January 2008 Archives
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January 31, 2008
Apple to 'transform portable computing market'
Apple's iPod technology could see the development of a number of new products within the portable computing market, according to one expert.
Gene Munster, analyst at Piper Jaffray, said that the iPod touch will be the first of a number of "internet-connected" iPods developed by Apple, Thomson Financial reports.
"With 70 per cent market share, we believe Apple is in the driver's seat in terms of transforming the portable music market into a portable computing market," Mr Munster commented.
As a result of the analysis firm's comments, shares in Apple rose by 1.2 per cent during premarket trading on Tuesday, according to the news provider.
The iPod touch enables users to download files, including music, movies and TV shows, from the iTunes store.
The device has a 3.5-inch multi-touch display and boasts a 480-pixel by 320-pixel resolution at 162 pixels per inch, Apple claims.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:05 AM
January 30, 2008
Henson classics released on iTunes
TV classics Fraggle Rock and Farscape have now been released onto iTunes.
Produced by the Jim Henson Company, which has been running for 50 years gave birth to programmes such as the Muppets, the shows were made available for purchase earlier this week.
Commenting on the move, Nicole Goldman, the vice president of marketing and publicity for the company, said: "We know our fans have been asking for these titles on iTunes and through our partnership with New Video, we hope to serve our loyal supporters and also introduce these beloved shows to new audiences."
A total of 24 Fraggle Rock episodes - all taken from the first season - will be made available by the Jim Henson Company, as well as 22 season one episodes of Farscape.
The shows are priced on Apple's iTunes at £1.99 each (£0.99).
Other Jim Henson Company shows include the Bear in the Big Blue House and Sesame Street.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:48 AM
January 29, 2008
Amazon announces plans to make iTunes rival global
Amazon has announced that it plans to make its online digital music store available across the globe.
In a move which shows the growing popularity of the music downloads market, the company's vice-president of digital music, Bill Carr, has stated that it plans to extend its current US service worldwide.
However, the online retailer is yet to announce when the service, which will provide iPod users with another place to go to buy their favourite tunes, is set to officially launch.
Mr Carr said: "We have received thousands of emails from Amazon customers around the world asking us when we will make Amazon MP3 available outside the US.
"We are excited to tell those customers today that Amazon MP3 is going international this year."
The cost of songs through the US service currently ranges between $0.89 (45p) and $0.99 (50p).
Amazon's announcement has come after iPod manufacturer Apple announced plans to cut prices in its UK iTunes store after a European Commission inquiry was held into overpricing by the company.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:08 AM
iPod speaker set for American football fans released
A new set of portable speakers designed for iPod users who like nothing more than a bit of gridiron action has been unveiled.
Electronics company Sourcingmap has created the American football-shaped system, which is powered by two AA batteries, for use with all of Apple's mp3 and mp4 players.
However, Superbowl-obsessed owners of the 8GB version of the iPod nano also have the opportunity to safely store their music player within the shell of the speaker system.
Ann Robinson, the manufacturer's marketing department manager, said the new system was one of 500 products created by the company for use with iPod, while each of them "is of the best quality and price over the internet".
The unveiling of the new American football-inspired gadget has come after a speaker set that uses the plastic packaging that iPods come in as the body of its system was released.
Bird-Electron's eco-friendly EZ17-B system also requires no external power source to run, as it is powered by its connection to the headphone jack of the music player.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:06 AM
January 28, 2008
U2 star gives iPod to Japanese PM
U2 star Bono recently donated an iPod nano to the prime minister of Japan in an effort to break the ice in a meeting on fighting poverty in Africa.
The lead singer of the Irish rock band gave the red music player, which is a special edition of the device to raise money to tackle AIDS and other illnesses in the country, to Yasuo Fakuda at a private event on Saturday.
It has been reported that the star was joined by former British prime minister Tony Blair and Microsoft chairman Bill Gates at the meeting.
When asked by the Japanese politician if the nano features any of U2's music, Bono seemingly could not stop himself from jokingly trying to boost his record sales, replying: "No, but you can download it."
