June 2006 Archives
« May 2006 | Main | July 2006 »
June 30, 2006
iPod gets amped up
For those serious about providing their iPod s with the right sound equipment, the Fatman iTube may be just the ticket.
The Fatman iTube Valve Dock features an old fashioned valve amp that provides old fashioned sounds – as rich and warm as dark mahogany.
Able to be hooked up to a television or stereo system, the iTube can provide its unique sound to iPod movie clips.
Of the iTube, Tech Digest said: "While old-school technology might be at work for the music output, the iTube is still a very modern piece of kit."
Compatible with all iPod s, except for the shuffle, the iTube will go on sale in July, priced at £300.
A remote control is included with the amp, so users don't have to get off their couch to switch tracks.
Lately Taiwanese company A-zone also released a valve amp for the iPod , dubbed the Valve Station, which looks even more old-school than the iTube.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:21 AM
June 29, 2006
Case of steel for iPod
An iPod case based on the motif of the man of steel – Superman – is to be available faster than a speeding bullet.
Produced by XtremeMac as part of the Iconz range, the cases are designed for the 30 GB and 60 GB video iPod and feature a durable case and a play-through control for the clickwheel.
The Iconz range also features cases with themes of Batman, Homer Simpson, Darth Vader, Tweety Bird and Speed Racer.
XtremeMac states: "Iconz combine eye-catching artwork with complete protection for theiPod with video. Part of an exclusive collector's series, Iconz come in a variety of officially licensed designs."
The cases retail for about £15.
This weekend marks the release of the long awaited Superman Returns, starring Kate Bosworth and the relatively unknown Brandon Routh as the lead character.
Directed by Brian Singer, who successfully directed the first two X-men movies and featuring the talented Kevin Spacey as Superman's arch nemesis Lex Luthor, the film has been eagerly awaited by Superman buffs and movie fanatics alike.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:18 AM
June 28, 2006
iPod gets dressed up
Apple accessory maker, Power Support, has released a new range of iPod video cases dubbed the Kimono Cases, as they incorporate fabric from the traditional garb of Japanese women.
Designed to capture the "tranquil harmony" of Kyoto, Japan, the iPod cases are made from fine leather and cotton fabric with designs that evoke the elegant kimono.
Aestheticism has not replaced functionality however, merely enhanced it, as the cases allow for a fully operational click wheel and headphone jack.
The company states: "Inspired by majestic temples, gardens and palaces, Kyoto craftsmen and artists have been admired the world over for creating beautiful works of art for thousands of years. Within Kyoto lies the historic district of Gion, uniquely known for its living art, the Geisha.
"The colours and elegance of the Geisha can now be wrapped snuggly around the user's iPod ."
As the fabric for each case is individually cut, no two cases are the same.
Retailing for about £20, the cases will be released next month.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:21 AM
June 27, 2006
iPods get pimped
A new website has been created for the rarefied world of iPod customisation – aptly named pimpyaplayer.com.
Sponsored by the iPod accessory specialists GEAR4, but the brainchild of the chavtastic "Romeo Brown" from Romford, the site is dedicated to those who wish to show off their often eccentric customisation of their iPod .
Viewers can access pictures of the iPod s in their new pimped out incarnations, as well as those of the proud owners and then vote for their favourites.
In an interview with GEAR4 Romeo Brown said: "Pimp'Ya Player is the roodest site on tha intraweb! Into iPod s but wanna take it to tha next level? Then Pimp'Ya Player is the place for all your customisation needs."
"I'm from the Pimpin' Capital of England, Romford! Bo to tha Romford Krews! I've been Pimpin pods for 3 years and I've become a conisseure of the kraft, travelling all over the world to meet other dedicated 'Podificators'! Thasright I'm the bigdog pimpin'."
The iPod with the most votes on the site is the "Three Knuckle Shuffle", an iPod shuffle modified to resemble a knuckleduster, devised by Phil from the "Isle of White."
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:13 AM
June 26, 2006
Radio 1 DJ reveals iPod faves
The popular DJ Nihal from Radio 1, has unveiled which of the tracks stored in his beloved iPod are his favourites.
DJ Nihal, who presents "Bobby Friction + Nihal" on Wednesdays on Radio 1, revealed a diverse and wide-ranging selection of tunes that he keeps on his iPod , reports the Metro.
