Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by Dan Knight
- 2005.10.13
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
Tips
Products and Services
Software
News and Comment
Apple Unveils Video iPod
PR:
Apple has introduced the new iPod, featuring a gorgeous 2.5" color
screen that can display album artwork and photos - and play
stunning video including music videos, video podcasts, home movies,
and television shows.
The new iPod holds up to 15,000 songs, 25,000 photos, or over
150 hours of video and is available in a 30 GB model for $299 and a
60 GB model for $399, with both models available in stunning white
or black designs.
"The new iPod is the best music player ever - it's 30% thinner
and has 50% more storage than its predecessor - yet it sells for
the same price and plays stunning video on its 2.5" color screen,"
said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "Because millions of people around
the world will buy this new iPod to play music, it will quickly
become the most popular portable video player in history."
The
new iPod plays music, audiobooks, audio Podcasts, video Podcasts,
home movies, music videos and popular television shows like
Lost and Desperate Housewives. The unrivaled
combination of iPod and iTunes 6 now provides customers with a
seamless experience for buying, managing and playing video as well
as audio content, including over 2,000 music videos, six short
films from the Academy-Award winning Pixar Animation Studios, and
five television shows from ABC and Disney Channel, including the
immensely popular Lost and Desperate Housewives.
The new iPod combines all of the ground breaking features that
have made the iPod the best music player in the world with
revolutionary new features such as the ability to view video
content on a larger stunning color display. The new iPod features
Apple's innovative Click Wheel for precise, one-handed navigation
and the portable design is ideal for putting music, Podcasts,
photos, audiobooks, home movies, music videos and popular
television shows in a pocket for on-the-go viewing. iPod users can
also watch their video content and slideshows of their photos on a
television via optional Apple accessories.
Featuring seamless integration with the iTunes Music Store and
the iTunes digital music jukebox, iPod features Apple's patent
pending Auto-Sync technology that automatically downloads digital
music, Podcasts, photos, audiobooks, home movies, music videos and
popular television shows onto the iPod and keeps them up-to-date
whenever the iPod is plugged into a Mac or Windows computer using
USB 2.0. The 30 GB model features up to 14 hours of battery life
for music playback and the 60 GB model features up to 20 hours of
battery life for music playback.*
* Battery life and number of charge cycles vary by use and
settings. See http://www.apple.com/batteries
for more information. Music capacity is based on four minutes per
song and 128-Kbps AAC encoding; video capacity is based on H.264
750-Kbps combined with 128-Kbps audio; and photo capacity is based
on iPod-viewable photos transferred from iTunes.
Pricing & Availability
The new iPods will begin shipping next week for a suggested
retail price of $299 for the 30 GB model and $399 for the 60 GB
model through the
Apple Store, Apple's retail stores, and
Apple Authorized Resellers. All iPod models include earbud
headphones, USB 2.0 cable, case, dock insert, and a CD with iTunes
for Mac and Windows computers.
Optional accessories designed for the new iPod include:
Universal Dock for $39, giving users easy access to a USB port for
syncing, IR support to work with the Apple Remote and a variable
line out and S-video connections for integration within the living
room; Apple Remote for $29, providing wireless integration to the
Universal Dock and quick and easy access to controls from across
the room; Apple iPod AV cable for $19, enabling television viewing
of video content in full-screen; the iPod Camera Connector for $29;
and Apple Socks for $29 providing six vibrant color socks to dress
up and protect your iPod.
iPod requires a Mac with a USB 2.0 and Mac OS X version 10.3.9
or later and iTunes 6; or a Windows PC with a USB 2.0 port and
Windows 2000, XP Home or Professional (SP2) and iTunes 6.
Apple Could Sell 5 Million iPod nanos in
Q1
Forbes' Ed Lin
reports:
"Piper Jaffray expects Apple Computer to top fiscal
fourth-quarter (ended September) earnings estimates and to have a
'very strong' fiscal first quarter, in both Mac and iPod
segments.
"Piper Jaffray recommended investors to 'continue to be buyers
of Apple shares' and raised estimates to incorporate sales of the
iPod nano."
nano Strikes the Right Chords
BusinessWeek's Cliff Edwards says:
"The tiny new addition to Apple's iPod family offers visual and
aural pleasure - as well as useful new features like a personal
organizer
"You've no doubt seen the hilarious spoof video that's making
the rounds on the Web advertising the 'iPod Flea,' a digital music
player so small that it can hold only one song. After Apple
released its minute iPod Shuffle last year, few were betting CEO
Steve Jobs and crew could do much to top the player's gum-package
size.
"Enter the iPod nano. Available in either glossy black or white
versions, it's so small that pictures and billboards really don't
do it justice. Since apparently the iPod mini was not mini enough,
Apple decided to confront increasing competition in the digital
music player space with the Nano, which at 3.5 inches long, 1.6
inches wide, and a minuscule 0.27 inch deep, looks too fragile for
everyday use.
