March 2006 Archives
« February 2006 | Main | April 2006 »
March 31, 2006
Dedicated iPod nano dock unveiled
Xitel has unveiled its HiFi-Link for the iPod nano, which allows the music player to be connected to a home stereo, while also providing charging and remote control capabilities.
The electronics company's original Hi-Fi for iPod also works with the iPod nano, but this new unit is specifically for use with the nano and comes with distinctive black colouring.
Features include gold-plated stereo outputs that can be connected to a home stereo, boom box or powered speakers, as well as SRS "TruBass" technology that amplifies the bass.
And you can change tracks, pause, fast forward, change the volume or turn the unit off or on from the comfort of your armchair with the wireless remote control.
Barrie Davis, president of Xitel, told Business Wire: "The iPod nano is a special product: it's small, but packs a powerful punch! Now, our dedicated dock with its innovative features allows iPod nano to realise its full audio potential."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:01 AM
Free volume upgrade software for iPods
Apple is introducing a free software update for the iPod that will give users new volume controls helping them to set maximum levels.
And the software also comes with parental locks that will allow parents to set limits on their children's iPods.
Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president for iPod marketing, noted that the company wanted to make the music player even more user friendly.
"As the leading provider of digital music players, Apple continuously brings iPod customers innovative and easy-to-use solutions," he said. "With the increased attention in this area, we want to offer customers an easy-to-use option to set their own personal volume limit."
Experts noted that even though iPods are more popular than other kinds of portable music player, their ability to damage the user's hearing is not any greater.
University of Northern Colorado audiology professor Jennifer Weber said: "Any excessive sound level has the potential of causing hearing damage, whether it's an iPod or a Walkman, or a loud hairdryer."
iPods come with a warning that states: "Permanent hearing loss may occur if earphones or headphones are used at high volume."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
March 30, 2006
iPod goes to hospital
iPod goes to hospital
The iPod is increasingly being used to educate as well as entertain and now it has even come to the hospital ward.
Far from being seen as a distraction, hospitals in the UK and Europe believe the portable music player could help their staff to learn about the basics of the job.
Using a technology pioneered in Australia, Voicemap, hospitals in the Scottish city of Glasgow are already using iPod -based audio guides to instruct their staff in areas such as dealing with patient violence and maintaining standards of hygiene.
Although it will not completely replace one-on-one training and will be followed by a computer-based test, NHS Greater Glasgow believes the uniform nature of the training could help cut the chance of mistakes being made.
The trust's Alastair Kirk said: "Using technology - the iPod - means we can make sure all new staff are trained to exactly the same standard, and it's inevitable that that's a big improvement on a system that relies on other staff and can therefore be vulnerable to human error."
The iPod is currently being used in the operating theatre and on maternity wards in two Glasgow hospitals, but could soon be taken up by other health facilities around the country.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:00 AM
March 29, 2006
Holmes to get birth help from iPod
Hollywood heartthrob Tom Cruise is reported to have bought his beloved an iPod to help her deal with the ordeal of a quiet childbirth.
Dawson's Creek star, Katie Holmes, will attempt to remain silent throughout the birth of her baby, in keeping with the recommendations of the Church of Scientology to which she has converted.
Cruise is one of the religion's most famous members and he has already persuaded his fiancee to undergo the traditional silent birth in the interests of the health of their newborn.
Scientologists believe that a baby's mental health can be damaged if exposed to significant noise or disruption during the first weeks of its life.
Newspapers have also reported the pair receiving encouraging posters for putting up over their Beverly Hills home. These are understood to advise Holmes to stay silent and only make small, slow movements when in labour.
But it remains to be seen whether the iPod, containing 300 of Holmes's favourite tracks, will help to minimise the pain of what will also be a drugs-free birth.
A source close to the couple told the Sun newspaper: "He wants her to listen to calming music - but to use earphones so there’s no noise in the delivery room."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:25 AM
March 28, 2006
iPod cases fit for fitness training
US firm iSkin has unveiled a new pair of iPod cases for the iPod nano, targeting today's exercise fanatics.
iSkin slims are available in multi-coloured packs of five, including a funky glow-in-the-dark version for moonlit midnight runs.
Measuring just 1mm thick, the cases don't need to be removed to be used with the Apple Universal Dock, but still offer secure silicon protection against unwanted scrapes when out and about.