Among the talented DJ's favourites are Unfinished Sympathy by Massive Attack, Like Eating Glass, by Bloc Party and One by U2.
Of Unfinished Sympathy, he said: "I downloaded the video on to my iPod recently. It's such a beautiful record but it's a very difficult track to DJ because it's very dark.
"You need to stand there and absorb it rather than dance, it's an amazing track and one with no real chorus."
DJ Nihal recently released a compilation dubbed "Bobby Friction and Nihal presents", in conjunction with his Radio 1 partner, which has since become one of the most popular groundbreaking Asian compilations in the UK and Europe.
In 2005 DJ Nihal was a cultural ambassador for the ultimately victorious London 2012 Olypic bid.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:13 AM
June 23, 2006
iPod gets heavy metal protection
Southern California company Heavy Metal buckles has just released a truly hardcore set of belt buckle iPod cases, for rockers who wish to look punk in a every aspect.
Made out of tough looking base metals, the belt buckle cases are available for the iPod and iPod .
The iPod case features a tattoo design, consisting of stars, axes, wings and so forth, while the iPod case sports a fetching skull and crossbones pattern.
Heavy Metal states: "Heavy Metal was born in Southern California in 1998 as a side project for a manufacturing co. owned by a man of business and with the help of a punk designer… before anyone knew, the doors opened and Heavy Metal buckles started flying out those doors.
Both cases have apertures for the screen and openings for the click wheel and headphone jack.
The cases will retail from £16 to £20 and will be available online soon.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:18 AM
June 22, 2006
iPod nano makes tape decks new again
For iPod nano owners who drive a vehicle which still sports a tape deck, help is at hand with the new Belkin TuneDeck.
The innovative and handy device plugs straight into a car's tape player and allows users to stream music direct from their iPod nano to the vehicles stereo.
As well as powering and charging the iPod nano as it works, the TuneDeck also features inner magnetic and shake-proof design.
Belkin states: "Belkin is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of peripherals and connectivity solutions for computer and consumer electronics users."
Set to launch next month, the TuneDeck is not yet listed on Belkin's website, but will cost approximately £30.
Belkin make a range of iPod accessories, including cases, tuners, cable kits, dock connectors, cable organisers and more.
Founded in 1985 in Compton, California, Belkin now employs more than 1,200 people in offices in North America, Europe and Asia.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:31 AM
June 21, 2006
NanoGo ready to rock n roll
The unique and rather inventive NanoGo iPod nano case is now available, announced its maker Pacific Design.
Surely one of the only iPod nano cases to include a handy wallet section for carrying ID, cash or other miscellaneous useful items, the debut of the NanoGo has been long awaited by the iPod nano cognoscenti.
As well as the walled section, the NanoGo features a carabiner clip, wristlet strap and useful integrated cord management for those pesky headphone wires.
Pacific Design states: "We excel at designing and manufacturing intelligent, high quality cases for all types of mobile technology products.
"As a result of our innovative design, and our success with OEM contract management, Pacific Design has become one of the leading carrying case companies in the world."
The NanoGo comes in black with red detail, or hot pink with white detail and costs about £17 online.
Founded in 1995 Pacific Design is based out of Austin, Texas.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:08 AM
June 20, 2006
Baseball stars use iPods to help beat opponents
Latter day Babe Ruths of America's Major League Baseball have been using the ubiquitous iPod to help them to victory.
The Colorado Rockies pitching staff download videos of opposing teams batters to their pitchers' iPod s, so they can analyse their style and learn how best to strike out their opposition.
Video of the pitchers themselves striking out their opposition are also downloaded, so technique and style can be examined.
Jason Jennings, one of the Rockies' most talented pitchers, said: "It's a good way to refresh yourself on how you got guys out.
"It's an amazing concept."
Other teams such as Florida and Seattle have noticed the iPod s in the dugouts and have reportedly approached Colorado for advice on the new coaching method.
The idea was the brainchild of the Rockies assistant video coordinator Brian Jones, who said that the method is much more efficient and swift than that of watching hours of video.
As many as five seasons worth of video can be downloaded onto a single iPod for review.
On Monday night the Rockies beat the Oakland Athletics seven to zero, breaking the A's ten game winning streak.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:00 AM
June 19, 2006
iPod breaks into the bathroom
A new cradle for the iPod dubbed the "iCarta", truly melds form and function as it serves as both music player and lavatory roll dispenser.