"To Apple's credit, the Nano jettisons many of the problems that
plagued previous iPod products. Like the Shuffle, it features
solid-state flash memory in place of a hard drive, whose platter
and spindle system is prone to damage when dropped. And one-upping
the Shuffle, it adds a 1.5-inch LCD screen, which offers better
navigation through the contents of the device. Apple will phase out
the iPod mini, a move expected to make the Nano its de facto
biggest seller."
Lustrous New nano Shines
Yale Daily News's Alexandria Leftkovits says:
"With technology advancing at a frighteningly quick pace - think
Michael Jackson's zombie army from Thriller - MP3 players are
getting smaller, or as Apple declares, "impossibly small." Last
month, Apple announced the newest addition to the iPod family. At
1.5 ounces, the iPod nano is not only cute and pencil-thin, but
also fits inside an empty pack of Orbit gum. (Say hello to the
world's cheapest iPod case). Even on a campus where it seems like
everyone carries an iPod, the tiny iPod nano is sure to overshadow
its predecessors.
"Although the truly special aspect of Mr. and Mrs. iPod's little
newborn is its size, skeptical consumers may be quick to point out
that size doesn't matter. While that may be true in other aspects
of life, the nano boasts many other impressive qualities.
Presently, the nano comes in two colors: the standard white model
and a sexier, more sophisticated black version (without the
aesthetically-displeasing red click wheel featured on the iPod U2).
The nano clocks in at 3.5" x 1.6" x 0.27", making it the slimmest
iPod on the MP3 scene since the iPod shuffle. Compare its saucy
little figure to the hulking 60 GB fifth generation iPod, coming in
at 4.1" x 2.4" x 0.75", and it's easy to see the light."
Apple Gains Teen Marketshare, Rest of World
Dies of Shock
ars technica's Jacqui Cheng says:
"Everyone's favorite Apple marketshare analyst, Piper Jaffray,
has pointed out that surveys among teens in the market for digital
music players and online music purchases indicate an increase in
Apple marketshare, not a plateau or decrease as previously
predicted.
'"We believe the teen market is a critical demographic in
digital music,' said Analyst Gene Munster. 'Apple appears to be
winning mindshare at an early age, which we expect will pay off as
students become more significant consumers over the next
decade.'"
iPod nano vs. Washing Machine
macmerc.com's Jon Gales says:
"Just about three weeks ago I posted a review of my new favorite
gadget, the iPod nano. In that review I called the device, 'The
coolest thing I own bar none' and that wasn't an exaggeration or
another way of saying that I don't own cool things. Well I'm sad to
report that my nano had accidentally had a run-in with the washing
machine on Saturday morning.
"The nano is light enough that it turns out you can't really
tell when it's in a shirt pocket and when it's not. On this
Saturday morning it was, and unfortunately the shirt was in the
washer. I got ahold of it after about a minute in the dryer, so the
little white contraption had already experienced a warm wash, cool
rinse and exciting spin cycle. It was non-responsive and if I was
an ER doctor the nano would have been pronounced dead...."
iPods on Loan to Students for Music
Coursework
The Brown Daily Herald's Simmi Aujla reports:
"The next Brown student you see walking down the street with
those trendy white earphones might not just be grooving to the
latest Kelly Clarkson track - he might be doing his homework. This
semester, Apple's 20-gigabyte iPods will be an important part of
two classes taught by Professor of Music Jeff Titon: MU 129:
'American Roots Music' and MU 222: 'Field Research in
Ethnomusicology.'
"Funding for the iPods comes from a grant given to the Language
Resource Center, which makes foreign media available to students.
The LRC has 130 iPods for students, not all of which are being
used. Computing and Information Services was responsible for
acquiring the iPods and conducted all communications with
Apple.
"Though students are being given the iPods free of charge,
certain restrictions do apply. Students can keep the iPods only for
the semester and must return them on Dec. 20. If an iPod is damaged
or lost, the incurred cost will be charged to a student's
account."
Ebates Helps Consumers Find a Cheap iPod
Ebates, the world's largest shopping portal that gives consumers
cash back every time they shop online, today announced it has
updated its Apple iPod Buying Guide with information on finding a
cheap iPod nano - this season's hottest consumer electronics
item.
The guide gives consumers one convenient location from which
they can find stores that sell the Apple iPod nano. The iPod nano
sells for virtually the same price everywhere, but by shopping
through Ebates.com, consumers get industry-leading discount coupons
along with cash back with every purchase - guaranteeing their best
chance of finding a cheap iPod nano. Access the guide at:
Ebates.com is a shopping portal - users start there, then click
through to more than 800 trusted retail sites like Apple, Circuit
City, and
Buy.com, to name a few. Ebates also presents money-saving
coupons that can be combined with cash back savings for even bigger
discounts off already low Internet prices.
Tips
Put Your Email on Your iPod
Hawk Wings says:
"Ever need to take your email with you from one computer to
another? Can't or don't want to use IMAP? Like the idea of using
your iPod or memory stick to store your Apple Mail messages?