The slims can also be used together with the new DuoBand iPod case, which offers a snug fit with the iPod nano and unrestricted access to the iPod screen and click wheel.
DuoBand uses both polycarbonate and silicone to protect the product from high impacts, with the additional benefit of being sweat-resistant for intensive training sessions.
There are his and her models in black and pink for couples who like to get fit together and both come with an accompanying armband.
Like the iSkin slims, a reflective strip also makes for a safe spring evening jog as the days continue to grow longer.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:29 AM
March 27, 2006
Vinyl brought to the iPod
Landmark London store Selfridges has launched a new service to transfer vinyl record tracks onto the iPod.
It is expected to be popular with music lovers who favour the classics from decades ago but want to bring their music collections into line with the modern age.
For added authenticity, the SpeedPod service will even include the old-time crackles created by the record players.
Kristina Rate, managing director, said: "There are two groups of people who have vinyl collections, those who bought albums 'the first time around' but started buying CDs, resigning their albums to the shelf and those who now buy vinyl to DJ with.
"Either way, with both groups, there's a lot of vinyl lying around that never gets played."
Selfridges is also offering a vinyl cleaning service and the option of noise reduction when transferring tracks.
Located in London's famous shopping thoroughfare, Oxford Street, the Selfridges service starts from today.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:16 AM
March 24, 2006
iPod users to download blockbusters
Universal Pictures has launched a new service that will allow users to download blockbuster films to watch on their iPod video.
The revolutionary service is the first of its kind to allow film fans to download the latest Hollywood movies legally from the internet.
From April 10th, iPod video users will be able to see King Kong tear through Manhattan streets or watch Keira Knightley's Oscar nominated performance in Pride and Prejudice – two of the first films set for release.
Eddie Cunningham, chairman of Universal Pictures UK, told the BBC: "I think what you're seeing here is the beginning of a revolution in terms of how we can distribute digitally and I would expect you'll see a lot more news of this type over the next few months."
Current estimates suggest that it will take between 40 minutes and an hour to for each film to be downloaded to a computer, though this will depend on internet connection.
All 6,500 titles will eventually become available as part of the service, though initially 35 are on offer including Love Actually and The Bourne Supremacy.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
March 23, 2006
Corrie makes iPod debut
Britain's longest running television soap, Coronation Street, is to make its debut on iPod screens as programme makers announce it will be available to download.
The news means British iPod video users can join fellow American users who have been watching favourite programmes such as Desperate Housewives and The Office, available for around £1.50 an episode.
ITV executives say they see digital media as the way forward for their programme content, as they seek to expand their material for broadcast on phones, digital video players and other modern media consoles.
Chief Executive of ITC, Charles Allen, told the Manchester Evening News "it is well within our capability" to start distributing programmes on digital machines.
The news will extend Coronation Street's entry in the annals of television history, which is already of considerable length.
Begun in the 1950s, the soap grew from the "kitchen sink" dramas popularised on stage and screen and was created by renowned writer, Tony Warren.
Now having celebrated its 35th anniversary, the popularity of "the Street" looks set to run into the digital iPod age.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
March 22, 2006
iPods in 21st century shopping basket
The average shopping basket today is now as likely to hold an iPod as a pint of milk, according to new research from the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
The study reveals that far from being a nation of bores content with tea and biscuits on a Sunday afternoon, the British public are techno-savvy bunch of party animals.
So where once slippers, portable CD players and chocolate-coated biscuits where top of the high street trends, now the iPod, flat player televisions and digital camcorders rank highly as desired items.
Muesli, minced lamb, hot milky drinks and sliced salami are also out, while three-quarter length coats, lagers in nightclubs and liquid foundation are in.
The ONS produce monthly the findings by surveying the prices of 120,000 goods bought.
Music downloads from online digital stores such as iTunes also proved popular, with over 26 million tracks sold over the internet in the UK last year.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:37 AM
March 21, 2006
Apple iPod is Oprah favourite
The Apple iPod is one of Oprah Winfrey's "Favourite Things", judging from the frequency with which she offers them as gifts.
Oprah's talk show is now in its 21st season and one of the most talked about and best-loved episodes each year is the "Favourite Things" edition, where the popular host chats about her favourite gadgets, jewellery and other items.
At the end of this episode, the lucky audience members are each treated to a goodie bag featuring Oprah's favourite items, which have twice included an Apple iPod.