Made by Atech Flash Technology, the iCarta features four high-performance, moisture-free speakers and charges the iPod
while in use.
The tissue holder ingeniously folds away to make a standard iPod dock stereo.
Atech Flash Technology (AFT) states: "AFT designs, develops and manufactures their products with focus on quality, reliability and the latest technology.
"Now you can enhance your experience in any room with your favorite music from your iPod ."
Able to play the iPod shuffle and most other audio devices, the iCarta includes a gratifyingly easy to use wall mount and is compatible with most iPod dock connectors.
Measuring eight inches wide, seven inches deep and three inches high, the iCarta is a handy, unubstrusive package that can truly be used in any room of the house.
Costing about £54, the iCarta is available over the net.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
June 16, 2006
iWorld takes the helm in the battle for the best of the best iPod cases
Looking for inspiration for its new iPod cases, the Italian leather specialists at Orbino stepped back in time to the days of hand-crafted yachts created from the finest materials and powered by sails perfectly stitched for strength and speed. The result is traditionally stylish, indestructible iPod cases featuring a polished palladium frame highlighting the click wheel at the helm, and a patented spring-loaded metal clip to secure the case to a belt or pocket or work as a desk stand.
The soft leather of every Cambio case for video iPods is hand-stitched with incredibly strong high tensile woven and waxed thread for a perfect slim-fit with no protruding seams or leather borders. Finished with traditional edge staining, where the leather is repeatedly buffed with protective polish, to ensure the leather attractively mellows with age and does not split or fray.
Eye catching silver-white palladium frames the click-wheel in a timeless style that ensures the iPod inside will always stand out from the crowd. Add the removable Durashield, a heavy duty transparent protective shield, for full screen and click-wheel protection that doesn’t impede functionality. The innovative design of the spring loaded clip allows you to check the screen at anytime without detaching your iPod from bag, belt or pocket – just swing it round – or stand it on your desk to watch music videos and movies. All docks are fully accessible.
The Sportivo case for the iPod nano shares all the attributes of the Cambio except the palladium click-wheel frame. Exquisite design and faultless craftsmanship are equally noticeable and a useful lanyard is provided for easy portability.
Both the Cambio for video iPods and the Sportive for iPods nanos are available in black and saddle brown from www.iWorld.co.uk.
For further information and photography:
Rowen Ward, Born PR, rowen@bornpr.com, tel: 0785 581 4937 or 020 8878 0777
Posted by ipodworld at 11:37 AM
iWorld launches the Klipsch iFi home stereo system for iPods to the UK
The first iPod-dockable home stereo system has arrived fresh from the USA’s leading audiophile manufacturers, Klipsch, and is set to take the UK by storm straight from www.iWorld.co.uk.
What makes an iFi?
An 8-inch subwoofer, 2 RSX-3 satellite speakers, an attractive and functional iPod dock, a radio frequency remote and exclusive Klipsch Micro Tractrix Horn technology is what makes an iFi.
iPod Dock
The aesthetically pleasing iFi iPod dock features a volume dial and a light bar indicating current volume. The standby/mute button and volume/subwoofer select buttons add extra control. All iPods charge while docked. The iFi connects to the all iPods
Satellite Sounds
Self-standing or wall-mountable, the RSX-3 satellite speakers are two-way magnetically shielded speakers that employ a 3.5 inch aluminium woofer and a 0.75-inch titanium dome compression driver coupled to an exclusive Klipsch round Micro-Tractrix Horn.
Subwoofer
The 8-inch subwoofer, specifically designed for the iFi, has a built in class D amplifier that distributes 200 watts of peak system power to drive all channels. Try placing the subwoofer on the floor in a corner on the same wall as the satellite speakers if you want to increase the deep bass output by up to 6 dB!
Radio Frequency Remote
Pre-synched in production, the radio frequency remote is the audio equivalent of x-ray glasses – it can communicate with the iPod dock through walls and floors throughout the house. Soft-feel paint adds a note of luxury as you feel your way through your music.
