Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by Dan Knight
- 2006.04.06
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.
For current iPod prices from a variety of sources, see our
Best iPod Deals.
News and Comment
Tips
Reviews
Products
Software
News and Comment
Unplug and Hear the World
PR: Poet Babies, an advocacy group updating old truths
for a new world, launches its Unplug, Hear the World campaign to
accompany Apple Computer's thirtieth anniversary on April 1, 2006,
to urge iPod users to unplug their headphones and be involved in
the world around them. People can join the campaign, which
announces the Poet Babies' birth, with an Unplug, Hear the World
T-shirt available at http://www.poetbabies.com
Prompted by news reports of iPod's invasion into the classroom
and workplace and by everyday encounters with inattentive
listeners, Poet Babies cautions consumers that their electronic
connection may come at the loss of their human one.
"Just as studies confirm that cell phone use distracts drivers
and heavy Internet use reduces social interaction, Poet Babies
warns that excessive iPod use will cause listeners to become
isolated and disconnected," said Scott Landsbaum, Poet Babies' Poet
in Chief and founder. "Constant iPod use prevents the daily
encounters which create community," added Landsbaum, "and how can
you help someone in need or even share a smile if you're not aware
of the person next to you?"
Poet Babies formed as a character collective to empower people
to change the world, one person at a time. Each character tackles a
unique theme. Poet Baby Tucker, who created Unplug, Hear the World,
fights apathy and teaches action and involvement. The other Poet
Babies are Jack, who promotes family and friends over money and
titles, and Megan, who seeks inner beauty instead of labels and
gossip. The Poet Babies work from their web site, which features
character biographies, e-cards, commentary, and clothing. Poet
Babies asks people to join their cause and Cry for Change.
Editor's note: We realize this is a week late for Apple's 30th
anniversary, but we appreciate the sentiment. Music can enhance and
improve your life, but with headphones, it's easy to isolate
yourself from your surroundings - the beauty of nature,
architectural marvels, and our fellow human beings. We urge
everyone to take some time to unplug and hear the world.
dk
iPods on the Job
Fayetteville Online's Kate Cantrell reports:
"The Associated Press reported last week that more than 40
million Apple iPods have been sold as of January. With so many
iPods on the streets, it should be no surprise that more are
showing up on the job.
"The AP reported that 80 percent of technical and creative
workers listen to music more than 20 percent of their working
hours, according to research on MP3 use by CIMI, a research and
technology assessment firm. Managers, clerical staff, factory
workers and others listen to their tunes on the job, too."
Link: iPods on the
Job
iPhone Rumors Suggest 2006 Launch
ExtremeTech reports:
"More rumors emerged this week, repeating the Apple iPhone idea
that Apple is destined, at some stage, to launch a cell phone with
an iPod and other goodies in. We believe that Apple must find a way
for iTunes and phones to go together and we concede that so far it
has not found that way.
"This time the rumor emerged from Morgan Stanley analysts that
put out a research note on Apple which said while Apple staff
didn't acknowledge the existence of such a strategy, they had
virtually winked at them during the briefing to imply Apple would
not miss out on such an opportunity."
Link: Analysis:
iPhone Rumors Suggest 2006 Launch
Crutchfield Launches Digital Drive-thru for
iPod Users
PR: Crutchfield, the nation's oldest direct integrated
marketer of consumer electronics products, announced today the
launch of its digital drive-thru service.
With just a few clicks of the mouse, the digital drive-thru
system immediately identifies the exact accessories and techniques
required to connect an iPod - or any other portable digital music
player - to any car stereo system and achieve the best sound
quality possible. With the launch of this new service, Crutchfield
continues to demonstrate its pride in being expert users of the
products they sell, and making certain that its customers are
always provided the very best in customer service and product
information.
With the growing popularity of digital music, the ability to
enjoy music at any location is fast becoming commonplace. Consumers
enjoy the portability and simplicity of iPods and other similar
devices, and many want to listen to their digital music collections
through their car stereos. However, given the wide array of digital
music players in use, and the thousands of different car stereo
configurations that exist, connecting those devices to a car stereo
system and getting the best results can sometimes be a challenging
task for the average consumer.
