Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by Dan Knight
- 2005.06.23
This Week's iPod News
PowerBook, iBook, iPod, and other portable computing is covered
in The 'Book Review. General
Apple and Mac desktop news is covered in The Mac News Review. News about
Apple's transition to Intel CPUs and other Intel developments is
covered in The Macintel
Report.
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
News and Comment
Reviews
Products and Services
News and Comment
iPod Gets Royal Nod from Queen Elizabeth
MSNBC reports:
"Britain's Queen Elizabeth II has reportedly joined the
high-tech revolution and purchased the world's hottest new gadget
- an Apple iPod.
"According to the United Kingdom's biggest-selling daily
newspaper, The Sun, the 79-year-old British monarch is now the
owner of a 6 GB silver iPod mini, purchased by a staffer for
£169 ($309). While The Sun reported that the Royal iPod could
hold up to 10,000 songs, Apple lists the capacity for the 6 GB
model at a more common 1,500 songs"
Apple/Walmart iPod Pact Praised
CIO Today reports:
"Apple Computer's stock got a boost on Wednesday amid upbeat
comments by a Morgan Stanley analyst, who said the computer maker's
pact with retail giant
Walmart Stores may be broader than some
realize....
"Apple and the world's biggest retailer have been expanding
their pact to sell versions of Apple's wildly popular digital music
player from a test to a full partnership, marking a new development
as of the last few months, according to Runkle.
"Sales of iPods at the Bentonville, Ark.-based retailer's
locations could boost Apple's iPod sales by 100,000 units and add
$20 million in revenue each quarter, according to the analyst's
conservative estimates."
Belkin Acknowledges Power Pack Defect, Calls
for Returns
iPodlounge's Larry Angell reports:
"Belkin has confirmed to iPodlounge that a manufacturing defect
affects a portion of its Power Pack units for the iPod shuffle. The
company said that while the Power Pack is providing the appropriate
voltage, a connected iPod shuffle may not charge with either the AC
or DC adapters even after hours of charging. "
iPod Love Affair Over? Music Player Plagued by
Poor Quality
silicon.com says:
"The first signs have started to emerge this week that Apple's
super-cool must-have iPod music players are, well, how can we put
it - actually not that great.
"For Apple's legions of diehard fans we're sure we've just
committed some unimaginable sin by uttering those words but let us
look at the evidence.
"First up is Duke University, which, if you remember, leaped
onto the iPod hype bandwagon last year by giving a free iPod to all
new students. It cost the university $500,000 to kit out the 1,650
freshmen with the shiny white devices in the autumn. Was it worth
it?...
"Next up is the questionable quality of the iPods - bearing in
mind of course the premium you pay for those white ear buds. This
is where silicon.com staffers can speak from personal
experience."
Reviews
Put Linux on Your iPod
Macworld's Cyrus Farivar reports:
"Imagine using your iPod and a regular old microphone to record
studio-quality audio. Or sitting on a commuter train and playing
Othello, Pong, Tetris, or Asteroids. All this and more is possible
when you install Linux on your third-generation or earlier iPod.
Best of all, one soft reset, and you're back in Apple's iPod
operating system, listening to your tunes.
"To get started, you need your iPod, the FireWire cable you use
to attach your iPod to your Mac, and free software from the
open-source iPod Linux Project. Currently, the software supports
all third-generation and earlier iPods. Work is under way on adding
the fourth-generation iPod, the iPod photo, and the iPod mini to
that list. (Make sure your iPod is supported.) Download the
iPod-Linux Installer. It will take up about 5 MB of your
iPod's hard-disk space."
Products and Services
FastMac Announces Longest Lasting iPod
Battery
PR: FastMac has announced an iPod battery upgrade that
utilizes patented nanoparticle technology to dramatically extend
battery life span. This upgrade is available for generation 1, 2,
and 3 iPods and comes with an industry first 2-year warranty and 30
day money back guaranty.
The FastMac upgrade replaces the iPod's original internal
Lithium-Polymer or Lithium-Ion battery with a larger capacity and
longer lasting advanced power cell. The upgrade offers up to 70%
more capacity than the original and up to 7.5 times as many charge
cycles. This is accomplished through the use of patented
nanoparticle technology code named "TruePower," which significantly
slows the degradation of the battery.