She has also given audience members Fifi and Romeo Pet Clothing, for fashion conscious four-legged friends and a Susan Abbott personalised painting – valued at over £2,800.
However, as Livearticles.org reports, it's not just audience members who win out, as the "Favourite Things" editions of her show often get the highest ratings for the whole season.
Lucky audience members present for this year's "Favourite Things" are undoubtedly hoping that the iPod will make an appearance as a gift for the third time this year.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:58 AM
iLearn with iPods
Students at one American university are being actively encouraged to use an iPod, as the digital music player is now being used as a learning tool.
Around 100 students at Georgia College and State University are using iPods in a variety of different and unique ways to help boost their learning experience.
Some of the students, known as iDreamers, are using the iPod video to download from a range of 39 films for their history classes.
Others are using the podcast facility to listen to latest debates and lectures for subjects as diverse as mathematics and psychology.
The iDreamers hope to fully integrate the technology as part of the college's learning system, with the intention of eventually replacing campus brochures and yearbooks with podcast technology.
Dorothy Leland, the school's president told the Associated Press: "The more you free up your classroom for discussion, the more efficient you are."
Another American campus, North Carolina's Duke University, is generously offering iPods as welcoming gifts to foreign students to help them with their coursework, claims the Washington Post.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:57 AM
March 20, 2006
Pulp fiction for iPod owners
Pulp fiction for iPod owners
iPod owners fond of everything kitsch, kooky and retro can now buy pulp fiction style leather cases for their iPods.
The leather cases provide an attractive alternative look for users who want to protect their iPods but also want to make a fashion statement.
The cases authentically represent covers of pulp fiction novels from the forties and fifties and are made with a cloth cover featuring a vinyl interior.
Covers come in a range of different designs, spanning from the science fiction motif of "Scavengers in Space", to the early chick-lit style of "Lovely You".
The cases will fit iPods and iPod videos, but currently do not fit the iPod mini, iPod nano or shuffle.
Prudent iPod users who want to secure their iPods in style can buy the cases directly from manufacturer Stars and Infinite Darkness.
The leather cases retail at around £39 and can be bought online now.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:07 AM
iPod It-girl on the beach
Celebrity It-girl Lady Isabella Hervey was recently spotted in the Caribbean shunning prospective bachelors for the company of her iPod.
The sporty former Games champion was photographed while waterskiing by The Sun, wearing only a black and white bikini and her trusty iPod.
Paul Danan, who unsuccessfully attempted to woo Ms Hervey on ITV's Celebrity Love Island, was nowhere to be seen as she spent time on her own enjoying the tropical sun and listening to her favourite tunes.
Lady Isabella recently released a fitness DVD after gathering much attention for her scantily clad figure as seen on Celebrity Love Island.
The circuit training work out is a high-impact routine, which concentrates on the upper body and the legs that aims to improve muscle tone and overall fitness.
Lady Isabella is the youngest daughter of the 6th Marquis of Bristol and has made headlines for her career in the fashion and television.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:06 AM
March 17, 2006
First feature film for iTunes
iPod users in the US can now access their first full-length film to watch on the iPod video wherever they happen to be.
Disney's High School Musical is a made-for-TV feature and arrives on the iPod following the introduction of videos to the iTunes Music Store back in October last year.
Although the price of the download was recently raised, perhaps to reflect its "movie" status, the 487MB storage required and the duration of the footage doesn't far exceed the various TV series that are already available, such as The Office, Lost and Desperate Housewives.
There is no word as yet on whether this heralds a general move into mainstream movies for Apple, but CNet News reports industry insiders saying they could see a day when classic Disney tear jerkers such as Dumbo come to the iPod.
TV series and movies are not yet available to iPod users in the UK, who have to make do with music videos for now, but it can only be a matter of time before they reach British shores.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:21 AM
iTunes in the ascendant
The Apple iTunes player is storming up the streaming media charts and is expected to pass RealPlayer by mid-2006 if it continues to grow at its current speed.
That's according to analyst Nielsen, which also found that users of iTunes were spending almost twice as long downloading content to their iPods and other media players as users of RealPlayer or Windows Media Player.
Only Microsoft's player has more unique users than iTunes, predicted to hit 80 million by mid-2006, compared to the current iTunes estimate of 30 million.