Crutchfield, universally known for its knowledgeable sales
agents and award-winning customer service, coupled its extensive,
proprietary database of information on more than 10,000 cars and
car stereo systems with its database of information on iPods and
other devices to create the digital drive-thru. Customers simply
identify their specific model of digital music player, the year,
make and model of their vehicle, add in any other customized
equipment currently in use, and the tool immediately identifies the
exact equipment necessary to complete the best installation -
optimized for sound quality, aesthetics and overall functionality -
along with a graphical depiction of the installation process. The
digital drive-thru teaches customers exactly what to expect during
the installation process. Frequently, all required equipment is
available for immediate purchase at Crutchfield.
For customers who prefer written directions over web-based
assistance, Crutchfield also provides a free, comprehensive iPod
Car Stereo Installation Guide with every adapter purchased.
"At Crutchfield, we're always concerned with simplifying and
enriching the consumer electronics shopping experience," said Bill
Crutchfield, founder and CEO. "With all the digital music players
now available, enjoying music when and where you want should be
easy. Our new digital drive-thru tool tells users exactly what
adapter will let them listen to their digital music collections in
the car with the best possible sound quality."
The digital drive-thru is free to visitors of the Crutchfield
website and is just one of many convenient, easy-to-use proprietary
tools and guides that Crutchfield has developed to put quality
service back into consumer electronics. For example, Crutchfield
also provides its popular web-based "Find What Fits My Car" tool,
one of the world's most extensive car installation databases that
automatically indicates which products fit your car - from stereos
and speakers to iPod adapters and exhaust systems.
Link: Crutchfield
Digital Drive-thru
Samsung Mass Producing Most Advanced 1 Gb Flash
Memory
PR: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Has announced today
that it is now mass producing 70nm 1 Gb OneNAND, a widely used
memory device that provides higher performance over conventional
flash devices. The higher-speed memory is targeted toward a wide
range of applications beyond mobile handsets including memory cards
for digital cameras and use in hybrid hard disk drives. By moving
to 70nm designs, Samsung has achieved a 70% greater efficiency than
the 90nm processing currently used throughout the industry.
Samsung's 70nm OneNAND fuses together the rapid boot-up and
data-read functions of NOR flash memory, plus the high-capacity
data storage and fast writing capabilities of NAND flash memory.
The 70nm device is now designed into well over 100 mobile products,
with new demand coming from market segments for digital cameras,
set-top boxes and digital TVs. Last month, at the 3rd annual
Samsung Mobile Solution Forum, Samsung also unveiled a high-speed
memory card equipped with OneNAND.
The OneNAND device has a sustained read speed of 108 MB/s, which
is 60% faster than previous 90nm OneNAND device. The 70 nm OneNAND
supports a synchronous clock frequency of 83 MHz, and offers
enhanced compatibility with the clock frequencies of a wide range
of mobile products.
OneNAND will be used in a growing number of applications,
including handsets, hybrid hard disks, memory cards and other
consumer electronics products. Given its projected new markets and
expanded applications in the existing mobile market, Samsung
predicts OneNAND sales to reach US$1 billion in 2008 and soar
above$1.5 billion by 2010.
Link: Samsung
Tips
Setting the Volume Limit on video iPod, iPod
nano
A new Apple Knowledge Base article says:
"The new 1.1.1 software update for iPod nano and Fifth
Generation iPod provides an easy way for you to set a maximum
volume limit to prevent the volume from exceeding a certain level.
You can also assign a combination to prevent the setting from being
changed which is ideal for parental control."
Link: Setting the
Maximum Volume Limit on iPod
Apple iPod Updater 2006-03-23
A new Apple Knowledge Base article says:
"iPod Updater 2006-03-23 contains the same software versions as
iPod Updater 2006-01-10 for all other iPod models.
"To learn how to use your iPod with step-by-step instructions
and easy-to-follow movies, see the iPod tutorials at
http://www.apple.com/support/ipod/howto/. Click Learn More in each
tutorial to see more great tips and instructions.
"Note: If you aren't sure which iPod you have, and you want to
find out if your iPod needs updating, simply follow the directions
below to use iPod Updater 2006-03-23. If the software on your iPod
can be updated, the Update button in the updater application will
be available.