"Jeffrey Glover, who among other things runs iChatters, emailed
to ask if I knew how to get the Apple Mail folder onto an iPod. I
suggested IMAP instead, but that doesn't suit everyone as he
explained,
"I know I have the options of IMAP or even .mac to keep my email
central, but being involved in several different enterprises I've
got 8 different pop accounts to keep track of and my Mail folder is
3 Gigs in size . . . Accessing all that data over the
Internet, just isn't an option for me."
Products and Services
FastMac Announces Free iPod Battery Recycling
Program
PR: FastMac announces the first iPod battery recycling
program available at no extra charge, to all customers who purchase
a TruePower iPod battery upgrade from FastMac. This program is also
available to the general public who purchase third party battery
replacements and need to properly dispose of their original iPod
battery. All disposal fees are covered by FastMac.
FastMac will offer all purchasers of TruePower batteries a
prepaid padded envelope for return of the original battery at no
additional fee. Once received by FastMac, the battery will be
properly disposed of at a recycling center where all usable
chemicals and components will be recovered. To prevent the creation
of excess waste the envelopes will be continuously reused. The
customer is also given the option of bringing their original
battery to a local battery recycling center or one of FastMac's
200+ authorized dealers. For customers who chose the "Professional
Installation" option, the original internal battery will
automatically be recycled.
FastMac will also accept iPod batteries from customers of any
third party vendors who do not offer recycling options. These
customers can ship their battery directly to FastMac for disposal.
See www.fastmac.com/recycle for the address and more information on
local FastMac authorized dealers and battery recycling centers.
"We make it easy to be green. FastMac's battery recycling
program is a painless way to be good to the environment" said
Michael Lowdermilk, Business Development Manager for FastMac
Performance Upgrades. "With over 20 million iPods out there and
millions more on the way the amount of battery waste that will be
created in the next few years will have a significant environmental
impact, unless companies do something to help."
Proper disposal of these batteries prevents them from ending up
in landfills where they have the potential to cause serious harm
including contamination of ground water supplies.
"FastMac wants to do it's part. Whether it's disposing of these
power cells properly, regardless of where they were purchased, or
developing products like our TruePower batteries that can last up
to 7.5 times longer than any other lithium ion battery; the less
waste, the better" said Edward Savio, President of FastMac
Performance Upgrades, Inc.
iPod Platinum Lifetime Battery
Replacement Service
PR: Tired of hearing about the iPod's battery problems?
iPodMods have a solution for you with their Lifetime iPod Battery
Replacement Service. The average iPod battery has a life span of
about 500 cycles. After a year of average use, your battery will
show signs of fatigue.
iPodMods is pleased to offer the iPod Platinum Battery program
for all iPod owners. This includes the original iPod 1st
generation, 2nd generation, 3rd generation, 4th generation, iPod
mini, iPod shuffle, and iPod photo models. Once you buy the iPod
Platinum Battery Service, iPodMods will replace your battery for as
long as you own your iPod (once every 12 months).
Simply purchase the iPod Platinum Battery service and select an
installation option (self installation or iPodMods professional
installation). Once your iPod has been received, iPodMods will
install a brand new battery within 48 hours with around 30% more
power than a factory new battery.
When your iPod shows signs of battery strain after another 12
months, you'll be able to send it back to iPodMods for a fully
juiced replacement.
Call 1-888-763-6637 for any additional questions. All batteries
come with a full one year warranty so if it needs to be replaced
early, just send it back for a no-hassle replacement.
Pod Platinum Battery Program (Lifetime Battery Replacement)
Price: $69.99 plus $10 return shipping for each battery
replacement
Revolution Pocket-sized Audio Amplifier
and Splitter
PR: UpBeat Audio's
new Boostaroo Revolution overcomes the low volume and flat sound
problems sometimes associated with listening to digital music and
movies on portable players. This pocket-sized audio amplifier and
two-way splitter drives high-end headphones (greater than 60 ohm
impedance for best results) or mini-speakers, quadruples their
volume, and images high-definition 3-channel surround sound. The
Revolution powers any portable player that has a headphone jack,
including all iPods and other MP3 players, DVD, CD and satellite
radio players, laptops, Pocket PCs, handheld video games and
motorcycle intercom gear. Retailing for $79.95, it will hit the
shelves later this month at Dr. Bott, ThinkGeek.com, effiliate.com,
Airport Wireless, In Motion, AltiTunes, Boostaroo.com, and Hedonics
in Canada.
Weighing only six ounces,
counting the two included AAA batteries, the Boostaroo Revolution
is the market's smallest portable amplifier at about the size of a
disposable lighter. Initial units feature the same durable,
high-gloss white plastic housing as iPods. Units in black, silver
and a black/silver combination should appear on store shelves in
November, just in time for holiday shopping. A tab and mounting
hole allows users to attach it to a belt, key chain, or wear it
around their neck. The Revolution carries a full 90-day money back
guarantee and a one-year warranty on parts and services.
Patent-Pending Technology Images 3-D Surround Sound:
UpBeat Audio's patent-pending circuitry separates and
reprocesses compressed digital music files, opening up the field of
sound. It splits conventional stereo signals into individual
channels so listeners feel surrounded by rich sound, as if in a
recording studio. It gives clarity, punch and driving bass.
