-fashioned FM clock radio with an iPod Dock.
Though it'll also have the traditional features you'd expect from an alarm clock - dual alarm time, buzzer alarm, radio alarm, snooze and sleep timer - it's also compatible with the iPod, meaning that you can jump out of bed to your favourite songs.
Debbie Cromb, head of marketing and communications at Philips Consumer Electronics, explained that the AJ300D was geared at the back-to-school market.
"Philips recognises that September is a tough time for slackers," she said.
"After months of waking up at noon, getting up early can be hard. Philips' clock radio with iPod dock eases the pain. Not only does it let you wake up to your own playlist, it also charges your iPod while you sleep. It multitasks so you don't have to."
The AJ300D also comes with five preset radio buttons, a remote control and wOOx speaker technology.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
September 11, 2007
iPod users warned to turn it down
Having your iPod volume cranked to the max can be irritating enough for fellow Tube passengers, but it could also be extremely damaging for your health, it has been found.
A new survey from the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) has found that over two-thirds of young iPod users in the UK face premature hearing damage, reports Gizmodo.
Of 110 young people surveyed in Manchester, Birmingham and Brighton, 72 were found to be have music pumping through their iPod headphones at over 85 decibels.
Research from the World Health Organisation has found that listening for more than an hour at this level can cause serious damage to hearing.
Brian Lamb, acting chief executive of the RNID, commented: "MP3 player manufacturers have a responsibility to make their customers aware of the dangers by printing clear warnings on packaging and linking volume controls to decibel levels.
"It's easy to crank up the sound levels on your MP3 player to damagingly loud levels, especially on busy streets or public transport," he admitted
"But if people can hear the music from your headphones from just a metre away, you’re putting your hearing at risk."
One in four 18 to 30 year-olds listens to their mp3 player for more than 21 hours per week, the study showed.
Posted by ipodworld at 12:10 PM
$100 refund for iPhone customers
Price cuts are normally good news, but for iPod fans eager to grab a slice of the latest Apple technology, recent announcements have proved frustrating.
During last week's 'The Beat Goes On' conference in San Francisco, Apple chief executive name Steve Jobs launched the newest model in the iPod range, the iPod touch, as well as confirming changes to the iPod nano and iPod shuffle.
However, he also confirmed that the price of the Apple iPhone would be cut by $200, just two months after its official release.
While the price reduction is good news for most iPod lovers, those who snapped up the first batch are understandably angry at having to fork out extra cash.
But rather than risk bad publicity, Mr Jobs has taken the unusual step of penning an open letter confirming a refund for disgruntled customers.
He writes: "I have received hundreds of emails from iPhone customers who are upset about Apple dropping the price of iPhone by $200 two months after it went on sale.
"After reading every one of these emails, I have some observations and conclusions. First, I am sure that we are making the correct decision to lower the price of the 8GB iPhone from $599 to $399, and that now is the right time to do it."
He concluded: "iPhone is a breakthrough product, and we have the chance to 'go for it' this holiday season."
Customers who bought one of the early models will therefore receive $100 in store credit at Apple's retail outlet and its online store.
Posted by ipodworld at 12:02 PM
September 10, 2007
Radio 'tagging' possible for iPod
Following the launch of the new iPod touch, Apple is looking at further ways of improving user options.
A new service, launched on Thursday, will prove that the iPod didn't kill the radio star - in fact, they're the best of friends.
The multimedia giant has confirmed that a feature entitled iTunes Tagging creates a brand new relationship between radio listeners and iPod users.
Soon to be introduced to HD Radio receivers made by Polk Audio and JBL, iTunes Tagging permits listeners to 'tag' songs they enjoy, storing the information in their iPod.
After syncing the iPod with their PC, they can then visit the iTunes store to purchase the 'tagged' tracks.
Greg Joswiak, vice president of product marketing at Apple, said: "iTunes tagging takes music discovery on the radio to the next level."
The 'tags' are added to the tracks by radio stations, with Clear Channel the first group to commit to the new feature, reports Mediaweek.
John Hogan president and chief executive of Clear Channel Radio, explained. "Apple has been a strong supporter of radio, previously making an FM tuner available for the iPod, and we view their support of HD digital radio as an enormous opportunity. All of our FM stations broadcasting in HD digital radio will be available on these important and unprecedented devices."
He added: "The iPod is not a competitor to radio - it is a collaborator in connecting with consumers on a continual basis."
The new Polk and JBL systems are set to go on sale next month in the US.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:31 AM
September 07, 2007
iPod nano: Extreme Makeover
Though Apple's 'The beat goes on' conference in San Francisco on Wednesday grabbed the headlines for the launch of the new iPod touch, another big change was announced too.