U2 has a strong history with Apple's iPod music players.
A special edition version of the device was released to coincide with the release of the band's last album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, while the group also featured in an advert for the company.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
January 25, 2008
New speakers recycle iPod packaging
A new set of speakers which makes use of the plastic packaging that new iPod nanos come in has been released.
Bird-Electron's EZ17-B iPod recycling speaker set uses the old casing as the body of its system, meaning eco-friendly music fans can pat themselves on the back for saving the planet while they listen back to their favourite tunes.
The speaker system requires no external power source to run either, as it is powered via its connection to a music player's headphone jack.
As well as being attractive to people who want to be greener, the price tag of around £19 may interest those looking for a relatively cheap set of portable speakers for use when they are on the move.
The release of the innovative new system has come after a set of speakers was released for people who are regularly out and about on two wheels.
iHome's new iH85B speaker has been designed for cyclists who want to easily listen to tunes without using headphones – or compromising their safety - while they ride.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
January 24, 2008
Music lovers urged to listen to iPods sensibly
Music lovers have been urged by a major UK charity to ensure they listen to their favourite tunes on their iPods at a sensible volume.
The Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) stated that hearing damage caused by listening to loud music through headphones is a gradual process, which people may not even realise is taking place.
A spokesperson for the body explained that hearing problems are caused by the flattening of tiny hair cells in the ear, which can eventually affect how the brain recognises different frequencies of sound.
She said: "Normally the hair cells will spring back up but each time a tiny amount of damage is done, so over time it can affect your hearing and you will find that you are finding it more difficult to distinguish between sounds."
The spokesperson added that regularly listening to loud music on iPods could lead people to suffer from tinnitus.
It was recently reported that Apple may introduce automatic volume controls on future versions of its music players in order to make the devices safer for people who regularly listen to their iPods.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
January 23, 2008
Apple to release new pink iPod nano
Apple has announced plans to add a pink model of the iPod nano to its range of portable music players.
In a statement, the company claimed that the new version of the entertainment device is "much requested", suggesting that there has been much demand for the company to release a nano in the new bright colour scheme.
The iPod manufacturer also stated that the new model features a two-inch display for users to watch downloaded videos and look at album artwork on the device.
Speaking about the new model, Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice-president of worldwide product marketing, suggested the new nano would make an ideal romantic gift.
He explained: "The pink iPod nano is perfect for people who want a great new colour this spring, or who are searching for a special Valentine's Day gift."
Apple also stated that the device would be compatible with its new digital film rental system.
Launched last week, the new service allows users to download films from iTunes for a limited time to watch on their portable music players.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
January 22, 2008
Eco-friendly iPod cases unveiled
An iPod accessories manufacturer has unveiled a new range of cases for more environmentally conscious users of the portable music player.
Imoeba's new Alpine cases are made from 90 per cent recycled materials, with the exterior manufactured from a man-made material created using scraps of discarded leather.
The cases, which feature a belt clip and a magnetic front flap for extra protection, are available for the classic and third-generation nano models of the entertainment devices.
Speaking to iLounge.com, Imoeba chief executive Lawrence Leung said: "The look, feel, quality and durability of the cases is as close to genuine leather as you can get, does not harm animals and are incredibly stylish.
"To top it all off, the packaging is made from 90 per cent recycled and/or recyclable paper, making the Alpine case better for our planet overall."
Imoeba's new eco-friendly protection for the iPod has been unveiled after H20 audio launched its water-friendly casing for the music player.
The company's iN3 case, which is waterproof up to three metres, was unveiled at the MacWorld Expo conference in San Francisco last week.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:27 AM
iPod-compatible t-shirt released
A new t-shirt designed to give iPod users greater freedom when using their music players has been released.
The UrbanTool GrooveRider features a pouch for the entertainment device, as well as headphone routing which helps people avoid getting in a tangle when listening to music on the move.
According to Tech Digest, the t-shirt also features a control interface for people to easily skip and select their favourite songs on their iPod.