Stateside Reviews
"... the pre-production iFi’s offer a sonic experience that outstrips Bose's — and pretty much all other iPod-specific speaker systems — by a fair margin. You'd have to be deaf not to notice the bass power of the included subwoofer, which doesn't need to be on full blast to create sub-sonic vibrations, and creates rich sound regardless of whether it's filling a room or playing quietly." -Jeremy Horwitz, iPodlounge, May 2005
"It's an ultra high performance speaker system designed just for dockable iPods and I agree with my testers wholeheartedly: The Klipsch iFi is the best-sounding iPod speaker system I've ever heard, and not just by a small margin, either." -Bob "Dr. Mac" LeVitus, the Mac Observer, June 2005
"...if you're looking for maximum sound quality when listening to your iPod at home, the Klipsch iFi is the 800-pound gorilla among flea-powered iPod-speaker alternatives. It just plain sounds better, has deeper, more powerful bass, plays louder, has better stereo separation —and thanks to its versatile remote, is easier to use." -Steve Guttenberg, CNET, June 2005
For further information and photography:
Rowen Ward, Born PR, rowen@bornpr.com, tel: 0785 581 4937, 020 8241 7470
Posted by ipodworld at 11:35 AM
Beauty and The Bass: Klipsch iGroove
Hot from across the pond, the revolutionary iGroove from America’s leading audio specialist, Klipsch, is ideal for anyone who wants an outstanding audio experience delivered in a seriously stylish all-in-one portable stereo system that fits all types of MP3 players. The iGroove is available from www.iWorld.co.uk as an online exclusive priced at just £199.
Uniquely Compatible
You’ve got a video iPod and your girlfriend’s got a nano – no problem. The iGroove will work perfectly with both as well as your old mini and your brother’s shuffle. Simply insert your chosen iPod into the iGroove and adjust the sliding back rest to create a secure support. Special inserts fit the nano and mini. All iPods will charge while docked.
Want music from your PSP, mobile phone or non-Apple MP3 player – no problem. Every iGroove comes with a J-Cup adaptor that allows any audio device with a standard headphone jack to play.
Got the horn? Hear it to believe it
The iGroove delivers power and detail to your music using a sophisticated network that delivers all highs to 1-inch Micro-Tractrix Horn-loaded tweeters and the lows to the 2.5-inch composite woofers. What does it mean? You can rediscover the depth and detail of your favourite music that you remember from the days of home stereos the size of a Smart car!
The Klipsch Tractrix horn stands apart from other wave guides and horn-like products thanks to its phase plug which serves to compress the air at the throat of the horn. This compression increases the velocity of air travelling through the horn. Louder sound is created with minimal distortion because the diaphragm does not need to work too hard.
The iGroove can also reproduce more deep bass frequencies than competitive models thanks to a low-turbulence, tuned port located on the rear of the cabinet. Try placing your iGroove two to four inches from a wall or corner to further enhance the low-end performance of the system.
No such thing as a free lunch?
Well, the detail and clarity of the iGroove sound will reveal any flaws in low quality digital music and create a need for you to upgrade your collection. Whether this is good or bad is open to debate?
Convenience
Remote power for the iGroove controls tracks, volume and power for all 30-pin iPods. If you are using an iPod shuffle or any device connected through the J-Cup then the remote will just control volume and power.
Stateside Reviews
"We started our evaluations in earnest with some Simon and Garfunkel's tunes and the Klipsch iGroove sounded pleasantly natural. Their soaring vocals, the guitars, and the band on the Bridge Over Troubled Water album sounded great . . . considering its modest dimensions, the iGroove generates surprisingly satisfying bass without exaggerated boominess or thickening."
- Steve Guttenberg, CNET, December 2005
"Pure music. Loud music. Great dynamic range. That's the iGroove...they will beat the pants off of ultra-portables and most computer speakers. They hold their own against the Bose SoundDock, offering slightly deeper bass and greater dynamic range in the process."
-Lisa Gade, MobileTechReview, December 2005
For further information and photography:
Rowen Ward, Born PR, rowen@bornpr.com, tel: 0785 581 4937, 020 8241 7470
Posted by ipodworld at 11:32 AM
iWorld brings the iBikeMount iPod nano holder for bicycles to the UK
Wave goodbye to wobbly fumbling to keep your balance on a bike as you try to change tunes on the iPod nano that’s in your pocket or on an armband. The new iBikeMount (£19.99) from www.iWorld.co.uk sits securely on your bicycle’s handlebars within easy reach and view. The iBikeMount is also great for exercise bikes, pushchairs and prams – in fact anything with a handlebar!