"If you're spending more time recharging your iPod than you are
actually using it, this upgrade is for you" said Michael
Lowdermilk, Business Development Manager for FastMac Performance
Upgrades. "This really is the last battery your iPod will ever
need."
FastMac's TruePower technology protects and prevents damage to
the battery's internal lithium crystal matrix caused by power
spikes. These spikes occur when an iPod demands a sudden high
current peak, for example to turn on the backlight or load the next
few songs. Over time they decrease capacity, runtime, and battery
life, eventually rendering the power cell unusable.
Through the use of TruePower technology the upgrade is able to
smooth out these power spikes. This protects the battery and leads
to a longer life cycle. Without the TruePower technology the power
cells are left unprotected and would steadily decrease in capacity
after each charge cycle.
By extending the battery's life the FastMac upgrade also helps
the environment by curbing the depletion of materials used in
battery products and reducing the number of waste batteries in
landfills.
FastMac's iPod battery upgrade is available for the following
iPod models:
Generation 1 and 2 $39.95
Generation 3 $29.95
All iPod battery upgrades come with a 2-year warranty and 30 day
money back guaranty. Necessary tools and installation instructions
are also included.
FastMac also offers an iPod upgrade program for an additional
$49.95. Price includes prepaid 3-way shipping, professional
installation, and 48-hour turnaround.
Independence Day DecoDock
PR: Presenting DecoDock, the first stylish
dock designed to complement and enhance the iPod shuffle. DecoDock
provides an elegant solution for users who want a simple, artistic
way to connect their iPod shuffle to their computer.
For those users who think they'd rather hack through the tangle
of cables sprouting from the back of their computer like Indiana
Jones searching for The Lost USB Port or are contemplating a USB
extension cable for that classic shuffle-on-a-rope look, we hope
you'll reconsider. For those daredevils gambling their shuffle will
avoid being snapped off the side of their laptop like a dead twig,
head for Vegas and buy a DecoDock for your shuffle's sake. And for
those style-hungry souls, searching a wasteland of computer
peripherals devoid of pleasing designs, welcome to Pressure Drop,
and the Art-Techo movement.
Overview
- Connect your shuffle to your computer in a convenient, elegant
way.
- Decorative illumination from the columns via white LEDs
- Integrated cap holder securely keeps your shuffle's cap from
getting lost
- Available in a variety of colors to personalize your
workspace
DecoDock - $28.99
Independence Day DecoDock - $31.99
Four Custom iPod mini Colors
PR: J&R offers New Mini iPod Colors
The engineers at Apple squeezed
all the finest features of the celebrated iPod into an anodized
aluminum case weighing just 3.6 ounces - smaller than any cell
phone. This scratch proof, stain proof wonder provides over 25
minutes of skip protection and lasts up to 18 hours per battery
charge - so, for once, you pay no penalty for miniaturization!
J&R Special - This iPod has been professionally finished in
black, Ferrari Red, Lamborghini Yellow, or Smoke White by
ColorWare
Special coating renders it stronger & more scratch-resistant
than the original case, according to ColorWare
This custom painted iPod has a 1 Year ColorWare Warranty
Please Note: This custom painted iPod mini will not fit into the
iPod mini Dock
- Includes convenient clip character, so you can attach it to
your belt, purse or backpack
- Auto-Sync with Mac or Windows via incredible iTunes 4
Software
- Hundreds of available audio books sync with your iPod mini as
easily as music does
- Also includes game, calendar, contacts & notes
functions
- Includes sleek, wide range earbud Headphones
- FireWire & USB 2.0 Interface (USB 2.0 cable included)
- Can be charged via USB 2.0
- Optional accessories: iPod mini Dock, In-Ear Headphones,
Armband, Wired Remote and more
- Dimensions: 3.6" x 2.0 x 0.5 inches
Price: $249.88
Logitech Wireless Headphones for iPod
PR: Listen to your music in style - no wires
attached! Logitech´s Wireless Headphones for iPod use
advanced Bluetooth frequency hopping technology for interference
free, crystal clear audio. Digital wireless technology provides
over 30' of range, and rechargeable batteries can play up to eight
hours per charge.