The iPod nano has been revamped, with earlier spy reports proving correct - the new iPod nano is more square-shaped, featuring a two-inch, 204 pixel per inch, 320x240 resolution screen for video and photo viewing.
It is available in five colours - silver, black, blue, green and a (PRODUCT) special edition, with the 8GB model available for $199.
A silver-only 4GB model can be snapped up for $149.
Steve Jobs, Apple's chief executive, explained the redesign.
"We've taken the most popular music player in the world and added stunning video playback just in time for the holiday season," he said.
"The iPod nano just keeps getting better and better with each new generation."
The new iPod nano offers 24 hours of audio playback or five hours of video playback on a single charge and now has an iPod interface with Cover Flow.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:37 AM
September 06, 2007
Apple launches iPod touch
An historic press conference in San Francisco has seen the launch of a new touchscreen iPod.
Apple boss Steve Jobs confirmed the launch of the iPod touch, set to be released in 8 GB and 16 GB forms initially.
Though European prices have not been confirmed, it is thought that they will be higher than the US launch prices of $299 for the smaller player and $399 for the 16 GB iPod.
The new device also has WiFi capabilities and includes the Safari web browser, allowing users to surf the web or access the iTunes store.
Confirming that the touchscreen would also include icons dedicated to YouTube, Google and Yahoo, Mr Jobs added:
"It's one of the seven wonders of the world - it's just incredible."
Apple has also signed a deal with coffee chain Starbucks, allowing users to use the WiFi iTunes store for free when inside a cafe.
Mr Jobs also confirmed that the iPod shuffle will now be offered in five colours, while the iPod nano has received a makeover, with a squarer shape, bigger memory and video playback capabilities.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
September 05, 2007
Sony looks to battle iPod
Ahead of the expected launch of a new iPod line from Apple, Sony Corp is reportedly planning to challenge the mp4 player's market dominance.
With Apple likely to announce a new touchscreen iPod, possibly offering full-screen video playback, Sony is to develop software to allow the purchasing and downloading of movies, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Though US TV shows became available on the UK iTunes store last week, video downloading is still a largely untapped market.
A recent US survey from Park Associates found that 16 per cent of customers were happy with the selection of videos available online.
However, less than one in five respondents who had downloaded a video said that they planned to do so again, reports Information Week.
Shigenori Yoshida, Sony spokesman, confirmed the decision to pursue this lucrative avenue.
"Music and video downloading has been available through networks, and we are looking into the area as a possible business," he told the Associated Press.
Today's media briefing at the San Francisco Moscone Convention Center will see the launch of the new iPod line, with digital radio capability a possibility, while high-resolution video playback may be added to the iPod nano.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
September 04, 2007
Celebs auction iPods
Some big-hearted celebrities have put their iPods under the hammer, as part of a charity auction.
A number of Canadian charities have joined forces for the Auctions for Action program, a month of exciting auctions on global marketplace eBay, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going towards charities and non-profit organisations.
As well as a Volvo C30, a trip to Paris and a chance to sit on a table reading of a Simpsons scripts, AIDS charity CANFAR are offering a number of personalised celebrity iPod nanos.
Star Wars actor Hayden Christensen, acclaimed thesp Edward Norton and Grey's Anatomy star Sandra Oh have all personalised an iPod nano, hoping to help CANFAR's bid to raise awareness of the need for funding research into AIDS and HIV.
Jordan Banks, managing director of eBay Canada, commented: "eBay understands the importance of raising awareness and creating unique opportunities for Canadian charities to raise funds.
"We created Auctions for Action to reach eBay users who are looking for a new and exciting way to support causes close to their hearts. We combined the unique 'thrill of the auction' with doing meaningful work, and created 'thrillanthropy' - a total win for both contributor and cause."
The iPod nano auction begins on September 5th.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:36 AM
September 03, 2007
New iPods on the way?
Apple is expected to announce a new iPod range at a press conference on Wednesday.
Journalists have received mysterious event invitations bearing the legend "The beat goes on", thought to relate to a recent deal concerning the availability of The Beatles' music library on iTunes.
However, many industry insiders believe that a revamp is imminent, with no new iPod product launched since the iPod Shuffle, while the last update for the full size iPod came with the introduction of the fifth generation iPod video, in October 2005.
David C Bailey, an analyst with Goldman Sachs, told the Times: "The product announcement is likely to include a full lineup of revamped iPods, with significantly greater functionality at current price points, including the much-anticipated full-screen video iPod ."
It is thought that a full or wide-screen iPod video would also offer touch control.
Apple made the headlines last week when it emerged that TV company NBC had opted not to renew its distribution deal with iTunes.
Downloads of NBC shows, such as Heroes, had accounted for 40 per cent of TV downloads on iTunes, according to the Times.
2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:40 AM