However, Windows Media Player is actually losing its market share, with RealPlayer remaining the nearest rival to iTunes in terms of growth. The Apple store has already overtaken QuickTime in popularity.
Users of iTunes spend an average 111 minutes downloading and streaming music and videos each time they visit the site, compared to the 46.4 minutes spent on RealPlayer.
The news comes as analysts predict sales of iPods in the March quarter could hit nine million, driven by the popularity of the new 1GB iPod nano and price cuts to the iPod shuffle.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:20 AM
March 16, 2006
Analyst: Apple looking good
Apple is on track to ship between 8.8 and 9.1 million iPods in the current quarter, according to one analyst.
Piper Jaffray's Gene Munster said that January and February data indicated Apple would continue to build on its performance in the previous quarter. He stuck with his 'outperform' rating for Apple Computer.
Shares in Apple slipped slightly recently based on suggestions from suppliers that sales had taken a downward turn.
However, the analyst believed alternative data offered a more positive picture, particularly as new iPod models would continue to drive demand throughout the year.
Earlier in the week American Technology Research Analyst, Duncan Wu, increased his quarter sales estimate from 7.7 million to 8.8 million iPod units.
Extra demand was being generated by the cheaper iPod shuffle and the new 1GB iPod nano.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:59 AM
Basketball bounces onto iPod in US
Apple and CBS Sports have struck a deal to let US iPod owners watch the 2006 NCAA Division I Basketball Championship on the move.
Titled March Madness, the iTunes Music Store will stock footage from all 63 games, including full-length versions of all the exciting action from the semi-final and culminating championship game.
There is also a range of compilations, featuring 'upsets' and championship games from bygone NCAA tournaments that stick in fans' memories.
iPod owners can also benefit from the new iTunes Season Pass deal, purchasing all the games in the tournament for a one-off fee. Season Pass can also be used for the range of TV series that are now available on iTunes in the US.
By opting for Season Pass, the game highlights are automatically lined up for the customers the day after they air. An email is sent to alert the iPod owner, who can log on to iTunes to access the footage.
Sean McManus, president of CBS News and Sports, said that the deal also let basketball fans "keep their favourite moments for viewing on their iPod".
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:58 AM
March 15, 2006
iPod ignorance revealed
iPods may be selling like hot cakes, but around a fifth of Brits aren’t scared to admit they don't really understand what all the fuss is about, according to Ask.com.
That's not to say they wouldn't enjoy access to their entire music collection on the move, but a basic lack of information is keeping 24 per cent of us in the dark when it comes to MP3 players.
Moreover, almost half (44 per cent) of modern Brits don't know what a podcast is, with a similar lack of knowledge about the Blackberry and the global phenomenon of blogging.
Although this level of technophobia is troubling in itself, the Scottish were found to be the worst in the UK when it came to asking questions about technology - their level of knowledge significantly lower than Londoners.
Rachel Johnson, Ask.com vice president of marketing in Europe, told Webuser: "The simple fact is that we are not getting the right information, because we don't seem to be asking for it.
"Perhaps it's a case of not wanting to look or sound stupid, so we just end up living in ignorance."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:35 AM
'Pray-as-you-go' proving popular
The British Jesuits have enjoyed staggering success with a daily prayer download to help iPod users get through the gruesome journey to work.
The prayers in MP3 format last for around 12 minutes, including some spiritual music and a reading from the Bible as well as some questions to prompt personal reflection.
Dubbed "Pray-As-You-Go" a new track is released every day and is also available as an automatic podcast using iTunes software.
The MP3 files were officially launched on March 1st to mark the start of Lent, but it was found that some 3,300 sessions had already been downloaded worldwide.
It seems that people enjoy getting prayers on their iPod in the US, Australia and Mexico too.
Fr Peter Scally, director of Jesuit Media Initiatives, said: "So many people have been enthused by pray-as-you-go that we are left in no doubt that it is addressing a very real need in people's spiritual lives."
The group originally invited local schoolchildren and commuters in the UK to trial the scheme, but a further 18,500 files have been downloaded following the launch.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:34 AM
March 14, 2006
Murdoch reflects on iPod generation
The media tycoon Rupert Murdoch has explained that the future of the newspaper industry relies on effective competition with the forces of mobile technology, including the laptop and Apple's iPod.