These headphones include a wireless adapter that snaps onto your
iPod or iPod mini, plus integrated controls so you can adjust the
volume, play, pause, or select tracks without touching your
iPod.
The power of wireless audio is in your control with
Logitech´s Wireless Headphones for iPod.
Features:
- Stereo
- Inline controls
- iPod mini jack and Remote Connector
- Wireless
- Interference-free digital sound and advanced Bluetooth
frequency hopping technology
- Long range of up to 30 feet so you can move freely
- Long battery life - up eight hours per charge - gives you
plenty of airtime
- Integrated iPod controls let you adjust volume, play, pause or
select tracks and more
- Ready to use with iPod or iPod mini &emdash; just charge,
plug, and play
The wireless adapter connects directly to your iPod for
Interference-free digital sound at a range of up to 30'.
System requirements:
- iPod photo
- iPod mini
- iPod U2 Special Edition
- 4th Generation iPod with Click Wheel
- 3rd Generation iPod with touch wheel and buttons
Price: $149.99
ArtWizz HangPhones Create Less Bounce Per
Ounce
PR: The new ArtWizz HangPhones provide a superior method
for keeping the iPod mini secure while in use - and after being
reviewed by the public, receive favorable feedback across the board
for product innovation, price and durability.
Users indicated
the HangPhones lanyard was comfortable and durable. A majority of
users indicated they did not realize at first glance that the strap
included a composite metal construction ñ and were pleased.
Nathan Williams, Marketing Director for Harmonic Inversion
Technology said, ìI didn't think anyone would care that much
about product design. I was wrong. Users loved [HangPhones and the
iSee case] and asked why they weren't included with every new iPod
Mini."
Since the debut of HangPhones, ArtWizz has become a superstar in
the industry. HangPhones enable a user to attach their iPod
securely to a strap around their neck while benefiting from an
ergonomically designed set of ear buds providing perfect length for
use during activities like walking, biking and commuting.
HangPhones have a suggested retail price of $29; the HangPhones
and case combo retail for $55.
Targus Announces New Line of Accessories for
iPod and iPod mini
PR: Targus Inc. has announced its entry into the Apple
marketplace with the introduction of an iPod accessory line.
Targus' new cases, wireless remote and sound enhancing amplifier
enhance the portability and functionality of the iPod and iPod
mini.
Targus' iPod accessory line - including Slide and Flip Cases,
RemoteTunes wireless remote for iPod and SoundUP amplifier - meet
the increasing demand in the marketplace for unique iPod
accessories full of features, high quality and durability. Targus
products are designed for people on-the-go who demand superior
quality, style and function from their mobile products. Targus'
iPod cases are uniquely styled combining both the durability of a
hard shell and a classic design. RemoteTunes is perfect for any
mobile user who wants easy and quick access to their iPod, whether
the iPod is in their backpack or in another room. SoundUP takes the
audio signal from the iPod, reprocesses it and provides the user
with rich 3-D sound. Vocals and instruments that have been hidden
by compression are revealed.
"Targus has a long history of offering innovative and durable
mobile products that fill a niche in the mobile accessory space,
whether its cases, mice or iPod remotes," said Steven Robert,
Targus general manager. "Customers will find that our iPod
accessories offer superior quality and features to extend the use
and functionality of the iPod."
The stylish cases are designed to keep the iPod protected
whether users are traveling or simply taking their iPod to and from
work. The unique designs of the Flip and Slide cases snuggly fit
the iPod and provide easy access to its controls and connectors.
Both cases are made of premium quality leather.
"We have a 20 year history of offering protective, high-quality
and feature-rich notebook cases," said Robert. "As a leading
notebook computer case manufacturer it was a natural transition for
Targus to create innovative cases to fit all iPod and iPod mini
models."
RemoteTunes wireless remote extends the iPod's versatility
allowing it to be controlled from rooms away. The remote is small,
lightweight and allows users to control the volume and song
selection from up to 150 feet, based on RF (radio frequency)
technology.
"By offering a wireless remote that features a range twice as
far as similar products, we are meeting the needs of the iPod
user," Robert said. "Targus will continue to focus on the evolving
iPod accessory space and continue to offer innovative solutions to
meet the growing needs of our customers."