Connect Two Listeners to Player of Choice:
The Boostaroo Revolution
features two standard mini-stereo ports with discreet circuits that
allow two listeners to share music or movies at the same time -
with no reduction in volume, no added distortion or noise. Users
connect to their player of choice using one of two included patch
cords, 3" and 6" in length (white version) or a 12" cord (black and
silver versions). Plugging the Revolution into the headphone jack
boosts the audio signal and extends player battery life by
eliminating the need to increase the player's volume. The
Revolution will provide about 24 hours of constant use.
Use to:
- Encourage top performance of headphones (> 60 to 300 ohms)
and personal players
- Overcome travel noise and hear rich music on airplanes,
motorcycles, trains or in cars
- Overcome airplane engine noise to enjoy DVDs on laptops
- Overcome street noise anywhere to hear enhanced tunes
- Bring amplified, 3-D surround sound to mini-speaker setups to
enjoy music or DVDs in hotel or dorm rooms
- Enhance the sound of a laptop presentation
- Hear and feel the action in surround sound on a Sony PSP®
or other portable game device
Makes a great Christmas gift idea!
Protect Your nano with TuneFilm
PR: TuneFilm includes three pieces of adhesive clear film
to fit the iPod nano's color screen, click wheel, and the sensitive
mirror finished back and provides protection for your iPod nano
against dirt and scratching. It is the perfect companion for your
precious iPod nano.
TuneFilm will be sold separately and it will also be included
free with Prie Ambassador for iPod nano, Prie TuneTag nano, Prie
TuneWallet nano, and IceWear nano. Keep an eye out, because it will
also be included with more TuneWear iPod nano case products in the
future.
Introducing ezSkins nano for iPod
nano
PR: Protect your iPod with the ezSkin nano. ezSkin nano
uses high quality silicon with a special dust reducing coating to
protect your iPod.
The ezSkin nano comes with everything you need. An integrated
belt clip, an ezShade nano screen protector, and a neck strap. The
ezSkin nano comes in 5 stylish colors - Frost white - Sky Blue -
Princess Pink - Lime Green - Onyx Black. Never let your nano Stop!
With your new ezSkin nano.
Features
- Made of ultra-durable high-grade silicone with anti-dust
coating
- Precision molded case to fit your iPod
- Opening on top for access to the hold button
- Openings on bottom for access to the dock connector and
earphone jack
- Includes clear ezShade screen protector to protect the fragile
iPod nano screen
- Includes removable belt clip and removable belt clip post
- Includes removable neck strap
- Provides complete protection of ALL surfaces of your iPod
- Five Stylish Colors - Sky - Frost - Princess - Lime - Onyx
Accessories
- ezSkin nano Belt Clip - The ezSkin Removable belt clip is
sturdy and made to last.
- ezSkin nano neck strap - The ezSkin removable neck strap is
securely attached to reinforced silicon and is positioned so you
can pick up your iPod nano and see the screen right side up.
List Price $24.98
IceFrame for iPod nano
PR: A
clearly unique way to protect and accessorize.
IceFrame showcases the sleek form of your iPod nano. This
crystal clear, two-piece shell is made of impact-resistant plastic
and features a play-through design that gives you full access to
your iPod nano's controls. Each IceFrame comes with four
interchangeable Click Wheel accent rings (black, white, red and
light blue) and matching connecting posts. IceFrame also gives you
the freedom to change its colors to match your style, and the
flexibility to attach the included lanyard in place of any
connecting post.
- Crystal clear case
- 4 colored Click Wheel rings
- Color coordinated connecting posts
- Wrist lanyard
Price: $24.95
iPod Docking Station Includes Flash Card
Reader
PR: The EDGE Dock & Multi
Flash Card Reader for iPod allows you to sync your iPod, listen to
music via external speakers, and charge your iPod, while also
serving as a convenient multi flash card reader. The versatile
device reads all popular flash card formats including xD Picture
Card, SD Memory Cards, MultiMedia (MMC) Cards, Memory Stick, Memory
Stick PRO, Memory Stick Duo, SmartMedia Cards, Type I/II
CompactFlash Cards, and IBM Microdrive. The EDGE Dock & Multi
Flash Card Reader for iPod utilizes a USB 2.0 interface (backwards
compatible to USB 1.1) for high-speed data transfer between a
computer and flash cards.
Dock Features:
- Works with the following iPod Models: iPod nano, iPod mini,
iPod photo, and iPod
- Charges iPod & Synchs Data
- S-video Output for Viewing Photos
- USE:
- Charges iPod & synchs data via Dock connector
- Line-out to connect to external speakers
- S-video output for viewing photos on TV
- Plug 'n Play! - no need to restart
- Hot-Swappable - allows for quick and easy insertion and
removal!