Addressing the Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers in London, he said that while newspapers would continue to thrive for some years to come, they would also need to adapt to impress consumers demanding content to be "delivered when they want it, how they want it, and very much as they want it".
However, the man behind the success of the Sun newspaper and Sky TV was upbeat about the challenges faced by the traditional publishing industry.
The right journalism and page layout would continue to attract readers, he insisted, while the industry would have to accept its publications being "just one of many channels".
The development of the mobile phone, laptop and iPod means that people can catch up with their news and sport on the move, with instant and convenient access.
The news comes as one analyst with American Technology Research estimated iPod first quarter sales exceeding Apple's own estimates.
Shaw Wu anticipated around 8.8 million iPods would be sold, compared with the more conservative 7.7 million suggested by Apple.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:48 AM
iMuffs offer improved clarity
Wi-Gear has introduced a new technology to a pair of Bluetooth iPod headphones that can also be used with a mobile phone.
The iMuffs stereo headphones feature Cambridge-based CSR's Clear Voice Capture (CVC) system to ensure the voice quality of mobile calls isn't compromised by the microphone's close proximity to the iPod speaker.
Using "signal extraction techniques", CVC will cancel out echoes and other background noise that could disrupt communication.
Also favourable to iPod owners will be WiGear's Bluetooth dock adapter for the iPod nano and iPod video players.
The enhanced digital signal processor (DSP) ensures that wearers will never need to miss a call when listening to music on the move, automatically interrupting playback with an incoming call alert. The call can be accepted or rejected at the touch of a button on the headset itself.
Luke D'Arcy, product marketing manager, said: "The ability to control music playback and voice calls from multiple sources simultaneously, on the same device, was an important breakthrough.
"Wi-Gear has implemented this advanced functionality in addition to ensuring that the quality of the calls is second to none, in an attractive design which should be popular with consumers."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:47 AM
March 13, 2006
Analyst: iPod sales could better Apple predictions
iPods could be proving more popular than even Apple's estimates, according to one analyst.
American Technology Research's Shaw Wu believes that the final figures for the March quarter will show worldwide sales of $4.43 billion, compared with $4.3 billion predicted by Apple's guidance.
This is the equivalent of around 8.8 million iPods sold as opposed to Apple's estimated 7.7 million.
Mr Wu believes that the rise in sales will be accounted for by the introduction of the £109 1GB iPod nano and the cut to the cost of the 512MB and 1GB iPod shuffles, both announced in February.
The new 1GB iPod nano can hold up to 240 songs or 15,000 photos.
Mr Wu said his firm was "sure that the move to digital entertainment is a multi-year trend and that Apple is the best-positioned company to capitalise with its unique and defendable iPod, iTunes and Mac franchises."
He also saw strong demand for the recently launched iPod Hi-Fi audio system and iPod video models.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:04 AM
Leather iPod cases launched
Beyond Leather has launched a new line of luxurious leather iPod cases for fashion-conscious music lovers.
The online firm is more often associated with handbags and suitcases, but says it was inspired to create the eNovo iPod case when it became convinced it could offer a better quality case than the numerous others on the market.
"We wanted a product that had both quality and style. I am confident we found that with the eNovo iPod cases," said CEO Gretchen Sherwood.
Made of rigid nappa leather, the iPod case fits the contours of the sleek portable music player without any padding, with windows included for easy access to the click wheel and ports.
The iPod's screen is also clearly visible at all times, enabling the iPod owner to keep track of their tunes and playlists, including the names of the songs and artists.
The iPod cases come in black, red and brown leather to suit the taste of the individual.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:03 AM
March 10, 2006
The world's first iPope
Pope Benedict XVI has become the latest celebrity to get himself an iPod.
It is actually a white iPod nano, comes with a useful iPod case to prevent scratches, and would have cost him around £100 if he had bought it himself.
The iPod was actually a gift from Vatican Radio, which offers podcast audio files in eight different languages. The pope was visiting the station to mark its 75th anniversary and the iPod was specially engraved on the back.
The German pontiff is reported to enjoy listening to classical composers such as Mozart and Beethoven rather than the pop tunes more commonly associated with the mini music devices.
The pope also has a penchant for the nocturnes of Chopin, born in his predecessor's native Poland.
On being handed the gift, the pope is reported to have remarked " Computer technology is the future."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:06 AM
Corrie coming to the iPod?