SoundUP high definition sound enhancer and amplifier utilizes
Phantom Technologies' patented circuit and restores information
lost when audio files are compressed - revealing instruments and
voices that are trapped during compression and previously not
heard. SoundUP is also a powered earphone splitter allowing the
user to share their music without splitting the signal or volume.
SoundUP is designed with a remote connector pass-through allowing
it to be used in conjunction with RemoteTunes or Apple's wired
remote.
Product Specifications
Slide Case for iPod and iPod mini (Model: AEB01US, AEB02US,
AEB03US)
Slide Case, available in three sizes for the iPod mini, all
versions of 3G, 4G Click Wheel and photo models, conveniently clips
onto a belt or bag, allowing the MP3 player to be carried around
during business or leisure. The case has two pieces - the iPod
slides into the top piece, which slips into the piece that contains
a belt clip. The case allows the iPod to face in or face out for
easy access to controls and connectors. Made of premium quality
leather with a soft, scratch-resistant lining, the case also
features a sturdy belt clip and includes an iPod screen protector.
Available in black, it has a classic, elegant, design. The case has
a suggested retail price of $29.95 and it includes a limited
lifetime warranty.
Flip Case for iPod and iPod mini (Model: AEB04US, AEB05US,
AEB06US)
Flip Case, available in three sizes for the iPod mini, all
versions of 3G, 4G Click Wheel and photo models, is designed for
easy access to the iPods controls. It can be worn on a belt with
the iPod completely protected, and conveniently flips down in the
front for easy access to iPod controls. The case design allows
access to iPod top and bottom connectors. Made of premium quality
leather with a soft, scratch-resistant lining, it comes with a
sturdy belt clip and iPod screen protector. The unique construction
allows for durability and a secure fit for the iPod. Available in
black, the cases have a suggested retail price of $29.95 and it
includes a limited lifetime warranty.
RemoteTunes Wireless Remote for iPod (Model: AER0101US)
RemoteTunes is a wireless remote that uses RF technology to
allow iPod users freedom to control their music at home, in the
office or while on the go. With an open-air range of 150 feet, the
remote more than doubles the range of competing products. While
some competitive remotes require line of sight of function, Targus'
wireless remote can be used through walls. Working with iPod and
iPod minis, the remote functions include volume up/down, fast
forward, fast reverse, advance/previous track, play and pause. The
small, water-resistant remote can be attached to a belt or key
chain for mobile use and comes with a tabletop stand and stereo
cable for a complete home solution. It will go into "power save"
mode when it doesn't receive a signal for 20 minutes. Once remote
buttons are pressed it automatically powers back up. It can be used
with headphones and speakers and is lightweight, compact and
durable. The package contains a remote, receiver, belt clip, stereo
cable and tabletop stand. It comes with a one-year warranty. The
suggested retail price is $49.99.
SoundUP High Definition Sound Enhancer for iPod and iPod mini
(Model: AEA01US, AEA02US)
SoundUP sound enhancer with amplifier is available in two sizes
to accommodate the iPod and iPod mini. The sound enhancer improves
the quality of the vocals and instruments creating a more full,
crisp, rich sound. SoundUP is also a powered headphone splitter and
includes a remote pass-through allowing RemoteTunes or Apples'
wired remote to be used with it. The warranty is one year and the
suggested retail price is $39.99.
Targus' iPod accessories are currently available online at
Targus' website and at retailers nationwide. RemoteTunes and
SoundUP are in compliance with the Apple "Made for iPod"
program.
iPod Loading Company Finds Customers:
Retirees
PR: RipIt Digital, a business specializing in iPod
loading, CD conversions, and iPod tutoring services, has
experienced a recent spike in sales from an unexpected, yet
abundant demographic - retirees.
According to company founder, Greg Forst, the company's client
database now includes a small but steadily growing number of
retirees, a virtually untapped market in the world of digital
music.
Although marketing to this demographic was not originally part
of the company's business plan, the services that RipIt Digital
offers appear to be a great fit for retirees looking to simplify
their music collections.