- Supports most popular types of flash memory cards
- SPEED: USB 2.0 (backwards compatible to USB 1.1)
- POWER: USB powered - no external supply needed
Package Includes:
- EDGE Dock & Multi Flash Card Reader
- USB A to mini-B Cable
- User Manual
Price: $39.95 (After $10 Mail-In Rebate )
Free Ground Shipping
Airplay2 FM Transmitter for Any Dock
Connector iPod
PR:
Upgrade to the wireless convenience of the AirPlay2 FM Transmitter
and never mess with the clutter of cords again! Simply plug
AirPlay2 into any Dock Connector iPod, tune to the same frequency
as your FM radio, and push play to hear your tunes through your
stereo. It doesn't get any easier!
AirPlay2 has sleek looks to match its superior performance. It'
s just 7mm thin (same thickness of the iPod nano), has three
programmable station preset buttons recessed in its flat face, and
features a super-cool, large, bright LCD display for easy viewing,
day or night. Powering AirPlay2 is a breeze as well. It draws its
energy from the iPod, and when connected to a 30-pin charger can
operate and charge the iPod at the same time.
AirPlay2's ease of use, quality transmission, and groundbreaking
design make it truly unbeatable. Available in both black and white
models.
- Large, bright LCD for day and nighttime viewing
- iPod nano powered and compatible with all 30-pin car
chargers
- Three programmable station presets
- Stereo/mono settings
- No software required
Made for iPod nano, iPod mini & iPod
Price: $59.95
Buy now and get free Shipping via UPS. You will not be billed
until your product ships. Begins Shipping on November 1st.
Harman Kardon Drive + Play Available for
Preorder
PR: Harman Kardon dealers are now taking preorders for
the very cool Drive + Play iPod auto adapter.
Drive + Play will be available for selected dealers to ship
starting in early October, so you could be the first on your block
to have the coolest interface available for in-vehicle browsing and
control of your iPod.
ultraEars SX70 In-ear Earphones
PR: ultraEars in-ear earphones incorporates a 9mm
sound driver with Direct2Ear audio technology to provide you with
clear treble sound and superb bass response. ultraEars come with 3
sizes of special ear fitting noise reducing sleeves to provide you
with the best fit possible. This enhances sound quality and
comfortable. The shape of the ear pieces provide a nice tight fit
and bring the sound closer to you so you feel like you are right in
the middle of music. The 9mm drivers and and ear pieces combine to
deliver a strong bass signal.
Features:
- Direct2Ear Technology improves sound, channel separation, bass
response, comfort, and noise reduction
- Three (3) Size of form fitting earpieces provide extra comfort,
great fit, and noise reduction.
- 9mm ceramic driver provides increased bass response
- White and grey finish compliments your iPod.
- Direct2Ear earpieces provide comfortable fit, so you can listen
and listen
- Compatible with all iPods, MP3 players, CD players, and
- 4 out of 5 Apples in Mac Home Magazine "ultraEars offer a very
attractive mix of sound quality, comfort and the blocking of
outside noise for a low price."
ultraEars SX70 Specifications:
- Driver Unit : 9mm
- Cable Length : 1.2 Meters
- Impedance: 16 ohm
- Frequency Response : 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Magnet Type : NdFeB
- Max Power : 30mW
ultraEars SX70 earphones List Price $49.98
Intro Special $44.98
ultraEars SX70 earPod Combo - Get your ultraEars with the best
case on the market
The earPod is the perfect solution to prevent tangled or knotted
wires. The earPods design makes it easy to store your earphones
quickly and the felt lining protects your earbuds. The removable
belt clip option allows you to wear your earPod and to shorten your
earphone wire during use. The earPod is truly a complete earphone
storage solution.
ultraEars SX70 earPod Combo (List Price $59.97)
Price: $52.48
MicroBlast for iPod nano
PR:
The first portable speakers designed specifically for iPod nano,
MicroBlast is style, portability and protection - all cleverly
rolled up into one lightweight, package. Simply slide your iPod
nano into MicroBlast's dock and crank up its four great-sounding,
amplified stereo speakers. It's powered by four AA batteries or an
included AC adapter that enables you to play and charge your iPod
nano at the same time. Better yet, MicroBlast's crystal clear
protective cover allows you to safely leave iPod nano docked while
on the go, and doubles as its base when then unit is open.
MicroBlast includes both black and white interchangeable frames to
match the color of your iPod nano, as well as a travel pouch.
- Designed exclusively for iPod nano
- Transportable with iPod nano in place
- Lightweight & compact design (only 1" thick)
- Charges iPod nano while it plays (when using the included AC
adapter)
- Two interchangeable color frames (black & white)
- Aluminum speaker grill
- Four individually powered speakers (3w per channel)
- Clear folding base/protective cover
- AC or battery operated (batteries not included)
Price: $119.95
Buy now and get free Shipping via UPS. You will not be billed
until your product ships. Begins Shipping on November 1st.