Features
• Fits 1Gb, 2Gb and 4Gb iPod nanos
• Easily attaches to a variety of handlebar sizes – from 22mm to 26mm
• Quick and easy to attach and remove, no tools required
• Lightweight, just 1.4 ounces / 40 grams
• Flat black colour matches black or white nano
Listen Responsibly
Many people already listen to music whilst cycling and the iBikeMount will serve to make this pastime safer as managing your tunes is now easier than ever before. However, cyclists should always remember to stay aware of their surroundings at all times. It’s a good idea to keep the volume down, perhaps even muted, in areas with heavier traffic. Enjoy the music - just listen responsibly.
Choose the right headphones
www.headphoneworld.com, the world’s largest headphone store, recommends choosing some outer ear pad style headphones to use with your iPod when cycling. This ensures that other road users are aware that you are listening to music and can anticipate that you may not hear them. Check out www.headphoneworld.com to see a variety of full size headphones to do the job, including:
Altec Lansing AHP512, £13.89
Entry level – great balanced sound
OR
Sennheiser HD25 Pro, £189.99
Top of the range – rotatable earphones to allow for one ear listening on the roads
For further information and photography:
Rowen Ward, Born PR, rowen@bornpr.com, tel: 0785 581 4937 or 020 8878 0777
Posted by ipodworld at 11:30 AM
iWorld bags online exclusive for new GEAR4™ HouseParty II
Have your own house party!
Blast 30 watts of crystal clear sound from a really attractive stereo with an equally clear conscience. We know, it sounds too good to be true! The iPod enthusiasts at www.iWorld.co.uk pride themselves on getting you high quality products at great prices and this exclusive deal with Gear4 is no different. The House Party II is a top-end speaker system for just £69.99, including remote control, leaving you plenty of change for beers and decorations for the party.
Features
• 2 X 15 Watt output
• Sync, charge and dock your iPod
• Docking adaptors included
• Cable included to connect with other audio devices including Laptops, DVD, CD and other MP3 players
• Fully functional remote control allowing full iPod menu navigation and HouseParty II speaker volume control
Posted by ipodworld at 11:24 AM
Nike+iPod Sport Kit hits the streets
The much anticipated collaboration between Nike and iPod hit the streets yesterday in the form of the Nike+iPod Sport Kit.
Consisting of a wireless sensor that fits into certain pairs of Nike shoes, the Nike+iPod gathers and sends data on the runners speed, calories burned and distance run to an iPod.
Costing £15, the kit is now available for purchase
"Nike+iPod is a partnership between two iconic, global brands with a shared passion for creating meaningful consumer product experiences through design and innovation," Nike CEO Mark Parker said.
"This is the first result, and Nike+iPod will change the way people run. Nike+iPod creates a better running experience. We see many more such Nike+ innovations in the future," he continued.
Apple CEO Steve Jobs likened the Nike+iPod Sport Kit to a personal coach or exercise partner that will motivate runners.
Nike has debuted its final TV advertisement for the World Cup, featuring Manchester United legend Eric Cantona and Brazilian striker Ronaldo.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
June 15, 2006
Geri gets into shape with iPod
Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell has been seen jogging around a London park listening to her iPod .
Barely a month after giving birth to her first child, a daughter called Bluebell Madonna, the former Ginger Spice was out on a run with her iPod , in a bid to get back in shape.
Dressed in black spandex, 33-year-old Geri looked slim and fit after the Caesarean section birth in May.
Speaking to Hello! magazine, Geri said: "I'm just hoping this child is more angel than devil's child.
"To think that it might one day be going to the equivalent of the raves I went to, or driving away my car without permission the way I took my dad's, is horrifying."
Mel C, the former Sporty Spice, has quashed the long-rumoured possibility of a Spice Girls reunion tour, because she says she does not want to sully the reputation of the band.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:24 AM
June 14, 2006
Armband for iPod nano
For joggers frustrated at keeping their iPod nano secure while trotting along, there is at last a solution – the X-Clip Sports Armband.
UK-based iPod accessory maker GEAR4 has released the perfect accessory for those who like to listen to their iPod nano's while exercising, a padded and adjustable armband.
Featuring a Smartclip to police up annoying wires and a solid protective case, the X-Clip keeps the iPod nano safe and secure while its owner works up a sweat.
GEAR4 states: "The X-Clip concept is unique and innovative.