"Retirees find our services to be very helpful because they are
often intimidated by or challenged by new technology. We have found
that they fit our customer profile really well because they travel
extensively, they love music and they want things simplified,"
explains Forst.
"We take their CD collections, load them on their iPod or MP3
player, and then we show them how to use the devices. It is a one
stop shop."
And based on the overwhelming consumer response (the company is
currently converting between 1,000 and 1,500 CD's a week), RipIt
Digital appears to be making it easier than ever for even the
average consumer to join the digital music revolution.
PodFreq Premium FM Transmitter + Dock
for iPod Now Shipping with Car Cradle
PR: Sonnet Technologies has announced that PodFreq,
PodFreq black, and PodFreq photo now include a custom-designed car
cradle, a $14.95 value, at no additional cost. This holder is
designed for a secure, rattle-free fit and attaches to a vehicle
mount (sold separately) with included hardware to create a parking
space for PodFreq while you drive. The cradle features a soft liner
that protects the back of PodFreq, and uses the standard AMPS/NEC
mounting hole pattern (commonly used for cell phone mounts) that
makes it compatible with a wide variety of vehicle mounts. Current
PodFreq owners may also purchase a car cradle for an MSRP of
$14.95.
For more information about the PodFreq cradle, please refer to
the PodFreq website at:
Compatibility: The PodFreq cradle is compatible with all PodFreq
models (except PodFreq mini).
Sonnet now offers four different PodFreq models, each made
specifically for the various iPod digital music players with dock
connector. Each PodFreq high-fidelity FM transmitter is capable of
broadcasting tunes from an iPod to any nearby FM radio, freeing the
user to listen to and share their playlists without the ear buds.
PodFreq connects to the iPod through the dock connector to take
advantage of the consistent-level line out signal, and then feeds
the audio through high-quality stereo broadcast components to
produce noticeably better sound. PodFreq can connect to a computer
through its built-in mini-USB 2.0 or FireWire® ports, enabling
the syncing and charging of iPod without the user having to remove
it from PodFreq. PodFreq requires no batteries, there's no software
to install, and it uses simple up and down tuning to make
one-handed operation easy; true plug and play operation is always
at hand. For extra convenience, PodFreq also includes a car charger
that works in any standard +12V cigarette lighter/auxiliary power
socket, and plugs into PodFreq's FireWire port to charge the iPod
battery.
Availability: The PodFreq family is available at retail chains
nationwide and online as well.
Speck Portfolio·Skin
PR: Features:
- comes with four colored straps to suit your moods or match your
outfit
- closes securely to protect screen and click wheel
- access to bottom port for charging and synching
- stylish and Protective
- super soft, smooth feel
- fits 20, 30, 40 and 60 GB click wheel and photo iPods
Insert iPod and choose strap color of your choice.
Price: $34.95
iPodder 2.1 Podcast Receiver
PR: iPodder is the premier Podcasting application,
allowing users to capture and listen to Internet audio programs
anytime, anywhere.
It allows users to select and download shows and music and to
play whenever they want on their iPods, portable digital media
players, or computers automatically, after specifying which music
or shows they want to listen to.
Want to listen to Internet audio programs but can't when they
are scheduled? This program lets you create your own custom online
audio anytime, anywhere. Really.
Want a version of iPodder with preset subscriptions and your own
logo on it? Easy. We can create one for download from your
site.
Try your own luck and download the iPodder client.
iPodder is freeware.
Book2Pod 1.2.2 Puts Books, Long
Documents on Your iPod
PR: Book2Pod is a utility to format large text documents
so they can be read on an iPod using the built in Note Reader
software. It supports documents larger than the 4 KB per note
limit of Note Reader and makes the 1000 note limit easier to live
with.
It also lets you organise your collection of electronic books
and supports Services.
Changes in this version:
- Fixed a timing crash when calculating the red page breaks in
"Show file" drawer
- Fixed bug when pressing eject button but iPod couldn't be
ejected.
- Fixed problem that could occur if alias manager needed to
update an alias (crash when iPod plugged in or Book2Pod
launched)
System requirements: Book2Pod 1.2.2 requires Mac OS X 10.3 and
an iPod with firmware version 2.0 or higher (Dock connector or iPod
Mini
Book2Pod is freeware.
iWorkout 2.0 Professional Exercise
Routines on Your iPod
PR: Your New Workout Buddy - a Personal Trainer on Your
iPod.