The in-built fabric system on the machine-washable t-shirt also allows users to adjust the volume and play or pause their tunes.
Urban Tool's GrooveRider shirt is available for £94.99.
News on clothing and accessories with in-built features for use with iPods has become increasingly common in the past few months.
At the end of last year, Groovemaster unveiled a range of bags which feature in-built travel speakers designed for use with mp3 players, including the iPod.
The bags, which are available for $149.99 (£74), come in a range of colours and feature volume controls for the audio system.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:24 AM
January 21, 2008
iPod bicycle speaker unveiled
iHome has unveiled a new speaker system designed to make it easier for cyclists to listen to their iPods on the move.
The company's iH85B system, which is roughly the size of a water bottle, is designed to fit inside the frame of a bike and means that athletic iPod users no longer need to compromise their safety by wearing headphones while riding.
According to OhGizmo.com, iPods also sit safely inside the waterproof device, which means users access tracks on their portable music player via a remote control system which rests on the handlebars.
The system, which is not compatible with the shuffle, retails for around $79.99 (£41).
MyCyFi recently also released a speaker system designed for biking enthusiasts this month.
The company's CyFi allows users to listen to their favourite tunes via a wireless speaker system which mounts the handlebars of a bicycle.
Expected to cost around $150 (£75), the device has been available to buy since the start of this year.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
January 18, 2008
iPod touch users 'not prepared to pay for update'
A number of iPod touch users have revealed that they do not think they should have to pay for Apple's new updates for the portable device.
In a poll by Pocket-Lint.co.uk, 77 per cent of respondents said they did not want to pay the $20 (around £10) cost of the new software, which allows users to access email and weather report applications on the entertainment player.
Many users feel it is unfair they have to pay for desire to use the features, which will be included on iPod touch models purchased from this month.
Speaking to website, a spokesperson for Apple defended the decision saying: "With the iPod touch the new applications represent a significant upgrade to existing functionality adding communications capability to the world's best iPod."
Apple's chief executive Steve Jobs unveiled the new features at the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco earlier this week.
He said that the applications are helping the company evolve the touch into "the first mainstream Wi-Fi mobile platform of the 21st century".
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:53 AM
iPod accessories manufacturer unveils alarm clock
A leading iPod accessories manufacturer has unveiled an alarm clock which is compatible with the portable music player.
XtremeMac revealed its design for the Luna X2, a fully featured alarm system with high-end audio technology, at the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco this week.
The company claims that the new device's audio system is powerful enough to act as a stand alone speaker system in a room, while users can adjust volume, alarm settings and the brightness of the product's display with a minimum of fuss.
In addition, the Luna X2 features AM and FM radio facilties, meaning owners do not necessarily need an iPod to use the system.
The new device is set to retail for $119.95 (£61) in the US.
XtremeMac's new alarm clock has been released after Atlantic recently unveiled a system which allows iPod owners to easily enjoy their favourite tunes in the shower.
The company's waterproof sound case enables a user to safely use their iPod in a wet environment, including on a boat.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:50 AM
January 17, 2008
Apple announces updates for iPod touch
Apple has unveiled a new range of updates for the iPod touch to improve the applications featured on the portable entertainment device.
The iPod manufacturer's chief executive, Steve Jobs, said the updates, which include new mail, map, stocks and weather applications, can make the touch into the "best Wi-Fi mobile device in the world".
Announced at the MacWorld Expo conference in San Francisco, the maps feature will allow users to check their current location, while the mail feature can be used with clients including Yahoo! Mail and Google Mail.
In addition, the stocks and weather features give users up-to-date reports.
Commenting on how the applications will improve the iPod touch, Mr Jobs added: "With its revolutionary touch interface and software, plus its stunning 3.5-inch screen, iPod touch is evolving into the first mainstream Wi-Fi mobile platform of the 21st century."
The new update is set to cost iPod touch users $20 (£10).