Action from the UK's most famous street could soon be downloaded onto the iPod video.
If the idea comes to fruition commuters will be able to catch up with all the gossip from Coronation Street's colourful cast of characters wherever they happen to be - at any time of day.
Talking about the idea of offering episodes of popular shows for downloading to handheld portable devices, ITV chief executive Charles Allen said: "It is well within our capability to do that."
As well as music and pictures, the iPod video lets users store up to 150 hours of video footage on a 2.5-inch colour display screen.
Apple's iTunes Music Store has already branched out into video content, with US users able to download their favourite shows such as Desperate Housewives and The Office.
The firm also recently launched a special Season Pass, offering an entire series worth of episodes at a discount price.
So it's surely only a matter of time before Ken and Deidre start bringing their special brand of mayhem to the iPod video in the UK.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 11:04 AM
March 09, 2006
Pac-Man eats his way onto iPod
The ultimate classic computer game has come to the iPod nano and iPod video courtesy of iPodMame.
Part of the wider iPodLinux project, iPodMame is attempting bring the MAME game emulator to the iPod family to let iPod owners play a range of favourite arcade games on the move.
The first to make the transition is Pac-Man, that race to gobble up all the little dots around the maze before the monsters manage to trap you.
The game has increasing levels of difficulty, and players can form a strategy to avoid the pursuers using the different exits that take Pac-Man from one side of the maze to the other.
The emulator is also confirmed to be able to run Msd. Pac-Man on the iPod nano and fifth-generation iPod video.
Other games set to follow suit include Pengo and Joust, according to engadget.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:39 AM
Logitech speakers back in black
Logitech has launched a new black version of its portable iPod speakers to compliment the black iPod nano and iPod video devices that are flying off the shelves.
The speakers mirror the white mm50 speakers in other respects, with a wireless remote for controlling volume and other functions and an optional rechargeable battery with a life of up to ten hours.
Shipping from April this year, the iPod speakers will join Logitech's new headphones with the company's patented SilentSound technology for cancelling out background noise.
iPod users want to immerse themselves in their music or videos, and these headphones claim to cancel out as much as 92 per cent of distracting sounds.
This would include an office fan or air conditioning system – and even a jet engine.
Launching the products at CeBIT in Germany, president Guerrino De Luca said the company had evolved its product line "as new digital platforms have emerged".
This led to the creation of "a new range of innovative personal peripherals", which are now much more central.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:38 AM
March 08, 2006
New iPod system for drivers arrives
The Hardon Kardon Drive and Play unit, allowing iPods to be played through car stereos, has finally arrived on UK shores.
The new system, promised for a British release last year, allows iPod users who do not have a tape deck, to listen to their music through car stereos.
It features a backlit large LCD screen that rests on the car dashboard that contains five lines of menu text.
This is operated by a handy control unit, clearly displaying songs and allowing users to switch between tracks with ease.
The controller has a rotating dial, with four buttons that allow users to skip between tracks or play and pause songs.
This is controlled to the system's "brain", which processes the iPod information and acts as a connecting port, housing a wired transmitter and broadcasting to one of five factory-set frequencies on the car stereo.
The system also charges the iPod when docked, according to reports from website pocket-lint.co.uk.
Car drivers keen to invest in this handy piece of kit can buy the unit now, retailing at £139.99.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:00 AM
Nyko Speaker Dock 2 for iPod
The new Nyko Speaker Dock is an all-in-one speaker solution for the Apple iPod.
Light and stylish looking, the dock system has a round base along with two built-in speakers, acoustically balanced, which provide stereo sound of high clarity.
The new edition also has a larger sound cavity, which means bass sounds are more solid and weighty, while allowing a greater range of high end frequencies.
Like other docks commercially available, users can listen to music when charging the iPod, or alternatively connect the system to a computer to transfer files to their machines.
Susan Corben Cox, vice president of marketing at Nyko Technologies, said: "Nyko is delighted to enter the iPod audio market with such an innovative, multi-functional sound system while keeping the consumers' needs in mind.
"The Speaker Dock 2 is a perfect addition to our already successful stable of user-friendly iPod products currently in the channel."
Powered by 4 AA batteries, and including an AS adapter, the Nyko Dock is compatible with all iPods including the iPod nano, and iPod video.