Contour Showcase Hard Case for
20 GB Color iPod
PR: Contour Design announces the Showcase Sport, a sleek,
innovative version of the original Showcase. Using cutting edge
manufacturing technology, the Showcase Sport offers advanced
protection for Apple's click wheel 20 GB iPod, 30 GB iPod photo and
20 GB iPod with color display.
Making a Good Design Great
The new Contour Showcase Sport has the same popular and
outstanding design as the original Showcase. In line with Contour's
design philosophy to protect the iPod, and also aesthetically
complement the iPod's sleek look, the new Showcase Sport builds on
this foundation with multiple enhancements and innovative features,
such as a streamlined low profile and an intuitive sliding, secure
latch.
All Around Protection
To achieve this ultimate style and protection, the Showcase
Sport was created using superior materials and crafted with the
latest double injection molding technology developed and learned in
the manufacturing of the original Showcase. New, smoother
shock-absorbing rubber supports the iPod, protecting it from hard
impacts while providing a soft, comfortable feel and modern
appearance. The clear scratch-resistant plastic protects the
screen, showing off even more of the iPod's beauty than the
original Showcase. Designed to fit the active lifestyle, this case
allows for easy access to all the controls and can be taken
anywhere with its comfortable, horizontally mounted belt clip
Contour Design has streamlined and redesigned the Showcase to
produce the Showcase Sport. "Just when we thought we could not make
a case any slimmer that offers the same "bullet proof" protection
as the original Showcase, we went back to the drawing board, and
came up with the Showcase Sport" says Ketan Vora, Spokesperson at
Contour Design.
He goes on to say "Consumers want a case that not only protects
their iPod, but will also show off its aesthetic design. Our
Showcase Sport does just that!" At Contour Design the focus is on
quality in all aspects: from strength and durability to look and
feel. The Showcase sport is not only lighter and more streamlined,
it features advanced shock protection and offers a fast, intuitive
latching system for those active users of iPods.
Key features and compatibility
- Sleek, clean design: a seamless integration of clear,
protective, durable, and new shock-absorbing materials.
- iPod screen perfectly visible through protective behind
impact-resistant clear plastic.
- New Advanced secure slide latch mechanism for easy opening and
closing.
- Click wheel easily accessible.
- Top and bottom openings provide full access to connectors,
headphone jack and hold switch; compatible with most popular iPod
mountable accessories.
- Strong, detachable belt clip provides a secure, comfortable
fit.
- Available in two colors, Black or White.
- Compatible with Apple's click wheel 20 GB iPod, 30 GB iPod
photo and 20 GB iPod with color display.
The Contour Showcase Sport will be available in 2 colors, black
and white. The MSRP will be $32.99 and will be available the week
of October 24, 2005, through Contour Design's extensive distributor
and reseller partners.
New ToughShell Clear Hard Case for
Clickwheel and Color iPod's
PR: Contour Design announces a brand new addition to its
award winning iPod case line - The ToughShell.
A ToughShell to Crack
The ToughShell's lightweight transparent shock resistant
material offers all round protection and durability for Apple's
click wheel 20 GB iPod, 30 GB iPod photo and 20 GB iPod with color
display. "With the ToughShell, we have introduced a brand new
product into our existing range of cases," says Ketan Vora,
Spokesperson at Contour Design. He goes on to state that, following
extensive market research and feedback from existing customers, it
was clear that users wanted a case that would be superior to "skin"
cases, but still maintain a low profile and light weight - the
result is the ToughShell. The ToughShell fits snugly and provides
superior protection while maintaining the "WOW" factor that Contour
Design is know for: protection while still showing off the sleek
design of Apple's iPods.
All Around Protection With Easy Access
The ToughShell is made from enhanced transparent polypropylene,
which not only provides all around protection but also complements
the overall look and feel of the Apple iPod. The ToughShell secures
the iPod by using an advanced snap-latch mechanism to ensure total
protection while on the move.
Key features
- Enhanced polypropylene transparent case offering all around
protection for Apple's click wheel 20 GB iPod, 30 GB iPod photo and
20 GB iPod with color display.
- Easy access to all the iPod's controls.
- Easy access to connectors, headphone jack, hold switch and most
popular attachments such as FM transmitters, voice recorders
etc.
- Advanced snap-latch mechanism to ensure total protection while
on the move.
- Strong, detachable, stylish belt clip provides a secure,
comfortable fit.
Availability and Pricing
The Contour ToughShell will be available the first week of
November 2005, through Contour Design's extensive distributor and
reseller partners. MSRP will be $21.95.
Prie Ambassador for iPod
PR: Prie Ambassador for iPod is a versatile genuine
leather case for iPod. Prie Ambassador is made from smooth ultra
high quality genuine nappa leather and provides protection for your
iPod against dirt and scratches. Prie Ambassador is available for
the iPod nano, iPod 4G (all models including iPod photo) and iPod
mini. This stylish case is also extremely versatile. You can can
use the removable hook to attach your iPod to a belt loop or strap.
There is also a removable belt clip so you can clip Prie Ambassador
to a pocket or belt.
Finally you can remove both the hook and the clip and simply use
the case on it's own and slip it into a pocket or in a bag, knowing
that you iPod is safe from scratches from keys or coins. You also
have the option of clipping on your own strap (not included) to
hang Prie Ambassador around your neck or shoulder.