Mr Job's announcement on the new features has come as he also unveiled plans for Apple to release a new ultra-thin laptop, the MacBook.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:36 AM
New game released for the iPod
Gameloft has released another new game for use on the touch, classic and fifth generation models of the iPod.
The company's new Block Breaker Deluxe game features 50 levels of wall breaker-type game play set in a universe that the firm describes as "jet-set".
Already available for use on mobile phones, the version of the game for the iPod also includes a new feature which allows fans to create customised levels using the software's edit mode.
Fans of the game can then share their efforts with other gamers by uploading their personalised levels onto iTunes.
The senior vice-president of the game's creator, Gonazgue de Vallois, said: "We think iPod owners will be pleased with the stunning new animation effects, vibrant environments and innovative gameplay."
It is expected that the game will retail through iTunes for $4.99 (£2.50).
Block Breaker Deluxe is the latest in a number of games to be released for use on the iPod in recent months, with one of the most high-profile being Sonic the Hedgehog.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
January 16, 2008
New waterproof casing launched for iPod nano
New casing designed to fully protect an iPod nano from water has been unveiled by H2O Audio.
The accessories company claims that its iN3 case, which has been showcased at the MacWorld Expo conference in San Francisco this week, can be used by people while they swim or surf.
H2O has said that the design is waterproof up to three metres and includes features which make it easier for users of the portable music player to control the player if they find themselves underwater.
Kristian Rauhala, the chief executive of H20 Audio, said that the new casing "complements the player's distinctive style" and provides sleek protection for the iPod.
Expected to retail as sport shops and via Apple stores in the US, the case is available for $79.99 (£41).
H2O's new waterproof case has been released after iPod accessories firm Atlantic unveiled a new waterproof system designed to let users listen to their favourite tunes in the shower.
The iceBar is expected to retail for £31.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:40 AM
January 15, 2008
iPod accessories manufacturer unveils new range at conference
iPod accessories company Atlantic has unveiled its new range of accessories for the portable music player at a major conference.
The California-based firm has released new cases for all generations of the iPod nano, as well as a new waterproof system which allows users to listen to their favourite tunes in the shower.
Expected to retail for $59.99 (£31), the iceBar is a waterproof and shatterproof case for all models of the nano, including the video-enabled version of the device.
The iceBar2 case, which costs $69.99 (£36), is a slimmer design which has been designed specifically for the first two generations of the portable music player.
Finally, the Waterproof sound case, which won an award for design and engineering, enables users to safely listen to their iPod in a wet environment, including in the shower or on a boat.
The case is expected to retail for around $99.99 (£51).
Atlantic creates a number of accessories for a range of electronic devices, including iPods, home theatre systems and storage cases.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:37 AM
New features unveiled for iPod audio system
An audio accessories manufacturer has unveiled the latest updates for its iPod audio system.
Massachusetts-based company Chestnut Hill Sound announced the release of the V3.0 software update for its George sound system, which enables users to queue songs on their portable music player while playing tunes through the device.
The new update, which can be uploaded via the system's in-built USB port, also includes settings to improve the navigation and alarm clock facilities.
Steve Krampf, the chief executive of Chestnut Hill Sound, explained that the George system saves users from having to buy new electronic equipment every time more features are created.
"George reverses that trend by offering a sound system that is updateable; now, consumers can have the latest functionality by going to our website and downloading new features via George's USB port," he said.
Electronics company Creative recently also launched a new set of speakers into the iPod accessories market.
The firm's Gigaworks HD50 is a compact set created with high definition technology for high sound quality.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:35 AM
January 14, 2008
Tunewear releases new iPod touch case
A leading iPod accessories manufacturer has released a new range of cases designed for use with the iPod touch.
Tunewear's Prie Ambassador Sidehook features a hook that can also be used as a stand for the device, meaning people can sit back and relax while watching videos on the portable entertainment system.
A cardholder is also featured on the new design, as well as access to all of the iPod touch's ports and controls.
The case, which is set to retail for $49.95 (£25), is also available in five colours and two different leather versions.
Established in 2003, Tunewear creates a range of protective casings for a number of iPod models.