"It allows you to keep your iPod protected in its hard protective case and simply clip on interchangeable X-Clip accessories, without ever having to remove the iPod from its case."
The X-Clip comes with an emergency rain jacket with a reflective strip to keep both the iPod nano and its owner safe while running in the dark.
Full access to the click wheel and dock connector is allowed through vents in the case.
Out in the next few months, GEAR4 has yet to put a price on the X-Clip.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:06 AM
June 13, 2006
iPod's guide to the greatest show on earth
For those fans lucky enough to make the trip to Germany for this summer's World Cup, the dizzying array of cities, stadiums, teams, players and matches can no doubt seem a little daunting.
Help is at hand in the form of software maker Coolgorilla's guide to the World Cup for the iPod and best of all, it's free.
The in-depth guide features just about anything and everything that even the most die-hard football fan would need, including teams, players, stats and even a thorough history of every World Cup preceding the present one.
Coolgorilla states: "Our iPod sport guides turn your iPod into an interactive encyclopedia packed full of useful facts, figures and trivia about your favourite sporting event."
The company claims that there have been thousands of free downloads of the guide already, with more every day.
Coolgorilla have also come out with a German phrasebook for theiPod , which features just about every phrase a World Cup fan would need to get around safely, as well as a few carefully selected football chants to raise the roof with.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
June 12, 2006
iPod has a ball
A new ball-shaped speaker for the iPod is to be released just as the World Cup really gets under way this summer.
The iDS-02 from Intempo is a sleek, sophisticated and rather unique-looking ball-shaped speaker dock designed for the iPod .
Featuring a USB port and Firewire connection, the iDS-02 can also be hooked up to a PC if one so chooses.
Of their iDS series, Intempo states: "They are ideal for all iPod formats and all audio devices such as mini disc, MP3, walkman, etc. Great for use at home, in the office, or for taking your iTunes with you when you go on holiday!"
The system boasts two 7.5 watt stereo speakers and a more than adequate 15 watt subwoofer.
For those who value convenience, the iDS-02 also comes with a remote controller, allowing users to control the system from across the room.
So new is the iDS-02 that it is not even listed yet on Intempo's website, but when it does eventually debut, it will cost about £130.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:55 AM
June 09, 2006
iPod docking station a blast from the past
The latest iPod docking station, dubbed the MP5, features a valve amplifier straight from the 1940's.
Unveiled this week by Taiwanese electronics company A-zone International, the MP5 sports a silver, wood-trimmed dock for the iPod , flanked by a matching amp with three lit-up glass valves on top.
Featuring two 50 watt speakers covered in black leather and an S-Video output, the MP5 fits all iPod models except the shuffle.
A-zone states: "The MP5 lets you browse through playlists, artists, albums, songs, genres. Besides, the backlight key can lighten your iPod screen for 30 seconds.
"This function will extend the life of your iPod screen."
The MP5 also comes with a handy remote control so the user can control song selection and volume from across the room.
Already on sale in Germany for £485, the MP5 will soon hit Britain and the rest of Western Europe.
iPod accessories with a retro look have been proving popular lately, with SpecTone having just released the SpecTone Retro, made up to look as if it is straight from the 1950's.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:18 AM
June 08, 2006
iPod breaks into classrooms
Instead of being seen as an inconvenient distraction to learning, many are now considering the iPod 's potential as a teaching tool.
Many teachers allow iPod s to be used in the classroom during study hours, the Telegraph reports.
While some teachers have banned the popular music listening devices, others encourage their use during individual study hours, claiming they help keep the students quiet and boost concentration.
"I have started to allow them when students are doing their work," one secondary school teacher wrote on an education website, reports the Telegraph.
"The results are very positive. Students are less chatty, get more work done and classroom management has improved."
iPod accessories that could aid in learning are now being developed, such as the iPod MicroMemo that allow recording directly to aniPod and could be an invaluable tool for recording lectures, notes and so forth.
TMC.net recently reported that market research company Student Monitor found that seventy three per cent of college students surveyed said iPod s were more "in" than text messaging, downloading music and even bar-hopping.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:26 AM
June 07, 2006
Apple releases new U2 iPod
As part of a continuing partnership with popular Irish rock band U2, Apple has introduced the new U2 Special Edition iPod an upgrade of the existing U2 iPod.
Coming with a sophisticated black stainless steel exterior and a blood-red click wheel, U2 Special Edition is based on the fifth generation of 30GB iPod and can hold 7,500 songs.