The system is available now and retails for around £55.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:59 AM
March 07, 2006
iPod iTrip gets Swiss reception
Switzerland has granted iPod users the right to use iTrip technology, which transmits music over FM signals.
The popular and innovative form of wireless transmission for the Apple iPod has been banned by Swiss authorities up until recently.
Under Swiss law, transmission over FM radio is illegal meaning iTrips user would be penalised similarly to those operating pirate radio stations.
Now however, laws have been lifted setting the scene for further loosening of legislation in other countries such as Britain.
Digital music magazine, Playlist, managed to get hold of a statement from Griffin Technology, who produces iTrip technology.
The manufacturer said: "iTrip’s CE certification means that users can rest assured of iTrip’s compliance with strict laboratory guidelines for emissions, broadcast strength, electrostatic discharge, and immunity to outside interference."
It added: "In plain language, this means that iTrip will not conflict with other electronic devices, and that it will be available to a wider European market."
iTrip technology has proved popular in America, where the technology has been used to play music from an iPod through a car stereo.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:01 AM
Keyspan Tuneview for wireless iPod
The Keyspan Tuneview system is a wireless method of controlling music from an iPod or a computer.
The company has released a new remote control for use with the system, which when used in conjunction with the Keyspan Tuneview Dock for the iPod, allows for full control of the contents of an iPod.
Users can choose which tracks to play thanks to the LCD screen on the remote, which also allows them to pause, play and skip between tunes.
Track information is transmitted to the remote from the iPod dock, via a two-way radio using a powerful ARM7 processor.
The dock is compatible with all dockable iPods including the iPod nano, iPod mini, and iPod video since it conforms to Apple's "Universal Dock" design.
The system can also be used to control iTunes when plugged into a USB port on a PC or Apple Mac and works with modern versions of Windows and Mac OS X.
Posted by ipodworld at 10:00 AM
March 06, 2006
Contour Showcase for iPod video
The Contour Showcase video is a clear plastic case giving protection for the fifth generation iPod video.
The clear case allows iPods to be protected while not compromising on the unique design looks of the transportable digital music player.
It contains a rubber lining around the outside of the case that acts as a bumper softening knocks and jolts if the iPod is dropped.
The screen is clearly visible through the plastic case and the click wheel can be operated through a cut-out in the case.
There are further cut-outs for access to the headphone jack, the Hold switch and a single cut-out for the dock connector port.
The new version of the Contour Showcase has a belt clip, reports website iPodGarage.com, which slides onto the side of the case.
Separate cases are also being made available for the 30 and 60GB iPod models, which are expected to be with retailers soon.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
iPod gets Catholic seal of approval
Pope Benedict XVI has become a member of the iPod generation having been given a new iPod nano by Vatican radio employees.
The 79-year-old leader of the Catholic Church was presented with the player loaded with programmes from Vatican Radio, to mark the station's 75th anniversary.
Station employees told the Catholic News Service: "We don't have a huge gift to give to the pope, but we do have small signs of our work."
The Pope was said to have been economic in his response, replying: "Computer technology is the future."
The 2GB white iPod nano, presumably chosen to match the leader's traditional robes, has been pre-loaded with content to match the papal taste.
It is thought classical music and a 10-minute radio drama of St. Thomas a Becket are the Pope's preferred choices, suggesting the inexorable rise of the Arctic Monkeys hasn't made it to the Vatican yet.
The Pope is following a trend for iPods among septuagenarians set by the Queen, who was given a 6GB iPod mini last year, according to The Sun.
It is reported that the Queen's son, Prince Andrew, bought her the machine, having previously given her a mobile phone in 2001.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
March 03, 2006
Bookshelf speakers for Apple iPod
Audioengine has released bookshelf-style speakers for the Apple iPod.
The speakers are internally powered, meaning they do not have to be connected to a space-consuming stereo or power amplifier.
The sound is described as of "audiophile" quality with five-inch Kevlar woofers for meaty low-end bass sounds and tow 20mm silks done tweeters taking care of the highs.
The speakers have a built-in power port that allows the iPod to be charged while listening to the system, which is compatible with all players using USB such as the iPod nano and the iPod video.
A rear panel on the speakers allows for music streaming directly through Apple's Airport Express, making the system right up to date with current technology.
Its manufacturers have said: "built-in power amplifiers, truly useful connections, and a clean industrial design all allow the Audioengine 5 to integrate perfectly in your living room, bedroom, or desktop."