Features of iPod Software 1.1.1 for iPod and iPod Software 1.1.1
for iPod nano:
Link: iPod
Updater 2006-03-23
Reviews
iPod Can Light the Way
enquirer.com says:
"The Blinkit flashlight can help Apple iPod users find their way
in the dark. Weighing just a half-ounce and measuring 1 square
inch, the LED flashlight can be plugged into any iPod with a dock
connector. "
Products
earBuddy Protects Your Earbuds
PR: Since its introduction, the iPod has changed the face
of street fashion, and its phenomenal success has spawned the
irreplaceable lifestyle accessory of the decade: white iPod
earbuds. Sure, you can always get replacements, but isn't it better
to protect the buds you already have?
Protect Your Loved Ones
SendStation is pleased to introduce earBuddy, the ultimate
carrying case and the only safe place to store your iPod
earbuds.
Go Ballistic with earBuddy
Coated with sturdy ballistic nylon, this tiny, ultra compact
case - it's only the size of a jewelry box - can stand up to the
everyday dangers of the urban jungle and those in the boondocks,
too.
A friend you can count on, and pound on
The well-designed ABS reel inside the case lets you easily wind
up the cable and store everything in the smallest possible space.
earBuddy is built to withstand 200 lbs. (90 kg) of force, keeping
your buds safe and sound on the inside even if someone - or
something - is pounding on the outside.
Ready for Deployment,
24/7
Equipped with a detachable key ring and weighing less than 1 oz.
earBuddy is always on standby for missions around the globe. Attach
it to your key chain, your rucksack, or your favorite bag so your
buds are ready when you are, whether it's for an assignment with
your iPod, your computer or even on board an aircraft.
But does it rock?
You bet! As with many SendStation products, you'll receive a
code for a free song at the iTunes Music Store when purchasing a
earBuddy. With a little luck, you might even get 10 free songs -
every 20th code hits the jackpot!
earBuddy is available now
from the online store and from selected dealers worldwide for
$14.95.
It's available in two colors.
Link: earBuddy
Xitel HiFi-Link for iPod
PR: Xitel's HiFi-Link for iPod lets you combine the
versatility of your iPod with the power of your home stereo. Its
unique dock configuration greatly extends your iPod's connectivity,
allowing it to seamlessly integrate with anything from a
top-of-the-line surround sound system through to a simple boombox
or powered speakers.
Built from the ground up
for superior performance, Xitel's HiFi-Link for iPod replicates the
high-end outputs found on audiophile grade equipment. With over 30
years experience in designing complex audio products for
international brands, you can rest assured that your HiFi-Link for
iPod is fully loaded with the latest innovative technology. We
don't make plastic cases or other accessories, we just make your
iPod sound the best it possibly can!
Photos and movies as well as high fidelity sound!
HiFi-Link for iPod includes groundbreaking technology that lets
you get the most out of your iPod's movie or photo capabilities
A buffered video output with gold plated composite jack allows
for viewing on any regular TV. Combined with SRS TruBass® audio
processing, HiFi-Link's cutting edge technology turns your portable
video or photo compatible iPod into a home entertainment
powerhouse!
HiFi-Link for iPod is
part of the "Made for iPod" program. Purchase with the confidence
that we have designed and built this product so that it works
flawlessly with your iPod.
"While sensational sound quality and TruBass enhancement make
HiFi-Link for iPod an outstanding audio product, our video
capabilities really finish things off perfectly," Davis continued.
HiFi-Link for iPod uses composite video output to enable photo and
video viewing through any TV, while advanced buffering ensures
sharp, crisp pictures without interference.
Implementation of the Apple Universal Dock design makes
HiFi-Link for iPod totally compatible with Dock Adapter clips
included by Apple with the new iPod nano and iPod with video. A
simple click-and-replace mechanism allows customers to also use
clips included by Xitel for iPod color, iPod mini, iPod with dock
connector and iPod photo. Combined with a full-size remote control
and intelligent recharging, Xitel's HiFi-Link for iPod is a simple
and convenient way to integrate iPod into your home entertainment
setup.
"Thirty years of developing advanced consumer electronics
technology has allowed us to incorporate innovative features that
set the HiFi-Link for iPod apart," said Davis.
Key Features of Xitel's new HiFi-Link for iPod
Play: Use your HiFi-Link for iPod with a home stereo, boombox,
or plug in a set of powered speakers to create a dedicated iPod
music center.
View: Buffered composite output allows you to view sharp photos
and video on your regular TV while maintaining pristine audio
quality.
Improve: Gold-plated, line-level outputs provide superior sound
quality. Unique design means your stereo receives an exceptionally
pure and dynamic signal for crystal-clear performance. Adjustable
SRS TruBass creates rich, deep bass, adding back the warmth and
depth audio compression takes away.
Control: Powerful remote conveniently controls your iPod an
extended distance - up to 50 feet. Swap between tracks, playlists,
pause, play, fast forward, fast rewind or turn your iPod off.
Charge: Power and automatically charge your iPod. Listen at home
knowing your iPod will be ready to go when you are.
Compatibility: HiFi-Link for iPod includes Apple's new iPod
Universal Dock design for compatibility with present and
future-generation iPods. HiFi-Link for iPod is made for iPod with
video, iPod nano, iPod color, iPod mini, iPod with dock connector
and iPod photo.
In the Package
- HiFi-Link for iPod dock
- remote control
- remote batteries
- power adapter
- shielded audio cable
- audio adapter cable
- user manual
- 5 Dock Adapter inserts
The MSRP for the new HiFi-Link for iPod is $79.95.
Link: HiFi-Link for
iPod
Roadmaster Ships FM Modulators
PR: Roadmaster USA Corp., the leading automotive company
providing mobile & home audio equipment, auto accessories, and
car care products, announced today that it has begun shipping the
Roadmaster VRFM series of FM Modulators that plug into your car's
cigarette lighter to play your favorite MP3, WMA, iPod, CD, or MP3
player music through your car's radio. The Roadmaster VRFM FM
modulators convert audio signals into an FM signal, which is then
transmitted over an unused FM frequency or station selected by the
listener. The VRFM can transmit this high-quality music from an SD
card, USB or audio input device, including MP3 players, USB memory
key, and CD and DVD players. It can even play any MP3 and WMA music
saved on an SD Card or USB Memory.
High-Quality Stereo Sound
Roadmaster FM Modulators make it easy to listen to all your
tunes saved on your computer, laptop, or MP3 Player in your car
with excellent stereo sound at a low price. Just save your MP3
collection on a USB memory key or SD card and plug it into the
Roadmaster FM Modulator; or simply plug your MP3 player or other
device directly into the FM Modulator for instant music that you
can listen to for hours.
VRFM6 Low-Cost Entry-Level FM Modulator
Starting at $19.99, the VRFM6 (Roadmaster's entry-level model),
connects to all audio devices, including MP3 players, CDs and DVD
players, through its audio input to wirelessly broadcast
high-quality music through the car radio. The LED displays 15 FM
frequencies, from which you can select the appropriate radio
channel frequency to play your music. The VRFM6 uses 12 volt
wire-free transmission and a 3.5mm stereo input. The channel
selector features an up and down key.
VRFM7 with USB Slot and MP3 Decoder
The next product in the line, the VRFM7, is priced at $29.99 and
includes an MP3 decoder, USB slot, Aux in, and frequency push
button, as well as all the standard features. The Dual-Function
Buttons offer selections for Play, Stop, Volume, and Track Change.
The VRFM7W is Plug ŒN Play ready for your MP3s and WMA music,
which you can play from a USB memory drive.
VRFM8 with Versatile Ratchet Neck & Shuffle/Random Play
Features
The Roadmaster $34.99 VRFM8 includes all previous FM Modulator
features, plus Dual Function Buttons for Shuffle/Random, Last Song
Played, Last FM Channel, Play, Stop, Volume, and Track Change
Controls. The Ratchet Neck style provides more flexibility with 6
versatile positions that you will find makes for ease of use in any
vehicle.
VRFM9 Top of the Line with USB, SD Card Slots and Song Name
Read-outs
The top of the line Roadmaster FM Modulator, the VRFM9 (priced
at $69.99), includes a read-out of the name of each song, SD and
USB slots, Dual Function buttons for Shuffle/Random, Last Song
Played, Last FM Channel, Play, Stop, Volume, and Track Selection.
It automatically plays MP3s and WMAs from USB memory drives, as
well as SD cards. In addition to song titles, the easy-to-read LCD
also shows pre-set FM stations.
Priced between $19.99 - $69.99, the VRFM FM Modulators are
available immediately through most major superstores, retailers,
and car dealerships.
Link: Roadmaster
USA
iSA micro Tough for iPod nano
PR: Features:
- Enhanced all around protection with an reinforced silicone
layer as crash cushion
- Side-grip-strip gives your zCover iSA micro a stylish look and
a better grip.
- integrated sensitive Click Wheel protective skin. It is very
sensitive to the touch! This is zCover function add-up feature
- Pre-molded headphone opening for easy access.
- Pre-molded hold switch opening for easy access.
- Open bottom design allows you plug and connect your iPod nano
easily
- Customized crystal-clear hard screen protector with landing
pegs provides the best vision effect, perfect fit, and prevents
scratching and dirt to your screen.
- Open bottom design allows you plug and connect your iPod nano
easily
- Removable belt clip with a soft landing insert disk, which
provides a better grip and will not scratch your iPod. It can be
rotated and locked so that you can wear your iPod vertically or
horizontally when clipped to your belt.
- The removable belt clip with a soft landing insert disk
provides a better grip and will not scratch your handset
- Wearing it around your neck with removable Lanyard easy off and
on, enjoy your freedom
- Washable - you can wash zCover silicone case by hand. Make sure
it's dried out before putting your iPod into it. Dry it in room
temperature. Please avoid direct fire and direct bright
sunshine.
- zCover silicone cases are crafted from non-toxic, durable
high-grade silicone rubber.
- 100% surface coverage lanyard design
- integrated sensitive Click Wheel protector
- crystal clear hard screen protector
- removable lanyard
Retail Package or Online Package Includes:
- One lanyard design iSA micro silicone case
- One crystal clear hard screen protector
- One zCover Rotary Removable Belt Clip with Soft Rubber Pad
Insert Locker
- One lanyard
Order online receives a clear PVC accessory pouch free (retail
value$2.99)
Size: One size for all iPod nano
Price: $29.95
Link: iSA
micro TOUGH for iPod nano
Software
Kandalu X Puts Control of iPod Back in
Your Hands
PR: Put control of the iPod back in your hands with the
ultimate iPod companion. Kandalu X supports recovering your songs
and playlists, playback of audio files, and much more.
Features:
- Supports any file the iPod does
- Recover Songs - recovers all songs, meta data and associated
playlists to iTunes
- Recover Playlists - reconstructs your playlists in iTunes based
on the songs already in iTunes
- iTunes integration when importing songs and playlists
- Supports iTunes song information, including ratings, play
count, last played and others
- View & copy playlists
- Drag & drop support
- iTunes style browser
- Undo support
- iTunes like floating window
- Complete documentation
Kandalu X is a simple. It reads information from the iTunesDB
file located on your iPod in order to quickly retrieve information
on all of the songs on your iPod.Kandalu X is currently under
active development and many features will be added in the
future.
System requirements:
Kandalu X requires Mac OS X version 10.3 or better All iPods are
reported to work with Kandalu X including: iPod (All Generations)
iPod photo iPod mini iPod Shuffle
System support: PPC
$20 shareware
Link: Kandalu
X
YakaMoov Converts Video to Proper Format
for Video iPod
PR: The main window of YakaMoov is a list of all the
movies you want converted. Adding movies to this list, rearranging
the list is as simple as drag & drop. Prepare one big batch of
movie conversion, hit start and just wait (a little) to have your
movies converted.
Built around Quicktime technology
YakaMoov will recognize all movie formats supported by QuickTime
7 (some formats may need third-party plugins*). It cleverly
analyzes each movies, and warns you when the movie cannot be
converted (there's no point converting QuickTime VR movies, for
example).
No complex compression schemes, YakaMoov outputs video in the
standard iPod movie format. Ensuring you that your iPod movies will
always remain compatible with current and future evolution of the
iPod.
System requirements:
- Mac OS X version 10.4.x or 10.3.9
- Quicktime version 7.0.3 or later
- iPod with video recommended
System support
PPC/Intel
$9.90 Shareware
Link: YakaMoov
