March 2008 Archives
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March 31, 2008
Apple leads in Brandchannel awards
Apple has dominated the first brandjunkie awards winning six prizes including most inspiring brand and brand which readers cannot live without, it has been announced.
In the awards, voted for by readers of Brandchannel, an leading online discussion forum about branding, the company's position as an innovator, one that transcends industry boundaries about how we use products, was the major reason behind its success.
By contrast Microsoft was identified as a company that needed to be rebranded with some voters saying it had lost its boldness and become a 'follower'.
Jim Thompson, Brandchannel editor, said that the awards are designed to recognize the companies which "redefine how we engage in a world saturated with brands".
Toyota and Sony received top 20 placements from readers as the brand that will revolutionize the branding industry in five years, most inspirational, and brand with which most people identify.
Meanwhile according to the Bank of America, Apple is anticipated to produce an estimated eight million 3G-enabled iPhones between May and September this year.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:21 AM
March 28, 2008
ipTexter offers phone numbers for iPod Touch
Text addicts will soon be able to send and receive SMS messages via their iPods, with the launch of ipTexter.
UK-based messaging specialist Com'cetera's service offers real, dedicated mobile phone numbers for the iPod Touch – meaning it can both send and receive messages in the style of the iPhone.
Speaking about the product, Com'cetera chief executive officer Steve Smales said: "Whilst other products let you text from your iPod, ipTexter is the first product to offer every iPod Touch user a unique, dedicated phone number."
The ipTexter will be available as a web application and uses the iPod Touch's WiFi connection to send and receive messages through a custom-designed message centre.
Numbers will be allocated from a pool of UK-based numbers and line rental will cost £7.99.
This follows news that Microsoft is developing a range of application suitable for the iPod Touch and the iPhone.
The software giant released a statement saying that it was "getting comfortable" with Apple's recently released software kit and considering what programme it could bring to the devices.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:48 AM
New iPod dock has 80s twist
Fans of the 1980s will be able to embrace a blast from the past with the new Boombox iPod dock.
At first glance the dock looks exactly like an authentic 80s-style Boombox – but in a modern twist, the portable player slots were where a tape would previously have been, reports Retrotogo.com.
Once it is housed behind the spring-loaded door the iPod can charge and playback via controls on the front of the Boombox.
It also supports USB drives, SD/MMC cards and boasts an AM/FM radio and clock and alarm and 12w speakers.
Currently the Boombox is available at US branches of Urban Outfitters and costs $220 (£110).
This follows news that the zeppelin-shaped iPod dock from Bowers and Wilkins has finally made it to this side of the Atlantic.
Boasting a spring-loaded docking system and video streaming support, the zeppelin has been available in the US since last August and can now be purchased in the UK from £399.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:46 AM
March 27, 2008
New iPod battery upgrade launched
A new battery upgrade designed for use with the 30GB model of the iPod video has been launched by a US company.
PDASmart.com's new device extends the playing time of the music player by over 45 hours when it is used just for listening to tunes, while it also lasts for 24 hours if used solely for watching videos.
In addition, the new kit comes with a new rear casing for the device, as the battery needs extra space when in use.
Trey Mattox, the chief executive of PDASmart.com owner Optimistic Enterprises, said that complaints had led to the development of the new system.
He added that the battery helps "customers gain the playing time they deserve".
As well as more battery time, iPod users may also be able to enjoy more music on their music players.
It has been reported that Sony BMG is thinking about offering people unlimited access to their music libraries in exchange for a subscription fee.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:02 AM
Software giant to develop iPod applications?
One of the world's biggest software companies may soon be developing applications that are suitable for use with the iPod touch and iPhone, according to reports.
Microsoft has said that it is currently "getting comfortable" with Apple's recently released software development kit (SDK) and is considering how it could bring some of its programs to the two devices.
In an interview with Fortune, the company's corporate vice president of specialised devices and applications group, Tom Gibbons, said it is "really important" for the business to understand the iPod touch and iPhone's capabilities.
"The key question is, what is the value that we need to bring?" he explained.
"We're still getting comfortable with the SDK, right? It’s just come out. So we had a guess as to what feasibility would be like, now we'll really get our head wrapped around that."
