October 2005 Archives

Out now from iSkin is the iPod Duo for the iPod nano.

This double-layered silicone iPod skin offers premium protection against any knocks, abrasions and dust that could ruin your digital music player.

It features a transparent screen protector and a clear Click Wheel protector which "provides smooth scrolling action whilst shielding the nano's Click Wheel".

It also comes with a RevoClip 2 – a detachable rotary belt clip which provides for easy carriage.

iSkin's iPod Duo is available in number of two-tone colour combinations and is shipping now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Are you looking for an affordable, stylish and well-designed leather iPod case for your iPod nano?

Well, call off the search because Japanese iPod accessory makers, Tunewear, has announced the release of the Tunewallet 5G.

This wallet-style iPod case comes with three card slots inside the interior flip-lid to provide protection for your credit cards, business cards and travelcards, as well as your iPod.

Available in three different colours – black leather with red stitching, black leather with white stitching and white leather with white stitching - these cases also come with "quick release mechanisms" which allow for easy insertion and removal.

So if you want complete protection and great style, check out the Tunewallet 5G from Tunewear.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The wonderful worlds of hi-tech and high fashion have collided yet again – this time to produce an iPod integrated jacket.

Los Angeles fashion house Kenpo have rolled out two iPod jackets especially for music lovers who want to keep warm and entertained this winter.

The Kenpo jackets are available in two ladies parka designs and four boating jacket/parka designs for the gents.

All items come with a five-button touchpad situated on the sleeve, made from "smart fabric touchpad technology" – a soft and unrestrictive material that allows users to navigate their iPod with ease.

The jackets also feature an interior pocket designed to accommodate an iPod or iPod mini.

Amazingly, these jackets are fully machine washable, self-powered and require no batteries.

Perfect for the winter, the Kenpo iPod jackets will be available from the company website next month.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Relive your childhood with this fun, new iPod accessory: the BrixPod Classic iPod shuffle case made entirely of Lego pieces.

This handmade, limited-edition iPod case looks like a full-size iPod, but is, in fact, a fabulous iPod shuffle holder constructed from 59 Lego parts.

"The BrixPod Classic can be displayed alone but is intended for use with the iPod shuffle," states the company press release.

"By inserting the shuffle into the top of the BrixPod you get the effect of a fully functional music player constructed from Lego."

The BrixPod is guaranteed to keep your iPod shuffle safe and secure from dust and scratches. You can even operate your encased iPod.

There will be only be 300 BrixPods available, and sales are limited to two units per order so get cracking if you want one.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The new SkinTight iPod skins from Speck Products are out now.

Suitable for the new 5G iPod nano, these rubberised iPod skins provide premium protection against bumps, scratches and even dust.

According to Speck Products, these skins are made from a strong, shock-absorbing material called Kraton and provide a "nice, grippy feel" - perfect for "great rubberised protection".

These easy-on, easy-off skins are simply to use – just stretch one around your iPod and insert the removable screen protector.

Available in clear, black and blue, the SkinTight iPod skins are available to buy now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005

iPod and other MP3 users who download music from online music stores are causing major problems at work, a new study has shown.

According to IT firm Touchpaper, the proliferation of people using gadgets such as the iPod at work, is leading to slower running computers and other more serious technical problems.

It was discovered that a third of internet users download music, while over one in ten (12 per cent) download videos.

The Touchpaper poll also revealed that almost two-thirds of managers believe that their computer systems are being adversely affected by downloading.

Graham Ridgeway, CEO of Touchpaper, commented: "Our study highlights the increasing pressure on IT service departments today with issues such as viruses, gadgets and people tinkering with their computers adding to the problems."

"MP3 players and other gadgets can eat up data storage space and slow down the network, so it's no wonder IT directors are complaining," he said.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

iPod makers Apple and US leisure apparel company Lugz have become embroiled in the fierce battle over the new iPod /iTunes adverts featuring Eminem.

According to Lugz and many industry observers, the new iPod /iTunes adverts which debuted worldwide last week, bears more than a passing resemblance to its 2002 TV commercial.

"Both commercials show shadowlike silhouettes posed against stylised urban settings, which are rendered in red, orange, yellow and black," reports the New York Times.

Larry Schwartz, executive vice president of Lugz, told the newspaper: "We're very upset. The look and feel are awfully similar."

He revealed his surprise that a company as innovative as Apple would become involved in such a dispute.

"We think very highly of Apple," Mr. Schwartz said. "We don't understand how this could have happened."