PixelGirlShop's Funky New iPod
Accessories
PR: iPod Cases with a handcrafted touch
iPod nano Slip by Lime
Keep your nano protected with these affordable vinyl cases. Each
one has an opening at the bottom for your headphones and a cool
li'l iPod pin to add extra style. Choose your favorite color (at
this price you can choose two! :-)
Size: Fits all Nanos
Material: Vinyl with Stitching
Price: $7
Sculpted Leather iPod nano Case by Marty Flint
Elegant and masculine one-of-a-kind case for your nano!
This hand-oiled leather stitched case is an exclusive item
designed by Marty Flint to keep your new nano protected and looking
awesome. Besides being 100% black leather and looking slick, this
case was designed to keep it's shape even when the nano isn't
inside. It's also got an opening at the bottom so you can easily
slide your nano in and out of it's holder!
Size: Fits all Nanos
Material: Leather
Price: $45
Black Mod Lines iPod Case by Emily Sessions
Let your iPod make a statement or two!
Now you can give your iPod a brand new look whenever you feel
like it with these cute handmade iPod cases!
Case designed to fit iPods: 4th generation (4G) iPod, both 20 MB
and 40 MB OR minis (choose from the pulldown menu).
Made of wool/acrylic blend felt and Velcro closure. Clear vinyl
covering for screen and click wheel, designed for full usability of
both. Hand sewn, with hand appliqué. Designed for
accessibility of locking switch, headphone jack, and USB plug.
Due to the extremely handmade "look" of these cases, each one
will be a little different and will not be an exact fit. Please
look at the pics on the left to see what we mean:-) Mini
pictured.
Size: 4th generation iPod or New 20 gig iPods or iPod mini
Material: See Above
Price: $18
iPod Retro Computer Case by Gerbera Designs
The coolest iPod Flip Covers Ever!
These iPod cases make awesome fashion statements. Not only are
they cool looking, they are extremely well-designed!
Each cover is made with reinforced fabric, foam padding and a
clear plastic casing. It's got an opening for a mic port, charging
opening and Velcro closure. Gerbera Designs understands just how
much you love your prized iPod and wants to help you protect
it!
*This computer design is a limited edition case.
Size: iPod and mini
Material: See above
Price: $30
Kiwali LLC Debuts ShuffleDeco Designer
Skins for iPod shuffle
PR: Kiwali LLC, a designer and
maker of digital lifestyle accessories, debuted an exciting
collection of 20 removable designer vinyl "skins" for the Apple
iPod Shuffle.
Kiwali LLC is pleased to announce the release of its debut
collection of removable vinyl "skins" for the Apple iPod®
Shuffle. Featuring 20 very unique and exciting designs, Kiwali
ShuffleDeco is made from a high-quality vinyl backed by a removable
adhesive. The original designs are printed on vinyl using a 4-color
process and coated with a protective water-resistant coating. Once
applied, ShuffleDeco transforms the iPod Shuffle into an
"art-on-a-stick" conversation piece.
"What really sets ShuffleDeco apart from the competition is the
quality and originality of our designs," said Paul Lee, Director of
Marketing for Kiwali LLC. "With names like 'Acid Bat,' 'Gamma
Gurl,' and 'Chinese Dragon,' we have amazing designs for those
individuals looking for something truly unique and different."
The Kiwali ShuffleDeco provides protection from scratches and
everyday hazards, but removes easily without leaving a
hard-to-clean residue. The two-piece construction covers the face
of the iPod Shuffle and all four sides, but features a "backless"
design that allows the user to enjoy the original color and finish
of the iPod Shuffle.
Pricing & Availability
The Kiwali ShuffleDeco is an easy and affordable way to
accessorize the iPod Shuffle to reflect an individual's
personality, mood, or taste. Individual designs are available
immediately for a suggested retail price of $5. The "ShuffleDeco
Ultimate Mix Pack" features all 20 designs of the debut collection
for $29.
For a limited time, customers who place an order via the website
will receive a bonus ShuffleDeco for each ShuffleDeco ordered.
Reseller and distributor inquiries are welcome at this time.
Link: Kiwali LLC
Kiwali Mineon Stylish Corduroy Cases for
iPod mini
PR: The Kiwali Mineon is a soft and sleek case for
the iPod mini. Made from natural corduroy and available in five
dazzling colors, the Mineon is a stylish way to keep your iPod mini
safe from the dangers of a cold and cruel world. Each Mineon comes
with a stylish metallic carabiner clip for carrying convenience.
Pick your favorite color or buy one as a gift.
Features of the Kiwali Mineon
- Made of soft natural corduroy. Surface-washable. Do not machine
wash for the love of chocolate and jazz.
- Fits the iPod mini 4 GB and 6 GB versions.
- Available in 5 dazzling colors to match both your iPod mini and
your outfit.
- Comes included with your choice of one of 5 metallic carabiners
clips for hands-free carrying convenience. Included carabiners are
fashion accessories and are not designed for climbing. (Like,
duh).
- Magnetic clasp for easy open and snappy close.
- Access cutaway in the cover for headphone plugs.
- Nice and snug fit, like a favorite pair of corduroy jeans.
- Makes your iPod mini feel loved. Anthropomorphically speaking,
of course.
Link: Kiwali iPod
Cases
Software
Take Control of Your iPod: Beyond the
Music
PR: New ebook helps readers use their iPods for more than
music. Turn your iPod into a PDA, backup drive, ebook reader, and
more.
Have you ever wondered what your iPod could do beyond playing
music? So did Steve Sande, PDA expert and longtime editor of The
Gizmo Ranch. For this ebook, he researched every nonmusical use of
the iPod, providing step-by-step instructions and real-world advice
about how to use your iPod as a read-only PDA for calendar events
and contacts, off-load photos to it from a digital camera, back up
your computer to your iPod, set it to put you to sleep at night and
wake you up in the morning, and even keep it ready as an emergency
boot drive should your computer's hard drive fail. Want more? With
Steve's help you can use your iPod to give presentations, and with
assistance from free software, you can read text-based electronic
books, play games, and even install and use Linux.
And although Steve's goal is to help you take your iPod beyond
the music, he provides basic usage instructions for those getting
started with the iPod, plus how to listen to podcasts, prerecorded
audio books, and text-based iBooks. Looking to buy a new or used
iPod? A detailed appendix helps you sort out the members of the
iPod family and provides a complete timeline of iPod releases.
This ebook covers the just-released iPod nano and iTunes 5, and
provides instructions for both Mac OS X and Windows users. And if
Apple announces yet another new iPod during the company's October
12th special event, you can depend on us to release a free update
to keep the ebook current.
Take Control publisher Adam Engst said, "Given Apple's constant
stream of iPod and iTunes announcements, an electronic book is the
ideal way for readers to learn about the iPod in depth without
worrying about information obsolescence. Steve included details
about the recently released iTunes 5 and iPod nano, and - as with
all Take Control iBooks - we're committed to releasing free minor
updates should Apple spring yet another iPod on us at the October
12th special event."
- 128 pages
- Version 1.0
- Published 06-Oct-05
- 2.1 MB download
- Free 31-page PDF sample with Table of Contents, Introduction,
Quick Start, and section starts.
- Platforms covered: Mac OS X, Windows
Price: $10
ISBN: 1-933671-01-7
iFill Music from Thousands of Radio
Streams
PR: iFill streams MP3 files from thousands of free radio
stations directly to your iPod. You can choose several stations at
once and select from many different genres. And since iFill goes
directly to your iPod, it won't clutter up your hard drive with
extra files.
iFill is a great fit for your active lifestyle. With iFill, you
can go to bed while charging your iPod, and wake up to an iPod full
of new music, ready to go jogging with you, and without having to
search through your record collection, browse the iTunes Store, or
rip any CDs.
Using iFill is easy:
- Open iFill
- Select your radio stations (you can select more than one!)
- Click Record
Done! Fresh music starts streaming to your iPod.
We all know how it is: You wake up in the morning, you're late
and in a hurry (who isn't?). With iFill, all you have to do is
eject the iPod and go! There's simply no faster way to work it.
Son of iTunes
Everybody loves iTunes. So you won't have to switch between
programs, we've built the iTunes basics into iFill. So you can
manage iFill (and your iPod) using the familiar iTunes
interface.
Helpful options
iFill is designed for easy use, and includes features
specifically designed to help you in your enjoyment of streaming
webcasts. Many online radio stations send song information that's
not exactly in sync with the audio. iFill provides an intuitive
graphical editor that allows you to correct the syncing. Plus tons
of other features that help keep a world of fresh content at your
fingertips.
System Requirements
- Mac OS X 10.3 / 10.4 or Windows XP SP2
- Internet connection
- iPod, iPod nano, iPod mini, or iPod shuffle
iFill is only for your personal use. Radio content may contain
copyrighted or proprietary material, so recordings made with iFill
should not be sold or played for a public audience. Please don't
infringe on copyright holders' rights by copying or distributing
their material without permission. We at Griffin urge you to
respect other peoples' rights. With great power comes great
responsibility. Please play fair!
Get your trial copy now
iFill Features
- FairPlay: iFill does not support stealing music
- Timeshift: iFill adds a virtual FM tuner to your iPod. And
unlike real radio you can skip songs with timeshift
technology.
- 1 hour = 5 hours? Stream several stations at once and fill your
iPod in a fraction of the time.
- Surprise, surprise! Get new music every day and mix up any
genres. Surprise yourself with music you've never heard
before.
- Music unlimited: Thousands of stations deliver more music than
you can imagine. Your favorite station included!
- Perfect integration: iFill does not depend on iTunes. So
everything you put on your iPod does not clutter up your Mac.
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.3 and 10.4 or Windows XP with
any iPod.
iFill is $19.99 trialware
iPod Deals
For current iPod prices from a variety of sources, see our
Best iPod Deals.