"Custom-designed and handcrafted wood cabinets with high-gloss professional piano finish make the Audioengine 5 a true work of art."
The Audioengine speakers are on sale now for around £199.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:22 AM
Altec Lansing iPod speaker system
The Altec Lansing inMotion IM3c is a dockable speaker system for the Apple iPod.
This revised version of a previous successful model is compatible with all dockable iPods with an audio-in port allowing non-dockable iPods such as the iPod shuffle to connect in.
It is rectangular in shape with a sleek exterior available in either black or white, about six inches tall and one inch thick.
The iPod sits in the middle of the unit, plugging into a concealed port that opens when the base is folded out. Volume and power switches are at the front, with track selection operated by the iPod itself.
Website iPodgarage.com reports that the IM3c offers great sound and is perfect for home use in an average-sized room as a main stereo unit.
The unit can be powered by mains plug sockets or through four AA batteries, with a dock connector port included for syncing the iPod with a computer.
The Altec Lansing currently retails at just over £100 and is available now.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:21 AM
March 02, 2006
TransDock micro iPod car system
The TransDock micro is new solution for iPod users who want to listen to digital music in their cars.
Drivers can now listen to their favourite playlists with ease on extended car journeys, as the system aims to be one of the most "flexible" and "cost-effective" methods currently available.
The TransDock micro functions by broadcasting music from an iPod to any frequency in the FM radio range, while keeping the player charged.
No installation is required for the system, which manufacturers claim has better sound quality than most of those currently available on the market.
It features a removable docking cable, an LCD display and an auxiliary input and output for connection with other other car inputs or a tape adapter.
The system works with the iPod shuffle and the iPod nano and is compatible with other MP3 players and portable media systems, such as the PSP.
The TransDock micro retails at around £40 and is available now.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:12 AM
Watch iPod content on a TV
Kensington has launched a new device that allows iPod users to watch media content on their television sets.
The Entertainment Dock 500 is compatible with all colour iPods and fifth generation iPods, working through an Apple universal adapter.
It comes with a radio frequency remote control that allows access to the iPod functions from up to 15 metres away.
The Entertainment Dock 500 also allows dockable iPods to play music through home stereos, making the device a handy tool for all kinds of media playback on the iPod.
Phil O'Neil, managing director of Kensington Europe, said: "As iPods develop, so to must the accessories around them.
"Why put photos and videos on your iPod if you can’t share them with your friends and family?
"The Entertainment 500 ensures that everyone can join in the experience by linking up your iPod, stereo and TV."
The Kensington Dock 500 is available now and retails for £59.99.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:12 AM
March 01, 2006
iPod nano to download music without PC
New technology has been launched, which allows music to be downloaded to the iPod nano without the use of the PC.
New technology has been launched, which allows music to be downloaded to the iPod nano without the use of the PC.
The iLoad-C is a device that clamps onto an iPod nano connecting it to mobile phone networks.
Users can then download music from network music stores hence bypassing the need to use computers – handy when on the move and when no PCs are around.
The device, created by Wingspan will work with the T-Mobile music network service among others, and also has a WiFi wireless network capability.
The system will hit US retailers in the early summer and should retail for just over £100.
Meanwhile, Wingspan has also announced details of a product that can copy music from CDs onto an iPod without the use of a PC.
This coincides with the release of a gadget that will allow videos to be put on the iPod video from satellite TV boxes, again sidestepping the requirement of a computer.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
Apple launches official iPod stereo
Apple has broken new ground by launching a stereo system for the iPod.
Apple has broken new ground by launching a stereo system for the iPod.
The move shows that Apple is broadening its hold on the market by entering into the iPod accessory territory, which has so far been dominated by other independent manufacturers.
The iPod Hi-Fi will be the same size as a normal stereo system, with two wide-range speakers and sub providing meaty low-end frequencies.
iPods can be docked to the system, which can then be operated by a palm-sized remote control.
Retailers told Business Week that they've been anticipating such a product for a while: "We've been trying to reinvent the stereo since we were born, but little companies can't create new categories by themselves.
"We someone bigger with a megaphone, so we're rooting for Apple."
UK release dates and pricing are as yet unavailable, though it is thought the stereo will retail for just under £200 when it arrives on British shores.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:52 AM