The exterior of the special iPod also features customised engravings of band members names and comes with a free 30 minutes of U2 video, available for download from iTunes.
Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing said: "We're thrilled to continue working with one of the greatest bands in the world to bring U2 fans a special edition of the world's best digital music player.
"With its distinctive new design, including an all-black stainless steel enclosure, the new U2 iPod is sure to be a hit."
Selling for £177 the U2 Special Edition will be immediately available through the Apple store online.
U2 frontman Bono, a fervent political activist, recently gave US President George Bush a gift of an iPod nano.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:57 AM
June 06, 2006
iPod helps World Cup fans learn German
Thanks to the launch of a downloadable audio phrase list, World Cup fans can now cheer on their teams in the language of the host country – German.
Phrases such as "you're not singing anymore" and "come on England" can now be downloaded thanks to a partnership between lastminute.com and Coolgorilla, which develop customised iPod applications.
Over 750 German worlds and phrases organised into various categories can be downloaded onto an iPod .
Mark McCulloch, brand management boss at lastminute.com said: "These phrase books are inspiring people to use their MP3 player in a different way and at the same time helping them to get into the spirit of the World Cup whether at home or away.
"Let's hope the referee is kind to us and we don't need to shout Schwarze at him too many times!"
In addition to football chants, the phrase list includes useful translations such as, "can I have a beer please?" and "where is the stadium?"
England fans will be sure to such phrases as: "Where's your Ballack Gone?" – "Wo ist nun Euer Ballack?!"
The Foreign Office has predicted that over 100,000 England fans will visit Germany for the world cup.
Besides for the Germany fans, they will be the largest group of supporters at the World Cup.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:25 AM
June 05, 2006
iPod gets Tango'd
A smart new speaker system called the Tango, which features an audio/visual line out, has been released for the iPod .
XtremeMac, one of the foremost accessory makers for Mac products makes the Tango, which features a 2.1 stereo system and can be used with all iPod s that have dock connectors.
Featuring four neodymium-drivers, the Tango also has a unique independent downward firing subwoofer.
The Tango is described by XtremeMac as having "big sound for a small, stylish box, offering clear, rich sound from your iPod ".
Along with a highly efficient speaker system, the Tango also has built-in vibration dampening, wireless remote and an audio/visual line and S-video output, which allows iPod 5G users to show video content on a TV screen.
Selling for £105, the Tango is due to be released this spring.
XtremeMac has also recently released the MicroMemo for the iPod , which, as its name suggests, allows the iPod to record and playback audio material.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:29 AM
June 02, 2006
iPod gets TuneTalk
Another useful and rather ingenious accessory for the iPod has just been released by Belkin, in the form of the TuneTalk Stereo microphone.
Featuring an omni-directional microphone, the TuneTalk allows users to record memo's, lectures, interviews, or whatever takes their fancy.
The recorded audio is then accessible to listen to on either the users' headphones or through a computer.
Belkin stated: "The iPod device's abundant storage capacity lets you store hundreds of hours of audio.
"You can also copy recordings to your desktop or notebook computer for storage, editing, or sending to others via email. The Belkin TuneTalk brings a whole new dimension to your iPod - it's not just for tunes anymore."
TuneTalk includes a foam microphone cover and an LED light that lets the user know when the device is recording, as well as a flexible microphone neck for directional recording.
Shipping to the US in mid June, the TuneTalk should make its European debut shortly after.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:55 AM
June 01, 2006
Flashy new cases for iPods
Macintosh accessory distributor Dr Bott is to sell the snazzy new range of i-doll iPod cases.
Made in top quality leather, each case is a statement of individuality by the owner that can't help but jump out at passers by.
There are over 50 designs, ranging from the fluffy pink Moumoute to the misnamed Rainbow, in uncompromising black.
The store states: "Made from the finest, most luxurious materials, i-doll cases are hand-stitched by French leather craftsmen who pay close attention to detail and tradition."
Every model of iPod is catered to, from the 5G iPod, to the ubiquitous iPod nano
The luxurious cases sell for about £20 each, excepting the Python, made out of extra fine leather which goes for about £34.
These are no ordinary cases, featuring a metal spine with an attachment ring on the back, the cases also come with a plexiglas stand to maintain their shape.
All cases are now available at drbott.com.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM