Mac notebook and other portable computing is covered
in The 'Book Review, and general Mac
news is in Mac News Review.
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
iPhone News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPod News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPhone/iPod Add-ons
iPhone Add-ons
iPod Add-ons
iPod and iPhone Deals
iPhone News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPhone Fear Causes Canadian Carriers to Slash
Rates
Network World
Canada's Howard Solomon reports in Macworld UK:
"The influence of the iPhone is already being felt in Canada - even
though the device can't be bought in the country yet - forcing Telus
and Bell to slash wireless data prices.
"That's the opinion of the SeaBoard Group, which said in a report
that the certainty Rogers Communications would soon be selling the
handset in Canada had forced its main competitors to strike early and
make what the telecommunications consultancy calls 'breathtaking' data
price cuts.
"'The deals now are fabulous,' said Iain Grant, SeaBoard's
Montreal-based managing director and until now an outspoken critic of
Canadian carrier pricing."
Link: iPhone
Fear Causes Canadian Carriers to Slash Rates
Fast Company Posts Video on Hacking the iPhone
Just how
vulnerable is the "iPhone" to an unscrupulous hacker? Could it really
be turned into a tool of espionage?
To find out, Fast Company magazine purchased an iPhone for Rik
Farrow, a UNIX specialist and consultant from Sedona, Arizona, and
commissioned him to crack through its defenses, which he did using H D
Moore's Metasploit, a popular platform for testing security systems.
The result is
this video, in which Farrow was able to take complete control of an
iPhone and demonstrated the ability to eavesdrop on conversations,
intercept voice mail and email, and upload nefarious software programs.
"Physical access to an iPhone," Farrow points out, "is not
required."
In the video posted on fastcompany.com, Farrow shows what is
possible for an iPhone or any other smart phone. Most, including
Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, and Sony Ericsson run on the Symbian
operating system, which has been targeted by dozens, if not hundreds of
viruses (it's hard to know just how many). Windows Mobile and Linux,
which have scant mobile market share, are also vulnerable to digital
influenza.
Link: Fast Company
iPhone Tricks for the New iPhone Owner
NewiPhoneTricks' Kirk Scott says:
"If you own an iPhone, you will want to learn some of the cool
iPhone tricks. If you are a new owner of an iPhone, then
congratulations! You now have a very handy and powerful piece of
technology that can virtually do it all. And it is so easy. With your
new iPhone, everything can be done with your index finger. So let the
tapping begin."
Link: iPhone Tricks
for the New iPhone Owner
RIM 'Developing Touchscreen Device to Rival
iPhone'
MacUser UK
reports:
"RIM is rumoured to be working on a brand new operating system and
handheld device to meet the challenge of the iPhone.
"The BlackBerry maker is said to be developing a new 9000 Series
platform that will be targeted at the consumer market, according to
Carmi Levy, an analyst at AR Communications."
Link:
RIM 'Developing Touchscreen Device to Rival iPhone'
iPod News, Reviews, & Opinion
iPod touch In-car Video Hack
apple-touch.com says:
"For some, an in-car install is an FM transmitter and maybe an iPod
cradle that clips onto a vent. In this Infiniti FX35, however, it
consists of a very slick hack of the Apple AV cable, which feeds music
and video directly through the factory-fit radio and onto the
aftermarket pop-up screen on the dash-top and a flip-up DVD screen in
the rear."
Check out the video of the setup in action, after the cut....
Link: iPod
touch In-car Video Hack
iPhone/iPod Add-ons
WeatherBug Goes Mobile
PR: Mobile Alerts - Stay informed with severe weather alerts
and forecasts text messaged to your mobile phone. Learn more about
Mobile Alerts.
Mobile Weather - Live local weather with full interactive features
like radar maps, cameras and more, now for your mobile phone. Learn
more about Mobile Weather.
Mobile on Demand - Instant Weather for when you need it most, for
any US ZIP Code.
iPhone/iPod touch users point your Safari to
<iphone.weatherbug.com>
Link: WeatherBug
Mobile
Control Your Computer Remotely with Files2Phones
and Your iPhone or iPod touch
PR: 1stWorks, a real-time communications software company
with solutions for secure multimedia conferencing, collaboration and
content delivery, today announced the immediate availability of
Files2Phones 2.0 - a powerful desktop application that enables your
iPhone to function as a real time remote control for your computer -
securely, encrypting your data in transit.
Any
application or file type, documents, presentations, spreadsheets, CAD
drawings, even custom applications- any application that can be opened
on your own desktop can now be viewed and controlled remotely from your
iPhone. To set up F2P, simply drag and drop the local directories,
applications or files you want to access remotely into public, private
or guest folders on your desktop PC or Mac. The files are immediately
added to your personal F2P directory at your personal .myf2p.com page -
where they can be viewed and controlled using the iPhone's Safari
browser. All display transfers use our patent pending compression
technique for maximum efficiency and performance.
Or choose to view an instantaneous image of your desktop PC display
right on your And if you have multiple monitors on your system, you can
view them all. This remote access facility also includes launching the
webcam on your desktop PC to see the image on your iPhone in either
single shot or continuous view mode. Great for security when you are
traveling, or checking in to see the view from the desktop,
anytime.
Want to use Skype
to call your friends? Go ahead. Display your phone
list, select the person to call and Files2Phones will make the
connection.
Adding camera pictures to your online F2P directory at your
myf2p.com page is easy too. Take the picture with your iPhone camera,
email it to your personal directory at your .myf2p.com page and
Files2Phones will automatically add the image, in date and time
sequence, into your published picture file. Keep your friends in the
picture, simply and immediately.
For security, access to the files in the private and guest
directories is managed by username and password as well as by time
frame, while all access requests and file transfers are recorded to a
log file on the desktop computer, including the name of the file or
application accessed and a timestamp as well as the requesting IP
address, port and connection type.
Interestingly, these same desktop and webcam display capabilities
described above, delivering images instantly to your iPhone, also
enable parents to remotely access the desktop to see what their
children are viewing or doing at that instant.
Files2Phones is available immediately for download for your free
trial, and licenses can be purchased online for $29.95 for 3 months or
$99.95 for a year, with no hidden data or usage charges.
Link: Files2Phones
iGet Mobile Enables Remote Mac Access from iPhone
and iPod touch
PR: Nakahara Informatics, Inc. today announced the immediate
availability of iGet Mobile, a brand new product in the company's iGet
line of remote access software. iGet Mobile is a new Mac application
that allows users to easily and securely access the Mac's documents and
files from an iPhone, iPod touch, Windows PC, or other non-Mac
device.
Nakahara
Informatics, Inc. today announced the immediate availability of iGet
Mobile, a brand new product in the company's iGet line of remote access
software.
iGet Mobile is a Mac application that allows users to easily and
securely access the Mac's documents and files from an iPhone, iPod
touch, Windows PC, or other non-Mac device.
The original iGet, Nakahara's highly acclaimed Mac file transfer
tool, has always provided a secure way to access and manage files
remotely, but it does require a Mac on both ends of the connection.
By contrast, iGet Mobile allows users to access their home or office
Mac remotely when they don't have a Mac handy. It provides a
lightweight web interface to the Mac, with special features geared
toward users of the iPhone and iPod touch.
"Since the very first day that the iPhone was released, we've been
asked when we'll have a version of iGet that works with it," said CEO
Christopher Martin. "People don't necessarily want to take their
laptops with them as much as before, and yet they still want to be able
to connect back to their Macs and access their documents, maybe for
business reasons, or maybe just to find something to read while waiting
at the dentist's office."
iGet Mobile lets users do that and more. It can not only browse the
Mac remotely, but also perform on-the-fly document conversions that
make many common Mac file types more compatible with mobile devices.
This means that a 50 MB high-resolution Photoshop image file can be
reduced in size and converted to a standard image format, or that a
rich-text RTFD document can be instantly converted to PDF format,
before being viewed on an iPhone.
While designed with the iPhone specifically in mind, iGet Mobile
allows users to access their Macs from "any decently web-capable
device", Martin added.
iGet Mobile 1.0 is available immediately from the company's web
site. The software will run in full-featured demo mode, allowing users
to try out all of its features before purchasing a license.
iGet Mobile was designed from the ground up using the latest Apple
technologies, and it requires Mac OS X 10.5 or later. It will run on
any Mac that supports this version of the OS.
iGet Mobile 1.0 is available immediately from the company's web
site, at www.nakahara-informatics.com. Regularly priced at $39, the
software is currently available for the special introductory price of
only $29, for a limited time.
For more information, visit the company's website or call (888)
550-0505.
Link: iGet
Mobile
Venturi Mini Features Stereo Bluetooth for In-Car
Music and Handsfree Calling
PR: NextGen Venturi Ltd. announces the Venturi Mini, the new
music phone and MP3 adapter for in-car music and voice calls. The
Venturi Mini introduces the first true convergence of Bluetooth music
streaming, handsfree calling and USB-style charging. When plugged into
a vehicle's 12 volt adapter, the Venturi Mini uses Bluetooth to stream
stereo music from the phone and wirelessly route calls through the
in-car sound system. The Venturi Mini also has a built-in charger to
power your devices on the move and is designed to work with all
vehicles.
"The Venturi
Mini combines advanced technology and the sleekest design to set a new
standard for in-car entertainment and communication products," says
Harbans Dass, Managing Director of NextGen Venturi. "With the explosive
growth of music enabled phones, the Venturi Mini brings a new dimension
to the in-car music experience, while allowing safe handsfree
calling."
The Venturi Mini becomes a personalized in-car radio station,
playing music from your MP3 enabled phone using wireless A2DP Bluetooth
technology. Featuring Bluetooth 2.0 EDR, the Venturi Mini allows high
quality stereo audio to be transferred from your phone or MP3 player.
You can connect up to four separate Bluetooth devices and also attach
your iPod or MP3 player by cable.
Using new noise eliminating technology, the Venturi Mini provides
crystal clear handsfree audio for mobile calling. A new generation of
digital FM transmitter using RDBS technology displays information on
the in-vehicle radio screen, including phonebook contacts, device menus
and calling party identification. The Venturi Mini will automatically
pause music to answer incoming calls and resume playback afterward.
Unique to the Venturi Mini is the ability to charge your devices on
the go, featuring a standard USB style 5v port. The Venturi Mini will
continue to play music, take and make calls and ensure you arrive with
your devices charged and ready to go.
The stylish Venturi Mini is designed and manufactured in the United
Kingdom. Additional features include an autosensing audio-in socket for
MP3 players, advanced noise reduction technology to minimize background
noise and an ambient light sensor that adjusts the white OLED display's
brightness for all conditions. A stereo audio-out connection also
provides a direct connection to the car audio system.
The Venturi Mini is a CES Innovations 2008 Design and Engineering
Award Honoree for the In-Vehicle Accessories product category. The
product will be showcased in the Sands Expo at IP222. The Innovations
Design and Engineering Awards program recognizes the most innovative
consumer electronics products in the industry's hottest product
categories - becoming a hallmark for the best designed products in
consumer technology.
Measuring just 8.4cm x 4.3cm, the ultra compact Venturi Mini is
fully transportable between vehicles and family members with no
installation required. The Venturi Mini has an MSRP of $129 and will be
available for retail nationwide December 2007. In addition, the Venturi
Mini will be available through other distribution channels such as
Superior Communication, Xentris and online.
Link: Venturi Mini
iPhone/iTouch Dev Team Presents 1.1.2
Jailbreak
PR: the iPhone/iTouch Dev Team says:
Download the 1.1.2 jailbreak here:
http://conceitedsoftware.com/iphone/1.1.2-jailbreak.zip
Support our cause
We have worked very hard on this jailbreak. If you feel like
supporting our cause, please consider donating.
Link: 1.1.2
Jailbreak
iPhone Add-ons
i.Sound RoadTalk Transforms Car Stereo into
a Handsfree Mobile Phone
PR: First auto-system compatible with iPhone launched by
dreamGear
Forget the burden of tricky headsets. i.Sound's latest addition to
their innovative speaker accessory line, the i.Sound RoadTalk, is a
handsfree wireless car kit that synchronizes your Bluetooth mobile
phone with your car stereo - and is the first device of its kind that
is iPhone compatible. This multitasking gadget gives you the latest
hand-free Bluetooth technology with full-frequency FM transmission of
audio from mobile phones, iPods and other MP3 players, state-of-the-art
microphone technology and wireless MP3-to-car stereo direct
conversion.
The small FM transmitter plugs directly into the car's cigarette
lighter and immediately transmits your conversation through your car
stereo. Compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone, this
feature is no longer confined only to luxury car owners as RoadTalk
brings this convenience and safety to any car stereo system. Gone are
the days of fidgeting with uncomfortable Bluetooth earpieces that are
so easily misplaced.
Many states have outlawed the use of handheld mobile phones while
driving, classifying these drivers as "high risk" and as major
contributors to car accidents - and are handing out hefty tickets to
those who don't comply. According to an April 2006 study by the
National Highway Safety Administration and the Virginia Tech
Transportation Institute, 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of
near-crashes involved some form of driver distraction within seconds of
impact. RoadTalk is the solution to keeping you safe and
ticket-free.
"The i.Sound RoadTalk was created with the understanding of not only
what the consumer wants, but what the consumer needs. The i.Sound
RoadTalk pairs convenience with safety, tying both to the quality
digital sound Bluetooth users have come to expect," says dreamGear's
cofounder Richard Weston.
Never before has a wireless device been able to automatically
transfer your calls from phone to car speakers, play your MP3 music,
and provide full-frequency FM transmission all in one. Enjoy the
wireless technology of the future today, without sacrificing sound
quality or breaking the bank.
Going handsfree is now easy, fun and affordable with i.Sound
RoadTalk.
Link: i.Sound
iPod Add-ons
FastMac Expands 'Just Say No to Crack' iPod
Rehab Program
PR:
FastMac has announced the expansion & inclusion of Apple's 3rd
Generation iPod nano (with Video) & the new iPod Classic into its
"Just Say No To Crack" iPod rehab program, featuring same day LCD
replacements for iPods. The hugely popular program offers repair and
replacement of scratched or cracked iPod LCD screens, either as a Do It
Yourself (DIY) kit with tools & instructional videos or via a same
day mail order service provided by FastMac directly. FastMac uses only
Apple original parts to guarantee quality as well as fit and
compatibility.
FastMac's iPod LCD rehab program for the 3rd Generation iPod nano
& iPod Classic is available now, with special introductory pricing
that starts at $49.95 & $59.95 respectively. LCD screens for other
iPod models are also available from $29.95. Each screen carries a
1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.
FastMac's LCD rehab program replaces the iPod's original display
with a 100% matching Apple original part & includes all necessary
tools and instructions required to open the iPod. 24-hour installation
services are also available for an additional $39.95. Using a box in
the mail service provided by DHL, FastMac will pick up the customer's
iPod, install the LCD screen and provide a thorough checkup & light
cleaning before shipping back to the customer, all within 24 hours.
During the rehab process, FastMac will diagnose any other problems that
the iPod may be experiencing, and offer a free estimate for repair or
upgrade, including battery & hard drive upgrades, or logic board
repairs.
Compatibility - FastMac's LCD rehab program is available for the
following iPods:
- iPod 4th Gen
- iPod 5th Gen (with Video)
- iPod Classic
- iPod nano all models
- iPod mini all models
More information about FastMac's "Just Say No to Crack" LCD rehab
program is available online.
Link: 'Just Say No to
Crack'
DLO iBoom Travel Portable Alarm Clock with
FM Radio and iPod Dock
PR:
Bedside to poolside, Enjoy your favorite playlists wherever you go - at
home, on the road, in the office, or even your own backyard
Enjoy your favorite playlists wherever you go - at home, on the
road, in the office, or even your own backyard. iBoom Travel is the
first 2-in-1 portable iPod speaker system and travel alarm clock that
gives you supreme portability and the convenience of a clock radio all
in one sleek take-with-you package.
Why buy
both when you get everything you need from the iBoom Travel. As an
alarm clock, simply place any dockable iPod into iBoom Travel and you
can fall asleep or awaken to your favorite iPod playlists, FM radio or
"old school" alarm buzzer.
Not Just for the Nightstand
The iBoom
Travel allows you to enjoy your favorite music 'on-the-go' without the
hassle of headphones. Yet its sleek, portable design, convenient travel
pouch, and clock radio make it ideal for even the most discerning road
warriors. The iBoom Travel features a soothing blue backlight and
programmable sleep settings so you can drift off to your favorite
sleep-inducing playlist. And, just like a good night's sleep gives you
power to start your day, your iPod will be charged and ready to go
after being docked in the iBoom Travel for the night.
Features:
- Convenient travel pouch included for supreme portability
- Use included AC adaptor or AA batteries
- Charge your iPod while docked
- Sleep function lets you drift off to your iPod
- Stereo speakers provide sound clarity in small package
- Bass Boost button for even better sound from your iPod
- Available in Graphite and Classic White
The iBoom Travel includes iPod fit inserts, compact AC adapter,
travel pouch with outer pocket, and a manual to get you going in 5 easy
steps.
$89.99
Link: iBoom
Travel
Griffin Releases Classic TuneBuds in 6 New
Colors
PR: Crisp, clear highs; powerful, deep bass; maximum comfort;
and colors to match your iPod
Along with great sound and maximum comfort, Griffin has always
valued good looks. You have a red iPod nano . . . why should
you have to be content with white or black earphones? You don't.
TuneBuds
reinvent what a simple, in-ear earphone is capable of. We've married
superb sound with unparalleled comfort. The secret is neodymium dynamic
drivers, and specially engineered ear cushions, shaped to perfectly
conform to the shape of the inside of your ears. The result is not only
an amazingly comfortable fit, but also enhanced audio isolation from
outside distractions. With TuneBuds, you'll find that you can enjoy
your music at lower overall volume levels, yet still hear all the music
clearly.
With 3 sizes of interchangeable soft washable silicone ear cushions
included in every package, all sizes of ears are assured of comfort
that they can wear all day without fatigue.