Apple recently stated that 100,000 software developers had downloaded the SDK within the first four days of its release on March 6th.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:01 AM
March 26, 2008
Shuffle reset software update released
iPod manufacturer Apple has released a new reset software update for its shuffle model of the portable music player.
MacWorld reports that the new patches are compatible with Mac and Window computers and can be installed through online entertainment store iTunes.
According to the website, iPod Reset Utility 1.0.3 is designed to erase any music files featured on the first and second generation shuffle models when problems arise through the use of the music players.
It can rectify issues such as when the iPod is not recognised by iTunes, as well as when the system will not play any songs stored on it.
News on the release of the new update has come after a very special iPod shuffle was put up for auction in London earlier this month.
Designed by jeweller Thomas Heyerdahl, the iDiamond features 430 encrusted diamonds and 18 karat white and pink gold.
Metro reports that the music player was estimated to be worth around £20,000.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:27 AM
Sony to launch subscription service?
It has emerged that Sony BMG may launch a new service that allows iPod users access to its entire music catalogue for a subscription fee.
The company's chief executive, Rolf Schmidt-Holtz, has stated that the tracks offered through the service may be free of digital rights management (DRM), meaning people could still own the tunes after their membership has expired.
In an interview for German newspaper the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, he added that fees for access to the digital catalogue could range between €6 (£4.70) and €8 (£6.25).
He said: "The simplest option would be a flat rate under which a monthly payment would provide access to our entire music catalogue for all digital players, including Apple's iPod."
The concept of introducing a subscription service for iPod users has also reportedly been considered by iTunes.
According to the Financial Times, Apple is in talks with music companies over a deal which would see iPod users given access to content on the store in exchange for a premium on their music players.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:24 AM
March 25, 2008
Memorex launch new iPod alarm clock
Electronics company Memorex has announced the launch of a new iPod-compatible alarm clock radio.
The iWake features a universal dock connector which can be used to charge and connect all iPod models to system, meaning users can be woken up every morning by their favourite tunes.
However, if people do not have their portable music player handy, they can also listen to songs via the system's AM and FM radio tuner.
Carla Pihowich, Memorex's brand manager for Imation, said: "The Memorex iWake clock radio, now in blue, purple and red metallic finishes, is not only an ideal complement to home decor, it also functions as a versatile alarm clock.
"The iWake connects consumers to their favourite music and offers another way for consumers to enjoy their iPod - all in a chic design."
Earlier this year, iPod accessories manufacturer XtremeMac also launched a new alarm clock which is compatible with the portable music player, the Luna X2.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:21 AM
March 20, 2008
Unlimited music for iPod on way?
New reports have emerged that Apple are thinking about introduced a new offer which would see iPod users offered unlimited music on iTunes.
According to the Financial Times, the electronics company are talking to music companies over a deal which would see iPod users given access to all of the content on the online music store in exchange for paying a premium on the music players.
The newspaper has stated that Apple is yet to comment on the proposals, but sources told the publication that discussions with the music industry are based on the price that would be paid to record labels.
It has been reported that Apple have offered companies a premium of $20 (£10) per device, which is significantly lower than the amount being offered by phone company Nokia in a similar deal with Universal Music.
The reports come after Apple revealed that the launch of its software development kit for the iPod touch and iPhone has been successful.
Over 100,000 developers have downloaded the software, which allows companies to create applications for use on the two devices.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:38 AM
March 19, 2008
iPod users urged to take care
People who regularly use their iPods and mp3 players while commuting into work in London have been warned to take care on the capital's roads.
A road safety expert in the city has stated that the large number of workers who listen to music on such devices while crossing roads are contributing to rising traffic accident figures.
Statistics from the City of London state that both the number of serious and minor injuries caused by road accidents increased between 2005 and 2006.
Matthew Collins, a road safety team leader, said: "Commuters pouring out of the stations, some still half asleep, must remember to check for traffic."
He added: "Many are listening to mp3 players or chatting on their phones unaware of approaching traffic."
Comments on the safety of using iPods have come after the Royal National Institute of Deaf People also urged mp3 player users to listen to songs at a sensible volume.