Last month, the company unveiled its original version of the Prie Ambassador case, which features an open face design to allow users easy access to the controls of their music and video player.
The original version for the iPod touch retails at $59.95 (£30).
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
January 11, 2008
Apple 'to lower iTunes prices'
Apple has announced that it is to cut the price downloads available through the UK version of its iTunes music store.
The iPod manufacturer is planning to reduce costs within the next six months after a European Commission inquiry into overpricing by the company across Europe.
Apple currently charges 79p for a music download in the UK, while an equivalent costs 74p.
Commenting on the decision, Apple chief executive Steve Jobs said it was vital for the company to create consistency across the continent.
He said: "This is an important step towards a pan-European marketplace for music. We hope every major record label will take a pan-European view of pricing."
The announcement that the iPod manufacturer is set to consider its prices has come after AppleInsider reported that Apple is set to release the 7.6 version of its iTunes program.
It is believed that the company will showcase the new version of the program, which will include the company's rumoured movie rental service, at the MacWorld conference next week.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:44 AM
January 10, 2008
Young people 'suffer hearing problems' from loud music
Young people have been urged in a new report to ensure they listen to music on their iPods and other mp3 players at a sensible volume level.
The report, which was published in France, has claimed that one in five young people in the country are suffering from hearing problems caused by exposure to loud music from digital music players, gigs and nightclubs.
French newspaper Le Figaro reported that the study's author, Professor Christian Huggonet, felt that the compression of weak sound signals with strong ones is to blame.
Speaking to the publication, he added: "Once the ear has got accustomed to this kind of sound, it finds it very hard to return to sounds of weak intensity... Compressed sound also creates stress and fatigue, because there's no let-up till it stops."
The study on youngsters suffering from hearing problems has been released after two major UK newspapers reported that iPod manufacturer Apple has a patent to introduce an automatic volume control system for its flagship music player.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:49 AM
Copying CDs to iPod 'set to become legal'
iPod users could soon be able to rip music from their favourite CDs onto their music players without worrying about a call from the police.
Under current legislation - the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 - the action of copying music from albums onto a PC for use on mp3 players is illegal.
However, plans have been unveiled to bring the law up-to-date and recognise the growing use of such digital music players in the UK.
Commenting on the proposals, the government's intellectual property minister, Lord Triesman, said it was vital that the system continues to work in the 21st century.
"In an increasingly digital world, we need to be sure our copyright system keeps up with the times and works effectively," he explained.
The move to update copyright legislation is set to come after Hitachi Maxwell recently designed a device to make it easier for iPod users to listen to music with friends.
Called the Bluetooth dongle, the gadget connects to the music player's dock connector and can transmit tunes to any gadgets with Bluetooth capabilities.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
January 09, 2008
Creative launches new HD speakers for iPod
Electronics company Creative has launched a new set of speakers for the iPod which features high definition technology for a clear sound.
The firm's GigaWorks HD50 system is an ultra-compact set which features a Titanium Super Tweeter for improved high notes, as well as technology for strong low-frequency sound.
Compatible with PCs, laptops and all kinds of mp3 player, the speakers have been designed as part of Creative's high-end product range.
The company has not yet revealed a retail price or release date for the new speaker system.
Talking about the new system, the company's European brand manager for speakers, John Keybeck, said: "If there's one thing people want from their PCs these days it's better quality sound.
"In the GigaWorks HD50s we're giving this market a new route to audio excellence in a compact format that combines great music with easy, two-piece installation on the smallest desktop."
Established in 1993, Creative creates a range of PC and mp3 player accessories, including headphones, webcams and portable speakers.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:54 AM
Zap to preview iPod charging cars at conference
An electric car manufacturer has revealed it is to preview its plans to create a vehicle which will feature charging facilities for the iPod.
Zap is to showcase the concept at the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco next week, where it is to unveil designs for a head unit which will enable people who own their cars to easily power up and play music from their entertainment players.
Speaking about the company's move to make its cars iPod-compatible, Zap chief executive Steve Schneider said the concept reflected the industry's efforts to provide more amenities to motorists.