Could your workout routines be in better shape? Could you be in
better shape? We all know the only true way to get healthy and look
great is to exercise. With iWorkout, your iPod is given 42
different workout routines made by an ACE Certified Personal
Trainer. Simple to install on any iPod (Excluding iPod Shuffle),
iWorkout is the exercise companion for you. What's better than your
music with your workout? iWorkout.
iPod, iPod mini, iPod U2 Edition: With iWorkout allows you to
access the text-written and spoken routines from the "Notes"
feature on your iPod. The associated illustrations are also
included but cannot be viewed without an iPod photo. The exercises
routines are the same as those from iWorkout on iPod photo. Start
Exercising the smart way.
iPod photo: With iWorkout allows you to access the text-written
and spoken routines as well as view the illustrations. The
illustrations can be viewed directly on your iPod's screen. Simply
goto the "Notes" feature of your iPod and click on iWorkout >
The Desired Workout Category > Your desired exercise. From there
you can view or hear the text-written routine or press the link to
view the illustration(s).
New in this version:
- Now has human spoken workout routines
- Gym machines feature in full version
System requirements:
- Macintosh or PC formatted iPod
- iPod firmware 2.0 or later
- 3rd of 4th generation iPod, iPod photo, or iPod mini
iWorkout is $16.99 shareware.
Party-Pod Pro 4.0: Your iPod Party
Companion
PR: Spice up your nightlife with Party-Pod Pro.
Give your iPod:
- The 650 most used drink recipes
- 55 drinking games
- A Bar Club database for every major U.S. city plus hotspots
like Cancun, MX
- Bartender 411 (Tips and Tricks)
- 100 pickup lines for both men & women
- Post-party solutions
New In Version 4.0
- Drink recipes with photos now included for top rated & most
popular drinks
- 5 more US cities + 5 international cities added to the Bar Club
database
- Post-Party Solutions feature gives you hangover tips &
remedies, cleaning services & more
- Optimized for all Mac and PC formatted iPods
iPod, iPod mini, iPod U2 Edition: With Party-Pod Pro allows you
to access all features from the "Notes" folder on your iPod. The
illustrations of drinks and drinking glasses are also included but
only viewable on an iPod photo. Party like a pro and be the envy of
your friends the next time you want to have a good time. Party-Pod
Pro - for a great time, anywhere you go
iPod photo: With Party-Pod Pro allows you to access all features
from the "Notes" folder on your iPod. The illustrations of the top
rated most popular drinks are included as well as pictures of
common drinking glasses. All these can be viewed on the iPod
Photo's screen. Party like a pro and be the envy of your friends
the next time you want to have a good time. Party-Pod Pro - for a
great time, anywhere you go.
System requirements:
- Macintosh or PC formatted iPod
- iPod firmware 2.0 or later
- 3rd of 4th generation iPod, iPod photo, or iPod mini
Party-Pod Pro is $9 shareware.
Ignitek Releases iPod Sound Systems
PR: Ignitek has released three iPod sound systems, the
iCheer, the iCruiser, and the iCarrier.
iCarrier
- Hi-Fidelity Home Sound System Compatible With All Apple
iPods
- 3-Way Speaker System In A Sleek Tower Design
- Small Footprint Occupies Less Than One Square Foot of Floor
Space
- Integrated Audio Input Supports Other Audio Sources (e.g. iPod
shuffle)
- Remote Control Included
iCruiser
- Hi-Fidelity Home Sound System Compatible With All Apple
iPods
- 3-Way Speaker System In a compact desktop design
- Small Footprint Occupies Less Than One Square Foot
- Integrated Audio Input Supports Other Audio Sources (e.g. iPod
shuffle)
- Remote Control Included
iCheer
- Hi-Fidelity Home Sound System Compatible With Apple iPod
Shuffle
- 2-Way Speaker System In a compact, portable design
- Integrated Audio Input Supports Other Audio Sources
Link:
Ignitek Releases iPod Sound Systems
iPod Deals
For current iPod prices from a variety of sources, see This Week's Best iPod Deals.