A spokesperson said that listening to music loudly on such devices could lead to conditions including tinnitus.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:31 AM
New iPod car accessory launched
A new accessory designed to allow people to easily enjoy their favourite iPod tunes in the car has been launched.
The new RoadTrip cradle from Griffin connects to the cigarette lighter in a car and can charge up any iPod model which features a dock connector.
According to Product-Reviews.net, the system also includes SmartScan FM transmitter which allows people to tune their car radios into their iPod so they can easily enjoy music on the move.
Retailing for around £59.99, the device also automatically saves the frequencies which provide the best sound quality through a car system.
The launch of the RoadTrip has come after a major electronics firm released a new in-car system which simultaneously functions as both a navigation and iPod-compatible entertainment unit.
Pioneer's AVIC-F500BT can also be connected to devices such as cameras and has been described the company as a "complete audio and visual experience".
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:29 AM
March 18, 2008
iPod-compatible bed unveiled
People who like nothing more than to drift off while listening to some of their favourite relaxing tunes will soon be able to buy a bed that suits their needs.
Expected to launch in 2009, the Starry Night Sleep Technology bed features an iPod dock and a surround sound system for people to lie back and enjoy some tunes before they go to sleep.
As well being iPod compatible, the new model also features a high definition projector for people to enjoy films on the wall opposite to their bed, reports T3.com.
Set to retail for around $20,000 (£9,977), the bed's in-built technology also boasts a 1.5TB hard drive and internet access, as well as temperature controls to keep people warm on a winter's night.
The unveiling of the bed has come after a wireless home speaker set was launched for those who want to enjoy the tunes on their iPod around the home.
Called the EOS system, the base unit can transmit music to any of its four speakers within a 150 feet range.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
March 17, 2008
Diamond iPod auctioned in London
A diamond-encrusted iPod shuffle estimated to be worth around £20,000 was put up for auction in London last week.
Designed by Norwegian jeweller Thomas Heyerdahl, the music player – which has been named the iDiamond - is encrusted with 430 diamonds and features 18 karat white and pink gold.
Metro reports that the iPod, which also came with matching earphones, was one of several money-can't-buy products featured in the auction at a fundraising dinner.
Talking to ITN about the shuffle, My Heyerdahl said that he was planning to make just one.
"If we had made this for commercial sale, it would be quite a different thing because then you have to take care of, much more things to make it work commercially," he explained.
UK newspaper The Sun recently announced an offer in which people could buy a gold-plated iPod nano for a reduced price from the newspaper's website.
Created by Goldgenie, the device, which features the publication's Bizarre branding, costs £229.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
New iPod sound system launched
A new sound system which allows people to play back tunes from their iPod, CDs or their radio has been launched.
Japanese electronics firm Onkyo's CBX-300 system features a slot for loading in CDs, as well as a radio tuner and an in-built dock which is compatible with Apple's portable music player.
As well as playing normal CDs, the home stereo system can also play back CDs featuring both mp3 and WMA files.
Expected to retail in the UK for around £229, the CBX-300 includes controls for users to adjust the bass and overall audio settings, as well as 8cm OMF diaphragm speakers with Aero Acoustic Drive.
The launch of the new Onkyo system has come after US company Monster announced it is shipping a device which allows iPod users to wirelessly playback their favourite tunes on a hi-fi.
Called the iSoniCast, the technology splits in two – with one part of its connected to the iPod's dock connector, while the other half can be linked to a home audio system.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:51 AM
March 14, 2008
New racing game launched for iPod
iPod touch users who have a need for speed may soon be able to enjoy a racing game on their portable entertainment devices.
French games developer Int13 has previewed its new Crazy Kart 2 game for the music player, which features touch controls for people to steer their cars around a range of tracks.
Six different characters are available for people to choose from, while the game also features downloadable content and a Wi-fi multiplayer game mode.
Commenting on the development of the game, the company stated it was "not too hard" to adapt the game for the iPhone and iPod touch.
However, no release date has been finalised for the game.
The preview of Crazy Kart 2 has come after Apple announced that its new kit of developers looking to create applications for the iPod touch and iPhone has been very popular.
Companies including AOL, Electronic Arts and Sega have used the software development kit (SDK) to create new features for the devices.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
March 13, 2008
Monster launches wireless iPod accessory
US company Monster has announced that it is now shipping a new device designed to make it easier for people to listen to their iPod through a hi-fi.
The consumer electronics firm's iSoniCast Wireless Audio Bridge connects to the portable music player and allows a user to enjoy their favourite tunes on a home stereo system.
In addition, the device also allows iPod owners to control their tunes using the music player, meaning people can skip through songs they don't want to listen to very easily.
Noel Lee, the head of Monster, said: "The iSoniCast is also incredibly easy to hook up, and the smart low-power consumption lets you listen for extended periods."
He added that the audio bridge was "the ultimate solution for wireless iPod playback on a home audio system."
The launch of the iPod accessory has come after One Voice Technologies launched a new voice-activated control system for the portable music player.
By using the VoiceTunes technology, people can playback songs from their favourite artists just by saying their name.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
New applications set for iPod touch?
New figures released by Apple have suggested that a host of new applications could soon be available for the iPod touch and the iPhone.
The electronics firm has announced that more than 100,000 developers have downloaded the Software Development Kit (SDK) for the two devices in around four days.
By using the kits, companies can use the same application programming interfaces and tools as Apple to create programs for use on the systems.
Scott Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing for Namco Networks, said: "We're very excited about Apple's new SDK and reaching every iPhone user through the new App Store.
"We can't wait to show off great new versions of arcade classics like Pac-Man and Galaga that use the revolutionary features of the iPhone and iPod touch."
News on the success of the SDK downloads has come several weeks after Apple launched new versions of the two devices.
The new iPod touch and iPhone models feature double the memory of previous versions.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:32 AM
March 12, 2008
New rotating speaker for iPod launched
A new portable speaker system has been launched for iPod users who enjoy to listen to music on the move without headphones.
The rotating speaker case for the classic and fifth generation model of the iPod is designed to clip to the back of the portable music players.
People using the device can then rotate the system to activate it and provide stereo sound through speakers at either side of the iPod's screen.
The iPod accessory is also powered by a battery which can be charged up when Apple's portable music player is connected to a computer's USB port.
However, according to reports online, the system retails in the US for around $59.16 (£29.39).
The launch of the rotating speaker system has come after a voice-activated control system for the iPod was launched by One Voice Technologies.
Called VoiceTunes, the new technology allows people to playback tunes by their favourite artists or from their favourite genre just by saying their names.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:46 AM
March 11, 2008
Mobile content provider plans iPod games
Hong Kong-based mobile applications provider Artificial Life has announced its plans to release several new games designed for use with the iPod touch and the iPhone.
The company has stated that it is planning to release titles for the portable devices which include new multiplayer and interactive 3D games, as well as the launch of older games previously not available for either system.
Eberhard Schoneburg, chief executive officer of Artificial Life, said that the iPod touch and iPhone have much in common with game console platforms.
"Applications and games can have virtually unlimited sizes and can make use of device sensors and touch screen functionality for advanced and innovative game features and easy use for the players," he explained.
"It's a no-brainer for us to go in this direction as it allows us to make the best use of our 3D, multiplayer and advanced portable game development experience."
A number of games have been released for the iPod in recent months, including a version of Sega's gaming classic Sonic the Hedgehog.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:06 AM
Film company considers deal with Apple
An independent film studio is thought to be considering a deal with Apple which would give people the chance to easily watch movies back on their iPods.
Lionsgate's proposed deal with the iPod manufacturer would see legal digital copies of the films included on DVDs, meaning people would be able to import the files into iTunes for use on a computer or a portable entertainment player.
According to reports online, the forthcoming US DVD and Blu-ray release of Rambo and The Eye will include the digital copies, with more titles set to include the files later this year.
Steve Beeks, the president of Lionsgate, said the new plans were "a perfect example of how packaged media and new digital technology can work hand in hand for the benefit of consumers".
The plans for Lionsgate DVDs have been revealed after the BBC launched a version of its iPlayer system which is compatible with the iPod touch and iPhone.
Using the website, users of those devices can catch up with their favourite TV programmes over a wireless internet connection.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:00 AM
March 10, 2008
Research reveals download trends
New research by moneysupermarket.com has revealed what kind of content people like to download for use on their computers and iPods.
The study found that eight in ten Brits have taken content from the internet over the past year, with people mostly downloading files featuring music, movies and music videos.
It was also revealed that people over-55 are using downloading services, with 28 per cent getting music online, as well as TV programmes and their favourite radio shows.
Rob Barnes, head of broadband and mobiles at moneysupermarket.com, said: "Our research reveals people's appetite for downloading has grown and is now an everyday occurrence.
"This is a trend that is likely to continue as websites such as You Tube and on-demand services such as BBC iPlayer become more popular."
New figures recently released in the US also revealed the growing popularity of digital music.
Research from the NPG Group found that Apple's iTunes store is now the country's second largest music retailer.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
BBC launches iPod-compatible iPlayer
iPod users in the UK are now able to watch some of their favourite TV shows on the move via the internet.
The BBC has announced that it has launched a new version of the iPlayer which is compatible with the iPod touch and Apple's iPhone.
By using the corporation's service, people can watch back episodes of TV shows on demand via a streaming connection to the programme, making it easier for those who have missed their favourite shows to catch up.
Writing in a blog, the BBC's head of digital technologies Anthony Rose said: "We started with iPhone because it is the device most optimised for high quality video currently available.
"It displays the BBC iPlayer site and BBC programmes nicely."
The corporation also recently announced that episodes of a number of its series, including Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes, Torchwood and Little Britain, are available to download through iTunes.
Content made available via the online music store can be download for around £1.89 an episode.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:43 AM
March 07, 2008
New voice-activated iPod control system launched
A new system designed to help iPod users enjoy their favourite tunes easier has been launched by a US telecoms developer.
One Voice Technologies' new VoiceTunes system allows people to play artists and tracks on their portable music player by just saying the name of their favourite band or tune.
Compatible with both iTunes and Windows Media Player, people can also just choose what kind of genre they want to listen to if they have no preference to particular artists or songs.
Adam Fitch, sales director at One Voice Technologies, said: "Just speak a command and VoiceTunes instantly plays your music no matter how large your music collection might be.
"Playing music has never been easier - or nearly this cool."
The launch of the voice-activated system has come after a Japanese university researcher unveiled a new device which allows iPod users to control their device by winking.
Called the Temple Switch, the technology allows people to switch their device on and off, as well as letting them skip through their tunes.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:36 AM
March 06, 2008
New wireless iPod speaker system unveiled
A new home speaker set which allows iPod owners to listen to their favourite tunes in any room in their house has been unveiled.
The EOS system features a base unit with a dock connector which can transmit music from a portable music to any of its four compatible speakers within a 150 feet range.
In addition, the new speaker system also comes with a remote control, making it easier for people to skip through their tunes while listening to them through the wireless technology.
According to reports, the set of stereo speakers also feature SRS WOW technology to improve the quality of the audio transmitted through the system.
The home audio technology is expected to retail in the US for $129.99 (£65).
Swiss electronics firm Geneva Labs have also recently unveiled a range of audio systems designed specifically for use with the iPod.
Tech.co.uk reports that the new system is available in 25-watt, 50-watt and 100-watt versions, with prices ranging from £500 to £1,500.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:32 AM
London travel guide for iPod launched
A mobile software developer has launched a new travel guide designed to help iPod users taking a trip to London find their way around the city.
Coolgorilla's London Travel Guide, which is compatible with the portable music player, the iPhone and some mobile phones, features video footage, maps and facts about places in the capital.
The free software download includes information on entrance fees for attractions, as well as phone numbers and website details.
Roy Forsdick, the managing director of Coolgorilla, said that a recent trip to California inspired him to consider how to improve on a traditional travel guide.
He explained: "By using the content rich features available on iPods and mobiles we can help travellers get the most out of their visit to London.
"Also, since software isn't exposed to the same reproduction costs as hardcopy publications, we can distribute the guides for free."
The launch of the iPod-friendly travel guide has come after Britannica revealed that it has created a version of its encyclopedia designed for use with Apple's entertainment player.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:29 AM
March 05, 2008
iPod to become ultimate gym accessory?
The iPod could soon become an exercise fanatic's favourite gym accessory under new plans announced by Apple and sports company Nike.
It has been revealed that the two companies, who work together under the Nike + iPod brand, are in talks with several major gym equipment manufacturers to make their machines compatible with Apple's portable music players.
As part of the plans, fitness fanatics will be able to connect their iPod to gym equipment to track their workout and record how hard they have worked on a treadmill or stationary bike.
Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of worldwide product marketing, said: "The iPod is an essential part of millions of people's workouts and now users can easily set goals and track their progress with Nike + iPod.
"We're excited to be working with Nike and leading equipment manufacturers to bring the Nike + iPod experience to the gym."
The two companies have already worked together on a shoe which features a sensor which records a runner's activity when connected to an iPod via a receiver.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
Record label offers £5 album downloads
A major global record company is offering downloads of its selected albums for £5 under a new deal with an online digital music retailer.
Warner Music International (WMI) is offering the reduced price on some of its albums through 7digital.com's services without digital rights management (DRM) restrictions that are included on iTunes downloads.
The move means that music lovers will be able to play their new downloads on all types of mp3 players.
John Reid, vice chairman of WMI, said: "This deal will offer music fans a new level of flexibility in their use of tracks from our world-renowned artists.
"We believe that providing consumers with this assurance of interoperability will encourage sales of music downloads and ultimately help the development of new digital music experiences."
The latest news on of one iTunes' biggest rivals has come after figures recently revealed that Apple's online music store is the second biggest retailer of music in the US.
Research by the NPD Group found that the download service is only behind supermarket giant Wal-Mart in terms of music sales.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:32 AM
March 04, 2008
Solar powered iPod charger launched
A new charging device which features solar panels has been released for use with the iPod.
The solar panels featured on Solar Technology's new Freeloader 8.0 system can fully charge the device's internal battery in five hours and can provide around 18 hours of battery power to Apple's music player.
In addition, the device can also charge several makes of mobile phones, as well as handheld consoles including the Sony PSP and Nintendo DS.
According to reports online, the Freeloader – which is available in both silver and pink – is set to retail in the UK for around £30.
Last year, Better Energy Systems released a similar device which can also be used to charge iPods, mobile phones and other mp3 players.
The company's Solio Hybrid 1000, which was made available to ship at the end of October, retails for around $80 (£39) and allows users to charge their devices through either its rechargeable battery, a mains connection or via a computer.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
New iPod controls coming in the wink of an eye?
A new system which allows iPod users to control their music player through winking has been unveiled by a Japanese expert.
The Temple Switch, or Kome Kami Switch, has been designed by Kazuhiro Taniguchi, a researcher from Osaka University's Graduate School of Engineering Science.
By using the system, which could be built into a pair of glasses, iPod users can start their portable device by closing both eyes, while also skipping through their favourite tunes by winking with each.
The new control technology has been designed primarily with rock climbers, medical staff and disabled people in mind.
Mr Taniguchi said: "You don't have to worry about the system moving incorrectly as the system picks up signals when you close your eyes firmly. You can use this when you're eating or chatting with someone."
The unveiling of the new system has come after the launch of new iPod cases created to make it easier to listen to tunes on the move.
Audiowrapz cases by iFrogz feature an in-built speaker which means users do not need earphones to enjoy their favourite songs.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:32 AM
March 03, 2008
New iPod-compatible in-car system unveiled
Electronics firm Pioneer has unveiled an in-car navigation and entertainment unit that is compatible with iPods and other portable devices.
The AVIC-F500BT is an all-in-one "complete audio and visual experience", which can be used to control all of a driver's devices from inside the car, product planning manager Paul Baddeley explained.
"There is nothing like AVIC-F500BT on the market. It is the world's first navigation system to have all the features and power of a fixed in-car system with the flexibility of a portable device," he said.
As well as iPods and other entertainment systems, the AVIC-F500BT can be connected to a camera. Pictures from the camera can then be displayed on its in-dash screen to make parking easier.
The device can connect to entertainment devices via a USB port or it can be loaded with SD memory cards.
Pioneer states that the system is compatible with the most models of car.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:53 AM