"Apple is making some of the most popular consumer products on the market today," he explained.
"So many bring their iPods with them wherever they go, that having the capability to listen to and recharge them in your car can only attract more customers."
Zap's announcement has come after electronics company Alpine announced plans to launch a range of in-car audio systems designed to make it easier for drivers to use their iPod in their vehicle.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:51 AM
January 08, 2008
iPod accessories firm launches headphone hub for iPod
A leading US iPod accessories manufacturer has launched a new device designed to help users listen to their favourite songs with their friends.
Belkin's RockStar is a hub system that enables users to link up their headphones and mp3 players through the device, making it easier for friends to listen to their favourite tunes together.
In addition, the gadget, which is on show at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this week, also allows users to mix between songs that are played on two or three players connected to the system.
The company hopes that the device, which is set to retail in the US for around $19.99 (£10), will encourage iPod users to interact more when using their music players.
As well as creating accessories for the iPod, Belkin also manufactures a number of electronic devices for use with home computers, laptops, gaming and home theatre systems.
The company was established in 1983 in California and now operates from bases across the US, the UK and the Netherlands.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM
Voice-activated iPod control system unveiled
A major electronics company has unveiled a new system design to enable motorists to control their iPod via voice-activated commands.
Pioneer unveiled the device at the Consumer Electronics Show and claimed that the technology will also be compatible with any in-car audio electronics, meaning people who want to use it would not have to scrap their current system.
MacWorld reports that the company's vice-president of marketing and product planning, Larry Rougas, introduced the system, pointing out that it gives users the chance to "merge their lifestyle and habits" while driving.
He told the website: "It aggregates compatible portable personal devices - whether it's an iPod, an mp3 player or Bluetooth cell phone - and links them all together without having to completely change the car's entire factory audio system.
"And with VoiceBox technology, which goes beyond fixed voice commands, the use of these devices in the car is more convenient."
The unveiling of the new technology has come after a range of iPod-compatible radio systems was released.
Alpine's new systems enable users to connect their music players to the devices to play their favourite tunes on their players.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:43 AM
January 07, 2008
A-levels become iPod-compatible
Pupils studying for a media studies A-level could soon take a big step towards earning their qualification by creating content for an iPod.
Exam board OCR has revealed in its new syllabus that students will have to submit some of their coursework in the form of either audio or video podcasts for use on the portable entertainment device.
The course, which is set to be taught from September, will also require pupils to keep a weblog of their work, while also creating either a promotional package for an album, a short film or a computer game.
Speaking about the new syllabus, OCR subject officer Paul Dodd said: "Our new media studies A-level reflects significant media developments in recent years and gives students the opportunity to use modern channels of communication such as websites, blogs and mp3 players to present their work.
"We are providing a range of interesting project briefs to engage students and inspire them to produce creative projects through contemporary channels."
OCR is one of the UK's leading qualification bodies, which provides courses for education providers including schools, colleges and workplaces.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:53 AM
JVC to launch iPod-compatible TVs
Electronics manufacturer JVC has announced plans to release a new range of televisions with built-in iPod docks.
The company has stated that the dock system will enable users to listen to music, look at photos and watch videos stored on their portable music players through the P-Series LCD products.
In addition, the iPod can be controlled via the TV's remote, while song titles and artist names will also be displayed on the screen during playback.
JVC has stated that the 32-inch and 42-inch versions of the systems - which also charge an iPod whether the TV is on or off - will be released in March, while bigger models are expected to be unveiled in April and June.
The details on the new TVs have been released as more and more companies are unveiling electronic products designed to use the multimedia functions of the new models of the iPod.
Touchmod recently released a video on the web showing the touch model of the iPod being used in conjunction with a new voiceover internet (VoIP) application which allows a user to make phone calls on the device.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:51 AM
January 04, 2008
New iPod Bluetooth dongle unveiled
A new Bluetooth dongle designed with audio enhancement technology has been unveiled for the iPod.