But Apple has denied plagiarising the Lugz ad, stating that "any similarities between the two spots are regrettable".

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The new line of iPod cases from MuffPod are one lot of iPod cases which you can huff and puff at, but you still won't be able to blow them down.

Available in three different designs, these MightyMuff iPod cases are super-tough and durable, in addition to being attractively designed.

"Made to protect iPods from scratches and drops, they feature the same extra soft polar fleece interior as all our over covers but feature extremely tough exteriors and a single or double layer of foam padding," says the MightyMuff press release.

The Cordura Mighty is made from tear-resistant Cordura fabric and is suitable for 3G/4G iPods, while the Cordura with Strap Mighty fits the new 5G (video) iPod, iPod nano and iPod mini.

The Punching Mighty is cut from the same material as professional punching bags and is also compatible with 3G/4G iPods.

All three MightyMuff's are available from MuffPod immediately.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

It has been a long time coming (well, a month) but finally the new iPod nano cases from Vaja are out.

This upscale iPod accessory company has released not one, but two new designs for nano users: the AP161 and the AP171.

The AP161 is a flap-style iPod case, and as you would expect from Vaja, made from the finest full-grain Argentine leather.

The AP171 is quite similar, except it comes with an optional dog-leash hook to secure the case.

Both models feature built-in screen protectors, optional Click Wheel protectors, easy access to all touch functions and both are also available in two types of leather.

Additionally, both products can be customised in terms of the front and back colour combination and can even be engraved.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

If you are more than a bit concerned about the possibility of having your precious iPod stolen, then check out the PodLock from Lap Locker.

This full-size iPod locking case is the perfect mobile security solution for your MP3 player. For not only is it an iPod case, but it is also one of the most effective iPod security devices on the market.

According to the Lap Locker press released, "your iPod slides right into the tapered frame and is secured by a Master Lock Carabiner style combination lock".

It can be easily attached to anything from a keychain to a belt-loop and even a desk, allowing users to "keep your iPod safe at the office, in your dorm room, or anywhere you might leave it".

Designed to fit most full-sized iPods, including the new video iPod, the PodLock is available to buy now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Fashionable women are keen to dress up their MP3 players with high-fashion iPod cases.

And designer labels are keen to exploit the demand for attractive accessories to compliment the latest technologies.

The Pittsburgh Tribune reports that Louis Vuitton is already selling an "international telephone case" and Dior has a £200 bag for iPod Minis, as well as a travel case foriPod accessories.

"As things get sleeker, it's going to be something that's more and more important" for mainstream fashion, said Robin Sackin, of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

iPod users can now benefit from a new jacket that enables them to loo hip while listening to the hippest tunes.

The new Kenpo "Jacket for ipod" has a specially constructed pocket that enables wearers to keep their device safe as well as easily manage to manoeuvre its control buttons.

It utilises patented "smart touch" fabric, which transforms the sleeve of the jacket into a control panel

"The Kenpo Jacket for iPod is the pinnacle of form, function and personal style, in that technology and fashion, the two factors that have the greatest influence on the daily lives of the consumer, are now fully integrated to create an entirely new lifestyle genre," said Kenpo vice president Joel Bernstein.

"Both fashion and music have always defined and inspired attitudes and personal style, and now people have the opportunity to better control their own environment, while enhancing their everyday life by setting it to music."

A new water-resistant case for the iPod shuffle has just been released by Tunewear.

The Waterwear shuffle is constructed from tough plastic, impervious to liquid penetration, but featuring a waterproof seal just in case.

According to the press release, the impentrable nature of this iPod case makes it ideal for "sunbathing on a sandy beach or poolside, skiing in winter and fishing or rafting".

All controls are easily accessible through Tunewear's unique silicone wheel window and it also has very few moving parts, as well as an added iPod headphone isolator plug so that you can use your own headphones.

The Waterwear shuffle will be available from next month from Tunewear.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Let's run through the list, shall we? We've had iPod cases, skins, bags, stickers, babygro's and even fancy dress costumes. So it should come as no surprise that someone has finally released an iPod headphone t-shirt.

But it's not just some flimsy Fruit of the Loom jobby with an iPod print on the front (cool as that would be).

No, no, this is the first-ever iPod inspired t-shirt featuring an embedded "Wire Management System" which allows users to hide their earphone wires and store their iPod.

This WMS t-shirt is constructed in three parts: a grip (to grip the wire), a slack pocket (to store excess wire slack) and an additional pocket for your iPod (or indeed any other MP3 player).

Available in black, white and navy, the WMS t-shirt is available from Muzikwear from next week.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Thousands of video clips are now available for iPod video owners to download just a week after the official release of the new device.

The iTunes Music Store alone is offering more than 2,000 music videos, animated shorts, games and new episodes from TV favourites such as Lost and Desperate Housewives, as well as 1.7 million audio files.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports that iPod fans have already begun to trade music video clips from artists as diverse as Afroman to Alanis Morissette, though the newspaper found Apple's groundbreaking TV clips to be particularly popular.

Released in the US on October 12th, the new iPod video comes with a 2.5 inch display unit which provides unrivalled screen clarity, allowing users to watch clips as well as listen to music.

However, in order to prevent copyright infringement, Apple has announced that video files sold through iTunes will be heavily protected and users will be barred from downloading files to video, CD or DVD.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

A fabulous new line of iPod cases has been released by Pacific Design.

The iPod nano flip case collection goes on sale at the end of this week and will be available in four bright colour-combinations.

The Carbon Black case comes with red and white horizontal stripe detail, the Precious Pink comes with white and dove grey detail, the Big Blue Sky case features cobalt blue and white detail and the Rally Red design comes with a splash of caramel and white.

These iPod cases feature full top-port access and a clear vinyl window for screen protection as well as complete access to the Click Wheel.

They also come with Slim Stitch, a revolutionary bulk-reducing design, which means these Pacific Design nano cases provide lightweight, form-fitting protection.

The company press release promises "a case that matches the hot, fresh Nano style" and combines "the best of fucntionality, fashion and style". How can you agrue with that?

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Following its hasty removal last week, the long-awaited Eminem iPod/iTunes advert has returned to the Apple website for viewing.

As we reported earlier this week, the 30-second commercial featuring the famous rapper was first aired at the iPod video launch in San Jose last week and was immediately posted on the website.

However, just a few hours later the advert, a groundbreaking 3D version of Apple's iconic silhouette ads, was mysteriously pulled.

Apple and Eminem share a rocky past. He filed a lawsuit against the company early last year after claiming that Apple had used his song Lose Yourself in a commercial for iTunes without his permission.

Although the dispute was settled for an undisclosed sum of money, it was thought that the recent glitch in the iPod/Eminem saga was related to this. However, no explanation for the temporary removal has been given so far.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Griffin Technology has launched the new version of its best-selling wireless iPod remote control - the AirClick.

Except this time, the new AirClick comes with a docking station which will allow users charge and cradle your iPod while controlling it from afar.

"Unlike conventional remote," the press release explains, "the AirClick Remote uses RF technology that allows users to control their iPod from up to 60 feet away.

"Users will not have to be in the line of sight for it to work, and RF signals also pass through walls."

The AirClick comes with a remote, a remote cradle and a bottom-mounting receiver, as well as a handy clip on the back to provide instant access while jogging, cycling or even giving a presentation.

The AirClick with Dock Connector will be available from mid-November from Griffin Technology.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Listen to FM radio through your iPod with the Belkin TuneFM.

With its elegant new design, the TuneFM provides wireless radio audio with no wires, operated via the remote/headphone jack of your iPod.

The Belkin TuneFM features numeric LED display to show the FM frequency, and you can even preset stations.

Programmable memory slots allow users to toggle between two channels and the rear hold switch locks buttons to prevent any accidental channel changing.

And as it is powered via the iPod, no batteries are required either - so just plug in the TuneFM from Belkin for instant access to even more music choice.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

If you're looking for an iPod case with a lil' something extra check out the new offering from PodGear.

It doesn't come with rhinestones or glow-in-the-dark holograms, but the LeatherJacket iPod case is available in four vibrant colours - Salsa Red, Paradise Blue, Baby Pink and black.

Handmade from top-quality leather, the LeatherJacket provides custom-fit protection for iPods.

A company spokesperson said: "We found that the iPod can now be considered as a fashion accessory so it is necessary to have a special outfit to match every occasion.

"[The] LeatherJacket's luxurious leather and super soft velvet lining is available in four colours and gives the iPod a home fit for a king".

So if you want to "Pimp your Pod" get a LeatherJacket from PodGear.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

XtremeMac has announced the release of its new line of iPod nano cases which includes the soon-to-be classic, Iconz.

Available in 12 officially-licensed designs of famous characters and sporting clubs such as SpongBob SquarePants, Darth Vader and the New York Yankees, these iPod cases combine fun and protection for the iPod nano.

With built-in screen protection and play-through Click Wheel protection, the Iconz iPod nano cases are highly durable and easy-to-use.

Prospective buyers are urged to "grab your Iconz today, because each of these hot styles will only be available for a limited time".

Unfortunately, however, they are only available in the United States at present. A European release date is yet to be announced.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

A highly anticipated iPod advert featuring rap star Eminem has been mysteriously pulled only hours after its media debut.

The 30-second commercial was premiered at Apple's special media launch for the new iPod video on Wednesday and was immediately posted on the Apple website, But according to the iPodNN website, it was removed just hours later.

The advert, which AppleInsider says "takes a new three-dimensional video approach to the 'silhouette' style ads popularised in Apple's recent television campaigns", features the D-12 rapper performing his hit single Lose Yourself and was said to have been well-received by the product launch attendee's.

Whatever the reason for the ad pull-out, Apple CEO Steve Jobs will be disappointed. He told the audience, "we have been working on this ad for two-and-a-half years" and the commercial was expected to mark the end of a bitter feud between the rap star and the technology giant.

About 18 months ago, Eminem took Apple to court for using his songs in adverts without his permission - an issue which was eventually settled for an undisclosed sum of money.

However, the reasons behind the latest Eminem-Apple dispute are as yet unclear.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The phenomenal success of the iPod has been hailed as the catalyst behind Apple's record-breaking quarterly sales figures.

The company announced fourth-quarter revenues of $3.68 billion, up from $2.35 billion last year.

iPod shipments rose by a staggering 220 per cent on last year's figures and the sale of close to 6.5 million iPods has topped of an incredible year for the innovative computer company.

"We're thrilled to have concluded the best year in Apple's history, with 68 per cent year-on-year revenue growth and 384 per cent net profit growth," said Apple CEO Steve Jobs.

"This is the direct result of our focus on innovation and the immense talent and creativity at Apple.

"We could not be more excited about the new products we're working on for 2006."

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

As widely suspected, Apple announced yesterday that it will be releasing two new video iPods just a month after unveiling the iPod nano.

These highly anticipated iPods will offer video playback on a 2.5-inch screen with 320 x 240 pixel colour TFT display.

Available in black or white and as a 30GB model for £219 and 60GB at £299, the new iPods will hold up to 15,000 songs, 25,000 photos or over 150 hours of video, according to MacWorld News.

"The new iPod is the best music player ever -it's 30 per cent thinner and has 50 per cent more storage than its predecessor - yet it sells for the same price and plays stunning video on its 2.5-inch colour screen," enthused Apple CEO Steve Jobs to a packed audience at the exclusive press event in San Jose, California.

"Because millions of people around the world will buy this new iPod to play music, it will quickly become the most popular portable video player in history."

Jobs also announced the launch of an updated version of the iTunes music store in iTunes 6 that will sell both music videos and television shows from US media giant, ABC Disney.

As a result, fans of shows like Desperate Housewives and Lost will be able to download current-season episodes from iTunes the day after broadcast.

Jobs told Reuters that he considered the ABC Disney deal as a television landmark: "I think it's hard to overestimate the plate tectonic movement of this deal. I think it's just the beginning."

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

iPod accessory company, Marware, has unveiled its new product line up for the iPod nano.

Featuring over ten items, this impressive new range has something for every kind of iPod nano user.

The Sportsuit Basic is a form-fitting iPod case that protects without any unnecessary bulk, the Sidewinder iPod case is a hard plastic case available in a variety of colours and the Sport Grip and Sport Grip Extreme are "rugged" silicone cases that provide robust protection.

There are also a number of other products such as the CEO Card Wallet, the CEO Billfold Wallet, the Sportsuit Safari, the Sportsuit Santa, the CEO Classic, the Sportsuit Runabout and the soon-to-be released Car Charger.

All eleven products will be available from Marware direct and all good iPod accessory retailers by the end of the month.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The iWood iPod case from Miniot is a masterclass in carpentry. Constructed from a single piece of hand-crafted wood, this ingenious iPod accessory is available in a number of wood varieties such as mahogany, walnut and pear.

"The iWood nano is made from the best gift of nature: wood," asserts the company press release.

"Carefully selected and carved with precision, the iWood nano fits and protects the iPod nano like a glove."

The iWood is also available with a carved monogram initial on the case exterior and a two-line message on the interior, if requested.

Available from October 20th, the iWood nano case will be out from Miniot. So go and buy it. iWood!

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

If you want to celebrate Halloween, but don't really like the idea of fancy dress, iAttire have come up with a fantastic compromise. Dress your iPod up instead!

iAttire have introduced a brand-new range of iPod costumes especially for this festival and these handmade gems are sure to become collectors items.

Available for the iPod, iPod mini and iPod shuffle, gadgeteers can chose from Frankenstein, Ghost, Pirate, Vampire, Witch and Mummy-themed iPod cases.

Made to slip easily over your iPod, each of the six designs also has additional features such as glow-in-the-dark add-ons, eye patches and even coffins!

These Halloween iPod cases are out now from Californian iPod accessory manufacturers, iAttire.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

If boring, run-of-the-mill iPod accessories are a problem you can identify with, then check out the Prie Tunetag ID.

This idenitification-tag style iPod case is now available from Tunewear and is suitable for the brand-new iPod nano.

The Prie Tunetag ID is made from genuine nappa leather and comes with a neck strap and hook so that you can wear it anyway you like!

"You can use the hook to attach your iPod to a belt loop on your jeans or to your backpack strap and of course a laynard so you can carry it around anytime, anywhere," said the company press release.

The Prie Tunetag ID features a vinyl cover for the iPod screen and click wheel and also comes with interior card slots, perfect for credit, business and of course, ID cards.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

A leading US technology expert has advised iPod nano users to buy an iPod case to help combat its widely publicised screen problems.

Walter Mossberg, a columnist for The Wall Street Journal, said: "If I were reviewing the nano today, I would still call it 'the best combination of beauty and functionality of any music player I've tested' as I did in my review."

"But I would include a strong, prominent, warning that it scratches too easily in normal usage."

He added: "My recommendation now is that nano owners must buy and use a case for the device."

According to a leading iPod news website, Apple has stated that it uses the exact same screen coating for the nano as it has on other models and says "its engineers have conducted tests that show the nano isn't any more vulnerable to scratches than other current iPods".

However, if you plan to take the advice of Walter Mossberg to keep your iPod in pristine condition, make sure you visit iPodworld.co.uk for an amazing selection of iPod accessories.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

The invisibleSHIELD href="http://shop.ipodworld.co.uk/iPodWorldSite/cm/ipod_cases.htm">iPod skin in now available from Think Different.

According to the makers, this iPod accessory is perfect "for the purists among us who think the iPod nano looks best just like it is".

This full-body wrap provides iPod nano users with "super-strong" protection without getting in the way of its aesthetics.

The company also promises that the invisibleSHIELD "will not come off unless you take it off", despite being thinner than a blade of glass.

Its easy-on, easy-off design means no sticky residue when you take it off, and it even has a magical "self-healing" function to remove the impact of any bumps and scratches.

The invisibleSHIELD is available now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Established digital accessory makers, WaterField Designs, have launched a new iPod case for the nano model.

The iPod Gear Pouch for the nano comes with a three-layer design to provide robust protection for your iPod.

"The exterior is sturdy Indium nylon which comes in five eye-popping colours," states the company press release.

"The plastic middle layer provides protection against impact; and the interior layer of cushiony neoprene has a silky liner, making it smooth and easy to slide the iPod nano in and out of the case."

It also comes with handy snap-back rear storage for your iPod headphones.

The iPod Gear Pouch for the nano is shipping now from WaterField Designs.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Gadget's and gizmo's always seem to be targeted at the guys - boy's toys they call them? Well, here's an iPod accessory strictly for the girls.

The Pop Gloss compact from Koss is quite simply, a stroke of genius. This compact mirror also contains four lipglosses, an application brush and a set of iPod headphones.

It's handy palm size means it can fit in your pocket or handbag with ease, and the earphones are not only compatible with your iPod but also with any portable, digital or hi-fi stereo player.

This fun iPod accessory is the perfect purchase for young girls with style.

Available in pink, orange, purple and blue, the Pop Gloss compact is on sale now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

Two leading luxury brands, Vaja and Swarovski, have teamed up to create an awesome iPod case.

The iVod Swarovski is a special limited edition version of Vaja's top-selling iPod case, covered in miniature Swarovski crystals.

Available in six different colour combinations, the iVod Swarovski comes with an exclusive leather strap dotted with silver appliques, a fully lined and padded interior and screen protector.

It also comes with easy access to all top-ports and touch functions, and can be customised to your specifications.

Compatible with all 3G and 4G iPods, this special-edition iVod case is out now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

From the makers of iGuy comes the latest iPod toy - the iKitty.

This two-in-one iPod accessory is a fun figurine that doubles as a protective iPod case.

It allows for access to all iPod top ports and comes with a cute little waggly tail that also functions as a headphone cord organiser.

It features a removable screen protector and is fully compatible with any iPod dock you may want to use.

Suitable for the full-size and mini iPod models, the iKitty is available now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

This is by far the classiest iPod accessory for the nano released to date.

The nano Book by New York leather goods makers, A.B. Sutton, is a beautiful handmade iPod case that envelopes your MP3 player with the finest kidskin leather and Indian silk lining.

And while it may be small, this husband and wife design team (well, Anna and Jack may be brother and sister, cousin or even friends, but I'm going with the first one) do not scrimp on anything.

This full-flap iPod case is available in 40 different colours with 70 different silk lining options.

It provides for easy access to all buttons and the headphone port and it also contains a protective cover for the screen.

So if you want to indulge in a beautifully-crafted and stylish leather iPod nano case, check out the nano Book, from A.B. Sutton

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

If you’re a hip-hop fan who longs for days of years gone by, where shoe laces were fat and gold chains were even fatter, then this one is for you.

You can always rely on Juicy Couture to come out with something brash and outlandish, and they have not failed us with their iPod shuffle necklace.

This 25 inch 14 carat gold-plated iPod Shuffle accessory would be fittingly described as "off the chain" in hip-hop parlance.

And with good reason. It features a number of lovely cherry charms which hang off the chain, as well as glass detail trinkets.

Its long and thick enough to keep your iPod shuffle in place - just make sure you tuck it in when you're walking on the street.

Otherwise your iPod/gold chain combo won't be round your neck for very long!

The Juicy Couture iPod shuffle necklace is available online now.

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

So we know you love your iPod almost as much as your baby (see last week's iPod babygro story), but what about your home?

Would you take out an unsuitable mortgage to get a free iPod? Well, this is the fear of industry analysts, following the news that Scarborough Building Society is offering a very special incentive scheme.

All borrowers who take out a five-year tracker or fixed-rate loan of more than £50,000 will be given an impressive digital bundle as a golden handshake. The package includes a free iMac, digital camera, wireless keyboard, games, Microsoft Office software, and the cherry on top, an iPod.

But mortgage brokers have warned consumers to look beyond this dazzling incentive and focus on the most important aspect of a mortgage - the rate.

James Cotton, of London & Country mortgage brokers, told the Times: "If you want or need the tempting freebies on offer, this could be a good deal if you have a smaller mortgage.

"However, most borrowers would be better off by making sure they get the best rate on their mortgage. Don't think you're getting something for nothing."

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

A new range of iPod nano skins has been released by DecalGirl.

Available in 150 (count 'em) different designs, these iPod nano skins apply to the back and front of your MP3 player to shield and sassify (what do you mean that isn't a word? Well, it should be) your plain Jane iPod.

These durable but lightweight skins are "precision engineered", according to the press release, to provide maximum coverage, protection and style.

The DecalGirl skins are easy-on, easy-off, as well as fully washable (detached from the iPod, of course). The manufacturers also promise that they never "fade, smudge or smear".

What more could you possibly want from an iPod skin?

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.

It is not just technophilic grown-ups who are iPod crazy. According to new research, British schoolchildren are just as fond of their iconic MP3 players as their parents and teachers.

A study by Halifax Home Insurance reveals that one in four British school kids takes and iPod or some other MP3 player to school.

In fact, the research suggests that alongside the traditional packed lunch and games kit, audio equipment worth over £54 million pounds is brought into the classroom every day.

Dubbed by Halifax as the i-Spod generation, 80 per cent these tech savvy schoolkids say that gadgets such as the iPod makes learning more interesting, while over half of parents (55 per cent) surveyed said they are willing to buy an iPod to help their child get better grades.

Vicky Emmott of Halifax, said: "It's great to see that children are keen to join the i-Spod generation and gadgets like iPods are contributing to new and exciting teaching methods.

"However, as these items are high value and - due to their size - relatively easy to lose or steal, it's important that parents ensure the correct insurance is in place to protect their children's belongings."

(C) Adfero Ltd, 1998-2005.