Available in silver, pink, light green, blue, light blue, and red,
TuneBuds complement the colors of your iPod.
Earphones worthy of your music. Colors worthy of your player.
Griffin TuneBuds.
Features:
- Exceptional noise isolation
- Superb sound output and enhanced bass
- Neodymium dynamic micro-drivers
- 46" earphone cable (Not too short. Not too long. Just right.)
- Lightweight (0.4 ounces/12 grams)
- Three different sizes of washable silicone inserts for secure fit
and maximum comfort
Available in 6 designer colors:
- Blue
- Pink
- Silver
- Light Green
- Red
- Light Blue
$19.99
Link: Griffin
TuneBuds
Tune Belt Open View Armband for 3G iPod nano
& Nike + iPod Sport Kit Receiver
PR: Tune Belt is introducing two Open View Armbands for
Apple's latest 3G iPod nano.
The first holds just an iPod nano and the second holds an iPod nano
and a connected Nike + iPod Sport Kit receiver.
Made with lightweight and
comfortable neoprene, both cases feature an ultra slim design, a clear,
protective window cover that provides full navigational control; a
flexible, cushioned Velcro armband that adjust from 8 to 18 inches; a
flap for storage and management of the earphone cord; a reflective logo
and trim for nighttime visibility and safety; and a design that allows
the user to wear the armband right side up or upside down so the screen
is easier to read when viewed on the arm.
The Open View Armband for iPod nano sells for $19 and the Open View
Armband for iPod nano and Nike + iPod Sport Kit Receiver sells for
$20.
Both armbands are available immediately.
USB Fever iPod USB-Dock Adaptor
PR: Highlights:
Tired of tingling cables? why not use an adaptor?
Features:
- For Synching and Charging
- Compact and easy to go
- lightweight
- No tangling cables
- space-saving
Options: Colors
Compatibility list:
- iPod Video
- iPod Classic
- iPod nano
- iPod touch
- iPhone
$7.99
Link: USB
Fever iPod USB-Dock Adaptor
AudioBytes Introduces Luxury Hi-fi Computer
Speaker System
PR: Music: You've been waiting for a computer speaker system
that sounds so good it makes you want to crank it up and sing along.
Finally, award-winning Axiom sound is available from your computer or
iPod system. Either connect the compact AudioBytes to your PC to enjoy
your favorite tunes, or connect the speakers and 55-watt-per-channel
amplifier to your iPod dock for great music listening while your iPod
charges.
Movies:
Watching movies on your computer just became a completely immersive
experience with truly dynamic sound reproduction in a near-field
application. Add the optional isobarically loaded dual-cone subwoofer
to add powerful bass impact and depth to your experience. Available in
black.
Gaming: Whether you're a casual gamer or you lined up for days to
get the first copy of Halo 3, the Axiom AudioBytes will add
unprecedented realism to the demanding sound requirements of today's
games. You won't believe what you've been missing until you switch to
the truly high-fidelity playback of the Axiom AudioByte.
Add EPZero
Subwoofer for $179.
Product starts shipping December 5th.
AudioByte Computer Speaker Specifications
- Enclosure: Sealed
- Freq Resp +/-3dB: 100- 20 kHz
- Impedance (Ohms): 8
- SPL In-Room 1w/1m: 87dB
- SPL Anechoic 1w/1m: 83 dB
- Tweeter: 1" titanium dome
- Woofer: 3" aluminum cone
- Dimens. H W D (inches): 6.5" x 5.5" by 4"
- Dimens. H W D (mm): 165 x 140 x 101
- Weight (lbs) each 2.7
- Weight (kg) each 1.24
AudioByte Amplifer Specifications
- Watts 55 per channel
- Dimens. H W D (inches): 5" x 5 " x 12 3/8"
- Dimens. H W D (mm): 127 x 127 x 314
AudioByte EPZero Passive Subwoofer Specifications
- Cross over Adjust Fixed
- Woofer dual 6.5"
- Room Trim flat, half boost & boost
- Anechoic Response +/- 3dB 35 Hz to 150 Hz
- Room Response +3dB/-9dB 25 Hz to 150 Hz
Introducing the first luxury hi-fi computer speaker system. . .
Performance, beauty and fidelity in one package.
Prices range from $349 for basic solid color finish to $559 for
full-zoot real wood burled Walnut Cherry
Link: AudioByte
Computer Speakers
iSkin Introduces iPod touch Protector
PR: iSkin Inc. has introduced the all-new iSkin for iPod
touch. Aptly named the iSkin touch, it once again shows the company's
commitment to premium iPod accessories. The iSkin touch captures the
essence of the iPod it protects in a simple yet sophisticated design.
Made from premium high-grade silicone, it features smooth lines,
textured surfaces and two-tone color arrangements topped with well
thought out features.
Unlike
most iPod cases, the iSkin touch protector is designed with iPod owners
in mind. The product is elegantly designed to snugly encapsulate the
iPod without adding bulk or affecting overall aesthetics and usability.
The iSkin touch protects both the iPod's home and power buttons and
features integrated port plugs that keep dust and dirt from entering
its docking and earphone ports when not in use.
The iPod touch's touch screen was also addressed with the inclusion
of a touch-friendly screen film. The protective film overlays the
screen without adhesives and features antiglare and anti-fingerprint
properties - while still maintaining a clear view. For customers
looking for iPod touch screen privacy, the company offers a privacy
version of the film via their online store, sold separately.
The iSkin touch finishes off with an included removable belt clip.
The clip comes preinstalled but can be completely removed in a few easy
steps. The clip itself is low profile yet durable. It rotates to ninety
degrees in either direction helping to keep iPod owners and their iPods
firmly connected.
The unique two-tone design offers anything but the generic look,
giving iPod touch owners' options for customizing with their
accessories. The iSkin touch comes in a variety of two-tone designs.
The colors are well matched and provide a unique yet elegant touch of
color to the iPod. The available color options are: NightHawk
(espresso+black), Diablo (red+black), Oxygen (black+clear), Electra
(black+blue) and Vanity (black+pink).
The iSkin touch is available now for order at iSkin.com and will
arrive at participating iSkin resellers in the coming weeks. The
product includes both the iSkin touch and Touch friendly Screen Film.
Product will retail for $29.99.
Link: iSkin for
iPod touch
iSee Cases for 3G iPod nano and iPod
touch
PR: Contour Design announces its new iSee nano V3 for the
iPod nano (with video) and iSee Touch for iPod touch.
They're as pure
as iPod cases get - crystal clear, lightweight, and extremely durable
to defend and display the iPod. And yet, they're redefining what an
iPod case should be. From the ergonomic belt clip to the highly
polished crystal clear shell, the iSee line of cases could only come
from Contour Design.
The iSee encases the iPod in crystal clear plastic while remaining
completely unobtrusive. It shields the iPod while providing easy access
to all connections and controls. You and your iPod are always on the
go, and your iPod will stay secure and protected in its iSee case.
Both snap-together cases come with two backs: a simple, smooth back
that makes for a slimmer profile, and a belt clip-compatible back,
featuring a new clip attachment.
The new belt clip can be mounted in four positions or replaced with
a plug to close the attachment point. In addition, hinged Dock
Connector protectors open partially for access to the headphone jack
only, or fully for additional access to the Dock Connector and hold
switch.
Other features include a play-through Click Wheel protector on the
iSee nano V3 and a silicone hold switch cover for the iSee Touch.
"As the iPod nano has gotten sleeker and smaller, it becomes even
more important for a case to look great and offer complete protection,"
notes Contour's Mike Jackle. "And while the glass screen of the iPod
touch doesn't need scratch protection, we made sure to protect
everything else and still leave the controls accessible."
iSee nano V3 and iSee Touch are both available immediately, selling
for $25 and $30, respectively.
Link: iSee Cases
TuneWear TuneShell for 3G iPod nano
PR: TuneShell is made of crystal-clear polycarbonate
allowing you to enjoy the full color of your iPod nano 3G while
protecting it from dirt and scratches. This hard but thin case seems
almost invisible when installed, barely increasing the size of your
iPod.
TuneShell includes a neck lanyard with quick-release clasp,
making iPod nano 3G even more convenient for viewing movies or choosing
music. With TuneShell, you can easily slip your iPod nano into your
pocket or bag, or keep it handy using the lanyard.
TuneShell easily snaps on to your iPod nano 3G, but leaves the
headphone jack, bottom dock connector and Click Wheel open for complete
access.
$19.95
Link:
TuneShell for 3G iPod nano
Buy an iPod Preloaded with Your Entire Music
CD Collection
PR: Have an MP3 player? Considering getting one? Now get your
entire CD collection transferred to your player, perfectly and
easily.
Did you know that over half of iPod and MP3 player owners are not
listening to their music? From independent research firm Ipsos, over
50% of consumers who are 25 years and older have not loaded their CD
collection onto their media players.
Consumers describe the problem:
- "The iPod my boyfriend got me for Christmas is still sitting in its
box."
- "I was going to load my 200 CD collection, but ran out of steam
after about 20 CDs."
- "We keep meaning to transfer the music, but other things seem to
always take precedence."
But now help is at hand, just in time.
TunesGenie.com sells new iPods that are ready-to-play with
consumers' entire music CD collections preloaded. TunesGenie also
transfers consumers' CD collections to MP3 for easy loading onto
existing media players.
TunesGenie delivers a flawless and easy service that is just right
for you and your music. Nationwide, music lovers get their music back
within a week and reconnect with the music they almost forgot they had.
Gift certificates are available for instant gratification.
- TunesGenie sends a customized shipping kit directly to a customer's
doorstep
- The customer puts their CDs in the box and calls FedEx for
pickup
- After loading the music CDs, TunesGenie returns them along with a
handy back-up of MP3s
- The CDs will be cleaned and repaired as needed, free
- At 7 cents per song, it costs less than downloading the music from
iTunes
"For many consumers, it's simply too much work, to put one CD after
another, after another, into the computer. Our customers tell us that
they love how fast and easy our service is - and they love being able
to hear their lifetime of music again," said TunesGenie CEO John
Bachmann.
TunesGenie is a leading digital music specialist that transfers
music CD collections to iPods, MP3 players, and all digital media
players. TunesGenie provides a flawless service to those who love
music.
Link: TunesGenie
Parrot Multimedia Product Range Now
Compatible with Apple Products Thanks to Leopard
PR: Parrot, the specialist in wireless peripherals around the
mobile phone, announces that Apple lovers can seamlessly connect their
devices with a full range of Parrot multimedia Bluetooth products
thanks to Mac OS X Leopard which now supports Bluetooth Stereo (A2DP).
The car kit range is also evolving to offer full iPod compatibility
with the new Parrot RK8200 car kit Made for iPod.
The new Mac OS X Leopard now supports Bluetooth Stereo (A2DP),
enabling Mac users to wirelessly stream their music files via iTunes to
any wireless speaker from the Parrot audio range. Apple lovers who want
to make the most of their playlists can now forget about cables and
enjoy their favorite tracks on high quality speakers such as the Parrot
DS1120, a set of trendy Hi-Fi Bluetooth speakers with a 30W output and
extraordinary sound quality. If they want to listen to their music when
out on the move, the Parrot PARTY is a stylish portable set of speakers
with incredible sound power for such a tiny device - only 9 inches wide
and 11 ounces.
Parrot wireless digital photo frames are also compatible with
iPhoto®, which means users can wirelessly send all their favorite
photo albums directly onto the wide range of digital photo frames from
Parrot. They can display their favorite pictures on the Parrot PHOTO
VIEWER 7" which holds more than 500 images and has a seven-inch
active-matrix TFT screen for exceptionally bright, crisp photo images.
When in the office, Apple users can be reminded of their loved-ones
thanks to the new Parrot DF3120, an adorable 3.5" digital photo frame
that fits perfectly on a desk or night stand.
New Parrot Car Stereo with iPod Connectivity
Parrot's car kit line is also evolving to offer full iPod
compatibility. The company's just-introduced Parrot RK8200
made-for-iPod FM/AM RDS car stereo incorporates an iPod-specific
connector so users can enjoy their favorite tunes while driving.
Whether they have the iPhone, the latest iPod nano, the iPod
shuffle, the iPod classic or the iPod touch, drivers can now play their
favorite tracks directly through the Parrot RK8200. They can also enjoy
the added convenience and control of handsfree calling with the iPhone
(or any other cell phone). No need to touch the phone while driving
because the Parrot RK8200 with integrated cell phone capability and
voice recognition does all the work -handsfree!
Parrot sports a wide range wireless audio systems:
- The Parrot BoomBox is a stylish and sleek compact Hi-Fi stereo
speaker system with a 60W power input, with two wide bands and a woofer
for high level sound, whatever the music
- The Parrot DS1120 is a set of two wireless stereo Hi-Fi speakers
that work seamlessly with your Bluetooth mobile phone, MP3-player, or
laptop, delivering unrivaled sound quality in the house
- The Parrot PARTY is a stylish portable set of speakers with
incredible sound power for such a tiny device - only 23 cm wide and 620
g
- The Parrot DS3120 an innovative home stereo that combines Parrot's
award-winning wireless music and handsfree calling technology in one
unit
Parrot sports an entire range of wireless digital photo frames:
- The Bluetooth Parrot PHOTO VIEWER 7" sports an internal memory of
500 photos with a high quality screen and a large range of stylish
leather outer frames
- The Parrot DF7220 offers a wide range of connectivity options: with
its SD card slot, USB port and Bluetooth functionalities, you can enjoy
your favourite pictures whatever the source on a trendy customizable
white frame
- The Parrot DF3120 is a 3.5" wireless Bluetooth digital photo frame
with a SD card slot and USB port, to make the best of the pictures
taken with your cell phone
Founded in 1994, Parrot has rapidly established itself as a pivotal
global player for wireless mobile telephone accessories. Drawing on its
tried-and- tested expertise on voice recognition and signal processing
technologies, Parrot was one of the very first companies to produce
Bluetooth-based wireless hands free car kits, having identified this
standard's vast potential as early as 1999. In 2006, Parrot sold about
3 million units.
Determined to accompany the wireless peripherals' irresistible
breakthrough into our day-to-day lives, Parrot has been developing
since 2006 a new wireless range of sound and image products.
Today, Parrot truly has a major international focus: 90.5% of its
sales are generated outside of France, and a large percentage of its
production is outsourced to carefully selected partners, enabling it to
achieve the best possible level of quality and responsiveness. Parrot
is now particularly well positioned to capitalize on the bright future
opening up for mobile telephone devices.
Parrot has achieved strong growth in its consolidated revenues, up
from 80.9 million Euros pro forma in 2005 to 166.9 million Euros in
2006.
Link: Parrot
Belkin TuneStudio for iPod Receives a CES
'Best of Innovations' Award
PR: Belkin International, Inc., has been honored with the CES
Innovations 2008 Design and Engineering "Best of Innovations" Award in
the Portable Media Accessories category for its TuneStudio for iPod. In
addition to this award, Belkin has also accepted CES Innovation
Distinctions for five other products: TuneBase™ FM, N1 Vision
Wireless Router, Network USB Hub, Wireless USB Hub, and Washable
Mouse.
Winning entries will be displayed during the 2008 International CES,
January 7 - 10, 2008, in Las Vegas at:
- The Innovations 2008 Showcase, booth #70621, Innovations Plus at
the Sands Expo and Convention Center
- The Belkin booth: #30368 South Hall
Sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and endorsed
by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the Innovations
Design and Engineering Awards highlight product advancements in
technology design and engineering. All entries were judged by a
preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, independent
engineers, and members of the trade press.
TuneStudio for iPod (F8Z109) - $399.99
TuneStudio is the first 4-channel audio mixer that lets you create
high-quality digital recordings directly onto your iPod.
- Records directly to iPod in 16-bit, 44 kHz quality
- Streams audio through built-in USB interface to and from a PC or
Mac computer
- Each channel is equipped with 3-band EQ, pan and level
controls
- Phantom-power-enabled XLR inputs provide up to 60 dB of microphone
gain
- High-quality stereo compressor with makeup gain enhances audio
dynamics and keeps audio levels within recording limits of the
iPod
TuneBase FM for iPod (F8Z176) - $89.99
TuneBase FM mounts, powers, and plays your music and is now equipped
with ClearScan technology. With one push of a button, it automatically
seeks out the clearest FM frequency.
- Includes line-out for use with car-stereo inputs or cassette
adapter
- PRO setting optimizes audio and boosts volume
- Multiple cradles fit any docking iPod
N1 Vision (F5D8232-4) - $179.99
N1 Vision features an advanced interactive network display that
allows you to view the activity of your network and offers the best in
networking performance.
- Plug-and-play "CD-less" setup
- Operating Range: Up to 1,600 ft.
- Link Rate: Up to 300 Mbps in 20/40 MHz channel mode
- Ports: WAN - 1 Gigabit port; LAN - 4 Gigabit ports
Network USB Hub (F5L009) - $129.99
The Network USB Hub works with your existing wireless router to give
you wireless access to printers, media readers, and external hard
drives.
- Features 5 USB ports
- Supports multiple users - one user can be connected to each device
at a time
- Supports isochronous transfers
Wireless USB Hub (F5U302) - $199.99
This 4-port Wireless USB Hub gives you wireless access to your USB
devices without the clutter of cables.
- Connects USB printers, cameras, scanners, hard drives, and other
devices to your computer
- Transfers at speeds of up to 480 Mbps
Washable Mouse (F5L007-SCROLL) - $29.99
Washable Mouse is a water-resistant mouse that can survive spills
and can be hand-washed under the faucet to stay clean.
- A versatile scroll pad lets you scroll vertically and horizontally
with one easy touch
- Works on many household surfaces including upholstery and wood
- Powered via USB cable
Ernesto Quinteros, Vice President of Design for Belkin
International, Inc. says:
"We had fun this year developing these new products, and we
appreciate the CEA's acknowledgment of our work with these six CES
Awards.
"We're especially honored to win a 'Best of Innovations Award' for
our TuneStudio. As a stereo recording/mixing device for the iPod, it
introduces Belkin to an entirely new audience: musicians!"
Link: Belkin