Hitachi Maxwell's new device features a SRS Wow HD audio system, which gives a user crystal clear playback of the tracks on their portable music player.
The gadget is designed to connect to an iPod's dock connector and transmit music being played on the device to any other nearby gadgets with Bluetooth capabilities.
Commenting on the use of the new technology, Hitachi Maxwell's brand businesses division manager, Akio Mishima, said that the decision to use SRS Lab systems in the new product provided significant sound improvements to the device.
"Additionally, we are conscious about our product's energy consumption and were impressed by how much less power this process consumes than previous solutions we have used," he added.
Established in 1961, Hitachi Maxwell is one of the world's leading electronics companies, with business lines including storage devices, batteries and a number of electric appliances.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:38 AM
Escient unveils new package for iPod
Electronics manufacturer Escient has unveiled a new system designed to make it easier for iPod users to connect their music player to their current hi-fi system.
The company's new Windows and Mac-compatible Fireball package has been created to give people the chance to store and playback any tunes in their entire music collection with a minimum of fuss.
Comprising of the Fireball S-E500i disk server and the FP-1 iPod dock, the system is also compatible with cassette decks or turntables and includes features to make CD burning easier.
The package is set to cost £1,600 collectively, with the 500GB disk server and dock retailing for £1,200 and £400 respectively.
Escient is a division of D&M Holdings and focuses on creating products including media servers, DVD systems, remote media players and networking devices.
The release of the new package follows the launch of two new docking stereos for the iPod.
Denon Electronics' new S-series systems also feature built-in Wi-Fi which enables users to stream music from storage devices and tune into their favourite online radio stations.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:36 AM
January 03, 2008
Wireless iPod shuffle headphones released
A new set of headphones designed for iPod shuffle users who are regularly on the move has been released by an accessories manufacturer.
Arriva's creation has been designed to hold the portable music player on the back of a user's neck, while the soft plastic leads for the headphones wrap over a person's ear, holding the device in place.
Gizmag.com reports that the listening unit has been created to mould to a user's head and is available in variations with both standard earphones and in-ear headphones.
The website also reports that the new headphone system retails for around $39.95 (£20).
Arriva's new headphone system for the iPod is set to be followed by the release of the company's next creation.
According to its website, the firm's wireless headphone communication system - which has been designed for office workers and emergency personnel - is also set to be unveiled in the coming months.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
New iPod-compatible car radios unveiled
A range of new iPod-compatible radio systems for use in cars has been unveiled by electronics manufacturer Alpine.
The company's iDA-X100, X200 and X300 systems enable users to connect their portable music player to the systems to play their favourite tunes on most models of the iPod.
In addition, the X100 offers an innovative new system via its HD radio compatibility which allows drivers to 'tag' songs played on the radio so they remember to download them off iTunes once they get home.
None of the new systems features CD slots, deciding instead to focus on their use with mp3 players.
Another model, the IVA-W505, also features a seven-inch touchscreen display for video playback and album artwork display, while no pricing or release date details have been released for the products.
The unveiling of the new designs has come after Griffin recently released three new models of its iTrip radio transmitters for the iPod.
One of the new models is the AutoPilot, which is a charger with an integrated control system for users to easily control their music player while driving.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:39 AM
January 02, 2008
VoIP comes to iPod touch
A new video released on the internet has shown that iPod touch users could soon use their music players to keep in touch with friends and family.
touchmods has created the demonstration - using the beta version of its software - which is described by the team as the world's first voiceover-internet application (VoIP) application for the portable entertainment device.
Whle the new hardware means that iPod touch owners can call people via the player's internet connection, individuals wanting to use the service would still need a handset owing to the lack of an audio input port on the device.
However, according to ITWire.com, the company is also planning to sell microphones which attach to the device's dock connector for around £20.
An increasing number of companies are attempting to utilise the multimedia capabilities of new iPod models.
Last week it was reported that Apple was close to sealing a deal with Twentieth Century Fox to make the company's latest releases available for rental from iTunes.
© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:45 AM